Joanna Gaines' Favorite Exterior White: What Color Does She Use?

When it comes to exterior home design, one name that consistently stands out is Joanna Gaines. Known for her signature farmhouse style, Gaines has a knack for transforming ordinary spaces into inviting, charming havens. One aspect of her design aesthetic that often catches the eye is her use of color, particularly her go-to exterior white. But what shade of white does Joanna Gaines prefer for her exterior projects?

Joanna Gaines' exterior white of choice is often a soft, warm hue that complements a wide range of architectural styles. She tends to favor whites with a slightly creamy or yellow undertone, as opposed to stark, cool whites. This subtle warmth helps to create a welcoming, homey atmosphere, making the space feel inviting rather than sterile.

Understanding Joanna Gaines' Exterior White Palette

Gaines' exterior white palette is characterized by its softness and versatility. It's a color that can enhance the charm of a classic farmhouse, yet also work beautifully on modern or industrial-style homes. The key lies in the undertones and the way she pairs these whites with other colors.

One of the most popular whites used by Joanna Gaines is 'Alabaster' by Sherwin-Williams. This color is a soft, warm white with subtle yellow undertones. It's a versatile shade that can work well in a variety of lighting conditions and pairs beautifully with a range of accent colors.

Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams

'Alabaster' (SW 7008) is a fan favorite among Gaines' fans and has been used in several of her projects. It's a versatile white that can create a bright, airy feel in smaller spaces, yet also work well in larger homes, providing a sense of continuity and cohesion.

When paired with dark accents, such as black or deep blues, 'Alabaster' can create a striking contrast that adds depth and dimension to the exterior. Conversely, it also works beautifully with softer, more neutral tones, creating a cohesive, harmonious look.

Other Popular Whites by Joanna Gaines

While 'Alabaster' is a staple in Gaines' exterior palette, it's not the only white she uses. Other popular choices include 'Dovetail' (SW 7018) and 'Accessible Beige' (SW 7036), both by Sherwin-Williams. These colors are slightly warmer and have more pronounced yellow undertones, creating a cozy, inviting feel.

Gaines also occasionally uses 'White Dove' (OC-17) by Benjamin Moore. This color is a soft, warm white with slight gray undertones. It's a versatile shade that can work well in a variety of settings, from traditional to modern homes.

Pairing Exterior Whites with Accent Colors

One of the reasons Joanna Gaines' exterior whites work so well is because of the way she pairs them with accent colors. She often uses a combination of dark, bold colors and softer, more neutral tones to create a balanced, cohesive look.

For example, she might pair a warm white exterior with a dark front door in a color like 'Tricorn Black' (SW 6258) by Sherwin-Williams. This creates a striking contrast that draws the eye and adds visual interest to the home's exterior.

Dark Accent Colors

Dark accent colors are a staple in Joanna Gaines' exterior design scheme. They provide a bold contrast to her soft, warm whites, creating a striking, memorable look. Some of her favorite dark colors include 'Iron Ore' (SW 7069) and 'Wrought Iron' (SW 7053) by Sherwin-Williams, as well as 'Wrought Iron' (2001-10) by Benjamin Moore.

These dark colors can be used on the front door, shutters, or even as an accent color on the exterior walls. They work particularly well with warmer whites, creating a rich, inviting feel.

Soft, Neutral Accent Colors

In addition to dark accent colors, Gaines also uses soft, neutral tones to create a cohesive, harmonious look. These colors can be used on the trim, shutters, or as an accent color on the exterior walls.

Some popular neutral colors used by Gaines include 'Revere Pewter' (HC-172) by Benjamin Moore and 'Agreeable Gray' (SW 7029) by Sherwin-Williams. These colors have subtle gray undertones that pair beautifully with her warm whites, creating a sophisticated, timeless look.

In the end, Joanna Gaines' use of exterior white is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the unique personality of the home and its inhabitants. By choosing soft, warm whites and pairing them with a mix of dark and neutral accent colors, she creates spaces that are not only beautiful but also feel lived-in and loved. So, if you're looking to incorporate Joanna Gaines' signature style into your own home, consider her go-to exterior whites and watch as your home transforms into a charming, inviting haven.