Best Off White Paint Colors For Your Walls, Our Faves By Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore

Off-white paint colors are the quiet heroes of interior design. They’re versatile, timeless, and able to work in nearly any style—from modern minimalism to cozy farmhouse charm. But not all off-whites are created equal. Some lean warm and creamy, others crisp and airy, and the right choice can completely transform the mood of a room.

If you’ve been searching for that just-right shade, we’ve rounded up four of the most beloved off-white paint colors: Alabaster, White Dove, Greek Villa, and Crisp Linen. Let’s break down what makes each one shine and where they work best.

1. Alabaster – Warm & Inviting

Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster (SW 7008) is one of the most popular off-whites for a reason. It’s a creamy, soft white with a hint of warmth that makes a space feel instantly welcoming. Unlike stark whites that can feel cold, Alabaster adds a subtle coziness while still keeping the space bright.

Where it works best:

• Living rooms and bedrooms for a calming, comfortable vibe

• Kitchens paired with warm wood tones or brass hardware

• Exteriors for a timeless look that works with almost any trim color

  
  

Designer tip: Alabaster looks beautiful in rooms with natural light but still holds up well in lower-light spaces without turning dingy.

Alabaster by Sherwin Williams is also a favorite of Joanna Gaines, who famously used Alabaster throughout many Fixer Upper projects and even in her own farmhouse. She loves its ability to work in any style of home—from rustic shiplap walls to sleek modern cabinetry—while keeping spaces light, soft, and inviting.

2. White Dove – Soft & Classic

Benjamin Moore’s White Dove (OC-17) is a go-to designer favorite. It’s a balanced off-white—neither too warm nor too cool—making it incredibly versatile. It has just enough warmth to avoid feeling stark, but it’s clean enough to keep things fresh.

Where it works best:

• Whole-home color schemes for a seamless flow

• Trim and cabinetry when you want a softer white against bolder wall colors

• Traditional interiors where timeless appeal is key

  
  

Designer tip: White Dove pairs beautifully with muted blues, greens, and grays for a refined yet cozy feel.

Benjamin Moore's long-time most post popular off white is White Dove—a smooth, classic off white with barely-there gray undertones.

3. Greek Villa – Elegant & Airy

Sherwin-Williams’ Greek Villa (SW 7551) is a fresh, slightly warm white that feels light and elegant. It’s brighter than Alabaster but still has a touch of creaminess, making it perfect for spaces that need an uplifting, open atmosphere.

Where it works best:

• Entryways and living spaces for a bright, inviting first impression

• Paired with natural stone, light woods, or soft pastels

• Modern farmhouse or coastal-inspired interiors

  
  

Designer tip: If you want a light and airy feel without the sharpness of pure white, Greek Villa is a winner.

4. Crisp Linen – Warm & Sophisticated

Sherwin-Williams’ Crisp Linen (SW 6378) is a warm, refined off-white with subtle beige undertones. It’s perfect when you want an understated, elegant backdrop that still feels cozy and layered.

Where it works best:

• Dining rooms and bedrooms for a warm, sophisticated atmosphere

• Paired with deep navy, charcoal, or rich green accents

• Traditional or transitional interiors where you want a hint of warmth

  
  

Designer tip: In low-light rooms, Crisp Linen reads richer and warmer, adding depth and coziness.

5. Origami White – Soft & Subtle

Sherwin-Williams’ Origami White (SW 7636) is a refined off-white with a gentle greige undertone, making it a perfect bridge between warm and cool palettes. It’s softer than a bright white but more neutral than a creamy ivory, which gives it a clean yet welcoming feel. Origami White works beautifully in modern, transitional, and even traditional homes because of its chameleon-like ability to adapt to different surroundings.

Where it works best:

• Open-concept spaces where you want a consistent, harmonious backdrop

• Bathrooms and kitchens paired with marble or quartz countertops

• Bedrooms for a serene, spa-like retreat

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Designer tip: Origami White can read slightly cooler in north-facing rooms and a bit warmer in south-facing ones, so always test it on-site to see how it plays with your lighting

How to Choose the Right Off-White for Your Space

Choosing an off-white isn’t as simple as picking the prettiest paint chip—lighting, surrounding colors, and finishes all play a huge role. Here’s how to get it right:

1. Test in your own space – Paint swatches on multiple walls and observe them at different times of day.

2. Consider your fixed elements – Flooring, countertops, and furniture can influence how an off-white appears.

3. Know the undertone – Warm whites can make a space feel cozy, while cooler whites feel crisp and clean.

4. Match the mood – Decide if you want your space to feel soft and inviting or fresh and energizing.

   
   

Final Thoughts

Off-whites are far from boring—they’re the foundation of countless beautiful designs. Whether you lean toward the creamy warmth of Alabaster, the timeless softness of White Dove, the airy elegance of Greek Villa, or the cozy sophistication of Crisp Linen, the right off-white can make your walls—and your entire home—shine.