Monochrome vs. Contrast? Interior Door Color Trends & How to Choose the Right One

Monochrome vs. Contrast? Interior Door Color Trends & How to Choose the Right One

Whether you’re painting a brand-new door or updating an existing one, choosing a color can feel intimidating. Should you go for a classic, can’t-go-wrong white? Or is a bold blue worth the risk? Keep reading for top door color trends, and learn how to pick the right one for your home.

Monochromatic Moments

Going for a monochromatic look can open up a room and help to create a calm, serene space. It’s a standard choice for smaller homes and apartments, simply because it can “unbusy” a space and allow for a nice flow.

Color drenching is gaining popularity in the interior design world, meaning a saturated, monochromatic palette takes center stage. From the walls to the woodwork to the radiator, everything is the same shade. Although it may sound like a maximalist approach to design, using a singular hue can reduce visual noise and make a space appear bigger.

monochromatic door

Color drenching typically includes a door painted the same color as the walls. If you go this route, consider using a higher sheen for the doors and trim in order to introduce dimension—otherwise you run the risk of the room feeling like a sea of sameness.

Contrasting Colors

Using a contrasting color for your interior doors is an easy way to add personality and visual interest to a space without taking up any extra room. If you decide to use a contrasting color from your walls, remember to consider your home’s overall interior palette. You can maintain a cohesive—yet interesting—look by aligning with an accent color that’s already used throughout the space.

If you’re going to paint your interior doors a contrasting color to the walls, consider one of these popular choices.

White Doors

Whether your walls are gray, beige, blue, or wallpapered, a crisp white door never goes out of style. It’s the most common interior door color, and a safe option—especially if you’re considering listing your home on the market any time soon. Bonus: White doors work well with just about any hardware. Go for a traditional look with a polished brass, or create a bold contrast by using contemporary matte black.

PRO TIP: Doors withstand daily touching, wear, and tear—and white will show over time. Be sure you follow manufacturer instructions closely and use more than one coat of high-quality paint.

white door

Natural Wood

Exposed wood grain is both timeless and timely. While it’s hardly a fleeting trend, a beautiful, natural grain is on the rise thanks in part to warm colors (think beige and yellow) being back “in.” Wood grain brings loads of character and charm into any space, and is perfect for people trying to introduce a bit more texture into a room.

wooden door

Statement Colors

Bring a bit of vibrancy to your space by using a bold paint on your interior door (or doors!). Bright yellow, sage green, navy blue, bubblegum pink—the options are endless when it comes to creating statement doors.

This approach can add depth and dimension to your space. Not ready to commit to a big contrast? Try a tonal look instead. For example, use a light blue on the walls and a slightly darker blue from the same family on the door.  

colorful door

A home should always speak to the people who live in it—and so there is no right or wrong answer for what color to paint your interior doors. If a simple, monochromatic look feels grounding and serene to you, go for it! If a strong pop of color makes you smile, there’s nothing to hold you back. 

Remember: A coat of paint can make a huge difference, but it won’t save any old door. If you decide it’s time to upgrade your interior doors altogether, be sure to check out our range of options for every home style.