We were thrilled to be featured in Southern Living once again for their piece on muted paint colors! Being asked to share our favorite sophisticated, understated hues was wonderful—these colors are exactly what we recommend for clients who want color with staying power.
Publication: Southern Living
Article Title: Muted Paint Colors
Publication Date: January 26, 2026
Author: Tessa Cooper
Southern Living explored the beauty of muted paint colors, asking designers to share their go-to sophisticated shades and styling tips. The article examines why muted colors create timeless, versatile spaces—especially important in Southern homes with dramatic natural light.
Why Muted Colors Work So Well in Southern Homes:
When Southern Living asked about muted paint colors, here’s the perspective I shared:
Muted colors are my favorite to reach for during color consults. They tend to play nicely with our dramatic light changes (that Georgia sun can be harsh!) and are a little more forgiving if you want to try something bolder than your usual!
The quality of Southern light is unique—we have intense, warm sunshine that can make saturated colors feel overwhelming or change their appearance dramatically throughout the day. Muted colors adapt beautifully to these shifts, maintaining their sophistication whether it’s golden morning light or the harsh afternoon sun.
My Three Favorite Muted Paint Colors:
Alkemis “Walking in the Rain”
Best for: Bedrooms and Bathrooms
Why I love it: This soft atmospheric color is perfect for rooms that you want to feel like a retreat while still being light and airy (and it’s a great way to introduce a hint of color for individuals who are nervous about it). I love how it adapts beautifully to different lighting conditions.
Styling tips: Walking in the Rain pairs perfectly with soft whites and natural wood. Layer in linen textiles, ceramic accessories, and warm brass hardware to create a serene, spa-like environment.
Special note: Alkemis is a mineral-based wellness paint, so you’re literally painting with pulverized crystals! This aligns perfectly with our focus on non-toxic, wellness-supporting materials.
View Walking in the Rain on Alkemis
Farrow & Ball “Sulking Room Pink”
Best for: Living Rooms, Dining Rooms, Powder Rooms (and front doors!)
Why I love it: While the name makes me laugh, Sulking Room Pink is a sophisticated muted rose that is far more versatile than most people imagine pink can be! This isn’t your traditional pink—it’s a dusty, complex shade that reads neutral from a distance but reveals its character up close.
Styling tips: One of my favorite ways to use this color is to pair it with brass and bold art and textiles to change the vibe of the space and do something a little unexpected! Because of the muted tone, it doesn’t get too busy or overstimulating even when you have fun with the accents. Try it with jewel-toned velvet, vintage rugs, and collected art for a maximalist look that still feels grounded.
View Sulking Room Pink on Farrow & Ball
Tonester “Even Angels Cry”
Best for: Home Offices, Libraries, Dining Rooms, Entryways, Powder Rooms
Why I love it: This sophisticated charcoal-gray creates instant depth and drama while maintaining a muted, refined quality. It’s moody without being dark, sophisticated without being cold.
Styling tips: You can create a cozy cocooned space by layering in shades in the same tonal family, like charcoal linen curtains, warm leather furniture, and natural woods. Even Angels Cry looks stunning with brass or aged bronze hardware and light fixtures. This shade is beautiful if you’re considering color drenching a space—paint the walls, trim, doors, and even the ceiling for maximum impact.
View Even Angels Cry on Tonester
Why These Specific Brands Matter:
You’ll notice I recommended colors from Alkemis, Farrow & Ball, and Tonester—not just the typical big-box brands. Here’s why:
Alkemis: Mineral-based wellness paint with zero VOCs and actual pulverized crystals in the formula. For clients focused on healthy home design, this is an exceptional choice.
Farrow & Ball: Known for their incredibly complex, nuanced colors that look different throughout the day. The depth and richness come from their unique formulations.
Tonester: A smaller brand creating sophisticated colors with excellent coverage and beautiful finishes. Supporting artisan paint makers often means better quality and unique shades.
The Case for Muted Over Saturated:
Muted colors aren’t “playing it safe”—they’re choosing sophistication and longevity over trend. Here’s what muted colors offer:
Visual Rest: In our overstimulated world, muted colors give our eyes and nervous systems a break. They’re calming without being bland.
Versatility: Muted colors work with more furniture, art, and textile choices. You’re not locked into one very specific aesthetic.
Light Adaptability: They handle changing light conditions gracefully, looking intentional morning through evening.
Timelessness: Saturated colors can date quickly. Muted tones have staying power—they’ll still feel current in 10 years.
Easier Living: They’re forgiving with wear, they don’t show dirt as readily, and they create cohesive flow between rooms.
Why This Approach Matters:
At The Intentional Design Studio, we recommend muted colors not because they’re “safe” but because they’re smart. They create the sophisticated, restful environments our clients crave while still offering genuine color and personality. These aren’t builder beige or boring gray—they’re complex, beautiful shades that support both aesthetics and wellbeing.
We’re so grateful to Southern Living for the opportunity to share our favorite muted paint colors with their readers!
Read the full article on Southern Living →
Curious to see what else we’ve been featured in? Explore our full collection of press mentions and expert insights on our Press Page.
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