Paint Picks: How to Choose the Right Coral
Don't Be Afraid to Try the Eye-Catching Colors of Dawn and Dusk
Kelly Porter
July 10, 2011
Houzz Contributor
Coral is a tricky paint color that many people don't list as a favorite, but I think it's a terrific color that is just misunderstood. Coral is often associated with tropical or coastal interiors, and for that reason many people are hesitant to use it outside of an oceanfront environment. It does describe the warm hues that define actual coral reef. It is also the color you'll see inside many sea shells, but don’t confine this color to a beach house. Coral is also the color of the sky at dawn and dusk. I believe it is one of nature's most eye-catching hues, and with a variety of tones that range from reds to rose to orange, it works well in many spaces.
More paint color guides
More paint color guides
Red Coral. For a dose of drama, choose a rich shade of coral that has reddish undertones. This hue is a little softer than pure red, but is striking nonetheless.
Paint pick: Italiano Rose 2087-30 by Benjamin Moore
Paint pick: Italiano Rose 2087-30 by Benjamin Moore
Pink Coral. Because coral pulls from both red and orange, you’ll get the benefits of each color which results in a warm, cozy and cheerful space. The fiery, pink tones are very romantic — perfect for the bedroom.
Paint pick: Ardent Coral 6874 by Sherwin Williams
Paint pick: Ardent Coral 6874 by Sherwin Williams
Salmon. Don't let this color's name turn you away. Salmon is between pink and peach, so it is playful and welcoming. In the open areas of your home, salmon can be a refreshing departure from more common neutrals such as tan and beige.
Paint pick: Perky Peach 2012-50 by Benjamin Moore
Paint pick: Perky Peach 2012-50 by Benjamin Moore
Blush. Light, pink tints are very elegant and bring a unique sophistication to a traditional space. With its delicate appearance, this quiet hue adds just a hint of color and warmth.
Paint pick: Angelic 6602 by Sherwin Williams
Paint pick: Angelic 6602 by Sherwin Williams
Rose. Muted warm pinks are often called rose. This understated color is often seen in historical and traditional spaces, and it is a mainstay in the Victorian color palette.
Paint pick: Mellow Coral 6324 by Sherwin Williams
Paint pick: Mellow Coral 6324 by Sherwin Williams
Apricot. This color is pretty much synonymous with coral, but apricot tends to be earthier and more muted. In specifying the paint colors for this space, I took clues directly from my client's artwork. A mid-tone apricot worked perfectly for the walls, while a lighter pink coral highlighted the tray ceiling.
Paint colors used: Chrysanthemum 6347 (walls) and Smoky Salmon 6331 (ceiling) by Sherwin Williams
Paint colors used: Chrysanthemum 6347 (walls) and Smoky Salmon 6331 (ceiling) by Sherwin Williams
Persimmon. This color leans more towards the orange side of coral, but you can still see its slightly reddish undertones. It's a soft, mid-tone color that is reminiscent of the many rusty-orange hues of autumn.
Paint pick: Fresno 020 by Benjamin Moore
Paint pick: Fresno 020 by Benjamin Moore
Orange Coral. This color can be best described as a vivid, fruity orange. It has strong red undertones, and it makes an amazing and unforgettable accent color.
Paint pick: Daring 6879 by Sherwin Williams
More:
How to Find the Right Gray
How to Find the Right Blue
How to Find the Right White
How to Find the Right Green
How to Find the Right Yellow
Paint pick: Daring 6879 by Sherwin Williams
More:
How to Find the Right Gray
How to Find the Right Blue
How to Find the Right White
How to Find the Right Green
How to Find the Right Yellow
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My interior coral doors have been a test of coral knowledge, They have been described as " flamingo, watermelon, pepto , Mexican Ladies room." Talk about a color that changes with the light and shadow! Constantly changing, a challenge for sure. We are on the 3rd color now.
My interior coral doors have been a test of coral knowledge, They have been described as " flamingo, watermelon, pepto , Mexican Ladies room." Talk about a color that changes with the light and shadow! Constantly changing, a challenge for sure. We are on the 3rd color now.
Eventually, will pull it together, A work in progress.