Neutral room colors make sense if you prefer to bring color to a room with an accent wall, accessories, and furniture choices instead of wall colors. Some people like to simplify their life and choose one color for the entire home’s interior. A good neutral can carry through a whole house but take on new life when paired with accents, different trims, or flooring. Neutral color choices also work in a pinch when two family members can’t agree on a color direction for a room.

Color Family: NeutralComplementary Colors: Most colors complement neutrals; if you have a neutral with warm red or pink hues, complement those undertones with a greenish accent; likewise, neutrals with cool, blue undertones could be complemented by gold or orange accessoriesPairs Well With: Neutrals can work with all trims, wood flooring choices, and texturesMood: Darker neutrals can dampen the spirit of a room while lighter neutrals breathe life or give a room a lighter air; some neutral walls can feel lifeless or bland, but a room quickly transforms with meaningful color accentsWhere to Use: Neutrals can work well everywhere inside and outside a home, from living rooms to closets and house exteriors to garages

Here are the picks for the best neutral paint color ideas, according to designers.