With the year more than half over and time has flown by so quickly, we’re taking a moment to look back at the trends that made the first half of this year design-worthy. This time, we’ve taken a look at the details and discovered an overlooked accent that deserves a spotlight – trim.
Exterior siding, in particular, can really make a difference in the personality of your front home. And after looking at some of the Houzz stats for the year, we were pleasantly surprised to find that in the ever-changing trend cycle, some things are classic for a reason.
White is one of the most inviting exterior colors and has maintained its elegance as the most popular color for exterior siding. And while we admire the purity of the shade, we were curious about the artistic reasons behind the admiration of this hue. So we asked the experts why white is the most popular color for siding and how to combine it for maximum appeal.
Most popular exterior siding color of 2024
As mentioned, Houzz recently conducted a survey on the most popular colors for siding. Unsurprisingly, white led the rest of the color wheel, coming in at number one. This crisp hue has long been the preferred color for siding, and we think it adds to a home’s chic appeal.
Speaking to home designer Nina Lichtenstein, she tells us that white remains the most popular choice for exterior siding, and for good reason. Nina explains that the color’s timeless appeal and versatility make it a top choice for many homeowners.
“White trim offers a clean, crisp look that suits almost any architectural style,” she says. “It provides a bright, fresh contrast to exterior walls and enhances the overall look of a home with a sophisticated finish.”
Nina also thinks that the overwhelming popularity of white could also be a result of people embracing minimalist design trends. “White trim fits several current trends, including the minimalist movement, which favors clean lines and understated elegance,” she says. “It also fits in with classic and transitional styles, offering a timeless appeal that blends well with various design aesthetics.”
Scott Beloian, owner of Westcoe Realtors, has also noticed the widespread use of white in exterior projects, with an emphasis on subtle accents like crown molding. “White is popular because it’s a clean, crisp color that goes with a variety of home styles and colors,” he says. “White crown molding works well in traditional, craftsman and cottage homes and fits in with both minimalist and modern trends.”
If you prefer minimalist color ideas, Nina recommends pairing with soft gray or beige walls, which will allow the white trim to stand out while maintaining a calm and sophisticated look. For a bolder statement, she suggests dark blue or charcoal gray walls for a touch of extra depth.
If you’re using a more pared-back color palette for the front of your house, you can play it safe and go with old-fashioned front door color ideas like white and black. Or you can take a cue from Nina and add a splash of navy, dark brown, or even a bold red for a pop of color.
Price: 55$
Crowd: 1/2 gallon
Price: 48$
Crowd: 750ml
Price: 60$
Crowd: 1 gallon
The runner-up
In addition to the ever-popular white, other contenders also occupy the first place on the podium of the most popular exterior siding colors. And in second place is the dark, gothic counterpart to white – black.
Scott tells us that black trim looks bold and dramatic, and contrasts well with lighter exterior walls in shades of brown, cream or light gray. “For even more pizzazz, use a bright color like yellow or turquoise for the front door,” he recommends.
Black is a brilliant choice as an exterior color to increase external impression, and Nina tells us it’s a compelling option for homeowners who want to make a statement (in the best sense).
“For a more theatrical finish, consider dark blue or charcoal walls, which can accentuate the elegant, angular appearance of black trim,” she recommends. “A front door in a matching or slightly lighter shade, such as a deep gray or muted burgundy, can also provide a unified and elegant look.”
When voting for the top 3, it was almost fate that we found green in third place. Nina thinks that green is a natural choice that fits perfectly into the line-up of leading shades.
“Green, particularly in its muted and earthy tones, is a popular choice for those looking to blend seamlessly into the natural environment,” she says. “It reinforces a home’s connection to its natural surroundings, making it a popular choice for homes surrounded by lush landscaping or rural settings.”
To keep up with color trends while complementing your green trim, Nina recommends opting for nature-inspired colors for your exterior walls. “Walls in soft beige or taupe can create a balanced, natural look, while deeper greens or grays can offer a more integrated, monochromatic effect,” she notes. “And a front door in a warm wood tone or a muted complementary tone like a soft cream or brown can enhance the natural feel.”
Price: 55$
Crowd: 1/2 gallon
Price: 62 $
Crowd: 1 gallon
Price: $52
Crowd: 750ml
These shades make up the most comprehensive trio of trim colors and are definitely worth the hype for an appealing front-of-home look. White is for lovers of classic homes, black for statement brands, and green for a mix of both.
There’s something for everyone in this year’s top shades. And while the design climate is constantly evolving and new trends are dictating color schemes every day, we have a sneaking feeling that some of these shades could make it onto next year’s list as well. But alas, only time will tell.
FAQ
Which paint finish is most popular for trim?
When you’re thinking about the color scheme for your home’s exterior, the color you choose is just as important as the finish you choose. When it comes to the ideal paint finish for trim, satin or semi-gloss paints are highly recommended.
The sheen of these paints will make the trim stand out, even if you choose the same color for the walls and trim.
