Vibes and Exterior Paint Colors (Pacific Northwest)
The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its lush green landscapes, coffee culture, rugged coastline, and rich, malty beers. When it comes to house painting in the PNW, including Portland and Beaverton house painting, we draw inspiration from these elements. Our palette for exterior paint colors in the Pacific Northwest tends to favor the region’s moody gray skies, foggy lowlands, and the vast expanse of trees covering our rolling hills. Picture the coastline where the water and sky blend seamlessly into one another.
For 2025, the trend leans even further into nature-inspired hues with a sophisticated yet inviting feel. Warmer whites and rich neutrals have taken center stage, replacing stark, cool-toned grays with softer, earthy variations. Deep blues and charcoals remain popular, but we’re also seeing an uptick in deep greens like Sherwin-Williams’ Ripe Olive (SW 6209) and Benjamin Moore’s Gloucester Sage (HC-100), bringing a fresh and organic vibe. While 2024 trends leaned heavily on deep greens and sophisticated charcoals, 2025 is seeing a shift toward richer, more earthy hues like terracottas, deep ochres, and moody plum shades. As homeowners explore new exterior paint colors Pacific Northwest homes are embracing, the focus remains on natural, timeless palettes with a modern twist. Nature continues to be the ultimate inspiration, guiding our latest color selections.
Popular Exterior Paint Colors Pacific Northwest
With all of the beauty and nature the PNW has to offer, choosing the “right” exterior paint color scheme can mean different things to different people. Our paint palettes are rooted in nature with earthy greens, mushrooms, and grays and give us so much inspiration. When we do go to the more saturated charcoals, navys and black, you’ll still find a nod to nature with stained wood accents.
Some of my favorite combinations are Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy HC-154 or Kendall Charcoal HC-166 or Sherwin Williams Peppercorn SW7674 for the body, with a Simply White OC-117 contrasting trim and Dijon 193 for the door to bring warmth. This works on a 1920s Craftsman as well as a Mid Century Mod renovation or a new-build Contemporary.
Gone are the beige and tans, and in are the more complex colors like Sherwin Williams Functional Gray 7024 and Gauntlet Gray 7019. These deep mushroom tones are affected by light more than others. Some people find this ever-changing dynamic intriguing, and to others, it can be a little scary. My favorite is Urbane Bronze SW7048 – this was actually named Sherwin Williams 2021 Color of the Year! This is such a sophisticated color with so much personality. With exterior painting, make sure and sample the paint in several places as this is a complex color and is magic when you see it play under different lighting conditions.
The Best Exterior Paint for Pacific Northwest Climates
What makes this area so lush and green is the 43” of rain we average a year, then in summer we get the heat and sun. This weather takes a toll on any painted finish, and without the proper prep, your project will fail. Beyond aesthetics, the right finish and prep work ensure your home’s color remains vibrant despite the region’s rain and sun. Some colors hold up better than others under these conditions—here’s what to keep in mind.
Proper prep is more important than the paint itself. There, I said it. But the finished product is only as good as the prep. Skimping on ANY of the prep will result in a project that won’t last as long as it should, which just means you’ll be painting again sooner than you’d like.
When it comes to finish, it’s recommended to use a Low Lustre or Satin finish rather than Flat paint. This sheds rain better while also reflecting heat and sun for improved color retention.
Popular Exterior Paint Colors in the Pacific Northwest by Region
The Pacific Northwest landscape of mountains, trees, and rocky ocean views inspires a beautiful color palette. It took us a LONG time to get on the gray bandwagon. I was told many times by homeowners “Oh, I can’t do gray! It’s too gray outside here to paint my walls gray.” I just smiled and asked about what colors make them feel good and bring comfort. It took a while but the more people started seeing gray used more often on an HGTV show or in print they came around.
Oregon Paint Colors: Climate, Landscape & Regional Style
Oregon’s diverse geography—from the foggy coastline to the high desert east of the Cascades—means exterior paint colors can look very different depending on where you live. While nature-inspired tones are popular statewide, the lighting conditions and weather patterns in each region impact how colors appear over time.
With Oregon’s diverse climate, natural light shifts significantly from the misty coast to the sunny high desert—be sure to test your paint in different conditions before committing.
Western Oregon: Hillsboro, Beaverton & Coastal Area Paint Colors
In Hillsboro, Beaverton, and other Portland suburbs, homeowners experience cloudy skies and filtered light, which can make colors appear cooler or more muted than expected. To balance this, many homes in these areas feature:
Warm, Soft Neutrals – Sherwin-Williams’ Skyline Steel (SW 1015) and Benjamin Moore’s Grant Beige (HC-83) provide a cozy, inviting feel without looking too yellow.
Muted Olive & Sage Greens – Sherwin-Williams’ Svelte Sage (SW 6164) works well in neighborhoods surrounded by evergreens, blending seamlessly with the landscape.
Rich Brick Reds & Burnt Oranges – Colors like Benjamin Moore’s Audubon Russet (HC-51) add depth and warmth, pairing beautifully with the Pacific Northwest’s natural stone and wood accents.
Craftsman and ranch-style homes are especially common in these areas, and many homeowners opt for classic, understated colors that pair well with traditional architectural details.
Central & Eastern Oregon Paint Colors
In contrast, Bend and Eastern Oregon experience sunnier, drier conditions, where colors appear brighter in direct sunlight and dark shades can fade more quickly. Popular choices in these areas include:
Desert-Inspired Neutrals – Sherwin-Williams’ Barcelona Beige (SW 7530) and Benjamin Moore’s Shaker Beige (HC-45) complement the natural tones of rocky landscapes and golden grasses.
Dusty Blues & Muted Golds – Sherwin-Williams’ Windy Blue (SW 6240) and Benjamin Moore’s Wilmington Tan (HC-34) reflect the high-desert sky and warm canyon hues.
Terracotta & Weathered Copper Accents – Sherwin-Williams’ Redend Point (SW 9081), a soft desert-inspired clay tone, is a striking yet natural choice.
For homes in high-exposure areas like Bend, it’s important to choose UV-resistant paints to help maintain vibrancy over time.
Portland House Paint Colors
Portland homeowners embrace a mix of timeless and trend-setting colors, reflecting the city’s vibrant, eclectic spirit. While many stick to classic PNW palettes inspired by nature, others take a more artistic approach, incorporating bold, unexpected hues that make a statement.
Nature-Inspired Neutrals with a Twist – Portland’s love for the outdoors translates into color choices that blend seamlessly with the environment. Soft warm grays, deep greens, and rich earthy tones are popular. Benjamin Moore’s Chelsea Gray (HC-168) and Sherwin-Williams’ Dried Thyme (SW 6186) offer understated elegance, while Urbane Bronze (SW 7048) continues to be a favorite for a bold yet natural look.
Unexpected Pops of Color – While subtle, nature-inspired palettes dominate, Portland’s creative side shines through in colorful accents. From a front door in Persimmon (SW 6339) to shutters in Benjamin Moore’s Admiral Blue (2065-10), homeowners here aren’t afraid to add a touch of personality.
Mid-Century & Modern Trends – Portland’s mid-century and modern homes are embracing moody blues and monochromatic schemes. Sherwin-Williams’ Gale Force (SW 7605) and Benjamin Moore’s Soot (2129-20) are deep, dramatic choices that play well with modern architectural lines and natural wood finishes.
With Portland’s mix of cloudy and sunny days, choosing colors that shift beautifully with lighting changes is essential. Whether sticking to timeless earth tones or incorporating a bold accent, Portland homeowners have plenty of ways to express their individuality through exterior paint colors.
Washington Paint Colors: Balancing Light and Landscape
Washington’s landscape offers a mix of evergreen forests, coastal views, and modern cityscapes, influencing homeowners’ exterior paint choices. While deep greens, cool blues, and soft grays remain popular, choosing the right shade requires careful consideration of the region’s unique lighting conditions.
In Washington, as in any area of the Pacific Northwest, lighting is ever-changing, making it one of the biggest factors in how a paint color appears on a home. Everyone sees color differently, and natural light can dramatically shift its tone throughout the day. To avoid surprises, I suggest painting large samples (no more than three) on poster board or photo paper and taping them up outside your home. Corners work best. Then step back and walk back & forth to see how the light plays off of each color. How dark or light is it? How does it contrast with the rock or masonry on the outside of your home? As you narrow down your choices, fold it in half and hang it on an inside corner and in the shade… Do you like the full range of your color?
The Pacific Northwest mid-tones, where blue and gray come together, can be particularly tricky. Make sure to view your samples at different times of the day and in varying cloud coverage—Washington’s often overcast skies can make certain colors feel darker than expected.
For homeowners deciding on an exterior scheme, contrast plays a key role. Do you prefer a dramatic distinction between the body color and trim, or would you rather keep things subtle with a monochromatic palette? Some popular choices in Washington homes include:
Misty, Cool-Toned Grays – Soft, atmospheric grays work well with Washington’s often overcast skies. Sherwin-Williams’ Lattice (SW 7654) and Benjamin Moore’s Storm Cloud Gray (2140-40) have a refined, modern look without feeling too stark.
Moody, Evergreen-Inspired Hues – Inspired by the deep, dense forests of the region, darker greens are making a statement. Sherwin-Williams’ Rock Bottom (SW 7062) and Benjamin Moore’s Boreal Forest (AF-480) offer a bold yet natural appeal.
Muted Coastal Blues – Homes near the Puget Sound often lean into soft, misty blues reminiscent of fog rolling over the water. Benjamin Moore’s Water’s Edge (1635) and Sherwin-Williams’ Moody Blue (SW 6221) bring a calming, coastal vibe.
Natural Contrast – Many Washington homeowners incorporate stained wood elements to create warmth and depth. Deep walnut or espresso-stained cedar trim pairs beautifully with the region’s gray, green, and blue exteriors.
When choosing the perfect paint color in Washington, remember: light shifts, weather conditions matter, and testing colors in different conditions is a must. A little patience in the selection process ensures a stunning, long-lasting result.
Seattle Exterior House Colors
Seattle’s exterior paint trends mirror the city’s balance between modern urban design and Pacific Northwest nature. The interplay of gray skies, waterfront views, and evergreen landscapes influences popular color choices.
Muted Earth Tones: Seattle homeowners are leaning toward warm grays, soft taupes, and sage greens. Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter (HC-172) and Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) are trending choices that offer understated elegance.
Deep Blues & Charcoals: Homes near the Puget Sound are embracing deep maritime blues like Sherwin-Williams’ Salty Dog (SW 9177) or the always-classic Hale Navy (HC-154).
Natural Contrast: Wood accents remain a staple in Seattle home exteriors, with cedar trims, garage doors, and porch details stained in warm walnut or rich espresso shades.
Accent Pops: While neutrals dominate, a splash of color on front doors and shutters is making waves. Mustard yellows, muted corals, and even deep wine reds are showing up more frequently.
Seattle’s ever-changing light and frequent rain require high-quality, durable paint with excellent coverage. Choosing paints designed for moisture resistance, like Sherwin-Williams’ Duration® or Benjamin Moore’s Aura®, ensures longevity and vibrant color retention.
Idaho
Idaho consists mainly of small to medium-sized cities with incredible ecological diversity. In Idaho, you will find mountains, areas covered in Douglas fir trees, desert, and beautiful lakes, just to name a few. These factors all influence popular paint colors, even the color of the front door!
The front door is one element of which I’ve seen a lot of change. It used to be we were painting a couple of red or black doors every week! Even if the rest of the home is fairly conservative, a new front door paint can really give the whole house a boost. It’s the lipstick, the final touch. It is for curb appeal, THE biggest statement you can make.
As I said, we used to do a LOT of red & black doors, then we were doing some lime green or yellow or blue. Recently, we’ve seen a rise in warm desert-inspired hues, such as Sherwin-Williams’ Spiced Cider (SW 7702) and Benjamin Moore’s Dry Sage (2142-40), which blend beautifully with Idaho’s natural landscape. The biggest change of late is the use of the softer tones, they are back, dare I say pastel! A soft blue, seafoam, and even pink is making a comeback. I think we are all looking for our sanctuary, our safe place. Some of my favorites are Benjamin Moore’s 2021 color of the year Aegean Teal #2136-40, Sherwin Williams SW9138 Stardew or SW9632 Serenely, SW6339 Persimmon, Hubbard Squash SW0044 & Benjamin Moore Pale Almond OC-2. Have fun with this, it’s fresh and light and feels like spring!
Montana
In Montana, we find more rustic and farmhouse trends. HGTV’s Fixer Upper, Magnolia enterprise has inspired the Modern Farmhouse for the last number of years. Some colors to create this look include Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist SW9166 paired with Forged Steel SW9565. It has been around a while now and is evolving a bit as everything does.
In 2025, we’re seeing Montana homes incorporate deeper, nature-inspired shades while maintaining a classic farmhouse appeal. Popular choices include Sherwin-Williams’ Iron Ore (SW 7069) for a striking body color, paired with warmer white trims like Alabaster (SW 7008) to keep the look fresh and inviting.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Exterior Paint Trends in the PNW
Exterior paint trends in the Pacific Northwest continue to evolve, with an increasing emphasis on sustainability, durability, and environmental harmony. Homeowners are not only looking for colors that complement the region’s natural beauty, but also eco-friendly paint options that stand up to the PNW’s moisture-heavy climate while reducing environmental impact.
Eco-Friendly Paint Options from Sherwin-Williams & Benjamin Moore
Both Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore offer low-VOC, high-performance exterior paints designed for the unique demands of the PNW. Some standout selections include:
- Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Rain Refresh™ in Cascades (SW 7623) – A deep, forest-inspired green that blends seamlessly with the lush surroundings of the Pacific Northwest.
- Sherwin-Williams Duration® in Iron Ore (SW 7069) – A soft black with subtle gray undertones, offering a sophisticated and modern look while maintaining an eco-friendly profile.
- Benjamin Moore Aura® in Hale Navy (HC-154) – A versatile, deep navy blue that provides striking contrast against greenery and natural wood finishes.
- Benjamin Moore Regal® Select High Build in Chelsea Gray (HC-168) – A warm, elegant gray that works beautifully with the natural tones of the region.
As sustainability becomes a bigger priority for homeowners, these eco-friendly paint options allow for long-lasting beauty while reducing environmental impact. Whether refreshing an exterior or selecting a color for a brand-new look, choosing durable, low-VOC, and weather-resistant paints ensures both style and longevity in the exterior paint colors Pacific Northwest homeowners love.
Pro Tips for Choosing Pacific Northwest Exterior House Paint Colors
Choosing the perfect exterior paint colors Pacific Northwest homes need involves several considerations to ensure your house blends beautifully with the natural environment while standing up to the region’s unique weather conditions.
Draw Inspiration from Nature:
- Local Landscape: Look at the colors present in the natural surroundings of your home. The PNW is known for its lush forests, coastal waters, and misty skies. Greens, blues, grays, and earthy tones are excellent choices that harmonize with the environment.
- Regional Materials: Consider the colors of local building materials like wood, stone, and brick. These natural hues often complement the regional landscape and provide a cohesive look.
Test Colors in Different Lighting:
- Natural Light Variations: The lighting in the PNW can change dramatically from one season to another and even throughout the day. It’s essential to test paint samples on different sides of your house and observe them at various times (morning, noon, and evening) to see how they appear under different lighting conditions.
- Weather Conditions: Rain and overcast skies can affect how colors are perceived. Make sure to view your samples on both sunny and cloudy days.
Consider the Architecture of Your Home:
- Historical Accuracy: If you have a historical home, consider colors that are true to its original palette or that reflect the period’s style.
- Modern Trends: For more contemporary homes, you might opt for bold contrasts or monochromatic schemes that highlight architectural features.
Balance Bold and Neutral Colors:
- Accent Features: Use bold colors for doors, shutters, and trim to add character without overwhelming the overall appearance. For example, a deep navy door (like Benjamin Moore’s Hale Navy) can provide a striking contrast against a gray exterior (like Chelsea Gray).
- Neutral Bases: Neutrals such as grays, taupes, and off-whites provide a timeless base that can be accented with more vibrant hues.
Use High-Quality, Eco-Friendly Paints:
- Durability and Sustainability: Choose paints that are formulated to withstand the PNW’s wet climate and temperature fluctuations. Eco-friendly options like Sherwin-Williams’ Emerald® Rain Refresh™ and Benjamin Moore’s Aura® Exterior ensure long-lasting protection and minimal environmental impact.
- Low VOC: Opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints to reduce harmful emissions and ensure a healthier environment for your family and the planet.
Consult a Professional:
- Color Consultants: If you’re uncertain about your choices, consider hiring our professional color consultant. She can provide expert advice tailored to your specific home and preferences.
- Samples and Swatches: Many paint stores offer sample sizes and large swatches that you can test on your home before committing to a full purchase. Take advantage of these to make sure you’re happy with the color in all conditions.
By following these tips, you can confidently choose an exterior paint color that enhances your home’s beauty, complements the natural surroundings, and withstands the unique challenges of the Pacific Northwest climate.
Professional Painting Contractors in Portland, Beaverton, Oregon & More!
Choosing the perfect exterior paint color in the Pacific Northwest means considering not just trends and personal style, but also weather resistance, durability, and long-term maintenance. With 2025 color trends embracing richer, earth-inspired hues and warm, natural contrast, homeowners have more options than ever to refresh their home’s exterior.
That’s where Absolute Painting comes in. Our professional color consultant, Beth Girgen Hall, LOVES helping clients find THEIR perfect color statement. It all starts with asking the right questions—because when making a large investment like painting your home, it’s important that the color reflects your personality while remaining inviting, interesting, and timeless.
Since 1995, Absolute Painting’s expert Portland house painters have provided the highest quality painting and construction services. We specialize in interior and exterior residential and commercial painting, along with professional color consultation to ensure you get the best result possible.
Ready to refresh your home’s exterior in the Portland area? Request a free estimate, and we’ll get back to you shortly. Thank you for trusting us—we look forward to working with you!
