10 Paint Colors Better Than Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee
As a designer, I certainly keep up with trends, and I’ve noticed that the paint color Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore (OC-45) has been making quite a mark in the industry. Now, this is a lovely paint color — I can absolutely see why it’s so popular. However, I’ll be honest: I’ve never specified this shade before. Why? Simply because I have my own go-to favourites, and this one just hasn’t made the list.
So, if you’re considering Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore, I’m not saying don’t go for it — I’m saying consider a few other off-whites too. Keep reading for my list of 10 paint colors you should compare to Swiss Coffee before making your final decision.
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How to Properly Choose a Paint Color
Many of my clients come to me for guidance on paint colors — and for good reason. There are a million and one shades out there. It’s no wonder people get overwhelmed and end up leaning on a designer to make the call.
That said, my process for choosing paint colors is a bit more extensive than you might think. I never just walk into a paint store and pick a color off a chip. If you do that, chances are you’ll end up wondering why your paint looks totally different once it’s on the wall.
So, what’s my method?
First, you need to decide what color family you’re even going for — and get clear on the look and feel of your space. If you’re torn between pinks and greens, that needs to be settled first.
Let’s say you’ve landed on off-whites. Great choice — but this is one of the trickiest categories. Why? Because most whites and off-whites look identical until you compare them side by side.
For example, if I hold up an off-white paint sample on its own, you might register it as plain white. But hold that same sample next to a true white piece of paper, and suddenly you’ll see the warmth or creaminess of the off-white. Compare two off-whites next to each other, and that’s when the undertones really start to reveal themselves. It can get confusing fast.
The first step, then, is to decide what kind of off-white you want:
– Warm white?
– Cool white?
– Neutral?
Once you’ve narrowed that down, start selecting your contenders — I recommend picking about 4 to 6 shades that catch your eye.
From there, it’s time to do a little “arts and crafts.” Get sample pots and paint test patches directly on your walls — ideally side by side — in different parts of the room (or if you are using paint swatches from Samplize, no need to paint). Observe how each shade looks under different lighting conditions:
- When the sun is shining vs. when it’s cloudy
- In the morning vs. evening
- Next to your flooring, furniture, or other finishes
This is the best way to ensure your chosen color will look the way you envision it in your actual space.
Designer’s Top 10 Go-To Off-White Paint Colors
Alright, so let’s get into my list of go-to off-whites, beiges, and neutral colors — because let’s face it, not everyone is willing to paint their walls burgundy (I am).
1. Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige
This has got to be my number one most-used color. Honestly, it’s my no-fail shade. It sits perfectly between beige and gray, and it’s a touch darker than Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore, giving it a bit more depth and warmth. I always love how it turns out — it just works.
If you’re torn between greys and beiges and want something with a little more character, Accessible Beige is a winner.
2. Benjamin Moore Oxford White
Oxford White is more of a true white, but I absolutely love it. It has just a hint of warmth — subtle enough that it still feels crisp and modern. It’s basically the perfect soft white and one of my go-tos for walls, trim, and cabinetry when I need a foolproof, versatile white.
3. Sherwin-Williams Aesthetic White
Another tried-and-true favourite. Aesthetic White is a soft beige that introduces a gentle warmth to a space without being overpowering. It’s one of those colors that feels timeless and balanced — ideal if you want something cozy but not too dark.
4. Sherwin-Williams Ivory Lace
Ivory Lace is similar to Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore, but it’s a touch more vibrant on the walls. It offers that same cozy, creamy off-white tone but brightens a space a bit more — perfect if you want a warm, welcoming feel without things looking too yellow.
5. Benjamin Moore White Dove
Another classic comparable to Swiss Coffee, but a little more neutral. White Dove is soft and clean, and it tends to pair beautifully with a wide range of interiors — from traditional to contemporary.
6. Sherwin-Williams Pure White
Pure White is a lovely, light white that works beautifully in both modern and traditional interiors. It’s not stark — it has just a touch of pigment, giving it a soft, inviting appearance. A fantastic option if you want a bright, neutral backdrop that still feels warm.
7. Sherwin-Williams Alabaster
One of my favorites for both walls and cabinetry. Alabaster is a super versatile off-white that can read slightly warm or cool depending on the lighting. It’s crisp, timeless, and definitely a shade to keep on your shortlist.
8. Farrow & Ball Wimborne White
Wimborne White is a lovely yellowish-white translates beautifully in cozy interiors. It reminds me a lot of Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore, offering that same soft, warm appeal. A great alternative to compare if you’re after that creamy, inviting look.
9. Clare – Timeless
Photo by Clare Paint.
Did you know you can buy paint online? Yes — and you can even order sample swatches!
Clare Paint is an online paint company with a highly curated palette, and one of their standout shades is Timeless — a beautiful off-white that lives up to its name. It’s simple, sophisticated, and, well… timeless.
Read: My Review Of DesignShop: Interior Design Samples Made Easy
10. Sherwin-Williams White Tail
Last but not least, White Tail. This soft white has a hint of yellow undertone, making it ideal for traditional homes with warm wood tones. I love using it when I want to complement natural finishes while keeping things light and airy.
Is Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee Warm or Cool?
The thing with color is that light completely changes how it’s perceived. I’ve read (and seen firsthand) that Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee can look too yellow—or even slightly green—in some spaces, yet appear perfectly creamy and neutral in others. It really depends on your lighting environment.
So while I’d definitely categorize it as a warm color, it may not look warm in your interior. The best way to determine if it’s the right shade for your home is to use my method for choosing paint colors—it’ll help you see how it behaves in your unique space.
Why Is Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee So Popular?
Because of this color’s warm undertones, people tend to gravitate toward it—it instantly creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Many homeowners worry that white can feel too cold or sterile, like a hospital, but this shade of white does the opposite. It warms up a space beautifully and works well in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, or anywhere you want a soft, welcoming off-white.
The Best Warm White For Your Space
So, there you have it — a list of 10 paint colors to consider if you’re also thinking about Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee. It’s always smart to compare paint shades and choose one that works best for your space, considering the lighting, furniture, and materials. Never choose a paint color blindly — always test it first! Because let’s face it, painting is expensive. Avoid those costly (and sometimes ugly) interior design mistakes — as I like to say!
Also Read: The Best Warm Gray Paint Colors, A Designer’s Selection
10 White Paint Colors Better Than Benjamin Moore White Dove
10 Unique Paint Colours to Consider for your Home
how to order paint samples online
Clare Paint allows you to order paint and paint samples from their collection.
DesignShop has peel and stick paint samples (among other finishes and materials as well)
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