The Timeless Palette of the WILLIAMSBURG Color Collection by Benjamin Moore®: A Journey Through Historic Paint Colors
In our latest podcast episode, we took a deep dive into the fascinating world of historic paint colors with experts from Colonial Williamsburg and Benjamin Moore. This collaboration brings to life a collection of colors inspired by the 18th-century American landscape, each carefully researched to ensure accuracy and authenticity. These shades, once used to adorn historic homes and public buildings, are now part of the WILLIAMSBURG Color Collection by Benjamin Moore, offering a bridge between past and present design.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout colors we discussed in the episode, many of which played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic of early America.
Bone Black
A sophisticated, muted black with hints of gray, This shade was often used in early American homes for woodwork and trim, providing a bold contrast against lighter walls.
Use it Today: For a sophisticated and dramatic effect, use this color on interior doors, trim, or built-in shelving. This shade pairs beautifully with whites, creams, and lighter pastels for contrast. It can ground floral wallpapers in a grandmillennial home!
Tyler Gray
Named after the 10th U.S. President, John Tyler, who hailed from Virginia, this is a warm, soft gray that exudes understated elegance. In the colonial era, gray tones were commonly used for their ability to complement a range of other colors while adding depth to interiors.
Use it Today: Use it for a neutral backdrop in living rooms, dining rooms, or hallways. For a classic look, pair it with white crown molding. It also works well alongside patterned upholstery and layered textiles.
Palace Pearl
Inspired by the refined interiors of grand colonial homes, this color offers a shimmering, soft off-white that reflects light well. It’s subtle pearlescence is reminiscent of the opulence found in Williamsburg’s finest estates.
Use it Today: If you need a color that’ll create a sense of light and airiness, it’s this one. The soft sheen works well on ceilings or as a trim color. For a grandmillennial touch, pair it with chinoiserie wallpaper.
Nelson Blue
This rich, deep blue recalls the maritime connections and naval traditions of the early American colonies. Navy blues were historically associated with uniforms and formal spaces, making this color a perfect choice for statement walls or exterior shutters.
Use it Today: Consider this deep blue in formal spaces like dining rooms or libraries. It also would make for a beautiful accent wall, cabinetry color, or, pulling from its roots, exterior shutters! If you decorate with brass fixtures or floral fabrics, this would complement those nicely.
Mayhouse Teal
Vibrant and eye-catching, this shade brings energy to a space. In colonial times, teal was favored for its striking appearance and was often used in homes that embraced more colorful palettes.
Use it Today: If you’re looking to add personality to a smaller space, this color will make an impact. It also pairs well with vintage furniture or rattan pieces, bringing a playful touch to more classic environments.
Anderson Blue
This mid-tone blue is calming and classic, making it versatile for interiors. Inspired by early American paint pigments derived from indigo and other natural sources, this color captures the serene beauty of the landscape.
Use it Today: This is perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms—spaces that you want a calm atmosphere! Paired with crisp white linens and antique wood pieces, it’s quintessentially Grandmillennial and Coastal Grandmother.
Galt Blue
A nod to one of Williamsburg’s prominent families, this blue-green is soft and dreamy. It was frequently found in bedrooms and living spaces, creating a bit of tranquility.
Use it Today: This is a good color for kitchens and sitting rooms because it errs traditional yet unfussy. It would work well with natural textures like jute rugs or rattan-and-wicker furniture.
Capitol White
Reflecting the stateliness of Williamsburg’s Capitol Building, this crisp white was used in government and public spaces to signify purity and formality. Today, it remains a timeless choice for trim and other architectural details.
Use it Today: It’s still a great choice for trim and wainscoting, especially when paired with richer wall colors. Bold patterns will work well with this one!
Bruton White
Named after Bruton Parish Church, one of the most iconic buildings in Williamsburg, this creamy off-white balances warmth and neutrality. It evokes the traditional plaster finishes of the 18th-century.
Use it Today: Because it’s fresh yet inviting, use this color in an entryway. It pairs well with wood tones and antique brass accents, and can serve as a nice backdrop for chintz fabrics and needlepoint.
Levingston Green
This is a bold, earthy green that was one favored for exterior accents, particularly on shutters and doors. Greens like this were derived from natural pigments, often created by combining copper and other materials to achieve their distinctive hue.
Use it Today: Add an earthy richness to kitchens, mudrooms, or even as a front door color. Its bold tone pairs well with botanical prints, plants, and wicker.
Palace Arms Red
This striking, regal red was inspired by the opulence of palaces and formal meeting rooms. It commands attention, adding a sense of drama and luxury to any space. Historically, red pigments were costly and symbolized wealth and prestige.
Use it Today: Use this one in a formal dining room or library, paired with dark woods, gilded frames, and antique chandeliers. You could also use this rich red in smaller doses, like on an accent wall.
Chamber Yellow
A warm, golden hue, this yellow recalls the sunny interiors of colonial dining rooms and parlors. Yellows were popular in Georgian interiors for their ability to brighten rooms and create a welcoming ambiance.
Use it Today: Your breakfast nook is begging for this warm, bright yellow shade! It’ll pair well with gingham, florals, and vintage pottery.
Everard Blue
A soft, dusty blue, this color is reminiscent of the cool tones found in many Williamsburg interiors. Blues like this were often used in bedrooms and private chambers, offering a sense of calm and relaxation.
Use it Today: Quiet spaces like studies or bedrooms are well-suited for this soft, powdery blue. Pair it with natural linens and chinoiserie vases for a grandmillennial influence.
Carter Plum
This deep, rich plum was once used in formal spaces to evoke a sense of grandeur and luxury. It carries an air of sophistication.
Use it Today: For a moodier feel, incorporate this bold shade into a dining room or entryway. Pair it with brass accents, dark wood furniture, and velvet.
Brush Blue
Derived from natural mineral pigments, this vibrant blue has historical roots in both interior and exterior applications. It’s a classic that pairs well with whites and neutrals.
Use it Today: Blue-and-white ceramics, wicker, and vintage prints work well against this vibrant mid-tone. Pair it with white tile or cabinetry for a crisp, clean look, or into a kids’ room for a pop of fun color!
As you can see, there’s no shortage of gorgeous colors to choose from that are inspired by Colonial Williamsburg’s extensive, rich history—and this is just some of them!