How to Decorate When You Don't Have White Trim

Wood Trim

• Wood trim, whether in a dark, medium or light tone, is a good alternative to white. Like white, it is a neutral tone that works with most wall colors and is suitable for most decorating styles. Unlike white, it doesn’t produce a shrinking effect to the space and tends to add character to the space. Being a neutral, natural wood is compatible with shades from all color families. Light colors and neutrals create a clean, modern space and make small rooms feel larger. These tones are ideal for small rooms or spaces that lack natural light. Dark colors work as well but should be kept for large, open rooms with plenty of light to keep the space from feeling cramped or cave-like. Dark wood tones are perfect for modern designs, while medium tones work best in rustic style spaces.

Dark Trim

• Dark trim is an ideal choice for a romantic or French country-style home. This design choice creates visual interest and contrast in a room. Black is one good option, although chocolate brown is a good alternative. Both options are neutral colors, meaning they work with a variety of wall colors without clashing. French country homes should stick to a bold color scheme, including shades of gold, blue, gray and red for walls. Romantic styles embrace a softer color palette, focusing mostly on soft pastels and neutrals. Adding a dark trim to these colors adds visual interest and contrast. If a full-strength dark color is overwhelming, soften it by making it look vintage. This is a painting process that requires painting a lighter-toned base under a layer of paste wax, which then is painted with the top dark coat. When done properly, this lightens the dark tone and makes it fit better with rustic or Mediterranean home decor.

Monochromatic Color

• Monochromatic walls are those that have trim painted the same color as the wall. This is a good alternative in small bedrooms or bathrooms and creates a larger, more open feel to these areas. This is an alternative that works with any paint color or decorating style, particularly a modern-style room where clean lines and simplicity are key. Other design elements, particularly wall art, window dressing and lighting, replace trim in bringing contrast and visual interest to these walls.

Neutral Alternatives

• Neutral colors are those that tend to recede into the background. They are options that match most decorating styles and can be mixed with any other color in the color wheel. The neutral family includes shades of beige, taupe and gray, as well as mossy greens and watery blues. These are suitable alternatives to white for trim and create a soothing, visually interesting space. When selecting a neutral paint color, it is essential to take undertones into consideration. Whites, for example, can have blue, pink or yellow undertones, while beige might have pink, tan or gold. These undertones have the potential to clash with furnishings or woodwork.