The One Colorful Standout in Nate Berkus’s List of Go-To Paint Swatches

Plus the room he recently used it in.
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Photo by Dominik Bindl/Getty Images

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Whenever we hear someone on Instagram start a reel with “A lot of you have been asking…,” we’re generally inclined to continue scrolling. (Usually that phrase is the lead-up to something specific or sponsored.) But when Nate Berkus posted a video followed by the statement “My go-to paint colors for a neutral room,” we were all ears. The interior designer and Nate Home founder goes on to share a straightforward roundup of his all-time favorites. While most fall into the gray or white category, one swatch stood out: Lisbon by Portola Paints.

Berkus describes the color as a “green-y gray” with a historic feel, but the brand itself calls the Portugal-inspired swatch an earthy seafoam. The paint comes in standard finishes such as eggshell and flat, but it’s also available in the company’s beloved Roman Clay, which adds a whole new dimension to the shade. As to not leave followers hanging, Berkus hints that the bathroom is the perfect space to apply this paint, admitting he’s used it in his kids’ bathroom. 

Lisbon by Portola Paints

If you are searching for the perfect white or gray paint, consider Berkus’s other top picks. From Benjamin Moore, the pro swears by Alabaster, Swiss Coffee, Smokey Taupe, and Snowfall White⁣. His other go-to at Portola? Saint Sauvant. And from Clare, he gravitates toward Fresh Kicks and Flatiron. Ask and you shall receive. 

Lydia Geisel Avatar

Lydia Geisel

Home Editor

Lydia Geisel has been on the editorial team at Domino since 2017. Today, she writes and edits home and renovation stories, including house tours, before and afters, and DIYs, and leads our design news coverage. She lives in New York City.