The Best Paint Colors for Sarasota FL, San Francisco CA & Nantucket MA

The Best Paint Colors for Sarasota FL, San Francisco CA & Nantucket MA

Expert Interior Design Guidance by Rachel Blindauer

When it comes to creating a well-styled home, selecting the right paint color goes far beyond following trends—it’s about curating a palette that complements your architecture, decor and natural light. As a nationally recognized interior designer working across coastal markets, I know how regional nuances shape design choices. In this guide, I’m sharing my go-to paint colors for three distinctly styled locales: Sarasota, Florida; San Francisco, California; and Nantucket, Massachusetts.

From sunlit modernism to fog-filtered warmth and heritage-driven charm, these curated paint palettes are designed to elevate your space and feel intuitively “you.”

🎨 Not All Paint Is Created Equal

Paint finish, texture, and depth dramatically change the feel of a room. While I work with many high-quality brands, Portola Paints is a current favorite for its stunning lime wash and Roman clay options, which bring organic texture and movement to walls—perfect for spaces seeking dimension and softness. Farrow and Ball is hard to paint with but Benjamin Moore is a dream to paint with and the Aura line is scrubbable!!

A Quick Design Rule: Paint Comes Last

In every project I lead, paint is selected last. Why? Because your palette should support key elements like art, rugs, or upholstery—not compete with them. Once these anchors are chosen, paint becomes the harmonious bridge that ties everything together. And remember: always sample in your actual space, across multiple times of day.

🌴 Best Paint Colors for Sarasota, FL

Sarasota’s abundant sunlight and blend of contemporary and tropical architecture call for nuanced, warm neutrals and coastal-inspired whites. These tones ground bright environments without feeling stark.

1. Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore
A creamy, yellowed white that reads warm without heaviness. Ideal for interiors with warm wood or smooth cement. Important: no bright white trim—use Swiss Coffee on all millwork for cohesion.

2. Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore
A soft greige with yellow undertones—effortlessly elegant in sunlit rooms.

3. Blondie Lime Wash, Portola Paints
A buttery lime wash that layers beautifully in neutral coastal interiors.

4. Leisure Lime Wash, Portola Paints
Chalky and sun-washed—perfect for creating texture in beach-style homes.

5. Wood Ash by C2 Paint
A rich mid-toned greige with character. Excellent on exteriors or layered interiors with natural textures. Tip: skip bright trim—use this tone on all moldings.

6. Sea Salt by Sherwin-Williams
A fresh, ocean-inspired soft blue-gray—ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms.

7. Summer Shower by Benjamin Moore
Crystal clear and light-as-air, this soft blue is a refreshing pale robins egg blue.

8. Masquerade by Little Greene
Warm and cozy, this is a dream for blackout-curtained bedrooms or media rooms.

9. Salon Drab by Farrow & Ball
A timeless, earthy brown. Use in dens, game rooms, or more traditional masculine spaces.

🌁 Best Paint Colors for San Francisco, CA

San Francisco’s architectural variety—Victorians to sleek moderns—and its cool, gray-filtered light call for warmer, moodier neutrals that can soften fog’s blue cast.

1. Gem Lime Wash, Portola Paints
Creates a subtle, moody chalk finish perfect for layered interiors.

2. Half Moon Bay Lime Wash, Portola Paints
Soft and atmospheric—pairs beautifully with oak, linen, and vintage pieces.

3. Wood Ash by C2 Paint
A repeat favorite for a reason—it grounds eclectic San Francisco interiors.

4. Urban Living by Ralph Lauren (discontinued)
Still worth color matching—rich, versatile, and classic.

5. Avocado by Sherwin-Williams
Earthy and bold—beautiful in kitchens or studies paired with warm metals.

6. Darkside Lime Wash, Portola Paints
Adds instant sophistication—ideal for a dramatic powder room or bedroom.

7. Bancha No.298 by Farrow & Ball
A structured olive green with timeless appeal—stunning with walnut and gold.

8. Devonshire Green by Benjamin Moore
Fresh yet grounded—great for trim, built-ins, or exteriors.

9. Dragon’s Breath by Benjamin Moore
A rich, deep brown with charcoal undertones—luxurious and grounding.

10. Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball
Elegant and moody—perfect for dining rooms or library-style spaces.

11. Soul Mate by Benjamin Moore
An earthy red softened to a gentle pink hue.

12. In the Navy Roman Clay by Portola Paints
Bold and textured—an artistic take on a classic navy wall.

⚓ Best Paint Colors for Nantucket, MA

Nantucket’s historical charm and coastal chic lean into both timeless whites and rich, shadowy tones. Think whitewashed millwork, black windows, and warm navy or olive interiors.

1. White Dove by Benjamin Moore
The go-to white for New England homes with detailed millwork.

2. All White by Farrow & Ball
Clean, classic, and crisp. Especially good when paired with black accents.

3. Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore
A soft transitional neutral—timeless and calming.

Repose Gray by Sherwin-Williams

4. Repose Gray by Sherwin-Williams
Pair with crisp white moldings or use monochromatically for depth.

5. Salon Drab by Farrow & Ball
Elevated and traditional—beautiful in intimate spaces or paneled rooms.

6. Bancha by Farrow & Ball
Green with gravitas. Works wonderfully in libraries or as an unexpected kitchen cabinet color.

7. Avocado by Sherwin-Williams
For a slightly retro but cozy pop of depth.

8. Pewter Green by Sherwin-Williams
Great on exteriors, built-ins, or as contrast trim.

9. Shady Lane by Benjamin Moore
A dark, botanical green for moody spaces.

10. French Gray by Farrow & Ball
A misty, historical tone that suits Nantucket’s heritage charm.

11. Oval Room Blue by Farrow & Ball
Understated and watery—great in rooms with natural fiber rugs and oversized art.

12. Cromarty by Farrow & Ball
A chalky coastal sage—fresh yet sophisticated.

13. In the Navy Roman Clay by Portola Paints
Textured depth for dramatic rooms.

14. Tricorn Black by Sherwin-Williams
Use for trim, windows, or doors to create strong contrast.

15. Coriander Seed by Benjamin Moore
A golden undertone neutral that reads warm in cool Northeast light.

16. Soft Chinchilla by Benjamin Moore
A gentle, misty hue that adds elegance to bedrooms or baths.

✨ Final Thoughts

Every region has a different soul and every home has different architecture—your home should exalt that. Whether you’re soaking up the Sarasota sun, enjoying San Francisco’s eclectic style, or embracing Nantucket’s timeless architecture, your paint palette can tie everything in your space together beautifully.

If you’re not sure which colors are right for your space or style, we can help. Rachel Blindauer Interiors offers expert color consultation services rooted in regional design knowledge and timeless taste.

🖌️ Ready to Elevate Your Space?

Let’s choose colors that feel like home.
Book a complimentary design consultation with Rachel Blindauer Interiors and take the first step toward a space that reflects your lifestyle, taste, and locale.

Get Started Today

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a consultation.

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The Best Paint Colors for Each Seasonal Type

The Best Paint Colors for Each Seasonal Type

By Rachel Blindauer, Interior Designer and Color Specialist

In a world awash with Pinterest trends and algorithm-driven aesthetics, choosing a paint color can feel oddly transactional—like swiping through a dating app and hoping for chemistry.

But design—real design—is personal.

The right color doesn’t just look good on your walls. It reflects your inner light, elevates your everyday rituals, and makes your home feel like an authentic extension of you. As a designer who specializes in color harmony, I believe that creating a beautiful home is less about chasing trends and more about revealing your natural essence through design.

And one of the most powerful tools I use? Seasonal color theory.

🎨 What Is Seasonal Color Theory, and Why Should It Influence Your Home?

If you’ve ever had your “colors done,” you already know seasonal color theory. It’s a system traditionally used in personal styling that categorizes individuals into four color families—Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter—based on skin undertone, hair shade, and eye color.

But its impact extends far beyond your closet.

Your seasonal palette can guide you in making interior design choices that feel innately harmonious. When your surroundings echo the same tones that flatter your complexion, something subtle but powerful happens: you feel more grounded, more radiant, and more at ease in your space.

Explore this concept further with our free Color Quiz and discover your season in under 3 minutes.

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Winter Types: Cool, Bold & Dramatic

You might be: Cool Winter, Deep Winter, or Clear Winter

Color Personality: Winters are striking, high-contrast, and thrive in saturated hues. Their style leans modern, sleek, and impactful.

Top Paint Colors for Winter Homes:

  • Charcoal or Deep Navy – Striking for living rooms, offices, or dramatic accent walls.

  • Crisp Cool White – Perfect for trim, ceilings, or creating gallery-style contrast.

  • Emerald, Sapphire, or Ruby – Ideal for bold feature walls or lacquered cabinetry.

  • Jet Black or Graphite – Best used in moody powder rooms or chic modern kitchens.

💡 Design Tip: Winter palettes shine with glossy finishes, clean lines, and bold materials like marble, velvet, or lacquer.

🎨 Paint Tip: Try Sherwin-William’s “Tricorn Black by or Portola Paints “In the Navy Roman Clay” or Farrow & Ball’s “All White”.

❄️ Explore more curated inspiration on our Pinterest Board for Winter

Spring Types: Light, Warm & Clear

You might be: Light Spring, Warm Spring, or Clear Spring

Color Personality: Springs radiate energy, optimism, and light. Your best colors are clear, fresh, and sun-kissed.

Top Paint Colors for Spring Homes:

  • Creamy Butter Yellow – A cheerful yet soft neutral for kitchens, entryways, or bedrooms.

  • Peachy Coral – Perfect for feature walls or a playful powder room.

  • Mint or Soft Aqua – Brings life to a bathroom, laundry, or sunroom.

  • Warm Ivory or Buttermilk – A cozy alternative to stark white for trim or base walls.

💡 Design Tip: Pair Spring tones with brass hardware, light oak woods, floral textiles, and plenty of natural light to maximize their uplifting quality.

🌸 Explore more curated inspiration on our Pinterest Board for Spring

RachelBlindauerInteriorDesign

Summer Types: Soft, Cool & Muted

You might be: Soft Summer, Light Summer, or Cool Summer

Color Personality: Summers glow in delicate, powdery tones. Gravitates toward softness, romance, and subtle layering.

Top Paint Colors for Summer Homes:

  • Dusty Rose or Mauve – A romantic choice for bedrooms or a serene sitting area.

  • French Blue or Wisteria – Brings tranquility to bathrooms or home offices.

  • Sage Green – A modern, cool-toned neutral that pairs beautifully with natural textures.

  • Oyster Gray or Mist – Timeless and elegant for cabinetry, trim, or entire rooms.

💡 Design Tip: Accentuate Summer palettes with matte finishes, brushed nickel, antique glass, and linen upholstery for a look that’s layered but never loud.

🎨 Paint Tip: Try Benjamin Moore’s “Just Beige” or Farrow and Ball’s Oval Room or Farrow & Ball’s “Skimming Stone”

🌿 Explore more curated inspiration on our Pinterest Board for Summer

Autumn Types: Warm, Deep & Earthy

You might be: Warm Autumn, Deep Autumn, or Soft Autumn

Color Personality: Autumns feel at home in rich, nature-inspired hues. Your palette is warm, textural, and soulful.

Top Paint Colors for Autumn Homes:

  • Terracotta or Clay – Brings instant depth to dining rooms or cozy nooks.

  • Olive or Moss Green – A sophisticated, grounding choice for libraries or cabinetry.

  • Spiced Pumpkin or Burnt Sienna – Adds seasonal richness to accent walls.

  • Camel or Warm Taupe – A versatile, warm neutral that makes any space feel welcoming.

💡 Design Tip: Use matte or eggshell finishes, layer with natural fibers (like jute and linen), and incorporate wood tones, leather, and rattan for warmth and character.

🍁 Explore more curated inspiration on our Pinterest Board for Autumn

✨ Why It Works: Your Personal Palette, Applied to Your Home

When you walk into a room that aligns with your seasonal palette, something clicks.

The light feels right. The colors flatter your features in photographs. The energy in the space feels calm and tailored—not overstimulating, not dull. Just right. When your home’s colors align with your seasonal palette, everything begins to click. The space feels more flattering, energizing, and serene. Your seasonal palette can subtly influence your energy levels, confidence, and even the cohesion of your wardrobe and interiors.

Not sure of your palette yet?

  • Take the Color Quiz

  • Explore the Power Color Finder Tool for an advanced guide to your top 3 signature colors and the 2 shades to avoid—plus customized recommendations for home and wardrobe.

🧠 Not Sure What Your Season Is?

When you walk into a room that aligns with your seasonal palette, something clicks.

The light feels right. The colors flatter your features in photographs. The energy in the space feels calm and tailored—not overstimulating, not dull. Just right.

And it’s not just about aesthetics—it’s psychology. Your seasonal palette can subtly influence your energy levels, confidence, and even the cohesion of your wardrobe and interiors.

Not sure of your palette yet?

  • Take the free Color Quiz

  • Explore the Power Color Finder Tool for an advanced guide to your top 3 signature colors and the 2 shades to avoid—plus customized recommendations for home and wardrobe.

🎯 Ready to Design a Life Well-Styled?

At Rachel Blindauer Interiors, color isn’t an afterthought. It’s the foundation of every great space. Whether you’re dreaming of a full-scale renovation or a simple paint refresh, aligning your interior palette with your natural essence will create a space that feels beautifully, undeniably you.

🎯 Book a personalized Color + Design Consultation →
🎨 Explore curated inspiration on our Pinterest Boards for Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn
🛍️ Shop seasonal colors on our shop—our color-curated home store

Ge Started Today

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a consultation.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Rachel Blindauer’s favorite products

Beautiful Things, Beautifully Chosen.

What’s Next for the U.S. Housing Market? 2025 Edition

What’s Next for the U.S. Housing Market? 2025 Edition

Back in 2024, the housing market was a wild ride: skyrocketing prices, intense bidding wars, and an overwhelming sense that the pace couldn’t sustain. Fast forward to April 2025, and the landscape has evolved. It’s no longer the chaotic free-for-all it once was, but it’s not quite a buyer’s paradise either. So, what’s happening now, and what can we expect in the months ahead?

The Market Today: A Shift in Dynamics

The U.S. housing market is taking a breath after years of rapid growth. While prices remain high in many areas—some even breaking records—they are no longer climbing at breakneck speed. In fact, certain markets are starting to see slight price dips, especially where inventory is beginning to pick up. This shift is giving buyers more room to negotiate than in recent years.

Demand, however, is still there, but with less urgency. The desire for new homes persists—families are growing, remote work continues to influence location preferences—but the sense of urgency has faded somewhat. Affordability remains a significant concern, with mortgage rates easing but still not low enough to entice everyone into the market. This financial reality is causing many potential buyers to hold off, either renting or waiting for more favorable conditions.

What’s Driving the Shift?

A few significant factors are behind these changes:

  • Increased Homebuilding: After years of underbuilding, builders are finally bringing new homes to market. While it’s not enough to flood the market, regions like Texas and Florida are seeing a surge in new construction, helping meet demand from an influx of new residents.

  • The “Lock-In Effect” Fading: Homeowners who locked in ultra-low mortgage rates a few years ago were reluctant to sell, fearing higher rates on their next purchase. But as rates stabilize and life circumstances change, more of these homes are hitting the market, offering buyers a bit more choice.

  • Policy Changes on the Horizon: With new federal policies being discussed—such as opening up federal land for development—there could be significant shifts ahead in how housing is developed. While nothing is set in stone, it’s something to watch closely as it may impact supply.

Regional Trends: Hotspots and Cool-Offs

The U.S. is never a one-size-fits-all market, and 2025 is no exception:

  • The Sun Belt: States like Arizona, Texas, and the Carolinas remain popular, with relatively affordable prices and ample new construction. These areas continue to attract people looking for a warmer climate and lower cost of living.

  • Coastal Cities: Markets in places like San Francisco and New York are cooling off. While prices remain high, homes are sitting on the market longer, and sellers are getting creative with incentives.

  • Midwest Surge: The Midwest is quietly becoming a hot spot. Cities like Ohio and Indiana are seeing steady interest due to affordability and strong job markets, making them appealing for practical buyers.

What’s Ahead for 2025?

Looking to the rest of the year, we’re not expecting a drastic boom or bust. The market is settling into a more balanced pace—not the chaotic highs of previous years, but certainly not stagnant. Experts predict home prices could rise modestly by around 3% nationally, though this will vary by region. Mortgage rates are likely to hover in a stable, “not terrible, not amazing” range, providing a bit of predictability for buyers and sellers alike.

For buyers, this could be an ideal time to enter the market. With more options and less competition, you might not have to waive every contingency or overbid to secure your dream home. Sellers, however, may need to adjust their expectations. Pricing a home right and offering perks—like covering closing costs—could make all the difference.

The Big Picture

When I wrote about the housing market in 2024, I questioned whether the rapid pace could continue. It turns out, it couldn’t—not forever. What we’re seeing now is a market recalibrating, with supply gradually catching up, demand easing, and affordability still a major challenge for many. While it’s not a perfect storm, it’s also not smooth sailing. For anyone buying, selling, or just watching, 2025 presents a year of cautious opportunity—less chaos, more choices, and the potential for making smart, strategic moves.

Get Started Today

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a complimentary consultation.

St. Louis Boutique Hotel Design & Branding

St. Louis Boutique Hotel Design & Branding

Elevating Boutique Hospitality with Timeless Luxury

Boutique hotels thrive on distinctiveness, and a well-curated interior can turn a property into a destination in itself. At Rachel Blindauer, we specialize in designing immersive, high-end spaces that seamlessly blend luxury aesthetics, brand storytelling, and elevated guest experiences. From full-scale hotel interior design to graphic rebranding and exclusive partnerships, we create bespoke environments that captivate travelers and set boutique hotels apart from the competition.

Why Boutique Hotels Choose Rachel Blindauer

  • Luxury Interior Expertise: Proven success in crafting high-end residential, commercial, and yacht interiors tailored to sophisticated clientele.

  • Brand-Centric Design Approach: Interiors aligned with the hotel’s unique identity for a cohesive, memorable guest experience.

  • Enhanced Guest Engagement: Thoughtfully designed spaces that elevate comfort and functionality, increasing occupancy rates and guest loyalty.

  • Competitive Market Positioning: Hotels designed by industry leaders attract premium travelers, media attention, and influencer endorsements.

Signature Services for St. Louis Boutique Hotels

1. Full-Service Interior Design & Renovation

  • Comprehensive transformation of lobbies, suites, restaurants, spas, and event spaces.
  • Curated selection of luxury furniture, textiles, lighting, and custom decor that reflects the hotel’s brand identity.
  • Space planning and FF&E procurement (Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment) for a flawless guest experience.
  • Custom-designed statement pieces that distinguish the property from competitors.

2. Exclusive Branded Partnerships & Signature Suites

  • Development of “Rachel Blindauer Signature Suites” – an elite guest experience that enhances the hotel’s luxury appeal.
  • Limited-edition furniture and décor collections, designed exclusively for the hotel.
  • Co-branded design collaborations that drive PR buzz and attract upscale travelers.

3. Hotel Graphic Rebranding & Visual Identity

  • Modernizing logos, typography, and color palettes to create a cohesive, upscale brand image.
  • Custom design for hotel signage, in-room materials, menus, and key cards to reflect the refined aesthetic.
  • Website and digital branding refresh to optimize the online booking experience.

4. Curated Guest Experience Enhancements

  • Signature scent branding with bespoke hotel fragrances to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
  • Curated in-room art and sculpture programs featuring renowned designers and artists.
  • High-touch personalized guest amenities and experiences, ensuring a lasting impression.

Maximizing ROI: How a Luxury Design Partnership Increases Revenue

  • Higher ADR (Average Daily Rate): Premium interiors allow boutique hotels to command top-tier pricing.

  • Stronger Brand Recognition: A well-designed property garners media coverage, influencer partnerships, and repeat guests.

  • Competitive Differentiation: A uniquely branded hotel attracts discerning travelers looking for one-of-a-kind stays.

  • Higher Occupancy & Retention: A compelling guest experience leads to more direct bookings and long-term loyalty.

Next Steps: Let’s Elevate Your Boutique Hotel Together

Rachel Blindauer is actively seeking boutique hotel partners that value exceptional design, strategic branding, and unforgettable guest experiences. Whether your property requires a full-scale renovation, a luxury suite collection, or a refined visual identity, we deliver bespoke solutions that transform hospitality into an art form.

Contact Information: Rachel Blindauer
Website: RachelBlindauer.com
Email: hello@rachelblindauer.com


Here’s to an unforgettable boutique hotel experience

Get Started Today

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a complimentary consultation.
Organizing Advice for Spaces or the Whole Home

Organizing Advice for Spaces or the Whole Home

Whether you’re looking to declutter your garage, pantry, closet, or basement, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will provide you with practical tips, examples, and expert advice to help you transform these areas into organized and functional spaces. Get ready to create a harmonious and clutter-free home that promotes productivity and peace of mind.

Garage Organization

The garage is often the go-to dumping ground for everything we don’t know where to put. To tackle garage organization, start by sorting items into categories such as tools, sports equipment, gardening supplies, and seasonal decorations. Utilize wall-mounted hooks, pegboards, and shelving units to maximize vertical space. Invest in clear storage bins for easy identification and stackability. Label everything to maintain order and make it easier to find what you need.

Example: Consider using a magnetic strip on the wall to keep your tools organized and within reach, preventing them from getting lost in a drawer.

Pantry Organization

A well-organized pantry can save you time and prevent food waste. Begin by removing expired items and grouping similar products together. Utilize clear containers for dry goods like pasta, rice, and cereals to keep them fresh and visible. Install adjustable shelving or tiered organizers to maximize vertical space. Consider using door-mounted racks for spices and small items. Label shelves and containers to maintain order and make restocking effortless.

Example: Create a designated snack area with labeled bins for easy access, allowing family members to quickly grab their favorite treats without rummaging through the entire pantry.

Closet Organization

Closets tend to become a cluttered mess if not properly organized. Start by decluttering and donating items you no longer need. Install a mix of shelving, hanging rods, and drawers to maximize storage potential. Utilize space-saving hangers, such as cascading or velvet options, to maximize hanging space and prevent clothes from slipping off. Consider using clear shoeboxes or hanging shoe organizers to keep footwear tidy and easily visible. Group clothing items by category, color, or season for a streamlined look.

Example: To optimize space, install a closet organizer system that allows for adjustable shelves, drawers, and additional hanging space, making it easier to customize your storage needs.

Basement Organization

Basements often become dumping grounds for miscellaneous items. Start by decluttering and containering like items with like items like seasonal decorations, tools, and household supplies. Utilize shelving units and labeled storage bins to keep everything organized and easily accessible. Consider installing wall-mounted racks or hooks for larger items like bicycles or gardening tools. Try to make the basement usable space and not just storage and consider adding laundry, a home office or a workout area.

Example: Use clear, stackable storage bins for seasonal decorations, labeling each bin with its contents. This will make it easier to locate specific items when needed.

By implementing the organizing advice and strategies provided in this blog post, you can take control of your living spaces and create a home that is not only visually appealing but also functional and efficient. Remember, organizing is an ongoing process, so make it a habit to regularly declutter and maintain the organization of your spaces. Remember to declutter, maximize storage potential, and create designated zones for different purposes. Whether it’s your garage, pantry, closet, or basement, a well-organized space can bring a sense of calm and efficiency to your daily life. Happy organizing!

Get Started Today

Let Rachel Blindauer help you think through your project starting with a complimentary consultation.