Choosing the right color for your farmhouse exterior is more than just a visual decision; it’s a way to set the tone for your entire home.
The exterior color is the first impression your home makes, and it speaks volumes about the style, atmosphere, and personality of the space.
A well-chosen color enhances the architectural features of the house, blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, and creates a cohesive look that feels welcoming and timeless.
Whether you want a serene, earthy vibe or a bold, modern aesthetic, the right color can elevate your farmhouse to new heights.
Not to mention, the color you choose will have to stand up to the elements, so it’s essential to pick something that’s not only beautiful but durable as well.
How to Choose a Farmhouse Exterior Paint Color
Choosing the right farmhouse exterior color involves considering surroundings, style, and other elements. This guide offers tips to help you select a color that enhances your home’s aesthetic and blends beautifully with the landscape.
Consider Your Home’s Surroundings
When selecting an exterior paint color for your farmhouse, think about its surroundings.
Soft neutrals like whites, beiges, and grays work beautifully in open fields, complementing the natural beauty of rural landscapes.
For homes nestled in wooded areas, deeper tones such as forest green or rustic brown blend seamlessly with the environment.
Don’t forget to consider the seasonal changes in your surroundings—colors that look stunning in summer might need adjusting for winter to maintain year-round appeal.
Classic vs Modern Farmhouse Styles
Farmhouse exteriors come in two main styles: classic and modern.
Traditional farmhouses often embrace soft whites, creamy beiges, and subtle grays, evoking timeless warmth and simplicity.
In contrast, modern farmhouse designs may incorporate bold, striking colors like deep navy, charcoal gray, or even black, creating a chic, contemporary aesthetic.
Your choice will set the tone for the entire home—whether you prefer rustic charm, timeless elegance, or sleek modern sophistication.
Pay Attention to Roof, Trim, and Stone/Brick Colors
When choosing your farmhouse’s exterior color, it’s essential to factor in the roof, trim, and stone or brick accents.
These elements form the backbone of your home’s exterior design. Dark-colored roofs often look best with lighter wall colors, creating a beautiful contrast.
Additionally, the tones in your stone or brick accents—whether warm (such as terracotta or beige) or cool (like gray or blue)—should complement or harmonize with your main paint color for a cohesive, balanced look.
Lighting and Weather: How They Affect Exterior Colors
Lighting can significantly affect how your exterior paint color appears.
Natural light brightens and alters the hue of your chosen paint, while different weather conditions can cause the color to look warmer or cooler.
For example, sunny areas might make colors appear more intense, while shady spots could give a softer look.
Be sure to test your color samples in both bright sunlight and cloudy conditions to understand how the paint will look throughout the day.
Top 23 Paint Colors for Farmhouse Exterior
Here are my favorite paint colors for Farmhouse Exterior Paint Colors.
1. Farrow & Ball Shaded White
Shaded White by Farrow & Ball is a masterclass in understated elegance.
Despite its name, it isn’t a pure white — it’s more of a soft, muted greige that carries warm taupe undertones.
On a farmhouse exterior, Shaded White creates a serene and weathered look, as though the home has gracefully aged with the landscape around it.
It feels cozy and authentic, not stark or overdone. Paired with muted green shutters, black metal accents, or natural wood beams, Shaded White brings a quiet sophistication that suits both classic and modern farmhouse styles.
2. Benjamin Moore Simply White
Simply White by Benjamin Moore is the kind of fresh, cheerful white that lights up a farmhouse without feeling cold.
It has the slightest hint of warmth tucked underneath, enough to keep it from reading too stark or clinical in outdoor light.
On a farmhouse exterior, Simply White offers a bright yet welcoming backdrop, perfect for wide porches, wood columns, and classic black or navy accents.
It’s a timeless choice that feels just as natural on a sprawling country estate as it does on a small cozy homestead.
3. Sherwin Williams Alabaster
Sherwin Williams Alabaster is a creamy, soft white that feels naturally warm without dipping into yellow territory.
Its gentle undertones make it a dream for farmhouse exteriors, especially if you want a home that feels peaceful and lived-in.
Alabaster plays beautifully with the changing light throughout the day, looking slightly richer in the afternoon sun but staying soft and clean.
Paired with wood accents, black shutters, or earthy stonework, it gives a farmhouse a grounded, inviting presence that’s timeless and full of charm.
4. Sherwin Williams Waterscape
Waterscape by Sherwin Williams introduces a breezy, lighthearted feel to the farmhouse palette.
This soft blue-green shade feels fresh, airy, and just a little bit whimsical — a perfect pick if you want your farmhouse to feel connected to open skies and rolling fields.
Waterscape has cool undertones that keep it feeling crisp even under strong sun.
It pairs beautifully with white trim and natural wood accents, creating a farmhouse exterior that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for rural settings where nature takes center stage.
5. Sherwin Williams Navajo White
Sherwin Williams Navajo White brings a cozy, sun-warmed feel to a farmhouse exterior.
It’s a creamy, rich off-white with soft golden undertones that make a home feel instantly welcoming.
Rather than appearing stark or modern, Navajo White evokes a sense of tradition — the kind of paint color you’d expect to find on a beloved, handed-down farmhouse.
It’s especially beautiful when paired with earthy landscaping, stone chimneys, and traditional green shutters.
Under the changing light, it shifts gracefully without ever feeling too yellow or dark.
6. Sherwin Williams Natural Choice
Natural Choice by Sherwin Williams is a muted, creamy neutral that offers a softer alternative to bright white without losing any freshness.
Its warm, subtle undertones create a feeling of effortless comfort, making it ideal for a farmhouse that feels connected to its natural surroundings.
On an exterior, Natural Choice is versatile — it pairs beautifully with dark shutters, warm wood doors, and stone accents.
It feels relaxed and natural, perfect for farmhouses that lean rustic, traditional, or even slightly modern.
7. Sherwin Williams Intellectual Gray
If you’re drawn to farmhouse neutrals that offer more depth, Sherwin Williams Intellectual Gray could be the perfect fit.
This sophisticated greige has slight green undertones, giving it an earthy, grounded quality that feels right at home against wide landscapes.
On a farmhouse exterior, Intellectual Gray delivers a refined but approachable look — it’s strong without being overpowering.
It works especially well with crisp white trim, matte black hardware, and lush green landscaping, creating a farmhouse that feels timeless, tailored, and welcoming.
8. Sherwin Williams Relaxed Khaki
Relaxed Khaki by Sherwin Williams offers exactly what the name suggests: a down-to-earth, easygoing color that’s perfect for a farmhouse exterior.
This soft, muted beige has subtle green undertones that anchor it firmly in nature.
It’s the kind of color that seems to belong naturally in wide-open spaces, blending seamlessly with farmland, trees, and gardens.
Relaxed Khaki pairs wonderfully with creamy white trim and muted green doors, creating a farmhouse look that feels sturdy, natural, and effortlessly charming.
9. Benjamin Moore Blue Allure
Blue Allure by Benjamin Moore is a soft, dreamy blue that feels light without being overly sweet.
It leans slightly gray, which helps tone down the brightness and makes it sophisticated enough for a farmhouse exterior.
Blue Allure brings a breath of fresh air to traditional farmhouse palettes, especially when accented with crisp white trim and natural wood finishes.
It’s a fantastic choice for farmhouses that want to feel welcoming and relaxed while adding just a whisper of unexpected color to the classic exterior.
10. Benjamin Moore Iron Mountain
Benjamin Moore’s Iron Mountain is a rich, dramatic dark gray with warm brown undertones, offering a bold yet grounded farmhouse look.
Unlike cooler charcoals, Iron Mountain feels more organic, like aged stone or weathered timber.
On a farmhouse exterior, it creates a strong, sheltering feeling — cozy and protective without ever feeling harsh.
Pair it with soft white trim, wood accents, or rustic stone foundations, and you’ll have a farmhouse that feels beautifully rooted and timeless with just the right amount of modern edge.
11. Benjamin Moore Stonecutter
Stonecutter by Benjamin Moore is a deep, earthy gray that brings a sense of strength and quiet sophistication to a farmhouse exterior.
With subtle green and brown undertones, it feels connected to the land — like freshly turned soil or stone walls that have stood the test of time.
Stonecutter gives a farmhouse a grounded, mature presence, perfect for those who want their home to blend naturally with surrounding fields, forests, or gardens.
It’s a bold choice that still feels timeless, especially paired with creamy white trim or warm wood accents.
12. Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore is one of those iconic deep blues that never goes out of style.
It’s a rich, saturated navy with just enough gray to keep it feeling classic rather than flashy.
On a farmhouse exterior, Hale Navy adds instant character and depth, standing strong against bright skies and lush greenery.
It’s particularly stunning with crisp white trim, black lantern-style lighting, and natural stone.
If you’re looking for a farmhouse color that feels both traditional and fresh, Hale Navy is hard to beat.
13. Sherwin Williams Snowbound
Sherwin Williams Snowbound is a soft, welcoming white that’s just warm enough to feel cozy without losing its clean, fresh appeal.
It’s a favorite for farmhouse exteriors because it offers a bright, open feel without any starkness.
Snowbound has the slightest hint of warmth, making it beautiful in all kinds of natural light.
It pairs effortlessly with black, deep green, or natural wood accents, and creates a classic farmhouse look that feels bright, airy, and timeless.
14. Benjamin Moore Seapearl
Seapearl by Benjamin Moore is a luminous, soft greige that reads like the perfect cross between beige and gray.
It has creamy undertones that lend a subtle warmth, making it a fantastic choice for a relaxed and welcoming farmhouse exterior.
Seapearl offers a little more richness than a bright white but still feels light and fresh, perfect for wide front porches and rustic wood details.
It gives a home a gently weathered, lived-in charm without looking old or worn.
15. Sherwin Williams Clary Sage
Clary Sage by Sherwin Williams brings a fresh, organic spirit to farmhouse exteriors.
It’s a soft, muted green with a hint of gray, offering just enough color to feel lively without overwhelming.
In a rural setting, Clary Sage blends beautifully with natural surroundings, echoing fields, trees, and gardens.
On a farmhouse exterior, it feels calm, friendly, and just a little whimsical — especially when paired with creamy white trim and natural wood accents.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants a home that feels rooted and refreshed at the same time.
16. Benjamin Moore Forest Floor
Forest Floor by Benjamin Moore is a deep, earthy green that feels rich and enveloping.
It has strong brown undertones that ground it firmly in nature, making it an ideal choice for a farmhouse nestled among trees or wide open fields.
On a farmhouse exterior, Forest Floor creates a moody, organic look that’s both sophisticated and welcoming.
It pairs beautifully with off-white trim and wood details, giving the house a timeless, almost storybook quality that’s hard to resist.
17. Benjamin Moore French Beret
French Beret by Benjamin Moore is a dramatic charcoal with subtle blue undertones.
It’s a near-black that doesn’t feel harsh — instead, it comes across as sophisticated, soft, and slightly mysterious.
On a farmhouse exterior, French Beret can create a striking modern-rustic look, especially when paired with bright white or warm wood trim.
It’s a great option if you want a bold farmhouse that still feels connected to traditional roots.
18. Sherwin Williams Pearly White
Pearly White by Sherwin Williams is a delicate, creamy off-white that offers just a whisper of warmth.
It’s ideal for farmhouses because it softens bright sunlight without feeling heavy or yellowed.
Pearly White creates an inviting, peaceful presence on a farmhouse exterior, making the home look timeless and approachable.
It’s a beautiful backdrop for black, charcoal, or muted green accents, and works wonderfully with both rustic and slightly more modern farmhouse styles.
19. Benjamin Moore Galveston Gray
Galveston Gray by Benjamin Moore is a solid, mid-tone gray with a warm undertone that feels sturdy and classic.
It’s the kind of gray that doesn’t swing too cold or too brown, making it incredibly versatile for farmhouse exteriors.
Galveston Gray offers a feeling of timeless strength and subtle elegance, especially when paired with bright white trim, black accents, or natural stone.
It’s a safe but stylish choice for anyone looking to create a welcoming, grounded farmhouse feel.
20. Benjamin Moore Providence Blue
Providence Blue by Benjamin Moore brings an unexpected twist to farmhouse exteriors.
This muted teal-blue has enough gray in it to feel sophisticated, yet enough color to make a subtle statement.
It offers a refreshing, coastal-inspired vibe without going too bright or trendy.
On a farmhouse exterior, Providence Blue feels lively yet grounded — ideal for front doors, shutters, or even full siding if you want a home that feels fresh, personal, and connected to the natural world.
21. Benjamin Moore Hint of Mauve
Hint of Mauve by Benjamin Moore is a soft, whisper-light gray with the faintest touch of lavender.
It’s an unexpected yet beautiful choice for a farmhouse exterior if you’re looking for something subtle but distinctive.
In certain lights, it reads more like a soft, misty gray, while in the early morning or twilight, you might catch a tiny blush of mauve.
Paired with crisp white trim and natural wood elements, Hint of Mauve can give a farmhouse a quietly elegant, slightly romantic feel.
22. Benjamin Moore Sage
Sage by Benjamin Moore is a classic, muted green that feels instantly grounded and peaceful.
With strong gray undertones, it’s not overly bright or grassy, making it perfect for a farmhouse that blends seamlessly into a rural setting.
On an exterior, Sage creates a soothing, organic backdrop that pairs beautifully with creamy whites, dark charcoals, or warm wood tones.
It’s a tried-and-true color for anyone wanting a timeless, nature-inspired farmhouse look.
23. Benjamin Moore Dusty Cornflower
Dusty Cornflower by Benjamin Moore is a charming, softened blue with a slightly muted, vintage feel.
It’s not your typical bright blue — it has a gentle, weathered quality that makes it feel right at home on a farmhouse exterior.
This color is perfect for adding a bit of playful charm without going too bold.
Paired with white trim and maybe a few rustic wood accents, Dusty Cornflower creates a farmhouse that feels cheerful, welcoming, and full of character.
Tips for Pairing Exterior Colors
Learn how to pair your farmhouse’s main color with complementary trim, shutters, and doors. Explore two-tone combinations and accent colors to add depth, contrast, and personality to your home’s exterior.
Choosing Trim, Shutters, and Door Colors That Complement
Once you’ve chosen the main color for your farmhouse exterior, think about how the trim, shutters, and doors will complement or contrast with it.
If you’ve opted for a soft, neutral color, consider adding bold accents—black shutters, a deep navy door, or natural wood trim can provide a striking contrast.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more uniform look, matching the trim and main color with different finishes (e.g., glossy versus matte) can add depth and interest without disrupting the overall aesthetic.
The style of your farmhouse also plays a role—classic farmhouses might opt for timeless black or white accents, while modern designs might use rich, dark hues or even vibrant pops of color.
Ideas for Two-Tone or Accent Paint Combinations
Two-tone exteriors are a popular choice for farmhouse homes because they create visual interest and add a sense of dimension.
For instance, you might pair a dark, earthy color like Benjamin Moore’s Forest Floor with a lighter tone like Sherwin Williams Alabaster on the upper walls. This pairing gives the home a grounded yet airy feel.
Another great option is combining soft, neutral shades like Farrow & Ball’s Shaded White with contrasting darker colors like Hale Navy or French Beret.
Accent colors—on shutters, window boxes, or doors—can tie the whole look together, providing a balanced and dynamic effect. Just be sure to choose hues that contrast enough to create interest without clashing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Farmhouse Exterior Colors
Avoid common pitfalls when selecting farmhouse exterior colors. This section highlights key mistakes, from choosing the wrong white to ignoring lighting effects, ensuring your final decision is perfect.
Picking a White That’s Too Stark
While white is a classic choice for farmhouse exteriors, a harsh, bright white can feel cold and unwelcoming, especially in large doses.
Instead, opt for a softer, warmer white with subtle undertones of cream, beige, or gray. These warmer whites evoke a cozy, rustic charm without feeling too stark or sterile.
A great example is Sherwin Williams Alabaster, which offers a soft, inviting white that complements a wide range of exterior styles.
Ignoring How Paint Colors Look in Different Lighting
Choosing a paint color without considering how it will look in natural light can lead to disappointing results.
Colors can appear drastically different depending on the time of day and the amount of sunlight your home receives. Always test your chosen colors on a small section of your exterior and observe how they change throughout the day.
Pay close attention to how the color looks in the morning, afternoon, and evening light, as well as in the shade, to ensure it looks great in all conditions.
Forgetting About the Roof Color
Your roof color plays a crucial role in the overall look of your farmhouse.
When choosing an exterior color, it’s important to ensure that your roof and paint color work together to create a balanced design.
A dark roof pairs beautifully with lighter exterior colors, offering a striking contrast that grounds the design.
On the other hand, a lighter roof looks great with deeper shades like navy or charcoal, helping to balance out the overall look.
Always consider your roof color as part of the overall palette for a cohesive, well-thought-out exterior.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Farmhouse Exterior Colors
Choosing the right farmhouse exterior color is about more than picking a pretty shade — it’s about creating a home that reflects your personal style, complements the surrounding environment, and stands the test of time.
Whether you’re drawn to classic whites, deep blues, or soft, earthy tones, there are endless possibilities to make your farmhouse stand out while maintaining its timeless appeal.
Take your time to consider all factors — from the home’s surroundings to the impact of light and weather — and you’ll find the perfect color that makes your farmhouse a beautiful, welcoming retreat.