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Writer's pictureMary Ann Skaria

Paint colors revealed : Color Stories from Our Modern Cottage Remodel in Alameda, CA



Whole House Paint Color Palette in Alameda, San Francisco Bay Area CA

When choosing paint colors for my Modern cottage, I had a clear goal in mind: to create a cohesive backdrop that effortlessly transitions between rooms while offering versatility. As someone who can't resist bringing home special finds(fellow collectors, you understand!), I chose sophisticated but easy-going colors that play the perfect supporting role. These refined neutrals create an ideal backdrop, whether I'm showcasing that bold new art piece or styling those can't-live-without vintage treasures.

The result? A home that gets to grow and evolve with my style while keeping its polished, pulled-together feel. Think of it as creating the perfect canvas - one that makes every design choice feel intentional, yet leaves plenty of room for inspiration to strike.

This approach allows the home to evolve with my ever-changing style, maintaining balance and sophistication without overwhelming the space.


Even though changing paint colors is one of the easiest ways to make a big impact, it can get expensive if you don’t get it right. When in doubt, I always recommend going with neutral tones that work with a wide range of color schemes rather than opting for something bold. And one of my design principles is that every room needs something dark to ground it, whether it’s through a deep paint color, dark flooring, or a statement piece of furniture.


Let’s dive into how these choices come together in my home:


Living/Dining Room: A Crisp, Clean Backdrop

Living Space Color Scheme, Alameda, San Francisco Bay Area,CA

For the main living areas, I wanted a palette that would allow my favorite hues—blues and greens—to take center stage. The walls, ceiling, and baseboards are painted in Benjamin Moore's Simply White, providing a fresh, neutral backdrop that brightens the space. The fireplace is painted Kendall Charcoal, and the stair railing and front door are a deep, moody Iron Ore, adding a bold contrast to ground the room. Interior doors and door trim in Pussywillow soften the transition between spaces. I added touches of green with potted plants throughout the living spaces and introducing soft blues with a cozy, worn cotton dhurrie rug.



Powder Room: Embracing the Dark

Powder Room Design, Alameda, San Francisco Bay Area, CA

Our powder room is a small, windowless space, so I leaned into the darkness by going bold with the colors. The walls and ceiling are painted Kendall Charcoal, enveloping the room in a rich, cocoon-like atmosphere. I continued the Pussywillow on the baseboards, door, and trim, tying this hidden gem back to the rest of the house’s color story.


The dark tones create a sense of depth in this tiny room, allowing my collected artworks and sculptures to really stand out. I wanted the powder room to feel like a secret space—intimate and moody—but still connected to the overall flow of the home through its consistent palette.



Primary Bathroom: A Warm, Inviting Retreat

Primary Bathroom Design Color scheme, Alameda, San Francisco Bay Area, CA

In the primary bathroom, I needed a warm white to complement the green tiles and the blue vanity. Alabaster was ideal for the walls, ceiling, and baseboards, offering a soft warmth without feeling too stark. The vanity came pre-painted, so I focused on finding the perfect blue-green for the door trim and toilet room. Cascade Green was exactly right, providing a soothing tone that harmonizes beautifully with the tilework. The result is a fresh, inviting space that feels like a personal spa retreat.


Primary Bedroom: A Serene Sanctuary

Master Bathroom color Scheme, Alameda, San Francisco Bay Area, CA

For the primary bedroom, I wanted a serene, calming vibe without resorting to white walls. Enter Pale Oak by Benjamin Moore—a warm, subtle shade that brings a cozy feel to the room. The ceilings are painted Simply White for just a touch of contrast, while the doors and trim in Pussywillow continue the color continuity throughout the house.


 

This blend of soft neutrals, layered textures, and bold, grounding colors has transformed my modern cottage into a home that feels timeless, curated, and uniquely mine. Each room connects through a shared color story, yet stands on its own with character and depth. Through intentional choices, every space contributes to a cohesive yet dynamic atmosphere. I hope this inspires you to explore colors that bring harmony and individuality to your own home—creating a space that truly reflects who you are.



Happy Designing!




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