The Enchanting History of Haint Blue

Image Source – GEPOW via Amazon

The story of haint blue begins in the Southern United States, particularly in the Lowcountry regions of South Carolina and Georgia. The term “haint” is a Southern colloquialism derived from “haunt,” which in this context refers to restless spirits or ghosts. Traditionally, many believed that painting the porch ceiling with this particular shade of blue would ward off these wandering spirits, preventing them from entering the home.

The Original Blend

Image Source – 20 South Battery Hotel via Booking.com

In the past, haint blue wasn’t just chosen for its lovely shade. The original mixture often contained ingredients like lime, which was believed to have protective properties. This combination not only added a spiritual barrier against unwanted guests but also had practical benefits. Lime is a natural insect repellent, so those early porch sitters might have noticed fewer bugs buzzing around their evening gatherings!

The Modern Allure

Image Source – Artisan Signature Homes

In modern times, while not everyone might subscribe to the belief in restless spirits, many are still drawn to haint blue for its visual appeal and the calm, serene ambiance it evokes. Plus, there’s still some chatter about its ability to deter pests. Some homeowners swear that their haint blue ceilings keep birds from nesting and deter bugs from their porches.

Choosing the Perfect Shade of Haint Blue

There are countless shades of haint blue to choose from. While the traditional shade is a light, airy blue with a hint of gray or green, here are a few popular modern takes:

• Woodlawn Blue: A delicate wash of blue that brings to mind a fine crystal. (HC-147)
• Rain: For a gentle, peaceful mood in your space, introduce this cool neutral – with undertones of green and gray. (SW 6219)
• Dayflower: Like the sky right before dawn, Dayflower is a light dusty blue that imparts a peaceful energy. (MQ3-54)
• Permafrost: Permafrost is a veiled sky blue that brings to mind ice reflecting a darkened sky. (S490-1)
• Cosmic Blue: Cosmic Blue is a calming and soothing color that evokes a feeling of tranquility and relaxation. (MQ6-32)
• Atmospheric: Bright skies and a sunny disposition are headed your way with this cool midtone blue. (SW 6505)
• Blue Allure: A light, soft blue that is not too sweet, this easygoing shade is as appealing as your favorite, perfectly bleached blue jeans. (BM 771)
• Fairview Blue: The expansive skies of the Midwest are reflected in this cool mid-tone blue, creating a feeling of spaciousness and light. (BM 779)

Regardless of the shade, the aim is to create a space that feels tranquil, welcoming, and steeped in tradition.

Bringing Haint Blue to Your Home

Image Credit – HGTV Smart Home 2013

If you’ve been inspired by the lore and beauty of haint blue, why not consider introducing it to your own home? Painting your porch ceiling with this historic hue can be a nod to tradition while giving your home a fresh, updated look.

Looking to refresh your porch with a touch of haint blue magic? Let’s chat! Schedule a free consultation with us, and we’ll help you pick the perfect shade and transform your outdoor space. Remember, it’s not just about a color; it’s about embracing a piece of history and creating a serene oasis right at your doorstep.

Wishing you inspiration and happy painting!

Schedule Your Free Haint Blue Consultation Today!

Why Painting Cabinet Interiors Matters

My Old Country House (left); Patrik Hagborg via EatWell101 (center); Holland Avenue Home (right)

One question you may be asking yourself is, why paint the inside of your cabinets at all? After all, isn’t the inside covered most of the time with dishes and empty cereal boxes?

Paint adds a layer of protection

Paint serves as a defensive barrier, shielding the cabinet material from wear, tear, moisture, and the accumulation of grime over time. This prolongs the lifespan of your cabinets so you can continue to enjoy them for years to come.

Functionality and design

A pop of color inside the cabinets can create better visibility, making it easier for you to find items stored in the back. It’s also a great statement opportunity, allowing for an element of surprise when a cabinet door swings open to reveal a vibrant, unexpected color. Paint instantly adds a touch of whimsy and personality to your kitchen, elevating the entire space.

And if you have glass-fronted cabinets, painting the interior is a must for highlighting your dishware and creating a stunning visual effect.

Choosing the Right Color

Attic Mag (left); Houzz (center); Mindy Gayer Design Co. (right)

When it comes to picking the perfect color for your cabinet interiors, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the mood or vibe you would like to create. If you want a space that feels bright and cheerful, you may opt for a yellow or light blue color. On the other hand, if you want a more sophisticated space, you may opt for a deep earthy green, mauve, or even black. It’s also essential to consider the color of your cabinet’s exterior, backsplash, hardware, and the style of the overall room.

Alternatives to Paint

Designed Simple (left); Decor Pad (center); LiveLoveDIY (right)

Aside from paint, get creative with other materials.

Wallpaper: Use peal-and-stick if you rent or have commitment issues. It also opens up so many options for beautiful print designs for a truly unique touch.

Wood paneling: Want to keep things minimal or incorporate more natural design elements? Use bamboo, shiplap, or even faux wood linoleum to add a beautiful texture that makes a stunning backdrop for open-faced cabinets.

Tile: Tile is durable and easy to wipe clean. Using tile inside open-faced cabinets can visually extend the backsplash, or create a bold and dramatic contrast!

Chalkboard paint: While technically still paint, this can be such a fun and functional use of underutilized space! Use chalkboard paint so you can write notes or recipes directly on your cabinet doors, then tuck the visual clutter out of sight when you’re done.

Things to Consider

DeVOL Kitchens via Domino (left); BKC (center); Karen LeBere Design Etsy (right)

It’s worth considering the lighting situation in your kitchen or bathroom, particularly if you plan to paint your cabinet interiors with a darker color. A dark interior can be gorgeous and elegant, but it will make it harder to see inside, so it may not be ideal for a spice cabinet in a poorly lit kitchen.

Another thing to keep in mind is the shelves. Don’t forget to paint that front edge, unless you want the contrast of the shelf’s current color!

Finishing Touches

Olivia Emery (left); Nathan Schroder via D Magazine (center); Pretty Handy Girl (right)

While your cabinets are getting a makeover, this can also be a great time for some other little upgrades to really revamp the space. Consider updating cabinet hardware, installing cordless cabinet lighting, or even adding Command hooks to optimize storage space for things like mugs and measuring cups.

Final Thoughts

Essential Home EU (left); A Beautiful Mess (center); Sound Finish (right)

Injecting color into your kitchen by painting the interior of your cabinets provides both an aesthetic and functional upgrade. These interior design choices reinforce the tone of your space, reflecting your personality and style. Feeling inspired to paint the insides of your cabinets now?

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Not sure where to start? EmeraldPro Painting is here to help! Grab your free quote today and let our professional painters transform your cabinets —all without any of the stress of doing it yourself!

1. Peony by Benjamin Moore

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via Vogue)

Reminiscent of peony flowers’ exuberant and showy nature, this deep pink color captures a feeling of elegance with its subtly cool cast. It offers unexpected sophistication that will give your space a unique and playful touch, perfect for drawing the eye to a statement furniture piece.

2. Be My Valentine by Dunn Edwards

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via Country & Town House)

As the name suggests, this deep rosy pink hue with terra-cotta undertones is the perfect backdrop for a romantic or cozy ambiance. It has a touch of violet, which elevates it from being too sugary-sweet, and adds a subtle richness to the space. Although this would be a welcome color in any little girl’s room, don’t let it stop you from using this shade in a grown-up space by pairing it with warm wood tones and neutral colors.

3. Shocking Pink by MyLand

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via Vogue)

This neon pink color is punchy and joyful and described as a Barbiecore-inspired hot pink. This mix of red and magenta creates a dark pink shade that provides dramatic energy and plenty of character. It’s perfect for painting the frames of your favorite art prints or for adding a playful touch to a child’s bedroom.

4. Pretty In Pink by Dunn Edwards

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via People)

For those who love the classic rose pink color, Pretty In Pink is a gorgeous option. This light pink hue has vintage vibes and adds a subtle touch of feminine charm to any space. It’s perfect for creating a relaxing, comfortable ambiance in a bedroom, bathroom, or even the kitchen.

5. Hot Pink by Krylon Fusion

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via Daily Mail)

This bright, bold pink spray paint is perfect for adding a touch of Barbiecore to any DIY project.

Use it to instantly revitalize a worn-out piece of furniture or to create a fun accent piece that will demand the attention of any passerby!

6. Little Bow Pink by Behr

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via Vogue)

This medium pink shade is shaded with a hint of violet, making it a great color to use if you want to add a touch of pink to your space without it being too overwhelming. Little Bow Pink is the perfect choice for creating a relaxing and cozy atmosphere in a bedroom or bathroom.

7. Sweet Taffy by Benjamin Moore

(Image Source – Warner Bros. Pictures via CinemaBlend)

This vibrant, sugary pink color will capture the blithe spirit of childhood and add a playful touch to any space. It’s perfect for a kid’s room or a light-hearted home office that needs a touch of whimsy.

Final Thoughts

The Barbie movie has shown that pink is not just a color, it’s a statement. These 7 Barbiecore Paint Colors offer a variety of shades and tones that encompass the fun and feminine iconic vibes of Barbie and make it easy to create your own DIY home project or room makeover. From deep and sophisticated pinks to bright and bold hues, there’s a shade for every mood and space. So, go ahead and add a touch of glamour and playfulness to your home with these Barbie-inspired paint colors, and let your space sparkle with feminine charm.

Want a professional opinion about how to best incorporate a pop of pink into your living space? Contact us today to schedule a private consultation!

Are you looking to give your home a fresh new look but need help figuring out where to start? Fear not, because we’ve got you covered! Using these user-friendly AI-powered tools, you can visualize your dream space, pick colors, and get product recommendations without any design experience. Say goodbye to the guesswork and hello to your beautifully redecorated home!

No links in this article are sponsored.

1. Homestyler

If you loved building houses on The Sims as a kid (or as an adult —no judgment!), you’d love playing around on Homestyler. Build an immersive virtual floor plan with drag-and-drop elements, then customize the space by changing the flooring, paint colors, and furniture layout. With its vast library of furniture and decor, you can easily find products within your budget and style preferences. If you need some inspiration, check out the gallery of user-generated rooms, or let their AI decorator totally makeover an empty room with your chosen style preferences in mind.

www.homestyler.com

2. IKEA Place

If you’re a fan of IKEA’s stylish and affordable furniture, then IKEA Place is the app for you. This AI-powered tool uses augmented reality (AR) to help you visualize how IKEA furniture will look in your space. Simply point your smartphone or iPad at your room, and the app will display a 3D model of the selected item. You can easily move, rotate, and adjust the furniture to see how it fits in your space before committing to the largest Kallax Regale or the 7-seat sectional.

www.ikea.com

3. AI Room Planner

Image Sources: Barbados Ocean One (left); AI Room Planner (right).

Upload a room photo to AI Room Planner and let this AI-powered tool quickly generate design suggestions based on your preferences. Pick from 32 design styles, covering everything from Minimalist to Scandinavian, to Art Deco, and everything in between. AI photo rendering is still a new technology that’s continually being developed, so you may get some funky outputs sometimes, but that’s half the fun!

www.airoomplanner.com

4. Houzz Home Design & Remodel

With the Houzz app, you have access to millions of photos, products to purchase, and AR features that allow you to visualize exactly how an item will look in your space. Browse and shop from a massive library of products from your favorite brands, or see how your space is transformed by changing up the flooring.

www.houzz.com/mobileApps

5. Paint EZ’s Paint Color Visualizer (coming soon!)

Choosing the perfect paint color can be daunting, but Paint EZ’s Paint Color Visualizer is here to help. Launching later this year, this AI-powered app will allow you to take a photo of your room or home exterior and instantly see how different paint colors would look on the walls, trim, doors, shutters, siding, and more. Its fun and easy-to-use interface allows you to save your favorite colors, compare them, and even share photos with friends or on social media. If the vast collection of paint color options feels overwhelming, check out the app’s library of the most popular paint colors to help inspire you.

www.PaintEZ.com

Final Thoughts

Redecorating your home doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. With these AI-powered tools, you can experiment with colors, furniture, and layouts to create your dream space. And, the best part is that you don’t need any design experience or special equipment to get started. So, go ahead and give these user-friendly apps a try, and watch as your home is transformed into a stylish and comfortable retreat.