15 Paint Colors Designers Wish Would Disappear for Good

Have you ever stepped into a room and felt instantly overwhelmed, as if the walls were shouting at you? Sometimes, it’s not the furniture or layout, but the paint color that can make a space feel smaller, heavier, or just plain uninviting. Designers have weighed in on some of the most overused and outdated paint colors—and why they’re ready to see them go.

A Modsy survey reveals that 58% of Americans shy away from orange in their décor, while 43% avoid black and 42% steer clear of violet. Andrea Magno, a color expert at Benjamin Moore, explains, “The psychology of color plays a huge role in interior design. The wrong hues can evoke negative emotions or make a space feel cramped.”

These 15 paint colors aren’t bad in and of themselves but have been overused, misapplied, or simply fallen out of favor. Here’s what designers have to say and their advice on better alternatives:

1. Vibrant Red

Passionate and energetic, red can feel overwhelming when overused. “Vibrant reds can come across as aggressive, especially in small spaces like bedrooms or offices,” says designer Lesley Ray.

Instead, opt for warm tones like brick or wine red, which are easier on the eyes and pair beautifully with neutral furnishings.

2. Dark Charcoal Gray

Once synonymous with modern chic, dark charcoal gray has become overly oppressive. “Gray has had its moment,” says designer Victoria Holly. “It’s time to embrace lighter, more optimistic tones.”

She recommends using gray as an accent rather than the primary shade for a room.

3. Teal

Teal’s heyday in the early 2010s has faded. Madison Massaro, a designer, notes, “Teal is too bright to be a neutral but not bold enough to make a statement.”

Sage or mint green, by contrast, feels timeless and serene, especially in bedrooms and bathrooms.

4. Yellow with Green Undertones

Shades of yellow with green undertones can feel sickly under artificial lighting. “These yellows clash with natural wood finishes and feel unpleasant,” says color consultant Andrea Magno.

Warm golden yellows or buttery creams provide a sunny, welcoming vibe without veering into garish territory.

5. Navy Blue

Though rich and sophisticated, navy blue can make small rooms feel cramped. “Dark blues cause rooms to feel 20% smaller,” notes Massaro.

Lighter blues with crisp white trim evoke the same coastal charm without overwhelming the space.

6. Beige

Beige can feel bland and uninspired. Designer Lori Margolis explains, “Beige walls often turn yellow or peachy under certain lighting, which ruins the intended effect.”

Consider creamy beiges or greige tones for a warm yet modern feel.

7. Forest Green

Rich and bold, forest green often feels too dark and confining. Designer Jillian Lopez advises using it sparingly, such as in libraries or as accent pieces.

Sage green paired with white or natural wood provides a timeless, fresh look, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

8. Saturated Orange

Orange tends to overpower spaces. A Modsy survey found that 58% of homeowners avoid it due to its overwhelming and chaotic nature.

Designer Tracy Metro suggests using orange sparingly, perhaps in accents or as part of a patterned wallpaper.

9. Bright Pink

While fun and playful, bright pink struggles to transition into sophisticated spaces. Tracy Metro notes, “Pink rarely works as a dominant wall color in adult spaces.”

Blush or dusty rose is a more elegant alternative, adding warmth and charm without dominating a room.

10. Cool White

Cool whites may look clean but often feel stark and clinical. Andrea Magno recommends warmer whites or soft off-whites with warm undertones. “Warm whites pair well with almost any décor style,” she says, making them a versatile choice.

11. Black

Black walls are dramatic but high-maintenance. “Black requires perfect lighting and impeccable décor to pull off,” says Victoria Holly.

Charcoal or deep navy can provide similar moodiness without overwhelming a space.

12. Gray

Gray, the once-beloved neutral, now feels lifeless and overdone. Madison Massaro observes that warmer neutrals like beige and taupe are gaining popularity.

Greige tones—a mix of gray and beige—offer warmth and versatility, blending seamlessly with both cool and warm accents.

13. Dark Brown

“Dark brown drags down a room’s energy,” says Victoria Holly.

Lighter neutrals like taupe or mocha paired with white trim and natural wood accents create a clean and cozy aesthetic.

14. Deep Purple

Dark purple rooms can be polarizing and difficult to sell. Lesley Ray suggests softer lavenders or plums as alternatives. “These shades retain purple’s luxurious feel without being overbearing,” she adds.

15. Bright Yellow

Bright yellows often appear harsh and dated. Andrea Magno recommends buttery creams or golden yellows instead, which brighten a space while maintaining a modern and inviting tone.