Ask the expert: Why are porch ceilings often painted blue?

Benjamin Moore color specialist Hannah Yeo explains this Southern tradition
3148
Blue porch ceiling
Photograph courtesy of Benjamin Moore

We asked Hannah Yeo, Benjamin Moore color and design specialist, to explain why porch ceilings are often painted blue. Her answer: This practice has been a tradition in Southern states for centuries and has now spread across the country. A soft blue hue, often known as “haint blue,” is believed to ward off evil spirits. Others believe it keeps bugs away. Design-wise, blue ceilings match the color of the sky and visually extend the daylight. Benjamin Moore colors that help achieve this look are Palladian Blue HC-144, Arctic Blue 2050-60, Yarmouth Blue HC-150, and Clear Skies 2054-70. Paint the trim Cloud White OC-130 to draw your eyes upward.

Blue paint

Photograph courtesy of Benjamin Moore


Blue paint

This article originally appeared in the Summer issue of Atlanta Magazine’s HOME.

Advertisement