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I’ve often heard the simple, go-to advice for making a cramped space appear bigger: paint it white. Homeowners (and sellers) have long relied on this classic hue to craft an illusion of openness for potential buyers. However, nowadays, real estate professionals are recommending more unconventional hues to entice future buyers. 

“A common misconception about paint colors is that white walls will make a space feel bigger. For white to work in a cramped space, you need natural light and other natural features. Otherwise, it can look dingy,” mentions Libby Fehsenfeld, home stager and owner of Tralala Interiors.

To help you move beyond white walls and choose the best paint colors to transform any cramped room, we consulted a few leading real estate professionals. Here is their best advice.