How to Choose the Right Exterior House Paint Colours
Why Exterior Paint Colours Matter
Choosing the right exterior house paint colours is one of the most important decisions when updating or building a home. It directly influences your property's street appeal, can boost resale value, and plays a role in how well your home performs in our climate. Whether you're in a coastal suburb, midland, or a dense urban area, your colour choices should reflect both your style and the local environment.
One question that often comes up is:
“Can I paint my house any colour?” Well…
“Yes, and not always!” is the complicated answer. While you generally have flexibility, local councils or developer estates may enforce restrictions to preserve neighbourhood character or meet planning regulations. For example, some new estates in Perth require pre-approved
exterior house colour schemes, and local councils like the
City of Stirling or
City of Cockburn may limit colours in heritage or conservation zones. It’s always wise to check for any requirements before finalising your exterior palette.
What to Consider When Choosing Exterior Colours
When deciding what colour to paint your house exterior, it's important to consider more than just personal preference. The right choice will complement your home’s features, enhance appeal, and ensure long-lasting results in Australia’s weather conditions. Here’s how to make an informed decision:
- Climate and Sun Exposure.
Australia’s climate, particularly in WA, brings long, hot summers and strong UV exposure. Lighter tones tend to perform better by reflecting heat, keeping your home cooler and helping to reduce energy bills. They also fade less noticeably over time, making them a practical option for sun-drenched façades. - Your Home’s Material.
Different surfaces interact with colour in different ways. Brick, render, and weatherboard all absorb and reflect paint differently. For example, dark colours on rendered walls can cause heat-related cracking, while light colours on weatherboards can highlight gaps or joins. Understanding material helps you decide how to choose the best exterior house colours for both style and durability. - Surroundings and Location.
Take cues from your home’s setting. A coastal property may suit fresh whites and soft blues, while a home surrounded by bushland may look better in earthy or muted tones. In urban areas, consider the existing streetscape — a bold colour might stand out, but it should still feel cohesive with neighbouring homes. - Estate or Council Guidelines.
If you live in a newly developed estate or heritage area, there may be restrictions on which colours you can use. For instance, in Perth, suburbs like Ellenbrook, Alkimos, and Baldivis often have developer-approved exterior house colour schemes that help maintain a uniform look across the neighbourhood.
Taking the time to factor in these elements will help you confidently answer the question: “What colour should I paint my house exterior?” — and get it right the first time.
Popular Exterior House Paint Colours
Finding the right exterior house colour scheme can transform your home’s appearance while enhancing its value and livability. In Perth, homeowners are increasingly leaning towards colour schemes that not only look stylish but also handle the region’s strong sunlight and varied architectural styles. Here are some exterior house colour scheme suggestions form us:
Modern Neutrals
Contemporary homes across Perth often feature modern neutral tones that are both versatile and timeless. Popular shades include:
- Dulux Tranquil Retreat – a soft grey that suits most facades
- Monument – a bold charcoal tone perfect for trims, gutters, or feature walls
- Lexicon Half – a cool white ideal for a clean, modern aesthetic
These colours pair well with sleek architectural lines and minimalist landscaping, and they hold up well under Perth’s bright skies.
Coastal Themes
Given Perth’s proximity to the coast, it’s no surprise that external house paint colours inspired by the ocean are a top choice. Think:
- Crisp whites paired with navy or pale blue
- Soft greys that reflect the natural tones of sand and sea
These schemes are popular in coastal suburbs and homes with Hamptons or beach-inspired designs.
Earthy Tones
For homes in semi-rural or heritage-style suburbs, earthy and natural colours offer warmth and authenticity. These might include
muted greens,
browns, and
warm terracottas — all of which complement brickwork, timber, and established gardens.
Perth’s intense sunlight can easily wash out lighter colours or exaggerate undertones. That’s why achieving balance is key — pair light walls with mid or darker trims to create contrast and prevent your home from looking flat or faded.
By choosing colours that match your home's style and local surroundings, you can create a cohesive, lasting impression.
Hot Summers and Rainy Winters – Specific Colour Considerations
Our climate can be tough on exterior paint. In hot, sun-exposed areas, dark colours tend to fade faster and absorb more heat. Lighter tones are better suited to reflect heat and improve energy efficiency.
During rainy winters, moisture resistance becomes just as important. Choose high-quality exterior paints with mould and mildew resistance, and ensure surfaces are properly sealed and prepped to avoid peeling or bubbling. For homes in Perth's coastal zones, opt for finishes that withstand both UV exposure and salt air.
Common Exterior Colour Mistakes to Avoid
- Going too dark on sun-facing walls, which can lead to overheating and rapid fading
- Ignoring contrast between walls, roof, gutters, and trims, creating a washed-out appearance
- Choosing colours without testing outside in natural light — a leading cause of mismatch regrets
Avoiding these mistakes helps your exterior paint look better, last longer, and perform well in all seasons.
Can I Paint My House Any Colour?
The short answer is — not always. While you usually have freedom to choose your exterior paint colours, there are often council regulations, developer guidelines, or strata rules that can limit your options.
Many new estates and developments across WA have covenants or design codes that require you to stick to an approved colour palette. For example, suburbs in Perth like Ellenbrook, Alkimos, or Baldivis may enforce specific schemes to maintain a uniform streetscape. Local councils — such as the City of Stirling, Joondalup, or Cockburn — may also have restrictions, especially for homes in heritage or conservation areas.
If you live in a townhouse or apartment, body corporate or strata by-laws might dictate what colours are allowed for your exterior walls, doors, or balconies.
Before painting, always check with your local council, estate developer, or strata manager to avoid compliance issues and costly rework.
Visualising the Right Colour for Your Home
Before locking in your exterior palette, it’s essential to see how the colour looks in real conditions. Start by testing sample swatches on different sun-facing sides of your home — morning and afternoon light can drastically change the tone.
Digital tools like the Dulux Colour App or Wattyl’s Colour Visualiser can also help you picture the end result on your actual façade. These tools are great for narrowing down options before committing to sample pots.
If you’re unsure, getting advice from a professional exterior painter — especially someone with experience in your area — can save time and avoid costly mistakes. Local painters often know which colours perform best in your suburb’s light and conditions.
Get Expert Advice from a professional painter
Looking for the perfect exterior colour? Our
Perth professional house painters service all suburbs and can help you choose and apply the right finish for your home. Rated 5 stars by local residents, we offer free advice and quotes — just give us a call or fill out our contact form to get started.
