The 7 best colors to paint a small living room to make it brighter

Two color ideas to paint a small living room. Pastel pink living room on left with moss green door, white living room on right with rustic doors and arm chair set on round cream rug.

Finding colors to paint a small living room to make it brighter can be a challenge. It's a common question when faced with a room that's low on space. Do you go light or dark? Muted or bright hues?

We asked our color theory and paint experts for their advice on the best colors to paint a small living room and why their suggestions work so well. Although white a solid choice, there are six other shades our pros suggest you consider, from warming neutrals to pastels and reds.