Exterior Paint Colors for Florida Cottages

Pastel Colors

• Pastel-colored cottages dot the countryside in Florida. Those painted the delicate pink found inside a seashell or the pale blue of a morning sky are commonly found in many neighborhoods. Mint green, pale peach or light salmon are other options that fit the light, breezy style of the Florida landscape. Carry the same pastel colors from the outside indoors to create a peaceful haven you'll be glad to call home.

Bright Colors

• When you prefer something bolder than the faint color wash of pastel colors, opt for the bright, sunny hues of the Caribbean. Florida's proximity to the islands of the Caribbean has inspired many people to adopt the powerful colors used there. Hot pink, lemon yellow and turquoise blue are just some of the options to choose from. If you feel brave, select a combination of three or four colors for the outside of your cottage. Paint the shutters blue, the trim pink and the walls yellow. Anything goes with Caribbean colors as long as they're cheerful.

Natural Colors

• For those who want a less obtrusive home, there are plenty of colors in nature from which to draw. Select colors like sandstone, taupe, wheat or burlap to mimic the color of the sand in your area. Alternatively, choose colors like slate, dove gray or iron that remind you of the color of the rainclouds just before they burst, or creamy colors like ivory, off-white or eggshell. Paint the trim of your cottage in contrasting shades also taken from nature to create interest and depth.

Nautical Colors

• An obvious yet charming exterior decor idea well suited to Florida is the nautical theme. Begin with basic white paint on the outside of your cottage, and choose nautical colors to use as accents. Red, yellow and blue are often combined to create a seafaring feel indoors and out. Hang life preservers, fishnet and nautical flags on a nearby privacy fence to enhance the colors you choose for your cottage. Alternatively, opt for white with black trim and hang a skull-and-crossbones flag from a pole out front to create a pirate ship theme.