Top Interior Paint Colors for Winter 2025–2026
Introduction: Color Trends That Define Winter 2025-2026
The colors transforming Pittsburgh homes this winter tell a story of comfort, sophistication, and intentional design. As we move into the 2025-2026 winter season, homeowners across Shadyside, Fox Chapel, Mt. Lebanon, and communities throughout Allegheny County are embracing paint colors that create warm, inviting spaces perfect for Western Pennsylvania's cold months.
This isn't about following fleeting fashion trends. The interior paint colors defining this winter reflect a deeper shift in how Pittsburgh homeowners think about their living spaces. After years of cool grays dominating design magazines, we're seeing a decisive move toward warmth—colors that make homes feel like sanctuaries during dark winter evenings.
What makes this season's color trends particularly relevant for Pittsburgh? Our unique combination of historic architecture, often-overcast skies, and the long indoor months of winter creates specific needs that national trends don't always address. The colors that work beautifully in sun-drenched California homes may fall flat in a craftsman bungalow in Squirrel Hill.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the specific paint colors that are transforming Pittsburgh interiors this winter. You'll learn not just what colors are trending, but why they work, how to select the right shades for your specific rooms, and how Pittsburgh's unique lighting conditions should influence your choices.
Whether you're planning a single-room refresh or a whole-house color update, understanding these trends will help you make choices you'll love for years to come. Let's explore the colors defining interior design in Pittsburgh this winter.
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The Warm Neutral Revolution
If there's one overarching theme defining interior paint colors for winter 2025-2026, it's the triumphant return of warm neutrals. After nearly a decade of cool grays dominating Pittsburgh homes, homeowners are rediscovering the timeless appeal of colors with warm undertones.
Why Warm Neutrals Are Dominating
The shift away from cool grays isn't arbitrary—it reflects a genuine change in how people want their homes to feel. Warm neutrals create spaces that feel inviting, comfortable, and lived-in, qualities that are especially valued during Pittsburgh's long winter months.
Key warm neutral trends include:- Greige with warm undertones: The perfect bridge between gray and beige, these shades offer sophistication without coldness
- Warm taupes: Richer than traditional beige, these colors add depth while maintaining versatility
- Creamy off-whites: Moving away from stark whites toward shades with yellow or pink undertones
- Soft terracottas: Muted versions of this classic earth tone are appearing in unexpected places
Specific Shades Leading the Trend
Our team at Fagan Painting has seen certain specific colors repeatedly requested this season across Pittsburgh neighborhoods:
Benjamin Moore's "Revere Pewter" remains a perennial favorite, but warmer alternatives are gaining ground. "Edgecomb Gray" and "Pale Oak" offer similar versatility with noticeably warmer undertones that combat Pittsburgh's often-gray winter light. Sherwin-Williams' "Accessible Beige" has become a go-to for homeowners wanting warmth without committing to traditional beige. Its balanced undertones work beautifully with both traditional and contemporary furnishings.For those seeking something with more character, "Shiitake" by Sherwin-Williams offers a sophisticated warm neutral that reads differently throughout the day—a quality that's particularly appealing in Pittsburgh homes where light conditions change dramatically.
Making Warm Neutrals Work in Your Home
The key to successful warm neutral selection is understanding your home's existing elements:- Consider your flooring color and undertones
- Look at your kitchen cabinets and countertops
- Evaluate furniture upholstery colors
- Note any fixed elements like fireplaces or built-ins
A professional color consultation contact us can help identify the perfect warm neutral that harmonizes with your existing elements while creating the cozy atmosphere you're seeking.
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Cozy Earth Tones for Pittsburgh Homes
Earth tones are having a major moment in Pittsburgh interior design, and for good reason. These nature-inspired colors create the warm, grounding atmosphere that feels especially appropriate during our Western Pennsylvania winters.
The Earth Tone Palette
This season's earth tones go beyond simple brown. The trending palette includes:
Warm Terracotta Variations: From soft peachy-terracotta to deeper rust tones, these colors add instant warmth. They're appearing not just on accent walls but as whole-room colors in living spaces and bedrooms throughout Cranberry, Wexford, and other Pittsburgh suburbs. Rich Caramels and Cognacs: These sophisticated browns work beautifully in studies, dining rooms, and bedrooms. They pair exceptionally well with the warm wood tones common in Pittsburgh's older homes. Muted Ochres: Yellow undertones without the intensity of pure yellow, these shades brighten spaces while maintaining an earthy, grounded feel. Soft Clay Tones: Somewhere between pink and brown, these nuanced colors add warmth without overwhelming a space.Earth Tones in Pittsburgh's Historic Homes
Pittsburgh's abundance of older homes provides the perfect canvas for earth tones. The original woodwork, hardwood floors, and architectural details common in Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, and Mt. Lebanon homes pair naturally with these nature-inspired colors.Consider how earth tones interact with:
- Original oak trim: Warm earth tones complement the golden undertones in oak
- Cherry and mahogany woodwork: Richer earth tones create sophisticated contrast
- Exposed brick: Terracotta and rust tones harmonize with brick's natural color
- Plaster walls: The subtle texture of original plaster enhances earth tone depth
Room Applications for Earth Tones
Different earth tones work best in different spaces:| Room | Recommended Earth Tones | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | Warm terracotta, soft caramel | Creates inviting gathering space |
| Bedroom | Muted ochre, soft clay | Promotes relaxation and warmth |
| Dining Room | Rich cognac, deeper terracotta | Sets sophisticated tone for entertaining |
| Home Office | Grounded browns, warm taupe | Supports focus without coldness |
| Hallways | Lighter earth tones | Adds warmth to transitional spaces |
Sophisticated Greens Taking Center Stage
Green is the color story of 2025-2026, appearing in Pittsburgh homes from Fox Chapel to Robinson Township. But this isn't the bright, bold green of years past—today's trending greens are sophisticated, muted, and remarkably versatile.
The New Green Palette
This season's greens lean toward nature-inspired, complex shades: Sage and Soft Greens: These muted greens have gray undertones that prevent them from feeling too bold. They're appearing as both wall colors and cabinet colors throughout Pittsburgh kitchens and bathrooms. Forest and Hunter Greens: Deeper, richer greens are making bold statements in dining rooms, libraries, and accent walls. These dramatic shades create intimate, cocooning spaces perfect for winter. Olive and Khaki Tones: These earth-influenced greens bridge the gap between neutral and color, offering versatility while adding visual interest. Eucalyptus and Seafoam: Cooler greens with blue undertones work in spaces that receive ample natural light, adding freshness without coldness.Why Green Works in Pittsburgh Winters
Green's popularity in Pittsburgh has psychological and practical foundations: Connection to Nature: During months when outdoor green spaces are dormant, green interiors satisfy our innate need for natural elements. This biophilic design principle is especially relevant during Pittsburgh's long winters. Versatility: Green works with virtually every other color, making it easy to incorporate with existing furnishings and decor. Timelessness: Unlike trendy colors that feel dated quickly, sophisticated greens have staying power. Historic Pittsburgh homes have featured green interiors for over a century.Popular Green Paint Selections
Benjamin Moore's "Salamander" has become a favorite for accent walls and dramatic spaces. Its deep, rich tone creates intimacy without feeling oppressive. Sherwin-Williams' "Evergreen Fog" (their 2022 Color of the Year) continues strong into this season. Its sage-green-gray complexity works in nearly any space and pairs beautifully with both warm and cool accents.For kitchens and bathrooms, "Pewter Green" by Sherwin-Williams offers a sophisticated option that coordinates well with both white and wood-tone cabinets.
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Warm Whites That Actually Feel Warm
The era of stark, cold whites is ending. Pittsburgh homeowners are increasingly choosing warm white paint colors that brighten spaces without the clinical feel of pure white.Understanding Warm White Undertones
Not all whites are created equal. Warm whites contain undertones that fundamentally change how they feel in a space:
Yellow Undertones: These create the warmest whites, perfect for spaces with limited natural light. They prevent the "cold" feeling that pure whites can create in Pittsburgh's often-overcast conditions. Pink/Peach Undertones: Subtle warmth with a hint of blush. These whites feel soft and inviting without reading as obviously colored. Cream Undertones: Classic warm whites that have been popular for generations. They work especially well in traditional Pittsburgh homes.Top Warm White Selections for Pittsburgh
Benjamin Moore "White Dove" remains one of the most popular warm whites in Pittsburgh homes. Its balanced undertones work in various lighting conditions and coordinate well with both contemporary and traditional elements. "Swiss Coffee" by Benjamin Moore offers slightly more warmth, making it ideal for north-facing rooms or spaces that feel cold with brighter whites. Sherwin-Williams "Alabaster" provides a warm white that works particularly well on trim and millwork, adding subtle warmth to door frames, crown molding, and baseboards throughout older Pittsburgh homes.Where Warm Whites Work Best
Strategic use of warm whites can transform a home:- Trim and millwork: Warm white trim against colored walls creates sophisticated contrast
- Ceilings: Warm whites on ceilings make rooms feel cozier than stark white
- Whole rooms: Bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens benefit from warm white's brightness without coldness
- Small spaces: Warm whites expand small spaces while maintaining welcoming atmosphere
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Rich, Moody Colors for Accent Walls
Bold, moody colors are making dramatic statements in Pittsburgh homes this winter. While whole rooms in dark colors require careful planning, accent walls in rich, saturated shades add instant personality and depth.The Moody Color Palette
This season's dramatic accent wall colors include: Deep Navy Blues: Sophisticated and timeless, navy creates a backdrop that makes art and furnishings pop. It's appearing in dining rooms, bedrooms, and home offices throughout Allegheny County. Charcoal and Soft Black: Yes, black walls are trending—but in soft, nuanced versions that feel dramatic rather than harsh. These work exceptionally well in rooms with ample natural light. Burgundy and Wine Tones: These rich, warm darks create intimate spaces perfect for dining rooms and cozy reading nooks. Deep Plums: Purple's sophisticated cousin, plum adds drama with a warmth that pure purple lacks.Making Moody Colors Work
Successfully using dark, moody colors requires attention to: Lighting: Dark walls absorb light. Ensure adequate artificial lighting and consider how natural light enters the space throughout the day. Balance: Pair dark accent walls with lighter adjacent surfaces to prevent a space from feeling oppressive. Finish: Matte and eggshell finishes typically work best for dark accent walls, reducing glare and creating a velvet-like appearance. Scale: Large rooms handle dark accents more easily. In smaller spaces, limit dark color to a single focal wall.Professional Application Matters
Dark colors reveal every imperfection. Proper surface preparation is absolutely essential when applying moody shades. Professional painters understand how to:- Achieve even coverage without lap marks
- Properly prime surfaces for dark color application
- Apply the right number of coats for full depth
- Handle the unique challenges of dark paint on older plaster walls
This is one area where interior painting services professional expertise makes a dramatic difference in results.
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How Pittsburgh's Architecture Influences Color Choices
Pittsburgh's diverse architectural heritage creates unique considerations for interior color selection. From Victorian-era homes in Shadyside to mid-century ranches in the suburbs, each style has colors that enhance its character.Victorian and Edwardian Homes
Pittsburgh's Victorian homes in neighborhoods like Shadyside and the Mexican War Streets feature:- High ceilings that can handle deeper colors
- Intricate millwork that benefits from contrasting trim colors
- Multiple rooms that can each have distinct character
- Original details that should be highlighted, not hidden
Craftsman and Arts & Crafts Homes
The craftsman bungalows and arts & crafts homes common in Squirrel Hill, Regent Square, and Dormont feature:- Extensive woodwork that should remain prominent
- Built-in cabinets and shelving
- Lower ceilings and cozier proportions
- Natural materials throughout
Colonial and Traditional Homes
The colonial and traditional homes throughout Mt. Lebanon, Fox Chapel, and Upper St. Clair typically feature:- Formal layouts with distinct room functions
- Classic architectural details
- Symmetry and balance
- Blend of formal and casual spaces
Contemporary and Mid-Century Homes
Newer and mid-century homes in areas like Cranberry and Wexford often feature:- Open floor plans requiring color flow
- Larger windows and more natural light
- Cleaner lines and minimal ornamentation
- Integration with outdoor views
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Color Psychology: Why These Shades Work in Winter
The colors trending this winter aren't random—they respond to genuine psychological needs that intensify during cold, dark months. Understanding color psychology helps explain why certain shades resonate so strongly with Pittsburgh homeowners.The Psychology of Warmth
Our brains interpret color temperature physically. Warm colors—reds, oranges, yellows, and their derivatives—actually make us feel warmer. During Pittsburgh's winters, when temperatures regularly drop below freezing, this psychological warmth becomes genuinely valuable.This explains the popularity of:
- Warm neutrals over cool grays
- Terracotta and earth tones
- Warm whites over stark whites
- Yellow and orange undertones in various colors
The Need for Grounding
Winter can feel destabilizing. Shorter days, less outdoor time, and the disruption of holiday schedules create psychological need for grounding. Earth tones and nature-inspired colors respond to this need by:- Creating visual connection to the natural world
- Providing stable, unchanging presence in our homes
- Reducing visual stimulation that can feel overwhelming
- Supporting a sense of rootedness and stability
The Comfort of Enclosure
Pittsburgh winters drive us indoors, where we spend significantly more time than during warmer months. The trending moody colors create a sense of enclosure and intimacy that feels protective during harsh weather.Deep greens, rich blues, and saturated dark tones create:
- Cocooning spaces for relaxation
- Intimate atmospheres for family gathering
- Visual "weight" that feels substantial and secure
- Distinction between indoor sanctuary and outdoor harshness
Light in Darkness
Conversely, the popularity of warm whites and lighter earth tones responds to our need for light during Pittsburgh's darkest months. These colors:
- Maximize the impact of limited natural light
- Create brightness without artificial coldness
- Balance darker accent walls and furnishings
- Support mood and energy levels during short days
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Best Colors for Specific Rooms
Different rooms serve different functions, and color choices should support how each space is used. Here's how this winter's trending colors apply to specific rooms in Pittsburgh homes.Living Rooms
Living rooms serve multiple functions—relaxation, socializing, entertainment—requiring colors that work across activities: Trending choices:- Warm neutral walls with green or blue accent wall
- All-over sage or soft green
- Warm white with rich wood tones
- Terracotta accent with neutral coordinates
Bedrooms
Bedrooms should promote rest and relaxation above all: Trending choices:- Soft sage greens for calm
- Warm whites for brightness without stimulation
- Muted earth tones for grounding
- Deep blues for cozy intimacy (use carefully)
Kitchens
Kitchen color trends this winter emphasize warmth and sophistication: Trending choices:- Sage green cabinets cabinet painting with warm white walls
- Warm neutral walls with white or light gray cabinets
- Deep green or navy accent on island
- All-over warm white with colorful accents
Bathrooms
Bathroom colors should feel fresh yet warm: Trending choices:- Spa-inspired soft greens
- Warm whites with subtle undertones
- Muted earth tones for powder rooms
- Deeper colors for larger bathrooms with good lighting
Home Offices
With more Pittsburgh residents working from home, office colors matter more than ever: Trending choices:- Greens that promote focus and reduce eye strain
- Warm neutrals that don't distract
- Blues for creativity and calm
- Avoid overly stimulating or overly dark colors
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How Natural Light Affects Winter Color Selection
Pittsburgh's winter light presents unique challenges for color selection. Our often-overcast skies, low sun angle, and shorter days all affect how colors appear in your home.Understanding Pittsburgh's Winter Light
From November through February, Pittsburgh homes receive:- Fewer hours of natural light
- Lower-angle light even at midday
- More gray, diffused light from overcast skies
- Dramatic differences between sunny and cloudy days
These conditions mean colors can look very different in Pittsburgh than in samples photographed in other locations or lighting conditions.
The Direction Factor
Room orientation dramatically affects color appearance: North-facing rooms: Receive the coolest, most consistent light. Warm colors are essential to prevent these spaces from feeling cold. Avoid cool grays and pure whites. South-facing rooms: Receive the warmest natural light. Can handle cooler colors if desired, though warm colors will feel especially cozy. East-facing rooms: Morning sun creates warm light; afternoon light is cooler. Consider how you use the room—morning kitchen needs different treatment than evening living room. West-facing rooms: Cool morning light transforms to warm afternoon sun. Colors will shift dramatically throughout the day.Testing Colors in Your Space
Never select a paint color without testing it in your specific room:- Purchase sample sizes of candidate colors
- Paint large swatches (at least 12" x 12") on your walls
- Observe samples at different times of day
- Note how they look on sunny vs. cloudy days
- View samples with your normal lighting on in evening hours
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Coordinating Trim and Wall Colors
The relationship between wall color and trim color defines a room's character. This winter's trends offer several approaches to this fundamental design decision.The Classic Approach: White Trim
White trim remains the most popular choice, but today's warm whites create softer contrast than stark white:- Creates clean definition between wall and architectural elements
- Makes colored walls "pop"
- Works with any wall color
- Traditional choice that suits Pittsburgh's older homes
Tone-on-Tone Sophistication
Using trim color that matches or closely relates to wall color creates sophisticated, seamless spaces:- Makes rooms feel larger and more cohesive
- Modern, contemporary aesthetic
- Works well in open floor plans
- Emphasizes room proportions over architectural details
This approach is gaining popularity in newer Pittsburgh homes and renovated spaces where clean lines are desired over traditional contrast.
Bold Contrast: Colored Trim
Dark trim against lighter walls creates dramatic statement:- Navy, forest green, or charcoal trim with warm neutral walls
- Particularly effective in homes with substantial millwork
- Creates gallery-like backdrop for art
- Bold choice that requires commitment
Matching Woodwork
Many Pittsburgh homeowners are choosing to paint trim in colors that complement stained woodwork:- Warm creams that harmonize with oak
- Soft whites with pink undertones for cherry wood
- Colors that reference but don't match existing wood tones
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Paint Finish Selection for Winter Colors
The finish you choose affects both appearance and performance of your chosen colors. Different trending colors work best with specific finishes.Understanding Finish Options
From flattest to shiniest:| Finish | Best For | Trending Color Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Flat/Matte | Ceilings, low-traffic walls | Moody accent walls, vintage looks |
| Eggshell | Living rooms, bedrooms | Warm neutrals, earth tones |
| Satin | Kitchens, bathrooms, trim | Greens, all high-traffic areas |
| Semi-Gloss | Trim, doors, cabinets | Warm whites, accent trim |
| High-Gloss | Accent features, doors | Bold statements, contemporary spaces |
Finish and Color Interaction
Sheen level affects how colors read:- Matte finishes absorb light, making colors appear slightly darker and creating velvet-like appearance. Ideal for dark, moody accent walls.
- Higher sheens reflect light, making colors appear slightly lighter and showing more variation with changing light. Best for trim and areas needing durability.
Winter-Specific Considerations
Low humidity in heated Pittsburgh homes affects some finish choices:- Matte finishes may show marks more easily in dry conditions
- Higher sheens are easier to clean, important in winter when tracked-in dirt is common
- Proper humidity levels help all finishes cure correctly
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Professional Color Consultation Tips
Selecting the perfect colors can feel overwhelming with thousands of options available. Here's how professional color consultation can help.What a Color Consultation Includes
Professional color consultants evaluate:- Your home's fixed elements (flooring, countertops, cabinets)
- Natural and artificial lighting conditions
- Room proportions and architectural features
- Your style preferences and inspirations
- How rooms flow together
- Existing furniture and decor you want to keep
Bringing Professional Expertise
Experienced painters like our team at Fagan Painting offer color consultation as part of comprehensive painting services:- Knowledge of how specific paints perform in Pittsburgh conditions
- Experience with how colors work in similar homes
- Understanding of current trends and timeless choices
- Ability to visualize finished results
- Sample color recommendations to narrow choices
Making the Most of Consultation
To get the most from a color consultation:- Gather inspiration images showing colors you like
- Note any colors you definitely don't want
- Consider the mood you want each room to create
- Be open to suggestions outside your initial thoughts
- Ask questions about why specific colors are recommended
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular interior paint colors for winter 2025-2026?
Warm neutrals lead the trends, including sophisticated greiges, warm whites, and creamy off-whites. Sage and forest greens are extremely popular, along with earth tones like terracotta and warm caramel. Deep, moody colors including navy and charcoal are trending for accent walls. These colors respond to the desire for warm, cozy spaces during cold Pittsburgh winters.
How do I choose paint colors that work with Pittsburgh's gray winter light?
Focus on colors with warm undertones to counteract the cool, diffused light common in Pittsburgh winters. Avoid cool grays and stark whites in north-facing rooms. Always test colors in your specific space at different times of day and on both sunny and overcast days before making final decisions.
Should I paint my whole house one color?
While a cohesive color flow is important, especially in open floor plans, using a single color throughout can feel flat. Consider using variations of a color family—different shades of the same undertone—to create interest while maintaining harmony. Professional color consultation can help develop a whole-house color palette.
What paint finish should I use for trending colors?
For warm neutrals and earth tones, eggshell works well in living areas and bedrooms. Satin is preferred for kitchens, bathrooms, and anywhere durability matters. Matte finishes create beautiful velvet-like effects for dark accent walls. Trim typically looks best in satin or semi-gloss for durability and contrast.
Are gray paint colors out of style?
Cool grays have declined in popularity, but warm grays (greiges) remain relevant when they include warm undertones. The shift is toward colors that feel cozier and more inviting. If you love gray, look for options with taupe, beige, or warm undertones rather than blue or purple undertones.
How many accent walls should a home have?
Typically, one accent wall per room is sufficient. Too many accent walls throughout a home can feel chaotic. Select the most important focal point in each room—often the wall behind a sofa, bed, or fireplace—for accent treatment. Other rooms might not need accent walls at all.
What colors increase home value in Pittsburgh?
Neutral colors with warm undertones typically appeal to the broadest range of buyers. However, current trends toward warm neutrals, sage greens, and sophisticated earth tones are likely to age well and appeal to buyers for years to come. Avoid extremely bold or unusual colors if selling is imminent.
How do trending colors work with older Pittsburgh homes?
Pittsburgh's older homes often feature original woodwork, hardwood floors, and architectural details that pair beautifully with current trends. Warm neutrals complement wood tones, sage greens reference nature-inspired arts and crafts aesthetics, and moody colors suit the intimate proportions of Victorian rooms.
Should trim and walls be the same color?
This is a design choice rather than a rule. Traditional contrast (colored walls with white trim) highlights architectural details common in Pittsburgh homes. Tone-on-tone (matching or similar trim and walls) creates a more contemporary, seamless look. Both approaches work well with current color trends.
When should I hire a professional for color selection?
Consider professional help if you're overwhelmed by choices, painting multiple rooms that need to coordinate, working with challenging lighting conditions, or have fixed elements (flooring, cabinets) that are difficult to match. Professional color consultation can save time, money, and frustration.
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Transform Your Home With Trending Colors
The right paint colors can completely transform how your Pittsburgh home looks and feels—especially during the long winter months when you spend the most time indoors. This season's trending colors offer beautiful options for creating warm, inviting spaces that you'll love coming home to.At Fagan Painting, our experienced team helps homeowners throughout Shadyside, Squirrel Hill, Mt. Lebanon, Fox Chapel, Cranberry, and communities across Allegheny County select and apply the perfect colors for their homes. We're fully insured, committed to spotless prep work and clean job sites, and we use premium products from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore.
Winter is the perfect time to update your interior colors. Low humidity creates ideal painting conditions, our schedule offers flexibility, and you'll be enjoying your beautiful new spaces all season long. Contact Fagan Painting today to schedule your free estimate and color consultation. contact us Call (412) 680-0102 or request your estimate online. Let's bring the latest color trends to your Pittsburgh home this winter.