I've been reading a lot of paint SOS messages from our Simplifying Fabulous! readers and on Benjamin Moore's Expert Exchange app on Facebook. Choosing bright colored paints is often more difficult than choosing a neutral, as there are sooo many types and shades. For me, one of the best neutrals is taupe. The color "taupe" is an umbrella term, as you can have taupes that tend more toward the grays or the browns, greens or even purples! Taupes are warm, homey and very versatile! Q: I'm moving into a townhouse and am painting the entire main floor. The ceilings are soaring. The trim and the mantle of the fireplace are white and the hardwood floors are light. The kitchen has espresso cabinetry. My look is cottage-y with several shabby chic antiques. I need a great taupe neutrall. HELP! Thank you! - Lori K.

A: Taupe sounds like the perfect color for what you’re describing. Here are three of my favorite taupes from Benjamin Moore. This is three shades of the same color, as I’m not sure how deep you want to go: BM 1550 Cumulus Cloud, BM 1551 La Paloma Gray and BM 1552 River Reflections. For the walls, I usually like to use the an eggshell finish. How high off of the dining table should a chandelier hang? How large should an area rug be? What is the best way to integrate antiques with modern furniture? Have your design questions answered…Ask Robin! Your question will be answered here on the blog, added to our Ask Robin archive, and posted on Facebook!