HeritageUniversal

Boothbay Gray

Benjamin Moore · HC-165

The Analysis

Boothbay Gray is a mid-tone blue-gray that absorbs enough light to feel substantial without making a room feel cramped. Because it has an LRV of 43.52, it sits in a middle ground where it won't reflect a massive amount of light, preventing a washed-out look in bright rooms while avoiding shadows in dimmer ones.

This is an ideal main-wall color for living areas, kitchens, or bedrooms. It works effectively as a 'bridge' color, linking different spaces together without overwhelming the eye or demanding too much attention.

LRV 44

History & Origin

This color leans into the New England 'Heritage' aesthetic, mimicking the weathered shingles and classic trim palettes of coastal architecture. It feels timeless and traditional rather than trendy or hyper-modern.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with natural white oak or walnut wood tones to warm up the space, and matte black hardware provides a crisp, contemporary contrast. Use it in rooms where you want a clean, finished appearance that doesn't show dirt or scuffs easily.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable and grounded. It is a restful, neutral shade that avoids the sterile coldness of pure gray while providing a calm, steady backdrop for daily activities.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Flint Smoke

    Behr · 730F-4

  • Silver Mink

    Benjamin Moore · 1586

  • Wheels Up!

    Valspar · V117-2

  • Marina Gray

    Benjamin Moore · 1599

  • Dove Slate

    Dulux

  • Mineral Deposit

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7652

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K