Buttermilk
Benjamin Moore · 919
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The Analysis
Buttermilk is a high-LRV paint, meaning it reflects over 82% of the light that hits it, effectively brightening dark corners and making small rooms feel significantly more open. Because of its warm undertones, it prevents a space from feeling clinical, instead providing a steady, reliable glow throughout the day.
This is a quintessential main-wall color designed to serve as a neutral foundation for the entire home. It acts as an excellent bridge between bolder furniture pieces or artwork, grounding them without competing for attention.
LRV 82History & Origin
This shade leans heavily into a traditional, heritage look often found in classic colonial or cottage-style interiors. It mimics the timeless, unpretentious charm of historical pigment-based paints, offering a sense of longevity rather than following short-lived trends.
How to Use It
It works best in kitchens or living areas paired with warm wood tones like white oak or cherry, and oil-rubbed bronze or brass hardware. Avoid stark cool-toned metals like chrome, as they may clash with the yellow-leaning warmth of the paint.
The Mood
Living with this shade feels consistently cheerful and balanced without being overstimulating. It offers a clean, reliable backdrop that feels organized and put-together, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas where you want a sense of clarity.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
- 3500K
- 4000K
- 5500K