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HeritageSouth-Facing

Hampshire Gray

Benjamin Moore · HC-101

The Analysis

Hampshire Gray is a mid-toned, muddy olive-gray that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 25.04. Because it is darker, it will make a room feel more enclosed and intimate rather than open or airy.

It functions best as a sophisticated backdrop or a saturated wall color in studies and dining rooms. It is too heavy for small, windowless rooms but acts as a strong, neutral anchor in larger, well-lit spaces.

LRV 25

History & Origin

This is a classic 'Heritage' tone that mirrors the moody, earthy palettes found in traditional historic homes. It feels established and permanent rather than trendy or mass-market.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut or light oak wood tones to prevent the space from feeling cold. Matte black hardware creates a sharp, modern contrast, while unlacquered brass adds a traditional, rich depth to the olive undertones.

The Mood

This color provides a grounded, stable, and highly restful environment. It lacks the starkness of bright whites or the agitation of high-chroma colors, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to switch off and relax.

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.

  • Tavern Gray

    Benjamin Moore · CW-40

  • Mirrored Willow 0380

    Colourtrend

  • Mossy Bank

    Behr · PPU8-21

  • Gooseberry Fool 2

    Dulux

  • Common Dormouse

    Dulux

  • Burning Idea 0373

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

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