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HeritageSouth-Facing

James River Gray

Benjamin Moore · AC-23

The Analysis

James River Gray is a mid-tone, cool-leaning blue-gray that absorbs a fair amount of light due to its 29.99 LRV. It will make a room feel cozy and contained rather than airy, which works best to define space rather than expand it.

It acts as a versatile mid-tone that can serve as a sophisticated main wall color in a den or bedroom. It also functions well as a bold anchor for cabinetry or built-in shelving without overwhelming the room.

LRV 30

History & Origin

This color sits comfortably in transitional or heritage-inspired homes. Its muted, weathered quality echoes the tones found in traditional colonial or classic architecture.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

This shade pairs exceptionally well with warm, natural wood tones like walnut or oak to balance the coolness of the gray. For hardware, stick to matte black for a modern edge or unlacquered brass if you want a classic, high-contrast look.

The Mood

This is a stable, grounding color that feels restful and quiet. Because it lacks high saturation, it is easy to live with long-term and avoids the visual fatigue caused by bolder or brighter wall colors.

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.

  • Van Courtland Blue

    Benjamin Moore · HC-145

  • Water's Edge

    Benjamin Moore · 1635

  • Maritime Hush

    Valspar · 1-877

  • Rainy Season

    Behr · MQ5-27

  • Whirlpool

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9135

  • Shale Gray

    Behr · 540F-4

Lighting

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

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