Swatchd
Sign inGet started
MinimalistUniversal

EMPIRE

Jotun · 0520

The Analysis

Empire is a neutral, balanced gray that acts as a reliable foundation for any space. With an LRV of 59.63, it reflects a moderate amount of light, making it bright enough to prevent a room from feeling cramped without the glare of a stark white.

It works best as a main wall color across an entire open-plan area or as a consistent neutral for hallways and bedrooms. It is a true 'background' color that allows your furniture and art to take center stage rather than competing for attention.

LRV 60

History & Origin

Empire aligns with contemporary, modern design trends that prioritize sleek, monochromatic palettes. It lacks the heavy yellow or blue undertones of traditional period colors, keeping the space feeling current rather than vintage.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

This shade pairs exceptionally well with matte black hardware for a sharp contrast or walnut wood tones to add warmth to the gray. It is highly versatile and suits living rooms or home offices where you need a neutral, non-distracting environment.

The Mood

This color provides a calm, steady backdrop that reduces visual clutter. It feels professional and composed, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to maintain focus and a clean, organized headspace.

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.

  • Metro Gray

    Benjamin Moore · 1459

  • Cement Gray

    Benjamin Moore · 2112-60

  • Night Jewels 5

    Dulux

  • Engraved Locket

    Dulux

  • Pale Slate

    Dulux

  • Brushed Buckle

    Dulux

Lighting

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

  • Natural