Cadet Gray
Valspar · 4001-2A
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The Analysis
Cadet Gray is a medium-toned neutral that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 23.485. Because it is quite dark, it will make a room feel cozier and more enclosed rather than spacious or bright.
It works best as a moody, sophisticated backdrop for living rooms or bedrooms. It can also act as a strong secondary color for trim or cabinetry to provide contrast against lighter walls.
LRV 23History & Origin
This shade leans toward a modern, architectural aesthetic rather than a traditional period look. Its balanced gray tone fits perfectly into contemporary urban design schemes.
How to Use It
This shade shines in rooms with ample natural light or strong artificial lighting to prevent it from feeling like a cave. Pair it with warm wood tones or brushed brass to soften the gray, or use matte black hardware for a sharp, high-contrast industrial edge.
The Mood
This color provides a grounded, stable, and highly restful environment. It is ideal for spaces where you want to reduce visual noise and create a focused, calm atmosphere.
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