Gunmetal 1602 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with versatility, Benjamin Moore’s Gunmetal (1602) might just be your perfect match. This deep, moody gray with subtle blue-green undertones is like a polished metal surface—cool, sleek, and undeniably chic. Whether you’re revamping a living room, bedroom, or home office, Gunmetal brings a grounded yet refined energy to any space. Let’s dive into what makes this color so special and how you can make it work in your home.

First, let’s talk about the undertones. Gunmetal leans cool, thanks to its blue base, but don’t be surprised if you catch hints of green in certain lighting. These undertones give the color depth and complexity, making it far more interesting than your average gray. In natural light, the blue-green hues come alive, creating a dynamic, almost chameleon-like effect. Under artificial light, it softens into a more muted, cozy shade—perfect for evenings when you want your space to feel intimate and inviting.

One of the biggest strengths of Gunmetal is its versatility. It plays well with a range of decor styles, from industrial and modern to rustic and minimalist. Imagine it on an accent wall in a contemporary living room, paired with crisp white trim and sleek black furniture. Or picture it in a farmhouse-style bedroom, layered with warm wood tones and soft linen textiles. It even works in home offices, where its grounding vibe can help foster focus and creativity. The key is balancing it with lighter elements—think creamy neutrals, airy fabrics, or metallic accents—to keep the room from feeling too heavy.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: lighting. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 16.63%, Gunmetal reflects very little light, which means it can appear darker in low-light spaces. If your room lacks natural light, consider using it on just one wall or pairing it with plenty of ambient lighting. On the flip side, if you have a sun-drenched room, Gunmetal will shine (literally), revealing its cool undertones and adding depth without overwhelming the space. Always test a sample on your walls and observe it at different times of day before committing.

Application is a breeze with this color. It’s roller-ready, brushes on smoothly, and dries quickly, so you won’t be stuck waiting around for hours between coats. Most projects will only need one or two coats for full coverage, and touch-ups are easy thanks to its forgiving finish. Plus, it’s low-VOC, so you won’t have to deal with harsh fumes during or after painting. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a pro, Gunmetal delivers a professional-looking result with minimal hassle.

Worried about maintenance? Don’t be. Gunmetal is washable and scrubbable, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas like hallways or dining rooms. Spills and smudges wipe away easily, so you can enjoy its bold beauty without stressing over everyday wear and tear. Just stick to matte or satin finishes for the best durability and a luxe, velvety look.

If you’re curious about color pairings, Gunmetal is surprisingly flexible. For a clean, modern aesthetic, pair it with whites like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove. Want something warmer? Try earthy tones like rust or ochre to create contrast and warmth. Feeling bold? Jewel tones—think emerald green or sapphire blue—make stunning companions. And if you’re after a monochromatic scheme, explore its lighter siblings (like 2134-40 or 1594) or darker cousins (such as AF-560) for a layered, cohesive look.

So, is Gunmetal right for your project? If you love rich, moody colors that bring depth and character to a space, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s a color that demands attention without being overpowering, making it ideal for those who want to make a statement without going too far outside their comfort zone. Just remember: test it in your space, balance it with lighter elements, and don’t shy away from playing with textures and finishes to bring out its best qualities.

At the end of the day, paint is more than just color—it’s about the feeling it creates. Gunmetal evokes sophistication, grounding, and a touch of industrial edge, all wrapped up in one stunning shade. Whether you’re painting a single wall or an entire room, this color has the power to transform your space into something truly special. So grab a sample, see how it speaks to you, and get ready to fall in love with your walls all over again.

Real Room Photo of Gunmetal 1602

Undertones of  Gunmetal ?

The undertones of Gunmetal are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Blue. These subtle underlying hues are what give the color its depth and complexity. For example, a gray with a blue undertone will feel cooler and more modern, while one with a brown undertone will feel warmer and more traditional. It’s essential to test this paint in your home and observe it next to your existing furniture, flooring, and decor to see how these undertones interact and reveal themselves throughout the day.

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HEX value: #6A6F70

RGB code: 106, 111, 112

Is  Gunmetal Cool or Warm?

Gunmetal leans towards the cooler side of the color spectrum. Its slight blue undertones make it refreshing and contemporary, perfect for creating an airy ambiance while still maintaining a grounded feel.

Understanding Color Properties and Interior Design Tips

Hue refers to a specific position on the color wheel, measured in degrees from 0 to 360. Each degree represents a different pure color:

• 0° represents red
• 120° represents green
• 240° represents blue

Saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color and is expressed as a percentage:

• At 0%, the color appears completely desaturated—essentially a shade of gray
• At 100%, the color is at its most vivid and vibrant

Lightness indicates how light or dark a color is, also expressed as a percentage:

• 0% lightness results in black
• 100% lightness results in white

Using Warm Colors in Interior Design

Warm hues—such as reds, oranges, yellows, warm beiges, and greiges—are excellent choices for creating inviting and energetic spaces. These colors are particularly well-suited for:

• Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where warmth enhances comfort and sociability
• Large rooms, where warm tones can help reduce the sense of emptiness and make the space feel more intimate

For example:

• Warm beige shades provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
• Warm greige (a mix of beige and gray) offers the warmth of beige with the modern appeal of gray, making it a versatile backdrop for dining areas, bedrooms, and living spaces.

However, be mindful when using warm light tones in rooms with limited natural light. These shades may appear muted or even take on an unpleasant yellowish tint. To avoid a dull or flat appearance:

• Add depth by incorporating richer tones like deep greens, charcoal, or chocolate brown
• Use textured elements such as curtains, rugs, or cushions to bring dimension to the space

Pro Tip: Achieving Harmony with Warm and Cool Color Balance

To create a well-balanced and visually interesting interior, mix warm and cool tones strategically. This contrast adds depth and harmony to your design.

• If your walls feature warm hues, introduce cool-colored accents such as blue or green furniture, artwork, or accessories to create contrast.
• For a polished look, consider using a complementary color scheme, which pairs colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red with green, orange with blue).

This thoughtful mix not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive.

Light Temperature Affects on Gunmetal

Natural Light

Natural daylight changes in color temperature as the sun moves across the sky. At sunrise and sunset, the light tends to have a warm, golden tone with a color temperature around 2000 Kelvin (K). As the day progresses and the sun rises higher, the light becomes cooler and more neutral. Around midday, especially when the sky is clear, natural light typically reaches its peak brightness and shifts to a cooler tone, ranging from 5500 to 6500 Kelvin. This midday light is close to what we perceive as pure white or daylight-balanced light.

These shifts in natural light can significantly influence how colors appear in a space, which is why designers often consider both the time of day and the orientation of windows when planning interior color schemes.

Artificial Light

When choosing artificial lighting, pay close attention to the color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). This determines how warm or cool the light will appear. Lower temperatures, around 2700K, give off a warm, yellow glow often used in living rooms or bedrooms. Higher temperatures, above 5000K, create a cool, bluish light similar to daylight, commonly used in kitchens, offices, or task areas.

Use the slider to see how lighting temperature can affect the appearance of a surface or color throughout a space.

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LRV of Gunmetal

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Gunmetal is 16.63%, which places it in the Medium Dark category. This means it reflects very little light. Understanding a paint’s LRV is crucial for predicting how it will look in your space. A higher LRV indicates a lighter color that reflects more light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. A lower LRV signifies a darker color that absorbs more light, creating a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. Always consider the natural and artificial lighting in your room when selecting a paint color based on its LRV.

Detailed Review of  Gunmetal

Gunmetal is more than just a paint color; it’s a statement. This shade brings depth and drama to your walls, making it perfect for accent walls or entire rooms. Its muted tone allows it to play well with a wide range of colors and textures, whether you’re aiming for a sleek modern look or a cozy, rustic feel. Application is smooth, and it dries evenly without streaks, providing a professional finish even for DIYers. However, be mindful of lighting, as it can appear darker in low-light conditions. Overall, Gunmetal is an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their decor.

Pros & Cons of  1602 Gunmetal

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Gunmetal

FAQ on 1602 Gunmetal

Can Gunmetal be used in small spaces?

Absolutely! Gunmetal can work well in small spaces, but it’s essential to balance it with lighter colors or ample lighting. Using it on an accent wall can make a bold statement without overwhelming the room. Pair it with light furnishings and decor to keep the space feeling open and airy.

How does Gunmetal pair with other colors?

Gunmetal pairs beautifully with a variety of colors. It complements whites and creams for a clean, modern look, and can also enhance warmer tones like rust or ochre. For a more dramatic contrast, consider pairing it with deep jewel tones or even brighter accents to create a vibrant atmosphere.

Comparisons Gunmetal with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Gunmetal 1602