Cheating Heart 1617 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with versatility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Cheating Heart (1617). This deep gray with subtle blue undertones is a designer favorite for a reason—it strikes the perfect balance between modern edge and timeless elegance. Whether you’re aiming for a moody retreat or a sleek, contemporary space, this shade delivers drama without overwhelming the senses.

Cheating Heart is one of those colors that adapts to its surroundings. In a sunlit room, it leans into its cooler undertones, creating an airy, almost ethereal feel. But in softer lighting, it transforms into something richer and more intimate, wrapping the space in cozy warmth. That’s the magic of a well-chosen gray—it’s never just gray. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 8.79%, this is a dark color that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, making it ideal for spaces where you want to cultivate depth and atmosphere.

Now, let’s talk about where this color shines. Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and home offices are all fantastic candidates. Picture it on an accent wall behind a plush velvet sofa, or enveloping a bedroom for a serene, cocoon-like effect. In a home office, it adds just the right amount of gravitas without feeling oppressive. And in a dining room? It sets the stage for intimate dinners, especially when paired with warm wood tones or crisp white trim.

Speaking of trim, Cheating Heart plays well with a variety of finishes. For a classic look, pair it with Benjamin Moore’s White Dove or Simply White—the contrast keeps things fresh and bright. If you’re feeling bold, black windows or natural wood trim add a modern, industrial edge. The key is balance. Since this is a deep color, you’ll want to balance it with lighter furnishings, metallic accents, or plenty of texture to keep the room from feeling too heavy.

Application is a breeze, even if you’re a DIY beginner. It’s roller-ready, brush-smooth, and dries quickly, with good coverage in just one or two coats. And because it’s low-VOC and ultra low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about harsh fumes lingering in your home. Maintenance is just as easy—this paint is highly washable, so it’s perfect for high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets.

Of course, no color is without its considerations. In smaller rooms or spaces with limited natural light, Cheating Heart can feel a bit imposing if not balanced properly. The fix? Layer in plenty of lighting—think floor lamps, sconces, and even mirrors to bounce light around. Lighter furniture and textiles will also help keep the space feeling open. And if you’re painting over a very light surface, be prepared for a second coat to ensure full, even coverage.

If you love the idea of Cheating Heart but aren’t ready to commit to an entire room, start small. Try it on a piece of furniture, like a bookshelf or dresser, to see how the color behaves in your space. Or use it on cabinetry for a high-impact kitchen or bathroom refresh. The beauty of this shade is its adaptability—it works just as well in a minimalist loft as it does in a modern farmhouse.

Wondering what colors to pair with it? Since Cheating Heart has a blue undertone, warm, complementary hues like soft oranges, creamy whites, or even blush pinks can create a stunning contrast. For a monochromatic look, layer it with lighter grays like HC-178 or 1616. If you want to go darker, shades like 2132-20 or CW-680 add depth without clashing.

At the end of the day, Cheating Heart is more than just a paint color—it’s a mood. It’s the kind of shade that makes a room feel intentional, curated, and full of personality. Whether you’re going for cozy, sophisticated, or somewhere in between, this deep gray delivers. So grab a sample, test it in your space, and see how it transforms your walls into something truly special. After all, the best interiors are the ones that feel like home—and this color? It’s got heart.

Real Room Photo of Cheating Heart 1617

Undertones of  Cheating Heart ?

The undertones of Cheating Heart 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: #4B4D4F

RGB code: 75, 77, 79

Is  Cheating Heart Cool or Warm?

Overall, Cheating Heart is a cool-toned gray that can appear warmer in spaces filled with natural light. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for both sunlit rooms and those with more subdued lighting.

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 Cheating Heart

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 Cheating Heart

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Cheating Heart is 8.79%, which places it in the Dark colors category. This means it does not reflect 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  Cheating Heart

Cheating Heart offers a unique blend of sophistication and warmth, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to create a cozy yet modern atmosphere. The deep gray tone pairs beautifully with a variety of decor styles and can serve as an excellent backdrop for artwork or furniture. Its versatility shines in spaces ranging from offices to intimate living areas. The matte finish provides a subtle elegance, while the eggshell and satin options add a slight sheen that can enhance light reflection. Whether you want to create a moody retreat or a stylish focal point, this color delivers a striking visual impact.

Pros & Cons of  1617 Cheating Heart

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Cheating Heart

FAQ on 1617 Cheating Heart

Can Cheating Heart work in a small room?

Absolutely! While Cheating Heart is a deep color, it can work beautifully in small spaces if paired with the right lighting and decor. To keep the room from feeling too heavy, consider using lighter furnishings and plenty of reflective surfaces. Accents like mirrors can enhance the space, making it feel more open and inviting.

What trim colors pair best with Cheating Heart?

Cheating Heart pairs wonderfully with a variety of trim colors. White Dove or Simply White offer a crisp contrast that brightens the overall look. If you prefer a more dramatic effect, opting for black windows or warm wood trim can create a striking combination that emphasizes the richness of Cheating Heart.

Comparisons Cheating Heart with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Cheating Heart 1617