Rust 2175-30 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that brings warmth, depth, and a touch of rustic charm to your home, Benjamin Moore’s *Rust* (2175-30) might just be your perfect match. This rich, earthy orange-brown is more than just a color—it’s a mood. Imagine the warmth of autumn leaves, the coziness of a clay pot, or the timeless appeal of aged copper. That’s the magic of Rust. It’s a hue that feels both grounded and inviting, making it a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to infuse their space with character without sacrificing sophistication.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Rust is its versatility. It’s not just a one-note color. Depending on the lighting and the finishes you pair it with, it can lean into its red undertones for a bolder statement or soften into a more muted, earthy tone. That’s why it works so well in a variety of decor styles. If you love rustic or industrial aesthetics, Rust is a natural fit. Picture it on an accent wall in a living room with exposed wooden beams and leather furniture—it instantly adds warmth and texture. In an industrial space, it pairs beautifully with metal accents and raw materials like brick or concrete, creating a balanced, lived-in feel. But don’t let that limit you. Rust also shines in bohemian and mid-century modern interiors, where its warmth can complement bold patterns, natural fibers, and sleek, retro furniture.

Now, let’s talk about application. One of the best things about Rust is how beginner-friendly it is. With good coverage in just one or two coats, you won’t be stuck doing endless touch-ups. It’s self-priming, roller-ready, and has low splatter, so even if you’re new to painting, you’ll get a smooth, professional-looking finish. And because it’s touch-up friendly, you won’t have to worry about minor scuffs or marks ruining your hard work. Choose a matte finish for a soft, velvety look that’s perfect for bedrooms or living rooms where you want a cozy vibe. If you’re painting trim, doors, or furniture, satin or semi-gloss finishes will add a subtle sheen that highlights details and stands up to wear and tear.

Lighting plays a huge role in how Rust will look in your space. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 19.82%, it’s a medium-dark color that absorbs more light than it reflects. In a room with plenty of natural light, Rust will feel vibrant and full of depth, with its red and orange undertones shining through. But in a dimmer space, it can feel moodier and more intimate—ideal for creating a snug, inviting atmosphere. If you’re using Rust in a smaller room, consider balancing it with lighter trim or furnishings to keep the space from feeling too enclosed. An accent wall is another great way to incorporate Rust without overwhelming the room.

When it comes to pairings, Rust is surprisingly flexible. It looks stunning with warm wood tones, brass fixtures, and neutral trims like creamy whites or soft beiges. For a bolder contrast, try pairing it with deep greens or navy blues—these complementary hues will make Rust pop while keeping the overall look balanced. If you’re going for a monochromatic scheme, layer it with lighter shades like terra cotta or burnt sienna for a cohesive, nuanced effect. And don’t forget textiles! Rust plays well with natural fabrics like linen, jute, and wool, adding texture and warmth to your decor.

Of course, no color is perfect for every situation. Rust’s depth means it might not be the best choice if you’re aiming for a bright, airy, or ultra-modern look. It can also darken small spaces if not used thoughtfully. But with the right lighting and complementary elements, even a compact room can feel cozy and intentional rather than cramped. And while Rust is low-VOC and eco-certified, making it a great choice for health-conscious homeowners, it’s always a good idea to test a sample in your space before committing. Paint a small section and observe how it changes throughout the day—you might be surprised by how different it looks in morning light versus evening lamplight.

So, is Rust the right color for your next project? If you’re drawn to warm, earthy tones and want a color that adds instant character, the answer is probably yes. Whether you’re painting an accent wall in your dining room, refreshing a bedroom, or even giving old furniture a new lease on life, Rust delivers a timeless, inviting vibe. It’s a color that feels both classic and current, with enough depth to keep things interesting. And because it’s so versatile, it’s a shade you won’t tire of easily. At the end of the day, the best paint color is one that makes you feel at home—and with its rich, welcoming warmth, Rust just might do exactly that.

Real Room Photo of Rust 2175-30

Undertones of  Rust ?

The undertones of Rust are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Red. 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

HEX value: #B66340

RGB code: 182, 99, 64

Is  Rust Cool or Warm?

Rust is undeniably a warm color, thanks to its orange-brown composition. This warmth brings a sense of comfort and coziness to any space, making it ideal for rooms where you want to create an inviting atmosphere. The warm tone of Rust can be particularly effective in spaces with ample natural light, where it can enhance the sense of warmth and vibrancy. In cooler climates or dimly lit rooms, Rust can add a touch of warmth that counteracts the chill, making it a great choice for creating a welcoming environment.

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 Rust

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 Rust

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Rust is 19.82%, 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  Rust

The color ‘Rust’ with its HEX code #B66340 is a versatile and warm hue that can transform any room into a cozy retreat. Its warm, earthy tone is reminiscent of autumn leaves and rich clay, providing a grounding effect that can make a room feel inviting and intimate. This shade works well in various finishes, offering options for different levels of sheen and texture. In a matte finish, it exudes a soft, velvety appearance that’s perfect for creating a soothing ambiance in bedrooms or living rooms. Satin and semi-gloss finishes can add a touch of elegance and are great for highlighting architectural details. Rust pairs beautifully with neutral and warm-toned trims, enhancing its warm undertones. However, it may require proper lighting to prevent the space from appearing too dark. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics and is often used to add depth and character to feature walls or accents in larger spaces.

Pros & Cons of  2175-30 Rust

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Rust

FAQ on 2175-30 Rust

What decor styles complement the color Rust?

Rust is a versatile color that can complement a variety of decor styles. Its warm and earthy tones make it a perfect fit for rustic and industrial interiors, where it can evoke a sense of nature and history. In a rustic setting, Rust pairs well with natural materials like wood, stone, and leather, enhancing the organic feel of the space. For an industrial look, Rust can be combined with metal accents and exposed brick to create a modern yet timeless aesthetic. Additionally, Rust can work in bohemian and mid-century modern styles, where its rich hue adds warmth and character. When paired with the right furnishings and accessories, Rust can seamlessly blend into various design schemes, offering a unique and personalized touch to your home decor.

Is Rust a suitable color for small rooms?

While Rust is a warm and inviting color, it can be a bit challenging in small rooms due to its deep and rich tone. In smaller spaces, Rust can sometimes make the room feel more enclosed, especially if the lighting isn’t adequately considered. However, when used strategically, such as on an accent wall or paired with lighter colors, Rust can add depth and character without overwhelming the space. To make Rust work in a small room, ensure that there is sufficient natural or artificial lighting to balance its darkness. Additionally, using Rust in conjunction with lighter trim or furnishings can help create contrast and prevent the space from feeling too closed in. With thoughtful application, Rust can transform a small room into a cozy and inviting retreat.

Comparisons Rust with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Rust 2175-30