Buttermilk 919 by Benjamin Moore

Imagine walking into a room bathed in soft, golden light—walls that feel like a warm hug, a space that instantly puts you at ease. That’s the magic of Benjamin Moore’s Buttermilk (919). This isn’t just another off-white or beige; it’s a creamy, sun-kissed hue that brings a touch of serenity and sophistication to any home. Whether you’re refreshing a tired living room or dreaming up a cozy bedroom retreat, Buttermilk might just be the perfect shade to transform your space.

Let’s talk about what makes this color so special. Buttermilk sits in that sweet spot between neutral and warm, with a subtle yellow undertone that adds depth without overwhelming. It’s like the color of fresh cream with a hint of sunshine—soft enough to blend seamlessly with your decor but rich enough to stand on its own. With an LRV of 79.69%, it reflects plenty of light, making rooms feel airy and bright. But don’t mistake its lightness for blandness; this shade has personality.

One of the best things about Buttermilk is its versatility. It plays well with modern farmhouse vibes, Scandinavian minimalism, or even eclectic bohemian styles. Picture it in a kitchen with crisp white cabinetry and brass hardware—suddenly, your morning coffee feels like a luxury. Or imagine a bedroom where Buttermilk walls create a restful backdrop for layered linens and natural wood tones. It’s also a fantastic choice for hallways and entryways, where its warm glow sets a welcoming tone the moment you step inside.

Now, let’s get practical. Application is a breeze with Buttermilk. It’s beginner-friendly, roller-ready, and dries to a smooth finish. Most spaces will only need one or two coats, and touch-ups are straightforward—no frustrating color matching dramas. The finish options (matte, eggshell, or satin) give you flexibility depending on the room’s use. For high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways, satin is your best bet for durability without losing that soft, creamy look.

Lighting is key with this color. In natural light, Buttermilk shines—literally. It amplifies sunlight, making rooms feel expansive and cheerful. But in spaces with limited natural light, it can lean a bit muted, so consider supplementing with warm artificial lighting to keep that cozy vibe intact. And while it’s wipeable and washable, be mindful of high-traffic spots where scuffs might show more easily. A quick touch-up here and there will keep it looking fresh.

Pairing Buttermilk with other colors is where the fun begins. For trim, White Dove (OC-17) is a classic match, offering a clean contrast that lets the warmth of Buttermilk take center stage. If you’re feeling bold, try an accent wall in a deeper shade like Hale Navy (HC-154) or a muted green like October Mist (1495) for a sophisticated pop. And don’t overlook metals—brass fixtures against Buttermilk walls? Chef’s kiss.

Wondering if it’s right for small spaces? Absolutely. Its light-reflecting properties make cramped rooms feel more open, while the warm undertones prevent it from feeling sterile. Just avoid pairing it with cool grays or stark whites, which can clash with its creamy personality. Stick with warm neutrals or earthy tones to let it sing.

At the end of the day, Buttermilk is more than just a paint color—it’s a mood. It’s the feeling of lazy Sunday mornings, of sunlight filtering through sheer curtains, of a home that wraps you in comfort. If you’re after a shade that’s timeless yet fresh, warm but not overwhelming, this might be your winner. Grab a sample, paint a swatch, and see how it transforms in your space. Because the best colors don’t just look good—they feel like home.

Real Room Photo of Buttermilk 919

Undertones of  Buttermilk ?

The undertones of Buttermilk are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Yellow. 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: #F3EAD0

RGB code: 243, 234, 208

Is  Buttermilk Cool or Warm?

Buttermilk leans warm, making it a wonderful choice for creating an inviting environment. Its creamy nature can soften stark contrasts in your decor.

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 Buttermilk

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 Buttermilk

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Buttermilk is 79.69%, which places it in the Off‑White colors category. This means it reflect a lot of 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  Buttermilk

When it comes to Buttermilk, you’re looking at a paint color that radiates warmth and charm. This soft, creamy shade effortlessly complements various decor styles, from cozy country cottages to sleek modern spaces. It’s easy on the eyes and creates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings. The application is smooth, and it dries beautifully, giving a soft sheen that enhances its creamy appearance. However, if you’re considering this color, be mindful of lighting—natural light brings out its best qualities, while dim spaces might dull its vibrancy. Overall, Buttermilk is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a nurturing and inviting color in their home.

Pros & Cons of  919 Buttermilk

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Buttermilk

FAQ on 919 Buttermilk

Can Buttermilk be used in small spaces?

Absolutely! Buttermilk is a great choice for small spaces. Its light and warm tone can make a room feel larger and more inviting. Just be sure to complement it with good lighting to maximize its brightening effects.

How does Buttermilk perform in high-traffic areas?

While Buttermilk is wipeable and washable, it may require more frequent touch-ups in high-traffic areas. Consider pairing it with a satin finish for added durability without sacrificing its soft appearance.

Comparisons Buttermilk with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Buttermilk 919