Lush AF-475 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly brings the serenity of nature indoors, Benjamin Moore’s Lush (AF-475) might just be your perfect match. This muted green is a masterclass in balance—warm enough to feel inviting, cool enough to stay sophisticated, and versatile enough to work in almost any room. Whether you’re painting a cozy bedroom, a serene home office, or a stylish living room, Lush has a way of making spaces feel grounded and harmonious. Let’s dive into why this color is worth considering for your next project.

First, let’s talk about the hue itself. Lush is a medium-dark green with an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 21.09%, meaning it reflects a fair amount of light while still offering depth. In bright, natural light, it feels fresh and vibrant, almost like the soft foliage of a shaded forest. In lower light, it takes on a more subdued, moody quality—perfect for creating a cocoon-like atmosphere. The undertones lean purely green, so you won’t have to worry about unexpected shifts toward blue or gray. It’s a straightforward, earthy shade that plays well with both warm and cool elements in your decor.

One of the best things about Lush is its adaptability. It’s not so bold that it dominates a room, nor so muted that it fades into the background. It sits right in that sweet spot where it can serve as a neutral backdrop or stand out as a statement, depending on how you use it. Pair it with crisp white trim (Benjamin Moore’s White Dove is a classic choice) for a clean, modern look, or let it mingle with rich wood tones and brass fixtures for a more rustic or transitional vibe. It also plays beautifully with purples and soft pinks—its complementary hues—so don’t be afraid to introduce those accents in textiles or artwork for a subtle pop of contrast.

When it comes to application, Lush is beginner-friendly. It covers well in one to two coats, dries quickly, and goes on smoothly whether you’re using a brush or roller. The finish options—matte, eggshell, or satin—give you flexibility depending on the room’s function. For high-traffic areas like hallways or dining rooms, satin is your best bet for durability and easy cleaning. In a bedroom or home office, matte or eggshell will enhance that soft, enveloping feel. Just make sure your walls are properly prepped; like any darker shade, Lush will show imperfections if the surface isn’t smooth.

Now, let’s address a common concern: can you use Lush in small spaces? Absolutely. While darker colors can sometimes feel overwhelming in tight quarters, Lush’s muted quality keeps it from closing in a room. If you’re hesitant, try it on an accent wall first or balance it with plenty of light-reflecting elements—think mirrors, sheer curtains, or glossy finishes. The key is to let the color breathe rather than boxing it in with heavy furniture or dark flooring.

Lighting, as always, plays a huge role in how Lush will look in your home. North-facing rooms will bring out its cooler, more tranquil side, while south-facing spaces will highlight its warmth. If your room lacks natural light, consider supplementing with warm artificial lighting to keep it from feeling too somber. And don’t forget to test a sample on your walls. Paint a large swatch and observe it at different times of day to see how it interacts with your space.

As for decor styles, Lush is a chameleon. In a modern setting, it adds a touch of organic softness against sleek lines and minimalist furniture. For bohemian spaces, it’s a dreamy base for layered textures and global patterns. In rustic or farmhouse interiors, it feels right at home with weathered wood and vintage touches. And if you love transitional design—mixing traditional and contemporary—Lush bridges the gap effortlessly.

Worried about commitment? Lush is surprisingly easy to live with. Its low VOC content means it’s better for your indoor air quality, and its washability makes upkeep a breeze. Touch-ups blend seamlessly, so you won’t have to stress over scuffs or marks. And if you ever want to shift the mood slightly, you can explore its lighter or darker siblings in the Benjamin Moore lineup, like Soft Fern (a softer alternative) or Essex Green (for a deeper, moodier vibe).

At the end of the day, Lush is more than just paint—it’s a feeling. It’s the quiet calm of a misty morning, the richness of a well-loved book, the grounding presence of nature brought inside. If you’re looking for a color that’s equal parts sophisticated and soothing, Lush might just be the one. Test it out, play with pairings, and let it transform your space into a sanctuary you’ll love coming home to.

Real Room Photo of Lush AF-475

Undertones of  Lush ?

The undertones of Lush are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Green. 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: #738071

RGB code: 115, 128, 113

Is  Lush Cool or Warm?

Lush strikes a harmonious balance between warm and cool tones. Depending on the lighting, it can appear slightly warmer in the morning light and cooler in the evening, making it an adaptable choice for various settings.

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 Lush

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 Lush

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Lush is 21.09%, which places it in the Medium 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  Lush

Lush is more than just a color; it’s a mood. This shade of green is reminiscent of a tranquil forest, making it ideal for spaces where you want to unwind. When applied, it provides a soft, enveloping effect that can make a room feel more spacious and airy. The paint glides on smoothly, and even with one coat, it delivers a beautiful wash of color. You’ll find it complements natural light beautifully, enhancing its calming qualities. Whether you’re painting an accent wall or a large space, Lush adapts to your needs while maintaining its charm, making it a reliable choice for both seasoned decorators and novices alike.

Pros & Cons of  AF-475 Lush

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Lush

FAQ on AF-475 Lush

Can Lush be used in small spaces?

Absolutely! While Lush is a muted color, it works wonderfully in small spaces, adding a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the area. To enhance its effect, consider pairing it with lighter trim to create a sense of openness.

What finish should I choose for high-traffic areas?

For high-traffic areas, it’s best to choose a satin finish for Lush. The satin sheen provides better durability and washability, making it easier to clean any scuffs or marks while still showcasing the beautiful color.

Comparisons Lush with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Lush AF-475