Montpelier AF-555 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication with tranquility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Montpelier (AF-555). This stunning muted teal with soft gray undertones is one of those rare hues that feels both timeless and fresh, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to elevate their space. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or reimagining your entire home, Montpelier has the versatility to adapt to your vision while creating a serene, inviting atmosphere.

Montpelier sits comfortably in the medium color range with an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 22.36%, meaning it reflects a fair amount of light without feeling overly bright or washed out. This makes it an excellent option for rooms where you want depth and richness without sacrificing warmth. In natural light, the teal undertones come alive, giving the color a subtle vibrancy, while in softer or artificial light, it leans into its gray side, offering a more subdued, elegant look. That adaptability is part of what makes it so special—it doesn’t just sit on your walls; it interacts with your space.

One of the biggest strengths of Montpelier is its versatility across different decor styles. If you love modern aesthetics, it brings a crisp, contemporary edge. For transitional spaces, it bridges the gap between classic and current with ease. Coastal-inspired rooms benefit from its watery, relaxed vibe, while rustic or industrial settings appreciate its muted, earthy quality. It’s the kind of color that plays well with others, whether you’re pairing it with crisp whites, warm woods, or even bold metallics like brass or copper.

Speaking of pairings, let’s talk trim. Montpelier looks stunning alongside Benjamin Moore’s White Dove or Pure White for a clean, polished contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with deeper shades like charcoal or navy for a moody, dramatic effect. And don’t overlook the power of texture—layering in natural materials like linen, rattan, or reclaimed wood can enhance its organic appeal. The key is to let Montpelier be the anchor while your decor adds the finishing touches.

Now, where should you use it? This color shines in living rooms, where its calming presence sets the tone for relaxation and conversation. Bedrooms benefit from its restful energy, making it a fantastic choice for creating a retreat-like feel. Home offices? Absolutely—its serene quality helps foster focus without feeling sterile. Even dining rooms and hallways can benefit from its understated elegance. And yes, it can work in small spaces too. While it’s a darker shade, the cool undertones prevent it from feeling cramped, especially when balanced with lighter accents and good lighting.

Application is a breeze, which is always a plus. Montpelier is beginner-friendly, roller-ready, and fast-drying, with good coverage in just one or two coats. It’s also highly washable, making it practical for high-traffic areas like hallways or kids’ rooms. And since it’s low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about harsh fumes during or after painting. Just be mindful of lighting—if your room lacks natural light, consider testing a swatch first to ensure it doesn’t feel too dark.

A few things to keep in mind: Montpelier’s undertones are cool and blue-leaning, so it may clash with warmer colors if not paired thoughtfully. If your space has a lot of red or orange tones in the flooring or furniture, you’ll want to introduce some neutral buffers to keep things harmonious. And while it’s a forgiving color, it’s always smart to sample it in your home before committing. Paint a large swatch and observe it at different times of day to see how it behaves in your specific lighting.

If you’re on the fence, here’s the bottom line: Montpelier is a designer favorite for a reason. It’s elegant without being stuffy, calming without being boring, and versatile enough to work in almost any setting. Whether you’re going for a full-room transformation or just an accent wall, this color delivers. So grab a sample, trust your instincts, and get ready to fall in love with a hue that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Your walls—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

Real Room Photo of Montpelier AF-555

Undertones of  Montpelier ?

The undertones of Montpelier 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: #718087

RGB code: 113, 128, 135

Is  Montpelier Cool or Warm?

Montpelier leans towards the cool side of the color spectrum, offering a refreshing vibe that feels crisp yet inviting. It’s ideal for creating a serene atmosphere in your home.

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 Montpelier

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 Montpelier

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Montpelier is 22.36%, 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  Montpelier

Montpelier is an exceptional choice if you’re after a color that embodies both elegance and comfort. The muted teal tone brings a sense of calm while still being rich enough to stand out. It works beautifully in spaces where you want to create a soothing environment, such as bedrooms or home offices. The color changes subtly with light, appearing more gray in dim conditions and showcasing its teal essence under bright light. Application is straightforward, and it adheres well to a variety of surfaces, ensuring a smooth finish that enhances your decor rather than overwhelming it. Overall, Montpelier is a solid pick for those wanting to refresh their space with a color that feels timeless yet modern.

Pros & Cons of  AF-555 Montpelier

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Montpelier

FAQ on AF-555 Montpelier

How does Montpelier perform in small spaces?

Montpelier can be an excellent choice for small spaces due to its calming qualities. While it’s a darker shade, it doesn’t overwhelm, and its cool undertones can make a small room feel more expansive. Pair it with lighter trim to help brighten the area, ensuring it doesn’t feel closed off.

Is Montpelier suitable for exterior use?

Yes, Montpelier can be used on exterior walls, especially in shaded areas or under eaves where light is more subdued. Just ensure it’s applied with a high-quality exterior paint to enhance its durability against the elements. It can provide a unique yet inviting look to your home’s exterior.

Comparisons Montpelier with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Montpelier AF-555