Willow CC-542 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly blends warmth, sophistication, and versatility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Willow (CC-542). This rich, earthy hue is a deep gray with subtle brown undertones, creating a cozy yet refined atmosphere that works beautifully in almost any space. Whether you’re designing a modern farmhouse living room, a rustic bedroom, or an industrial-inspired home office, Willow has the depth and character to make your vision come to life.

One of the standout qualities of Willow is its ability to adapt. It’s not just a gray, and it’s not just a beige—it’s a perfect marriage of both, with a hint of red undertone that adds warmth without overwhelming the senses. This makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a neutral that still has personality. In natural light, the color deepens, revealing its earthy richness, while under artificial lighting, it softens into a more muted, soothing tone. That adaptability means it works just as well in a sun-drenched living room as it does in a dimly lit bedroom where you want to create a cocoon-like retreat.

Now, let’s talk about where Willow shines. Larger rooms are a natural fit for this shade, as its depth can fully develop without making the space feel cramped. But don’t let that stop you from using it in smaller rooms—just balance it with lighter furniture, crisp white trim (Benjamin Moore’s White Dove is a perfect match), or plenty of natural light to keep things airy. An accent wall in Willow can also add drama without overwhelming a compact space. And if you’re worried about it feeling too dark, remember: paint is transformative. Pair it with warm wood tones, soft textiles, or metallic accents to elevate the entire room.

When it comes to application, Willow is beginner-friendly. It offers excellent coverage, often needing just one or two coats, and it’s touch-up friendly, so minor imperfections won’t stand out. The finish you choose can also influence the final look. A matte finish enhances its soft, earthy quality, making it ideal for walls where you want a velvety, understated effect. Eggshell adds a slight sheen, perfect for spaces that need a bit more durability, like dining rooms or home offices. If you’re feeling bold, a satin finish can introduce a subtle glow, especially in rooms with plenty of natural or artificial light.

Durability is another strong suit. Willow is highly washable, so it’s a great pick for high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets. Just keep in mind that darker colors can sometimes show fingerprints or smudges more easily, so a wipeable finish like eggshell or satin might be your best bet for busy households. And since it’s low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about strong fumes during or after application—making it a healthier choice for your home.

Now, let’s talk pairings. Willow plays well with a variety of colors, but its red undertone means it harmonizes especially well with greens (think sage or olive) for a nature-inspired palette. For a more modern look, try pairing it with crisp whites or soft creams. If you want to lean into its warmth, consider accents in terracotta, mustard yellow, or even deep navy for a sophisticated contrast. And if you’re using it on furniture—say, a bookshelf or a statement dresser—pair it with lighter walls to let it stand out without dominating the room.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s a pro tip: always test the color in your space. Paint a large swatch on the wall and observe it at different times of day. You’ll see how the light shifts its personality, from a moody, enveloping tone in the evening to a warm, grounded neutral during the day. And if you love Willow but aren’t ready to commit to a full room, start small—an accent wall, a painted ceiling, or even just the interior of built-in shelves can give you a taste of its magic.

At the end of the day, Willow is more than just a paint color—it’s a mood. It’s the feeling of sinking into a cozy armchair with a good book, the warmth of a well-loved leather sofa, the quiet sophistication of a room that feels lived-in and intentional. Whether you’re refreshing a single wall or transforming an entire home, this shade has the versatility and depth to make your space feel uniquely yours. So go ahead, give it a try. You might just fall in love with the way it turns your house into a home.

Real Room Photo of Willow CC-542

Undertones of  Willow ?

The undertones of Willow 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 value: #564E48

RGB code: 86, 78, 72

Is  Willow Cool or Warm?

Willow leans towards the warm side of the spectrum, thanks to its brown undertones. This warmth makes it particularly effective in spaces that need a touch of coziness and comfort, making it perfect for living and dining areas.

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 Willow

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 Willow

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Willow is 9.06%, 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  Willow

When it comes to the paint color Willow, you’re looking at a shade that’s both inviting and grounded. This color excels in creating a warm environment, perfect for living spaces where relaxation is key. It’s ideal for accent walls or as a full-room color, especially in larger areas where its depth can shine without overwhelming the senses. The versatility of Willow makes it compatible with various decor styles, from rustic charm to sleek modern interiors. Its muted tone is great for adding dimension without being too stark or harsh. Plus, it pairs beautifully with wood accents or lighter colors, creating a balanced aesthetic that feels both stylish and comfortable.

Pros & Cons of  CC-542 Willow

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Willow

FAQ on CC-542 Willow

Can Willow be used in a small room?

Absolutely! While Willow is a deeper hue, it can work well in smaller spaces if balanced with lighter furniture or decor. Opt for bright accents or white trim to help the room feel more open. Just ensure that the space gets adequate natural light to prevent it from feeling too enclosed.

What finishes work best with Willow?

Willow looks stunning in a matte or eggshell finish, which enhances its soft, earthy qualities. If you’re looking for something more reflective, a satin finish can add a touch of elegance. Consider the overall vibe you want to create when choosing your finish!

Comparisons Willow with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Willow CC-542