Ambler Slate CW-685 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with versatility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Ambler Slate (CW-685). This isn’t just another gray—it’s a moody, elegant shade with subtle blue undertones that can transform a room from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, designing a serene bedroom, or crafting a stylish home office, this color has the depth and character to make a lasting impression.

Ambler Slate sits firmly in the dark gray category, but don’t let that intimidate you. Its LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 11.78% means it absorbs more light than it reflects, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere. That makes it perfect for spaces where you want to foster relaxation, like a bedroom or reading nook. But here’s the thing—it’s not so dark that it swallows up a room. In well-lit areas, those blue undertones come alive, giving the color a modern, almost ethereal quality. If your space lacks natural light, just pair it with plenty of warm lighting or lighter accents to keep it from feeling too heavy.

One of the standout features of Ambler Slate is its versatility. It plays well with a range of decor styles, from industrial lofts to coastal-inspired homes. The cool, muted tone makes it a fantastic backdrop for bold artwork, rich wood finishes, or metallic accents like brass or gold. If you’re going for a modern farmhouse look, try pairing it with crisp white trim—Benjamin Moore’s White Dove is a classic choice. The contrast will make the walls pop while keeping the space fresh and balanced.

When it comes to application, this color is a dream. It offers excellent coverage, often needing just one or two coats, and it’s touch-up friendly, which is a lifesaver if you have kids or pets. You’ll find it in matte, satin, and eggshell finishes, so you can choose the sheen that best suits your space. Matte is ideal for hiding imperfections and creating a soft, velvety look, while satin adds a subtle glow that’s perfect for high-traffic areas. Eggshell strikes a nice middle ground—durable enough for everyday wear but still understated.

Now, let’s talk about those blue undertones. They’re subtle, but they’re there, and they’re what give Ambler Slate its unique personality. In natural light, the color leans cooler, almost like a stormy sky, while in artificial light, it can take on a deeper, more mysterious vibe. That’s why it’s always a good idea to test a swatch in your space before committing. Paint a small section and observe it at different times of day to see how it interacts with your lighting and furnishings.

If you’re worried about maintenance, don’t be. This paint is washable and stain-resistant, making it a practical choice for busy households. Plus, it’s low-VOC, so you won’t have to deal with strong fumes during or after application. It’s a win-win—beautiful and functional.

Ambler Slate also works beautifully as an accent wall. Imagine it in a home office with sleek black furniture and brass fixtures—it’s the kind of backdrop that makes a statement without overwhelming the room. Or picture it in an entryway, setting a dramatic yet welcoming tone as soon as guests step inside. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with complementary shades like soft blush pinks or warm taupes to balance out its coolness.

Of course, no color is perfect for everyone. If you prefer warm, earthy tones, Ambler Slate might feel a bit too cool for your taste. And in rooms with very little natural light, it can appear darker than expected. But if you’re drawn to moody, sophisticated hues, this one’s a winner.

At the end of the day, paint is about more than just color—it’s about how it makes you feel. Ambler Slate has a way of creating calm, inviting spaces that still feel refined and intentional. Whether you’re going for a cozy retreat or a sleek modern vibe, this shade delivers. So grab a sample, see how it looks in your home, and get ready to fall in love with your walls all over again.

Real Room Photo of Ambler Slate CW-685

Undertones of  Ambler Slate ?

The undertones of Ambler Slate 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: #57595A

RGB code: 87, 89, 90

Is  Ambler Slate Cool or Warm?

Ambler Slate leans more towards the cool side, thanks to its blue undertones. This cooler vibe makes it perfect for creating tranquil spaces, especially when paired with warmer woods or metallic accents.

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 Ambler Slate

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 Ambler Slate

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Ambler Slate is 11.78%, 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  Ambler Slate

Ambler Slate is more than just a paint color; it’s a statement. This shade strikes a balance between being bold yet understated, making it a fantastic choice for various settings. When applied, it offers consistent coverage, and its soft sheen reflects light beautifully, enhancing the room’s dimensions. It’s particularly effective in spaces where you want to foster relaxation, like bedrooms or reading nooks. Just remember, while it can appear darker in dim lighting, it brightens up nicely in well-lit areas. This color is ideal for those who appreciate a refined look without going overboard.

Pros & Cons of  CW-685 Ambler Slate

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Ambler Slate

FAQ on CW-685 Ambler Slate

Can Ambler Slate be used in smaller spaces?

Absolutely! While Ambler Slate is a deeper color, it can work wonders in smaller spaces by creating a cozy and sophisticated vibe. To enhance its effect, use ample lighting and pair it with lighter accents. This approach helps to avoid the feeling of confinement while still enjoying the richness of the color.

What finishes are available for Ambler Slate?

Ambler Slate comes in various finishes including matte, satin, and eggshell. Each finish offers a different look and feel, so you can choose based on the room’s purpose. For a more modern, sleek look, satin is ideal, while eggshell can provide a soft, velvety touch perfect for living areas.

Comparisons Ambler Slate with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Ambler Slate CW-685