Templeton Gray HC-161 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication and tranquility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Templeton Gray (HC-161). This muted gray with subtle blue undertones is a designer favorite for a reason—it’s versatile, timeless, and adds just the right amount of depth to any space. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, bedroom, or home office, this shade has a way of making rooms feel both polished and inviting.

Templeton Gray sits in that sweet spot between cool and warm, thanks to its blue undertones. It’s not stark or sterile like some grays can be—instead, it has a soft, earthy quality that makes it incredibly adaptable. In natural light, it leans cooler, almost like a misty morning, while in the evening under warm lighting, it takes on a cozier, more enveloping feel. That subtle shift throughout the day gives your space a dynamic quality, so it never feels flat or one-note.

One of the things I love most about this color is how well it plays with others. Pair it with crisp whites like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove for a fresh, modern look, or layer it with deep navy or charcoal accents for a moody, dramatic contrast. If you’re drawn to warmer tones, try combining it with rich woods or brass fixtures—the coolness of the gray will balance the warmth beautifully, creating a space that feels both elegant and lived-in. And if you’re working with an open-concept layout, Templeton Gray is a fantastic choice because it flows seamlessly from one area to the next without feeling monotonous.

Now, let’s talk about application. If you’re a DIYer, you’ll appreciate how beginner-friendly this paint is. It glides on smoothly, whether you’re using a brush or roller, and it typically covers well in just one or two coats. The finish options—matte, eggshell, or satin—give you flexibility depending on the room’s function. Eggshell is my go-to for most walls because it strikes the right balance between durability and sheen, but if you’re painting a high-traffic area, satin’s extra washability might be the way to go.

A quick note on lighting: Because Templeton Gray has a medium LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 23.90%, it reflects a fair amount of light but still holds its depth. That means it won’t disappear on your walls, but it also won’t make a room feel cave-like. If you’re using it in a smaller space, just be mindful of your lighting—adding a few well-placed lamps or opting for lighter furniture can keep the room feeling airy instead of closed-in.

As for durability, this paint holds up beautifully. It’s low-VOC, so it’s a great choice if you’re sensitive to fumes, and it’s scrubbable, which is a lifesaver in homes with kids or pets. Touch-ups are a breeze, too, since the color blends seamlessly. Whether you’re painting an accent wall, cabinetry, or trim, Templeton Gray delivers a high-end look without the high-maintenance stress.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s my advice: Grab a sample. Paint a large swatch on your wall and live with it for a few days. Observe how it changes from morning to night, how it interacts with your furniture, and how it makes you feel. Because at the end of the day, the best paint color isn’t just about trends—it’s about how it transforms your space into somewhere you love to be. And Templeton Gray? It’s got that magic.

Real Room Photo of Templeton Gray HC-161

Undertones of  Templeton Gray ?

The undertones of Templeton Gray 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: #778686

RGB code: 119, 134, 134

Is  Templeton Gray Cool or Warm?

Templeton Gray leans towards the cool side of the color spectrum, but its green undertones balance it beautifully. This makes it a versatile choice that can work in both warm and cool-toned spaces, depending on 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 Templeton Gray

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 Templeton Gray

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Templeton Gray is 23.90%, 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  Templeton Gray

Templeton Gray is a delightful choice for those seeking a serene yet stylish backdrop. Its understated elegance makes it a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. The color adapts beautifully to different lighting conditions, appearing warmer in the evening and cooler during the day, providing a dynamic aesthetic experience. Whether you’re painting an accent wall or an entire room, this shade maintains its charm without overwhelming the senses. Applying Templeton Gray is a breeze, as it glides on smoothly, offering an even finish that’s easy to work with. One of its standout features is how well it pairs with both light and dark furniture, ensuring your decor shines.

Pros & Cons of  HC-161 Templeton Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Templeton Gray

FAQ on HC-161 Templeton Gray

Can I use Templeton Gray in a small room?

Absolutely! While Templeton Gray can appear darker in small spaces, it can create a cozy, intimate feel. To make the room feel larger, consider complementing it with lighter furniture or decor pieces. Good lighting can also help brighten the space, making it feel more open.

What colors pair well with Templeton Gray?

Templeton Gray is quite adaptable. It pairs beautifully with whites like White Dove or Simply White for a fresh look. For a bolder contrast, it works well with deep navy or black accents. You can also use warm woods or brass fixtures to add a touch of warmth and sophistication.

Comparisons Templeton Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Templeton Gray HC-161