Amherst Gray HC-167 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication with warmth, Benjamin Moore’s *Amherst Gray* (HC-167) might just be your perfect match. This isn’t your average gray—it’s a muted, medium-dark shade with subtle green undertones that create a calming, timeless backdrop for any room. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, bedroom, or home office, this color brings a sense of serenity and style without feeling too stark or cold. Let’s dive into why this hue is a designer favorite and how you can make it work in your space.

One of the standout qualities of *Amherst Gray* is its versatility. It plays well with a variety of decor styles, from modern and contemporary to rustic and transitional. The muted tone keeps it from feeling overly trendy, so you won’t tire of it in a few years. It’s the kind of color that adapts to your furniture and accessories, whether you prefer crisp whites, rich woods, or bold accent colors. And because it reflects very little light (with an LRV of 18.80%), it creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere—ideal for spaces where you want to unwind.

Lighting plays a huge role in how this color performs. In natural daylight, *Amherst Gray* reveals its subtle green undertones, giving it a fresh, almost organic feel. As the sun sets, it deepens into a richer, more enveloping gray that feels incredibly inviting. That said, if your room lacks natural light, you’ll want to be mindful. The cool undertones can make a dim space feel a bit more closed-in. To counteract this, pair it with plenty of layered lighting—think floor lamps, sconces, and warm bulbs—to keep the room feeling balanced.

When it comes to application, *Amherst Gray* is a dream. It offers excellent coverage, often needing just one or two coats, and it’s touch-up friendly, so you won’t stress over minor scuffs or marks. It’s also beginner-friendly, rolling on smoothly and drying fast. As for finishes, you’ve got options. A matte or eggshell finish will give your walls a soft, elegant look, perfect for living rooms or bedrooms. If you’re painting a high-traffic area like a kitchen or hallway, a satin finish adds a bit more durability and washability without sacrificing style.

Now, let’s talk pairings. *Amherst Gray* works beautifully with crisp whites like *White Dove* for trim, creating a clean, polished contrast. If you want to lean into its cool undertones, pair it with blues or soft greens for a harmonious, nature-inspired palette. For a warmer look, try accenting with creamy beiges or muted golds. Avoid pairing it with overly warm tones like bright oranges or reds, though—they can clash with its subtle green undertones. Instead, stick to colors that complement its balanced, muted vibe.

Wondering where to use it? This color shines in living rooms, where it creates a sophisticated yet welcoming backdrop for gatherings. In bedrooms, it fosters a restful retreat, especially when paired with soft linens and textured throws. Home offices benefit from its calming effect, helping you stay focused without feeling sterile. Even dining rooms can pull it off—it sets a refined mood without overpowering the space. Just be cautious in very small or dark rooms, where it might feel a bit heavy. If you’re set on using it there, consider an accent wall or balance it with lighter furnishings.

One of the best things about *Amherst Gray* is how it plays with other shades in the Benjamin Moore lineup. If you love it but want something a touch lighter, *CW-720* or *Gray Owl* are great alternatives. For a deeper, moodier version, *CSP-765* amps up the drama. And if you’re looking for complementary colors, *CC-962* (a soft blue) or *2070-20* (a warm neutral) can add depth and interest to your palette.

At the end of the day, *Amherst Gray* is more than just paint—it’s a mood. It’s the kind of color that makes a room feel intentional, layered, and lived-in. Whether you’re going for a modern minimalist look or a cozy, collected vibe, this shade adapts to your vision. So grab a sample, test it in your space at different times of day, and see how it transforms your walls. You might just find it’s the missing piece your home has been waiting for.

Real Room Photo of Amherst Gray HC-167

Undertones of  Amherst Gray ?

The undertones of Amherst Gray are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Yellow. 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: #757670

RGB code: 117, 118, 112

Is  Amherst Gray Cool or Warm?

Amherst Gray leans towards the cool spectrum with its soothing gray base and subtle green undertones. This coolness contributes to a calm and collected atmosphere, making it ideal for restful spaces like bedrooms or serene home offices.

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 Amherst 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 Amherst Gray

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Amherst Gray is 18.80%, 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  Amherst Gray

Amherst Gray is an exceptional choice for those looking to achieve a tranquil yet chic aesthetic in their home. This paint strikes the perfect balance, offering just the right amount of color without overwhelming your space. The subtle green undertones make it particularly appealing, especially in natural light, where it can shift beautifully throughout the day. It’s perfect for living rooms or bedrooms, lending a cozy vibe without feeling too dark. Plus, it pairs well with a variety of trims and furnishings, making it a versatile option for anyone looking to refresh their space. With a good coverage of one to two coats, you’ll find it easy to apply and touch up as needed, ensuring your walls look pristine for years to come.

Pros & Cons of  HC-167 Amherst Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray

FAQ on HC-167 Amherst Gray

What type of finish should I choose for Amherst Gray?

Choosing the right finish for Amherst Gray depends on the look you’re aiming for. A matte or eggshell finish can bring a soft, elegant feel, perfect for living spaces. If you’re looking for something more durable, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens, a satin finish offers a bit more sheen and washability. Ultimately, it’s about balancing aesthetics with functionality!

Is Amherst Gray suitable for small rooms?

Amherst Gray can work in small rooms, but you might want to be cautious. Its cool undertones may make a small space feel more confined, especially in low light conditions. If you want to use it in a smaller area, consider pairing it with plenty of natural light and lighter trim to keep the room feeling open and airy. Alternatively, use it as an accent wall to create a focal point without overwhelming the entire space.

Comparisons Amherst Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray HC-167