Kingsport Gray HC-86 by Benjamin Moore

Imagine walking into a room that feels instantly warm and inviting, where the walls wrap you in a gentle embrace of sophistication. That’s the magic of Kingsport Gray from Benjamin Moore. This isn’t just a paint color; it’s a transformative hue that can elevate your space and set the perfect mood.

Kingsport Gray, designated as HC-86, offers a unique blend of muted gray with warm undertones that can adapt to various decor styles. This color strikes a balance between chic and cozy, making it an excellent choice for nearly any room in your home, from the living room to the kitchen, or even your home office. It’s a versatile gray that can effortlessly fit into modern farmhouse aesthetics, transitional spaces, contemporary designs, rustic retreats, or even industrial vibes.

When considering a paint color, it’s essential to think about how it will interact with the light in your space. Kingsport Gray has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of about 25.05%, which means it reflects a moderate amount of light. In bright spaces, you’ll notice its warm undertones come alive, creating a welcoming ambiance. Conversely, in dimmer conditions, it softens, providing a calming atmosphere that can make any room feel more intimate and cozy.

Choosing the right finish is equally important. Kingsport Gray is available in several options: matte, eggshell, and satin. Each finish lends a different character to the color. Matte is perfect for hiding imperfections, making it a great choice for ceilings or low-traffic areas. Eggshell offers a slight sheen that’s easy to clean, ideal for dining rooms or hallways where you want durability without sacrificing style. Satin, with its more reflective surface, is fantastic for high-traffic areas like kitchens or family rooms, where you want a bit of shine and ease of maintenance.

One of the standout features of Kingsport Gray is its adaptability. It pairs beautifully with a range of complementary shades, whether you’re looking to create a soft palette with whites or introduce richer tones with deep woods. Imagine it alongside crisp white trim, where the contrast brings out the warmth of the gray, or set against brass fixtures that can add an elegant touch. This color makes it easy to create a cohesive look throughout your home.

Now, let’s talk about its practical attributes. Kingsport Gray is not only visually appealing; it’s also incredibly user-friendly. The paint applies smoothly, whether you’re using a roller or a brush, making it a great choice even for novice DIYers. It offers good coverage, usually requiring just one to two coats, and its touch-up friendliness means you won’t have to worry about visible patches if you need to do some quick repairs.

If you’re concerned about the longevity of the color, rest assured. Kingsport Gray maintains its integrity beautifully over time, resisting fading and keeping that lovely warm aura intact. Plus, it’s highly washable, making it easy to clean any marks or stains that might occur in busy areas.

While it’s hard to find a perfect paint color, there are a few considerations to keep in mind with Kingsport Gray. In smaller spaces, it can appear darker, so if you’re looking to use it in a compact room, think about the lighting and perhaps introduce brighter elements to ensure the room feels open and airy. Additionally, it does require good lighting to showcase its full beauty, so be sure to test it in your specific environment before committing to a larger application.

Kingsport Gray also offers a delightful contrast with other colors. For those who prefer a lighter shade, consider options like 2108-40 or CSP-205, which can create a beautiful gradient effect in a space. If you’re leaning toward darker shades, hues like HC-85 or CW-150 can add depth and drama. The flexibility of Kingsport Gray allows it to be part of a broader color scheme without feeling out of place.

Another appealing aspect of this paint is its low VOC (volatile organic compounds) content. This makes it safer for indoor air quality, a vital consideration if you’re painting a space where you spend a lot of time. You can breathe easy knowing you’re choosing a product that’s not only beautiful but also healthier for your home.

When it comes to decorating your space with Kingsport Gray, the possibilities are endless. It can be the main event on your walls or serve as a subtle backdrop for your favorite decor elements. Consider using it on an accent wall to create a focal point, or incorporate it into cabinetry for a refined look that’s both modern and timeless.

This color invites a sense of calm and grounding into your home, making it perfect for creating serene spaces where you can relax and unwind. Whether you’re designing a cozy reading nook in your bedroom or a stylish dining area for entertaining, Kingsport Gray can be your best ally in achieving that perfect balance of warmth and elegance.

In conclusion, Kingsport Gray is more than just a paint color; it’s a versatile option that adapts to various styles and spaces while providing a cozy, sophisticated backdrop for your life. It encourages you to express your unique style while remaining grounded in timeless design principles. So, if you’re looking to refresh your home with a color that’s both inviting and chic, Kingsport Gray might just be your perfect match. With its easy application, durability, and stunning aesthetic, it’s a choice you won’t regret. Go ahead, embrace the warmth and elegance that Kingsport Gray has to offer, and watch your home transform into a space that truly reflects your personal style.

Real Room Photo of Kingsport Gray HC-86

Undertones of  Kingsport Gray ?

Kingsport Gray leans toward a warm undertone, giving it a cozy feel while still remaining neutral. It can appear slightly different depending on the lighting, so be sure to test it in your space.

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HEX value: #948674

RGB code: 148, 134, 116

Is  Kingsport Gray Cool or Warm?

This paint is definitely on the warm side of the spectrum, providing a welcoming ambiance that’s perfect for any 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 Kingsport 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 Kingsport Gray

Kingsport Gray has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of about 36, which means it reflects a moderate amount of light, making it suitable for both bright and cozy spaces.

Detailed Review of  Kingsport Gray

Kingsport Gray is more than just a paint color; it’s a statement. This shade stands out for its ability to adapt—whether you’re aiming for a chic, modern look or a warm, inviting space. Its warm undertones bring life to walls without overwhelming the senses, making it perfect for larger rooms or open-concept spaces. The finish options available, such as eggshell and satin, provide flexibility depending on your desired sheen. It pairs beautifully with both soft whites and rich woods, allowing you to create a harmonious feel throughout your home. Not only does it deliver on aesthetics, but it also holds up well over time, maintaining its integrity in high-traffic areas. Overall, Kingsport Gray is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to refresh their home with a timeless color.

Pros & Cons of  HC-86 Kingsport Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Kingsport Gray

FAQ on HC-86 Kingsport Gray

What types of finishes are available for Kingsport Gray?

Kingsport Gray is available in several finishes, including matte, eggshell, and satin. Each finish offers a different sheen level, allowing you to choose based on the space and desired look. Matte finishes are great for hiding imperfections, while satin finishes are more durable and easier to clean, making them ideal for high-traffic areas.

Is Kingsport Gray suitable for exterior use?

Yes, Kingsport Gray can be used for exterior applications as well. It holds up well against weather elements, making it a good choice for outdoor spaces. Just ensure you select a suitable exterior-grade paint to ensure durability and longevity against the elements.

Comparisons Kingsport Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Kingsport Gray HC-86