Northampton Putty HC-89 by Benjamin Moore

Imagine stepping into a room that feels instantly warm and inviting, where the walls seem to wrap around you like a cozy blanket. You know that feeling? It’s often created by a specific hue—one that can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s talk about Northampton Putty, a stunning paint color from Benjamin Moore that encapsulates that essence perfectly.

Northampton Putty (HC-89) is a warm beige with subtle undertones of red, making it a standout choice for homeowners who want to create a serene atmosphere in their living spaces. Its hex code #AC9C7C and an impressive Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of approximately 33.46% means it beautifully balances light and color without overwhelming the senses. This color’s medium brightness allows it to reflect a good amount of light, making it a fantastic option for rooms that may not receive ample natural illumination.

What I truly love about Northampton Putty is its versatility. It works seamlessly with various decor styles, whether you’re leaning towards a rustic farmhouse aesthetic or something more contemporary. Picture it in a living room adorned with soft, natural fabrics, or as the backdrop for a modern dining area filled with sleek furniture. It can adapt to suit your style while providing an earthy, grounded feel.

When considering this shade for your home, think about where it might shine best. Northampton Putty is ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, and even home offices. Its warm, earthy tone can create a calming retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day or hosting friends and family. Imagine gathering around a dining table with this warm hue enveloping you; it sets a welcoming mood that encourages conversation and togetherness.

The application process is another strong point for Northampton Putty. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, you’ll find that it’s incredibly user-friendly. The paint goes on smoothly, whether you’re using a roller or a brush, and it dries quickly, allowing you to complete your project in a timely manner. Homeowners often rave about its coverage, typically needing just one to two coats for a perfect finish, especially on lighter surfaces.

While its ease of application is commendable, keep in mind that Northampton Putty may darken smaller spaces. If you’re considering it for a cozy nook or a closet, you might want to test it out first. However, in larger rooms, it creates an inviting atmosphere that feels expansive yet comforting. If you’re working with a high-gloss finish, this might not be the best choice. Instead, I recommend using it in a matte, eggshell, or satin finish. These options enhance its warm qualities while adding depth to your walls.

One of the most appealing aspects of Northampton Putty is its washability. Life happens, and you want a paint that can withstand the messes of everyday living. This color is washable and scrubbable, making it ideal for homes with kids or pets. Plus, its low VOC levels mean you can paint with confidence, knowing you’re not filling your home with harsh chemicals.

Now, let’s dive into the color’s undertones. Northampton Putty features subtle hints of warm gray, giving it an edge over more traditional beiges. This added complexity allows it to pair beautifully with a range of other colors, from cool whites to deep navy blues. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to create a layered color scheme. Imagine beautifully contrasting it with crisp white trim, or perhaps a deep charcoal for added drama. The possibilities are endless.

If you’re contemplating how this color reacts under different lighting, you’re in for a treat. In natural light, Northampton Putty reveals its full potential, radiating warmth and making spaces feel inviting and alive. Even in dimmer conditions, it retains that cozy essence without becoming too dark or heavy. This quality makes it perfect for those rooms that don’t get a ton of sunlight, allowing them to feel brighter and more welcoming.

For those of you wondering about its compatibility with other colors, rest assured that Northampton Putty plays well with a variety of shades. It pairs exceptionally well with other warm tones like soft creams and deeper browns. You could also mix it with cooler accents for an intriguing contrast—think navy or charcoal gray. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for creating a harmonious color palette throughout your home.

However, while Northampton Putty has many strengths, it’s essential to recognize its limitations. For example, it may require multiple coats for the best results, especially if you’re painting over a lighter surface. And while it can be used in high-humidity areas like bathrooms, proper ventilation is crucial. Consider using a mildew-resistant primer to enhance durability in such environments.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Northampton Putty exudes a mood that feels cozy and grounding. It invites you to relax and take a deep breath, making it perfect for spaces where you want to unwind. Whether you’re curling up with a good book in the living room or enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep in the bedroom, this color can set the tone.

In terms of the latest trends, Northampton Putty is a classic yet trendy choice. It’s been featured in various design styles, from modern farmhouse to transitional and rustic spaces. Its earthy quality speaks to the current trend of bringing nature indoors, making it a timeless selection that won’t easily go out of style.

If you’re still on the fence about Northampton Putty, consider sampling it in your home. Paint a small section of the wall and observe how it interacts with your furniture, decor, and lighting throughout the day. You might find that this color becomes an integral part of your home’s story, adding warmth and sophistication that resonates with your personal style.

In conclusion, Northampton Putty is more than just a paint color; it’s a transformative element that can elevate your interiors. Its warm, inviting hue offers versatility and sophistication, making it a fantastic choice for any room in your home. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy retreat or a lively gathering space, this color can help you achieve your vision.

So, why not take the plunge? Embrace the warmth of Northampton Putty and watch your space come alive. After all, your home should be a reflection of you—beautiful, inviting, and uniquely yours.

Real Room Photo of Northampton Putty HC-89

Undertones of  Northampton Putty ?

This color features subtle undertones of warm gray, making it more versatile than traditional beige. It pairs beautifully with both cool and warm accents, allowing for various decor styles.

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HEX

HEX value: #AC9C7C

RGB code: 172, 156, 124

Is  Northampton Putty Cool or Warm?

Northampton Putty leans warm, giving it that inviting feel that works well in cozy settings. It harmonizes effortlessly with warm woods and rich fabrics, enhancing the room’s overall warmth.

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 Northampton Putty

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 Northampton Putty

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Northampton Putty is approximately 43, making it a mid-tone color that provides a nice balance between light and dark.

Detailed Review of  Northampton Putty

Northampton Putty is more than just a color; it’s a statement. This paint offers a beautiful balance that can warm up cold spaces or soften bright rooms. Its versatility allows it to blend seamlessly with a range of furniture and decor styles, from rustic wood to sleek modern pieces. Users often rave about its ease of application, noting that it glides on smoothly whether you’re using a roller or a brush. The finish is forgiving, allowing for touch-ups without leaving noticeable marks. Plus, its low odor makes it a favorite for indoor painting. Just be prepared for a second coat if you want to achieve its full depth, especially on lighter surfaces. Overall, it’s a great choice for homeowners looking to refresh their spaces with a timeless yet trendy color.

Pros & Cons of  HC-89 Northampton Putty

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Northampton Putty

FAQ on HC-89 Northampton Putty

Can Northampton Putty be used in high humidity areas like bathrooms?

Yes, Northampton Putty can be used in bathrooms, but you’ll want to ensure proper ventilation. While it’s washable and can handle some moisture, consider using a mildew-resistant primer before application to maximize durability in high humidity conditions.

Does Northampton Putty work well with other colors?

Absolutely! Northampton Putty is a versatile shade that pairs beautifully with whites, creams, and even darker tones like navy or charcoal. It’s an excellent choice for creating a layered color scheme in your home.

Comparisons Northampton Putty with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Northampton Putty HC-89