White Down OC-131 by Benjamin Moore

You know that feeling when you walk into a room and instantly feel at ease? The walls seem to wrap you in warmth, the light feels soft and inviting, and everything just *works*. That’s the magic of the right paint color—and if you’re searching for a shade that delivers that effortless calm, let’s talk about Benjamin Moore’s White Down (OC-131).

This isn’t your typical stark white. White Down is a creamy, greige-leaning off-white with a whisper of yellow undertone that gives it a lived-in, welcoming vibe. Imagine the soft glow of morning light filtering through linen curtains—this color captures that same gentle radiance. With an LRV of 76.69%, it reflects plenty of light, making it ideal for rooms that need to feel airy but still grounded.

One of the best things about White Down is its versatility. Whether your style leans modern farmhouse, Scandinavian minimalism, or classic traditional, this color adapts. Pair it with crisp white trim like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove for a clean contrast, or let it mingle with warm wood tones and brass fixtures for a richer, more layered look. In a kitchen, it brings warmth to cabinetry without feeling heavy. In a bedroom, it creates a restful retreat. And in a hallway? It turns a pass-through space into something quietly elegant.

Application is a breeze, even if you’re a DIY beginner. The paint goes on smoothly, whether you’re using a brush or roller, and it’s touch-up friendly—a lifesaver for busy households. Two coats usually do the trick, though rooms with less natural light might need an extra layer to really let the color sing. And because it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, you can breathe easy (literally) after painting.

Now, let’s talk lighting. Like any warm off-white, White Down can shift slightly depending on the light. In north-facing rooms, it might lean a touch cooler, while south-facing light will amplify its creamy warmth. That’s not a flaw—it’s what gives the color depth. But always, *always* test a swatch on your walls before committing. Paint a large poster board and move it around the room at different times of day. See how it plays with your furniture, floors, and decor.

A few pro tips: If you’re using White Down in a high-traffic area like a hallway or entryway, consider a satin finish for added durability. It’s wipeable, but a tougher sheen will stand up to scuffs better. And if you’re pairing it with accents, lean into its complementary hues—think soft blues or deep navies for a subtle contrast that feels intentional, not jarring.

Some might worry that an off-white will feel too safe, too bland. But White Down proves otherwise. It’s a chameleon, blending seamlessly with bold art, vibrant textiles, or muted neutrals. It doesn’t fight for attention; it *enhances* everything around it. That’s the mark of a great neutral—it doesn’t just sit there, it *works*.

So, is White Down right for your home? If you want a color that feels fresh but not sterile, warm but not yellow, and versatile enough to grow with your style—yes. It’s the kind of shade you’ll love today and still appreciate years from now. Grab a sample, see how it looks in your space, and get ready to fall in love with your walls all over again.

Real Room Photo of White Down OC-131

Undertones of  White Down ?

The undertones of White Down 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: #EBE6D7

RGB code: 235, 230, 215

Is  White Down Cool or Warm?

White Down leans warm, providing a cozy feel that can soften modern spaces and bring warmth to traditional designs.

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 White Down

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 White Down

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of White Down is 76.69%, which places it in the Off‑White 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  White Down

White Down is not just another off-white; it’s an inviting and versatile color that can transform any room into a serene retreat. When applied, it has a unique ability to reflect light beautifully, enhancing the space without overwhelming it. It’s particularly suited for areas where you want a peaceful vibe, like bedrooms and living rooms. You’ll find that it pairs well with both bold and muted colors, making it a fantastic choice for accent walls or as a whole-room paint. Plus, it’s easy to work with—whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or hiring a pro, the application is smooth and forgiving. Just keep in mind that depending on your lighting, it may shift slightly in tone, which can add depth and character to your decor.

Pros & Cons of  OC-131 White Down

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore White Down

FAQ on OC-131 White Down

Is White Down suitable for high-traffic areas?

Yes, White Down can be used in high-traffic areas, but it’s advisable to apply a top coat for enhanced durability. Its washability also allows for easy cleaning, making it practical for spaces like hallways or entryways. Just ensure to keep an eye on wear over time since lighter colors may show scuff marks more than darker shades.

How does White Down compare to other whites?

White Down stands out from other whites with its warm undertone, which provides a softer, cozier feel compared to more stark whites. While colors like Chantilly Lace are brighter and crisper, White Down holds a unique charm that can create a more inviting atmosphere in your home. It’s perfect for those looking to avoid the clinical feel often associated with cooler whites.

Comparisons White Down with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore White Down OC-131