Ashwood OC-47 by Benjamin Moore

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Ever walked into a room and instantly felt at ease? Like the walls were giving you a quiet, warm hug? That’s the magic of the right paint color—and if you’re searching for that perfect balance of calm and sophistication, let’s talk about Benjamin Moore’s Ashwood (OC-47). This isn’t just another beige or gray; it’s a soft, muted chameleon that adapts to your space, your light, and your life. Whether you’re refreshing a tired living room or creating a serene bedroom retreat, Ashwood might just be the secret weapon you’ve been missing.

Ashwood sits in that sweet spot between warm and cool, thanks to its subtle yellow undertones softened by gray. It’s not too beige, not too gray—just a whisper of both, making it incredibly versatile. Imagine it in a sunlit living room: the walls glow with a gentle warmth, almost like natural linen. In a north-facing bedroom, it leans into its cozier side, wrapping the space in quiet comfort. That adaptability is why it works so well in living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, even nurseries. It’s a color that doesn’t shout; it listens.

One of Ashwood’s standout features is its light reflectance. With an LRV of 67.22, it bounces light around beautifully, making rooms feel airy and open. But here’s the catch: in low-light spaces, those warm undertones can deepen, so if your room lacks natural light, pair Ashwood with crisp white trim (like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove) or layer in plenty of ambient lighting. This keeps it from feeling heavy. And speaking of pairings, Ashwood plays well with others. Try it alongside muted blues (think CSP-535) for a tranquil vibe, or warm woods and brass fixtures for a touch of organic elegance.

Choosing the right finish is key. Matte will give you that modern, velvety look—perfect for low-traffic areas like bedrooms where you want pure sophistication. Eggshell is my go-to for living rooms and dining spaces; it has just enough sheen to resist fingerprints but still feels soft. Satin? Save it for hallways or kids’ rooms where washability matters. Ashwood’s formula is beginner-friendly, too—it goes on smoothly, dries fast, and touches up like a dream. No awkward streaks or patchiness, even if you’re a DIY newbie.

Now, let’s talk style. Ashwood is a darling of modern farmhouse and Scandinavian interiors, but don’t pigeonhole it. In a minimalist space, it acts as a quiet backdrop for bold art. In a rustic setting, it harmonizes with reclaimed wood and textured fabrics. And in transitional designs? It bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary effortlessly. The mood it creates is consistently cozy and grounding—ideal for rooms where you want to unwind or focus without distraction.

A few pro tips: Always test Ashwood on your walls before committing. Paint a large swatch and observe it at different times of day. You’ll notice how it shifts with the light, revealing its full range of undertones. And if you’re working with a small space, keep the palette light and airy to avoid closing it in. Ashwood’s warmth can make a room feel intimate, but balance is everything.

As for downsides, Ashwood isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Very small, dark rooms might need a lighter hand (consider its paler sibling, OC-25). And because it’s a nuanced color, proper surface prep is non-negotiable—any imperfections will show through more than with a flat white. But these are small trade-offs for a color that brings so much versatility and timeless appeal.

So, is Ashwood right for you? If you crave a color that feels both fresh and familiar, that works as hard as you do, and that turns a house into a home—yes. It’s the kind of shade you won’t tire of in a year, the kind that makes your space feel *considered*. And isn’t that what great design is all about?

Real Room Photo of Ashwood OC-47

Undertones of  Ashwood ?

The undertones of Ashwood 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: #DBD8C9

RGB code: 219, 216, 201

Is  Ashwood Cool or Warm?

Ashwood is primarily warm, but its subtle gray undertones add a balanced coolness that prevents it from feeling overly yellow or beige. This balance makes it an ideal choice for various environments, enhancing warmth without overwhelming the senses.

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 Ashwood

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 Ashwood

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Ashwood is 67.22%, which places it in the Light colors category. This means it reflect most of the incident 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  Ashwood

When it comes to versatility, Ashwood truly shines. This color is the ultimate chameleon, seamlessly blending into different decor styles, from rustic to modern. It’s particularly effective in creating a harmonious backdrop, allowing your furniture and decor pieces to take center stage. The muted undertones give it a sophisticated edge, ensuring it feels timeless rather than trendy. Whether you’re painting a feature wall or giving an entire room a makeover, Ashwood provides a warm, inviting ambiance that encourages relaxation and comfort. Plus, its adaptable nature means it can transition beautifully through the seasons, making it a smart long-term choice for any home.

Pros & Cons of  OC-47 Ashwood

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Ashwood

FAQ on OC-47 Ashwood

What type of finish should I choose for Ashwood?

For Ashwood, choosing between a matte, eggshell, or satin finish depends on the room’s function and desired look. Matte finishes can give a more modern and sophisticated feel, while eggshell offers a slight sheen that’s easy to clean, making it suitable for living areas. Satin finishes are perfect for high-traffic areas, providing durability and washability. Consider your room’s lighting and the amount of wear it will experience to make the best choice.

Is Ashwood suitable for small rooms?

Yes, Ashwood can work well in small rooms, especially if they receive ample light. Its warm tones can create an inviting atmosphere, making the space feel cozy rather than cramped. However, be cautious in very dimly lit areas, as the darker undertones may dominate. Pairing it with lighter accents or trim can help brighten the overall look.

Comparisons Ashwood with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Ashwood OC-47