Have you ever wondered how to create a perfect whole house color scheme with Edgecomb Gray?
Many homeowners search for that one perfect shade that works throughout their home—a color that feels warm without being too bold, relaxed without feeling dull. Edgecomb Gray might be the answer you’ve been looking for.
This gentle neutral has gained popularity among homeowners and designers for good reason. It creates a soft backdrop that pairs well with many styles and color choices.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about Edgecomb Gray, from its basic traits to ideal pairings and common mistakes to avoid.
By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to use this flexible shade to create a unified, welcoming home environment.
Understanding Edgecomb Gray (HC-173)
Edgecomb Gray (HC-173) by Benjamin Moore stands as one of the most sought-after neutral paint colors in home design. This soft, warm gray with subtle beige hints creates a gentle, welcoming feel in any room.
Neither too warm nor too cool: it strikes a perfect balance that makes it highly flexible for various lighting conditions and design styles.
| Color Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Light Reflectance Value (LRV) | 63.09 |
| Also Known As | 972, OC-15 |
| RGB Values | 218, 209, 196 |
| HEX Code | #DAD1C4 |
Undertones: The beauty of Edgecomb Gray lies in its subtle undertones. While classified as a light gray, it carries gentle beige and taupe undertones that prevent it from feeling cold or harsh.
In some lighting, you might notice very faint hints of green, particularly in north-facing rooms. These nuanced undertones help the color shift subtly throughout the day, remaining pleasant in both morning brightness and evening warmth.
Popular Color Schemes to Pair with Edgecomb Gray
Finding the right colors to pair with Edgecomb Gray helps create a unified look throughout your home while adding visual interest and depth to each space. This versatile neutral works well with many color families, from other neutrals to bold accent hues.
1. Complementary Neutrals
The magic of Edgecomb Gray truly shines when paired with carefully selected neutrals that enhance its warm, subtle character without creating competition.
| Color Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17) | Soft, warm white that provides subtle contrast for trim and ceilings. |
| Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) | Gentle, clean contrast that highlights architectural details without harsh transitions. |
| Benjamin Moore Manchester Tan (HC-81) | Slightly deeper companion, ideal for creating subtle transitions between rooms. |
| Farrow & Ball Skimming Stone (No. 241) | Light taupe with warm undertones, perfect for adjacent rooms or connecting spaces. |
2. Accent Colors That Work Well
While neutrals provide the foundation, these accent colors bring personality and visual interest to spaces painted in the gentle backdrop of Edgecomb Gray.
| Color Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154) | Rich depth and timeless appeal, perfect for kitchen islands or accent furniture. |
| Sherwin Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069) | Striking contrast as a charcoal accent on doors, window frames, or furniture. |
| Benjamin Moore Golden Straw (2152-50) | Warmth and energy, ideal for mustard yellow accents in textiles or small furniture. |
| Sherwin Williams Retreat (SW 6207) | Soft, muted blue that complements Edgecomb Gray in bedrooms or bathrooms. |
3. Trim and Ceiling Considerations
The right trim and ceiling colors create definition and structure that allow Edgecomb Gray walls to shine while maintaining visual clarity in your space.
| Color Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) | Clean, bright white with minimal undertones, creating clear definition. |
| Sherwin Williams Extra White (SW 7006) | Crisp contrast that highlights moldings, door frames, and architectural details. |
| Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117) | Subtle warmth that complements Edgecomb Gray while providing enough contrast. |
| Sherwin Williams Pure White (SW 7005) | Balances perfectly between warm and cool, versatile for different lighting conditions. |
Practical Applications
Creating beautiful, functional spaces with Edgecomb Gray color schemes requires thoughtful planning about how this versatile color works in different rooms. Let’s dig into how to apply this color effectively throughout your home.
Living Rooms and Common Areas
Living rooms serve as gathering spaces where comfort meets style, and Edgecomb Gray provides the perfect neutral canvas that adapts to various design choices while maintaining a welcoming feel.
This living room showcases Edgecomb Gray walls that create a soft, neutral backdrop allowing furniture and accessories to stand out without competing for attention.
Furniture and Decor Pairings:
- Suggest light gray or soft beige sofas, warm wood furniture, and accent pieces in navy, soft blues, or rich textures like velvet or linen.
- Complement with rugs, throw pillows, and artwork in contrasting colors like mustard yellow or dark green.
Kitchens and Dining Spaces
A bright kitchen featuring white cabinetry, navy blue island, wooden bar stools, and neutral walls. The space feels fresh, timeless, and airy with a perfect balance of cool and warm tones.
Kitchens and dining areas benefit from Edgecomb Gray’s ability to make spaces feel bright and clean while adding warmth that makes these gathering places feel inviting and comfortable.
Furniture and Decor Pairings:
- Pair Edgecomb Gray walls with white or natural wood cabinetry, stone or marble countertops, and stainless steel appliances for creating a fresh, timeless kitchen that feels both modern and comfortable.
- Use accent colors like deep greens, mustard, or even copper finishes for a touch of warmth.
- Lighting fixtures, and small appliances in these tones add interest.
Bedrooms and Relaxation Zones
A serene bedroom with soft gray walls, cream upholstered headboard, blush pink accents, and natural wood furniture. The space creates a peaceful, elegant retreat with gentle color harmony.
Bedrooms should feel peaceful and restful, making Edgecomb Gray an excellent choice with its calming properties and ability to create a sense of tranquility without feeling cold or sterile.
Furniture and Decor Pairings:
- Choose soft, plush bedding in white, pale blues, or soft pinks to create a restful atmosphere, these gentle colors work in harmony to create a peaceful retreat perfect for unwinding.
- Incorporate warm wood furniture or metal finishes (gold or brass) for added elegance. The neutral backdrop allows these materials to stand out and add visual interest through texture and tone.
Bathrooms
A light, sophisticated bathroom with pale gray walls, white cabinetry, marble surfaces, and a statement clawfoot tub. The space evokes a spa-like atmosphere with clean, refined lines.
Bathrooms benefit from Edgecomb Gray’s light-reflecting properties while its warm undertones prevent the space from feeling clinical or stark, creating a spa-like environment.
Furniture and Decor Pairings:
- Combine Edgecomb Gray with white or marble tiles, glass fixtures, and natural stone for a fresh vibe.
- Use accent colors like sage green, pale blue, or light taupe for a calming effect. Towels, bath mats, and small accessories in these tones add subtle color while maintaining the bathroom’s serene quality.
Home Offices
A striking office with navy accent walls, white built-ins, dark wood desk, and crisp white trim. The space feels refined and focused, balancing a professional environment with comfortable design.
Home offices require focus and comfort, making Edgecomb Gray an ideal choice that creates a productive environment without harsh contrasts or distractions.
Furniture and Decor Pairings:
- Suggest a mix of modern and rustic furniture styles, such as dark wood desks paired with sleek metal accents or comfortable upholstered chairs.
- Accent the space with calming tones like soft blues, navy, or warm earth tones for focus and productivity.
- Small accessories, artwork, and desk organizational items in these colors add personality without creating visual clutter.
Tip: Choose one or two focal pieces per room to prevent visual competition with your neutral walls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When creating a color scheme with Edgecomb Gray, even this versatile neutral can present challenges if not implemented thoughtfully.
Here are the key pitfalls to avoid when working with this popular Benjamin Moore shade.
Color Matching Issues: Avoid similar neutrals with Edgecomb Gray to prevent flatness. Don’t pair cool grays with blue or purple undertones, as they clash with warm beige/taupe. Limit accent colors to 2-3 per room for balance.
Coordination Pitfalls: Ensure adjoining spaces flow together while maintaining distinct character. Include darker or more saturated elements to provide the necessary contrast.
Lighting Considerations: Test Edgecomb Gray in different lighting conditions, as it appears warmer under incandescent light and cooler in natural daylight.
Select light bulbs with appropriate color temperatures to enhance rather than distort the wall color.
Application Errors: Maintain consistent paint finishes throughout connected spaces. Always prime properly when covering darker colors. Deliberately choose ceiling and trim colors.
The Perfect Palette: Wrapping Up
Edgecomb Gray (HC-173) is an excellent choice for a whole-house color scheme, showcasing versatility in various lighting and room uses. Its warm undertones create a welcoming atmosphere while serving as a neutral backdrop for diverse design styles.
Pair Benjamin Moore’s Edgecomb Gray with neutrals like White Dove and Alabaster, along with navy, mustard, or soft blues for cohesive spaces. Consider lighting, choose trim colors, and apply them consistently to enhance the shade’s potential.
Start your travel by testing a sample to see how this versatile neutral transforms your rooms with warmth and adaptability.
Ready for a refresh? Grab a swatch, observe it throughout the day in different lighting, and uncover why countless homeowners choose this timeless shade as their whole-house color solution. Your perfectly balanced, cohesive home awaits!
