Most Popular Benjamin Moore Exterior Gray Paint Colors

Gray has solidified its position as a timeless and versatile choice for exterior paint colors. Benjamin Moore, a renowned paint manufacturer, offers a wide spectrum of grays, each possessing unique undertones and characteristics. Choosing the right gray for a home's exterior involves considering factors such as the home's architectural style, surrounding landscape, and desired aesthetic. This article explores some of the most popular Benjamin Moore exterior gray paint colors, highlighting their distinct features and suitability for various applications.

Understanding the Nuances of Gray Paint

Gray, often regarded as a neutral color, is actually a complex blend of black and white, frequently infused with subtle undertones that significantly influence its appearance. These undertones can range from warm hues like beige or brown to cool hues like blue or green. The direction and intensity of sunlight can further emphasize these undertones, causing a gray paint color to appear warmer or cooler depending on the time of day and geographic location. Therefore, carefully evaluating paint samples in varying light conditions is crucial before committing to a specific shade.

Moreover, the surrounding environment, including landscaping and adjacent buildings, can affect how a gray paint color is perceived. Green foliage, red brick, or blue siding on neighboring houses can create subtle color shifts in the gray, making it appear slightly different from the original sample. To address this, considering the existing color palette of the neighborhood is an essential step in selecting the most suitable gray for a home's exterior.

Different shades of gray also evoke different emotions and create distinct atmospheres. Light grays contribute to a bright and airy feel, while darker grays impart a sense of sophistication and drama. The choice of gray shade should align with the homeowner's desired aesthetic and the overall character of the house.

Popular Benjamin Moore Gray Exterior Paint Colors

Benjamin Moore offers an extensive selection of gray paint colors, each with its unique appeal. Several shades consistently rank among the most popular choices for exterior applications:

Revere Pewter HC-172: Revere Pewter is a classic and highly versatile light gray with warm undertones. It is frequently described as a "greige," a blend of gray and beige, which gives it a soft and inviting appearance. Its warmth makes it an excellent choice for homes in cooler climates, where it can help to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Revere Pewter complements a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary, and pairs well with various trim colors, including white, cream, and even darker grays. It works well with natural stone and brick, making it a popular choice for homes with those exterior elements. The warmth in Revere Pewter ensures it does not appear cold or sterile, even in overcast conditions.

Chelsea Gray HC-168: Chelsea Gray is a mid-tone gray with sophisticated depth and a subtle hint of warmth. It is a bolder choice than Revere Pewter but remains versatile enough to complement various architectural styles. Chelsea Gray is particularly well-suited for homes with strong architectural details, as it helps to highlight those features. It pairs exceptionally well with white trim, creating a striking contrast that adds visual interest to the exterior. The depth of Chelsea Gray makes it a suitable option for homes in areas with abundant sunlight, as it can withstand the intensity of the light without appearing washed out. It adds a touch of elegance and refinement to any home it graces.

Kendall Charcoal HC-166: Kendall Charcoal is a dark and dramatic gray that exudes sophistication and style. It is a daring choice that can transform a home's exterior into a statement piece. While it can appear almost black in certain lighting conditions, its gray undertones prevent it from feeling harsh or overwhelming. Kendall Charcoal is an excellent option for modern and contemporary homes, where it can create a sleek and sophisticated look. It also works well as an accent color, used on shutters, doors, or other architectural elements. When using Kendall Charcoal on the entire exterior of a house, it is important to consider the surrounding landscape and ensure that the overall effect is balanced and harmonious. It pairs beautifully with lighter trim colors, like white or off-white, providing a dramatic contrast that enhances the home's curb appeal.

Gray Owl OC-52: Gray Owl is a light and airy gray with cool blue-green undertones. It's a popular choice for homeowners seeking a subtle and refreshing exterior color. The cool undertones of Gray Owl can create a calming and serene atmosphere, making it well-suited for homes in warmer climates. It is a versatile color that complements a wide range of architectural styles and landscaping. It also works well with both white and darker trim colors. Because of its light reflectance value, Gray Owl can make a smaller home appear larger and brighter. It can sometimes exhibit a slight blue hue, especially in certain light conditions, so it's important to test the color thoroughly before committing to it.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Exterior Gray Paint

Selecting the perfect gray paint color for a home's exterior involves carefully considering several factors. These considerations will help ensure the chosen color complements the property and achieves the desired aesthetic.

Architectural Style: The architectural style of the house plays a significant role in determining the most suitable gray shade. For example, a traditional Victorian home might benefit from a warmer gray like Revere Pewter or Chelsea Gray, which complements the intricate details and classic lines. In contrast, a modern or contemporary home might look stunning with a cooler, more dramatic gray like Kendall Charcoal or Gray Owl, which enhances the sleek and minimalist design.

Climate and Light: Climate and light conditions can significantly affect how a gray paint color appears. In areas with abundant sunlight, lighter grays may appear washed out, while darker grays may seem too intense. Conversely, in areas with overcast skies, lighter grays can brighten the exterior, while darker grays provide a cozy and inviting feel. Considering the amount of sunlight and the prevailing weather conditions is crucial for selecting a gray shade that looks its best in the specific environment. Testing paint samples in different lighting conditions is essential.

Surrounding Environment: The surrounding environment, including landscaping, neighboring houses, and streetscape, should also be taken into account. The color of the foliage, the materials used in neighboring homes, and the overall character of the neighborhood can influence how a gray paint color is perceived. For example, if the surrounding landscape is lush with greenery, a gray with cool undertones might create a harmonious and balanced effect. On the other hand, if the adjacent buildings are predominantly red brick, a warmer gray might be a better choice to complement the existing color palette. Consider the context of the surrounding environment to make an informed decision.

Trim and Accent Colors: The trim and accent colors chosen to complement the gray exterior also play a crucial role in creating a cohesive and visually appealing look. White trim is a classic and versatile choice that pairs well with almost any shade of gray. However, other options, such as cream, black, or even bolder colors like navy blue or red, can be used to create a more personalized and distinctive look. The key is to choose trim and accent colors that complement the gray exterior and enhance the overall design of the house.

By carefully considering these factors, homeowners can confidently select the perfect Benjamin Moore gray paint color for their home's exterior, creating a beautiful and welcoming space that stands the test of time.