Benjamin Moore's Gray Owl OC-52 is a versatile, light gray hue that offers a subtle yet sophisticated touch to any room. With its RGB values of (211, 212, 204), it captures a delicate balance between warmth and coolness, making it a popular choice for both contemporary and classic interiors. Its adaptable nature allows it to pair seamlessly with a wide range of accent colors, enhancing the overall aesthetic of a space.
Color Description
Gray Owl OC-52 is a light gray color with a cool, crisp cast. It is part of Benjamin Moore's Off-White Collection and is known for its versatility and sophistication.
Undertones
Gray Owl has a mix of blue and green undertones. The prominence of these undertones can vary depending on the lighting and elements in the room. In rooms with little natural light, especially those facing north, the green undertone may be more noticeable.
Color Values
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 64.51
- RGB: 212, 210, 203
- HEX: #D4D2CB
Usage
Gray Owl is suitable for use in various rooms and lighting conditions. It works well in spaces with some natural light or very little natural light, and is particularly effective in rooms receiving direct west-facing sunshine. It can be applied to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces and is available in different sheens (such as eggshell and pearl), making it versatile for both low and high-traffic areas.
Atmosphere
Gray Owl creates a clean and balanced atmosphere, making it a dependable choice for interior painting. It contributes to a calm and serene environment, especially when used in spaces with controlled natural light.
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52 Color Alternative
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52 has a range of appealing alternatives available, each providing a unique twist on a modern neutral backdrop. Tikkurila Batiste G487 offers a refined and subtle hue that complements contemporary settings, while Tikkurila Median X486 brings a balanced tone ideal for both residential and commercial spaces. Additionally, Tikkurila Piazza Y487 stands out as a distinctive option, delivering versatility and sophistication that resonates well with the understated elegance of Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52.
Bathroom
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52 is a popular bathroom color that enhances both casual and luxurious designs. Its soft, balanced tone creates a harmonious, calming atmosphere and works beautifully on walls, cabinets, and trim, making it an excellent choice for a cohesive look.
For optimal results, an eggshell or satin sheen is recommended for durability and appeal, especially when paired with white fixtures like a classic clawfoot tub. This color also complements warm rosy accents or subtle blues, while its appearance can shift with varying lighting—revealing more blue-green character in cooler, north-facing rooms and retaining a light, airy feel in well-lit spaces.
Bedroom
For a bedroom color scheme, Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52 is an elegant choice that pairs beautifully with crisp white trim accents like Chantilly Lace or Super White, enhancing the details on baseboards and woodwork. Complement the softness of Gray Owl with cool hues to add depth or introduce a coastal vibe with more muted tones for a balanced and refreshing ambiance.
Adding dimensions to the space is easily achieved by integrating moodier accents; dark shades paired with lighter tones create a striking contrast that enhances modern aesthetic appeal. Black accents, in particular, inject sophistication, while the color’s ability to adapt to different lighting conditions—from cool morning brightness to warmer afternoon glow—ensures the room maintains its inviting character throughout the day.
Kitchen
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52 is a popular choice for kitchen color schemes, creating soft and clean cabinetry that enhances the overall aesthetic. As demonstrated in designs like the one by Main Street Kitchens at Botellos, this hue delivers a crisp, inviting look that elevates the kitchen space.
It harmonizes beautifully with crisp white accents, softer neutral tones, and subtle blue-gray hues, allowing for a balanced and refined palette. Combined with design elements such as stacked cabinets, farmhouse sinks, and well-planned lighting, Gray Owl OC-52 contributes to an open and fluid kitchen layout.
Living Room
Living room color Gray Owl provides a bright, balanced backdrop that enhances living spaces by reflecting different qualities of natural light. It adapts to both cool northern light and warmer south-facing conditions, allowing its blue undertones to shift subtly while harmonizing with crisp white trim and complementary coastal hues.
Ideal for areas such as entryways, kitchens, and living rooms, Gray Owl accentuates architectural details like baseboards and woodwork without overwhelming the space. Its dynamic characteristics, which change with lighting and surrounding colors, highlight the importance of testing the color in your specific setting before committing to larger projects, ensuring it harmonizes with your overall design vision.
Outdoor
For exterior living, Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52 provides a refined home outdoor color that can enhance the character of any facade. Its relatively high ability to reflect light may not stand up to the intensity of southern sunlight, risking a washed-out effect if not thoughtfully applied.
The paint’s cool undertones can shift subtly between green and blue hues, requiring careful coordination with elements like the roof, stone, or brick. Sampling the color in your specific setting is essential to ensure it maintains depth and impact under varying lighting conditions.
