Benjamin Moore's Metropolitan AF-690 is a sophisticated shade commonly referred to as Ash Gray, precisely captured by the RGB values of 186, 189, and 184. This calming hue balances neutrality and elegance, making it a versatile choice for modern interior design. It effortlessly pairs with a variety of color palettes, enhancing spaces with its serene and understated appeal.
Color Description
Benjamin Moore Metropolitan AF-690 is a sophisticated, versatile gray color that falls slightly lighter than mid-tone. It belongs to the Green-Yellow (GY) hue family but is often perceived as a near-neutral gray due to its low Chroma value of 0.31.
Undertones
The undertone of Metropolitan AF-690 can be accurately described as having a Green hue, which is evident from its color space. Despite this, it may appear blue-ish or green-ish under different lighting conditions, but it does not have inherent blue or other undertones; it simply shifts in appearance based on the light source.
Color Values
- HEX Code: #BABDB8
- RGB Values: RGB(186, 189, 184)
- CMYK Values: 1.6%, 0.0%, 2.6%, 25.9%
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 50.16
Usage
Metropolitan AF-690 is highly versatile and can be used in various rooms such as bedrooms, living rooms, and bathrooms. It pairs well with crisp whites for a modern look, soft blush tones for warmth, and deep navy or forest green for a rich and sophisticated palette.
Atmosphere
This color creates a contemporary and elegant atmosphere. It is described as understated and not arresting or aggressive, promoting a contemplative state of mind and design. It can make a room feel spacious and airy due to its moderate LRV, or create a more intimate and cozy feel when used in combination with darker colors.
Benjamin Moore Metropolitan AF-690 Color Alternative
Benjamin Moore Metropolitan AF-690 offers a refined base that pairs exceptionally well with several striking alternatives. Tikkurila Flannel J446, Tikkurila Lido X445, and Tikkurila K494 stand out as carefully curated options that complement a variety of design schemes and settings. Each of these hues brings its own distinct character to the table, allowing homeowners and designers alike to create spaces that are both vibrant and inviting.
Bathroom
Benjamin Moore Metropolitan AF-690 is an excellent choice for a bathroom color that creates a calming, spa-like atmosphere. Its balanced light reflectance ensures the space remains bright without becoming washed out, even in high-humidity settings, and it works beautifully with soothing accent shades and subtle white or off-white tiles.
The paint also offers remarkable durability and color retention, making it well-suited for demanding environments. Paired with rich trim options like charcoal or navy, it provides a modern touch that enhances the overall serene and inviting feel of the room.
Bedroom
Benjamin Moore's Metropolitan AF-690 is an ideal choice for a soothing bedroom color scheme, delivering a calm and elegant backdrop that balances modern aesthetics with a touch of understated refinement. Its medium tone, enriched by subtle green undertones when illuminated by natural light, creates an inviting and relaxing ambiance, making it a compelling foundation for a well-curated decor.
Pairing this hue with crisp white details in trim and cabinetry enhances the clean, modern look, while hints of soft blush infuse the space with warmth. Incorporating accents in deep navy or forest green further deepens the sophistication of the room, establishing a stylish and serene environment that appeals to both traditional and contemporary tastes.
Kitchen
Benjamin Moore's Metropolitan AF-690 is an ideal kitchen color that pairs seamlessly with a range of cabinetry and countertop finishes, from crisp whites and warm oaks to deeper wood tones. Its balanced hue serves as a calm backdrop that allows accents—whether rich emerald greens or deep, sophisticated blues—to take center stage in dining sets and decorative elements.
Designed with a medium reflectance value, this neutral tone maintains an inviting ambiance without overpowering natural or artificial lighting. When combined with either subtle neutrals or richer trim colors, it creates a harmonious and cohesive kitchen environment that enhances the overall design.
Living Room
In the living room, Metropolitan AF-690 creates a sophisticated backdrop that harmonizes with crisp whites for a modern finish or with soft blush tones for a touch of warmth and elegance. Its design flexibility allows for the incorporation of deeper accents like navy or forest green to achieve a richer and more refined aesthetic.
Included in Benjamin Moore's 2019 Color Trends palette, this hue emphasizes soothing, calming tones that craft a restorative ambiance. It adapts gracefully to changing light throughout the day, enhancing the space with an evolving sense of depth and luxury.
Outdoor
For home outdoor color, Metropolitan AF-690 offers a distinctive look that may appeal to homeowners; however, it is primarily intended for interior applications. Many of Benjamin Moore’s popular formulations provide features such as excellent hide, fade and color rub-off resistance, and washability, which cater to indoor environments.
When planning an outdoor project, it is best to choose exterior-specific products designed to withstand weather conditions, UV exposure, and moisture. While Benjamin Moore does offer exterior paint lines, Metropolitan AF-690 is not included in those collections, so selecting a product made expressly for outdoor use is recommended.
