When searching for the perfect cool-toned gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from the same brand. At first glance, popular Benjamin Moore choices Amherst Gray HC-167 and Chelsea Gray HC-168 may appear nearly identical. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, muted grays?
In this guide, we’ll thoroughly compare Amherst Gray vs Chelsea Gray to help you determine the best cool-toned gray paint for your home. We’ll analyze undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Overview of Key Differences
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is a quick overview of the main differences between Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray:
- Undertones – Amherst Gray is a blue-gray, Chelsea Gray leans green
- Light Reflectance – Amherst Gray LRV is 18.8, Chelsea Gray LRV is 23.33
- Use – Both suit modern and contemporary styles
- Rooms – Amherst Gray shines in bathrooms, Chelsea Gray excels in dining rooms
- Availability – Both come in any sheen
Now let’s explore Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray more thoroughly.
Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray HC-167
With its bright, crisp gray appearance, Amherst Gray HC-167 creates an airy, uplifting backdrop suitable for any space. This versatile neutral complements varied styles beautifully.
Here are some details about Amherst Gray:
- LRV: 18.8
- Undertones: Blue-gray
- Finishes: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, bedrooms, libraries, offices
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, black, wood tones
Amherst Gray is a hazy, blue-influenced medium gray. In certain lights it can take on a more blue or green look. This sophisticated gray has widespread appeal.
The 18.8 light reflectance value prevents Amherst Gray from feeling too dark or gloomy. Amherst Gray strikes a refined, tranquil balance ideal for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Amherst Gray color pairings include:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
- Black door and window trims
- Stainless steel fixtures
- Light blue throw pillows
While suitable anywhere at home, Amherst Gray truly excels in these spaces:
- Bathrooms – Elegant and spa-like
- Bedrooms – Calm and restful
- Libraries – Focused atmosphere
- Offices – Crisp and professional
Amherst Gray’s cool tones create an everyday elegance perfect as an all-over wall color. Use it to gently unify varied architectural details.
Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray HC-168
With its intense, dramatic gray appearance, Chelsea Gray HC-168 adds bold contrast and dimension as an accent color. This sophisticated neutral complements contemporary styles elegantly.
Here are some details about Chelsea Gray:
- LRV: 23.33
- Undertones: Green-gray
- Finishes: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Dining rooms, offices, libraries, entryways
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, wood tones
Chelsea Gray is a saturated, mineral green-gray. In any lighting it maintains a bold slate gray appearance. This refined neutral has versatile appeal.
The 23.33 light reflectance value makes this color intense without being overpowering. Chelsea Gray packs visual impact as an accent wall or feature.
This sophisticated gray pairs nicely with lighter hues. Popular Chelsea Gray color pairings include:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Golden oak wood flooring
- Matte black fixtures
- Navy blue furniture pieces
While bolder than an all-over color, Chelsea Gray excels when used strategically in these spaces:
- Dining Rooms – Striking and elegant
- Offices – Professional focus
- Libraries – Cozy and enveloping
- Entryways – Makes a bold statement
Chelsea Gray’s saturated darkness helps add stylish contrast. Use it to make lighter walls and decor pop.
Comparing Amherst Gray vs Chelsea Gray
Now that we’ve examined Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Amherst Gray is noticeably lighter than Chelsea Gray with LRVs of 18.8 vs 23.33. Amherst Gray will feel more airy and bright.
Undertones
Here’s the main difference – Amherst Gray is a blue-toned gray while Chelsea Gray leans green.
Use & Rooms
Both suit modern and contemporary spaces, though Amherst Gray shines in bathrooms and Chelsea Gray excels as an accent.
Availability
Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Style
Amherst Gray is more widely versatile, Chelsea Gray makes a bold statement.
Paint Color | Amherst Gray HC-167 | Chelsea Gray HC-168 |
---|---|---|
LRV | 18.8 | 23.33 |
Undertones | Blue-gray | Green-gray |
Use | All-over color | Accents |
Finish | Any sheen | Any sheen |
Style | Modern, contemporary | Contemporary |
Real-Life Photos: Amherst Gray vs Chelsea Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray:
Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray
Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray
While they may seem similar at first glance, upon closer inspection you can see Amherst Gray’s blue tones vs the green in Chelsea Gray. Lighting affects their appearance.
Should I Choose Amherst Gray or Chelsea Gray?
So how do you decide between Benjamin Moore’s Amherst Gray or Chelsea Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:
Consider Amherst Gray HC-167 if you want:
- A light crisp blue-gray for all-over walls
- A soothing, tranquil ambiance
- A modern, relaxing oasis for bedrooms and baths
- Understated sophistication
Consider Chelsea Gray HC-168 if you want:
- A rich, intense green-gray accent wall
- Striking modern contrast
- A bold contemporary dining room
- A statement-making envelope of color
Get color samples of both Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray. Paint large swatches on your walls to view at all times of day and night. This gives you a sense of how the tones shift under different lighting conditions.
You can also hold decor items next to the samples to visualize the look. Both grays complement most color schemes beautifully.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms especially well-suited to Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray paint colors:
Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray
- Bedrooms
- Bathrooms
- Offices
- Libraries
- Kitchens
Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
- Offices
- Libraries
- Living Rooms
While both grays work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique cool blue-gray and green-gray tones.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray make bold statements. Complement them with other hues:
Amherst Gray HC-167 Pairs Well With:
- Crisp whites like Chantilly Lace
- Black door and window trims
- Stainless steel fixtures
- Light blue accent colors
Chelsea Gray HC-168 Pairs Well With:
- Bright whites like Simply White
- Golden oak wood flooring
- Matte black fixtures
- Navy blue furniture pieces
Their cool grays allow bolder accent colors to shine. Play up Amherst Gray’s tranquility or Chelsea Gray’s drama.
Amherst Gray vs Chelsea Gray – Which is Better?
So which cool-toned gray paint color is better for your home – Amherst Gray or Chelsea Gray?
Consider Amherst Gray HC-167 if you want:
- A light crisp blue-gray for all-over walls
- A soothing, tranquil ambiance
- A modern, relaxing oasis for bedrooms and baths
- Understated sophistication
Consider Chelsea Gray HC-168 if you want:
- A rich, intense green-gray accent wall
- Striking modern contrast
- A bold contemporary dining room
- A statement-making envelope of color
Both are beautiful, sophisticated grays perfect for contemporary homes. Amherst Gray is subdued and versatile. Chelsea Gray makes a dramatic accent.
Get samples before deciding. Either stunning Benjamin Moore gray you choose will elegantly suit your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Amherst Gray vs Chelsea Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Amherst Gray and Chelsea Gray?
The main differences are their tones and uses. Amherst Gray is a lighter blue-gray for all-over use. Chelsea Gray is a deep, intense green-gray best for accents.
What colors complement Chelsea Gray?
Chelsea Gray looks beautiful paired with bright whites like Chantilly Lace, golden oak wood tones, black fixtures, and navy blue furniture for a bold contrast.
Can you use Amherst Gray in a nursery?
Yes, Amherst Gray’s soft blue-gray hue would work wonderfully in a nursery paired with crisp white trim for a soothing, peaceful space.
Is Chelsea Gray suitable for west facing rooms?
Yes, Chelsea Gray’s richness is dark enough for a west facing room without feeling too somber. Add in lighter greens and blues to keep it feeling bright.
What finish does Amherst Gray come in?
Amherst Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any finish from matte to high gloss semi-gloss to match your style.