When searching for the perfect light gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from the same brand. At first glance, Benjamin Moore options Collingwood OC-28 and Edgecomb Gray HC-173 may appear very alike. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, muted grays?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Collingwood vs Edgecomb Gray in-depth to help you determine the best light gray paint for your home. We’ll look at 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 details, here is a quick overview of the main differences between Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray:
- Undertones – Collingwood is a cool gray, Edgecomb Gray leans slightly warm
- Light Reflectance – Collingwood LRV is 61.52, Edgecomb Gray LRV is 63.09
- Use – Both work well across most spaces and styles
- Rooms – Collingwood shines in dining rooms, Edgecomb Gray excels in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in any finish
Now let’s explore Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray more thoroughly.
Benjamin Moore Collingwood OC-28
With its crisp, sleek gray appearance, Collingwood OC-28 creates an airy, elegant backdrop suitable for varied spaces. This versatile neutral complements modern and contemporary styles beautifully.
Here are some details about Collingwood:
- LRV: 61.52
- Undertones: Cool gray
- Finishes: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Dining rooms, living rooms, offices, kitchens
- Pairs Well With: Warm woods, white, black, blue
Collingwood is a hazy, blue-toned light gray. In certain lights it can take on a more green or blue cast. This sophisticated gray has widespread appeal.
The 61.52 light reflectance value prevents Collingwood from feeling too dark or dreary. Collingwood strikes a refined, tranquil balance suited for most rooms.
This versatile gray complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Collingwood color pairings include:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
- Maple and oak wood tones
- Black iron light fixtures
- Navy blue throw pillows
While suitable anywhere at home, Collingwood truly excels in these spaces:
- Dining Rooms – Sophisticated and elegant
- Living Rooms – Calming backdrop for furniture
- Offices – Focused atmosphere
- Kitchens – Clean and fresh
Collingwood’s crisp gray tones create an everyday elegance perfect as an all-over wall color. Use it to gently unify varied architectural details.
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173
With its soft, relaxed gray appearance, Edgecomb Gray HC-173 adds an approachable, welcoming backdrop suited for varied spaces. This versatile neutral complements any style beautifully.
Here are some details about Edgecomb Gray:
- LRV: 63.09
- Undertones: Subtly warm
- Finishes: Any sheen
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, offices, entryways
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, wood tones
Edgecomb Gray is a hazy, sandy gray with the faintest beige undertone. In certain lights it can take on a more taupe look. This laidback gray has widespread appeal.
The 63.09 light reflectance value prevents Edgecomb Gray from feeling too somber. Edgecomb Gray strikes an accessible, peaceful balance suited for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Edgecomb Gray color pairings include:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Walnut wood flooring
- Creamy off-white trim
- Navy blue throw pillows
While suitable anywhere at home, Edgecomb Gray truly excels in these restful spaces:
- Bedrooms – Calm and relaxing
- Living Rooms – Casual backdrop for furniture
- Offices – Focused ambiance
- Entryways – Welcoming pop of color
Edgecomb Gray’s muted tones create a laidback elegance perfect as a whole home color. Use it to gently unify varied architectural characteristics.
Comparing Collingwood vs Edgecomb Gray
Now that we’ve looked at Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray have very similar LRVs of 61.52 and 63.09. They will appear nearly identical in terms of lightness.
Undertones
Here’s the main difference – Collingwood is a cool gray while Edgecomb Gray has the subtlest warm undertone.
Use & Rooms
Both are versatile across modern and traditional styles, though Collingwood shines in dining rooms while Edgecomb Gray excels in bedrooms.
Availability
Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Style
Collingwood trends more modern, Edgecomb Gray more traditional.
Paint Color | Collingwood OC-28 | Edgecomb Gray HC-173 |
---|---|---|
LRV | 61.52 | 63.09 |
Undertones | Cool gray | Subtly warm |
Use | Versatile neutral | Versatile neutral |
Finish | Any sheen | Any sheen |
Style | Modern | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Collingwood vs Edgecomb Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the subtle differences between Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray:
Benjamin Moore Collingwood
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray
While they appear similar at first glance, upon closer inspection you can spot Collingwood’s cool tones vs the faint warmth of Edgecomb Gray. Lighting plays a role in their look.
Should I Choose Collingwood or Edgecomb Gray?
So how do you decide between Benjamin Moore’s Collingwood or Edgecomb Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:
Consider Collingwood OC-28 if you want:
- A crisp, sleek gray with subtle coolness
- A refined backdrop for modern dining rooms
- An airy, relaxing oasis for bedrooms
- Understated contemporary elegance
Consider Edgecomb Gray HC-173 if you want:
- A soft sandy gray with a hint of beige
- A laidback, casual ambiance
- Farmhouse or cottage style coziness
- A gently weathered vintage vibe
Get color samples of both Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray. Paint large patches on your walls to view at all times of day. The undertones can shift under different lighting conditions.
Also visualize them with decor items you already own. Both grays complement most color palettes beautifully.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms especially well-suited to Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray paint colors:
Benjamin Moore Collingwood
- Dining Rooms
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Kitchens
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Entryways
- Cottages
While both work well throughout the home, the above applications optimize each gray’s unique cool and warm qualities.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray make elegant statements. Accent with these hues:
Collingwood OC-28 Pairs Well With:
- Crisp whites like Chantilly Lace
- Maple and oak wood tones
- Navy blue and teal accents
- Black iron light fixtures
Edgecomb Gray HC-173 Pairs Well With:
- Soft antique whites
- Walnut wood flooring
- Sage green and robin’s egg blue
- Aged brass accents
Both grays complement most color schemes beautifully. Choose accent colors that play up Collingwood’s coolness or Edgecomb Gray’s subtle warmth.
Collingwood vs Edgecomb Gray – Which is Better?
So which light gray paint color is better for your home – Collingwood or Edgecomb Gray?
Consider Collingwood OC-28 if you want:
- A crisp, sleek gray with subtle coolness
- A refined backdrop for modern dining rooms
- An airy, relaxing oasis for bedrooms
- Understated contemporary elegance
Consider Edgecomb Gray HC-173 if you want:
- A soft sandy gray with a hint of beige
- A laidback, casual ambiance
- Farmhouse or cottage style coziness
- A gently weathered vintage vibe
Both are wonderful versatile grays for any room. Collingwood has a more refined, modern feel. Edgecomb Gray offers approachable warmth and charm.
Get samples before deciding – lighting affects how their undertones come across. Either will elegantly suit your home in sophisticated style!
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Collingwood vs Edgecomb Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
What’s the main difference between Collingwood and Edgecomb Gray?
The main subtle difference is Collingwood has a hint of cool blue undertone, while Edgecomb Gray leans ever so slightly warm. Collingwood also trends more modern.
Which gray would work better in a north facing room?
Collingwood would add brightness and illumination to a north facing space without appearing too cold. Its coolness balances the lack of direct light.
Can you use Edgecomb Gray in a dining room?
Absolutely! Edgecomb Gray would provide a softly sophisticated, laidback warmth in a dining room. Its beige undertone gives a welcoming farmhouse feel.
Is Collingwood suitable for contemporary styles?
Yes, with its sleek, cool gray tone, Collingwood is the perfect backdrop for contemporary spaces. It allows bold modern decor and accessories to take center stage.
What finish does Edgecomb Gray come in?
Edgecomb Gray is available in any finish from matte to high gloss enamel. A soft eggshell or satin sheen would complement its cozy style well.