When searching for the perfect dark neutral paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades. Popular choices Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal HC-166 and Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze SW 7048 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful dark neutrals?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Kendall Charcoal vs Urbane Bronze in-depth to help you determine the ideal 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
Key Differences Between Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Benjamin Moore’s Kendall Charcoal and Sherwin Williams’ Urbane Bronze:
- Undertones – Kendall Charcoal is a warm dark gray, Urbane Bronze is a brown-based neutral
- Light Reflectance – Kendall Charcoal has an LRV of 14.61, Urbane Bronze has an LRV of 8
- Use – Kendall Charcoal fits traditional decor, Urbane Bronze works anywhere
- Rooms – Kendall Charcoal shines in bedrooms, Urbane Bronze excels as an accent
- Availability – Kendall Charcoal comes in eggshell and below, Urbane Bronze comes in all finishes
Now let’s explore Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze more thoroughly.
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal HC-166
With its warm charcoal appearance, Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal HC-166 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile dark neutral works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Kendall Charcoal:
- LRV: 14.61
- Undertones: Warm dark gray
- Finish: Eggshell and below
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, greens, blacks, wood tones
Kendall Charcoal is a relaxed, muted charcoal gray with faint brown undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered slate gray. The welcoming neutral has traditional appeal.
The 14.61 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark or moody. Kendall Charcoal strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Kendall Charcoal color pairings include:
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
- Benjamin Moore Forest Path
- Black accent pieces
- Aged wood finishes
- White trim and mouldings
While suitable anywhere at home, Kendall Charcoal truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Kendall Charcoal’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow bold colors to stand out.
Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze SW 7048
With its deep brown appearance, Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze SW 7048 adds bold, dynamic contrast as an accent color. This dramatic neutral works across styles from modern to traditional.
Here are some details about Urbane Bronze:
- LRV: 8
- Undertones: Brown
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Accent walls, small spaces
- Pairs Well With: Blues, greens, blacks, wood tones
Urbane Bronze is a rich, saturated brown with subtle red undertones. In all lighting it maintains a bold, dark brown look.
The 8 light reflectance value makes this color intense and moody. Urbane Bronze packs visual impact as an accent.
This dramatic neutral pairs nicely with a variety of colors. Popular Urbane Bronze combinations include:
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Black and white graphic prints
- Wood furniture and finishes
- Brass hardware and lighting
While bolder than an all-over color, Urbane Bronze excels when used strategically in these spaces:
- Accent Walls
- Small Bathrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
- Kitchens
Urbane Bronze’s saturated darkness helps add striking contrast. Use it sparingly to make colors and textures pop.
Comparing Kendall Charcoal vs Urbane Bronze
Now that we’ve examined Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze have very different LRVs of 14.61 and 8 respectively. Urbane Bronze will feel much darker.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Kendall Charcoal is a warm dark gray, while Urbane Bronze is a saturated brown.
Use & Rooms
Kendall Charcoal’s cozy warmth fits bedrooms and living rooms. Urbane Bronze’s bold contrast excels as an accent color.
Availability
Kendall Charcoal only comes in eggshell and below. Urbane Bronze comes in any sheen from flat to glossy.
Kendall Charcoal vs Urbane Bronze Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Kendall Charcoal HC-166 | Urbane Bronze SW 7048 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 14.61 | 8 |
| Undertones | Warm dark gray | Brown |
| Use | Full rooms | Accent walls |
| Finishes | Eggshell and below | All sheens |
| Style | Traditional, classic | Modern, contemporary |
Real-Life Photos: Kendall Charcoal vs Urbane Bronze
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze:
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal
Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze
While they are both dark, Kendall Charcoal is muted and subtle, while Urbane Bronze makes a bold, saturated statement. Lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Kendall Charcoal or Urbane Bronze?
So how do you decide between Benjamin Moore’s Kendall Charcoal or Sherwin Williams’ Urbane Bronze for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Kendall Charcoal HC-166 if you want:
- A warm, cozy dark gray
- A versatile all-over color for bedrooms
- A traditional look with some moodiness
- An understated backdrop
Choose Urbane Bronze SW 7048 if you want:
- A bold, dramatic brown accent
- Striking contrast for modern spaces
- An intense, saturated color
- Maximum visual impact
Get samples of both Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze. Paint large swatches on your walls viewing during day and night. This gives you the best sense of their undertones and depth.
You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer dark neutrals that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze paint colors:
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze
- Accent Walls
- Small Bathrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
- Kitchens
While both work throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their contrasting strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze make bold statements. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Kendall Charcoal HC-166 Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
- Benjamin Moore Forest Path
- Black accent pieces
- Aged wood finishes
- White trim and mouldings
Urbane Bronze SW 7048 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Black and white graphic prints
- Wood furniture and finishes
- Brass hardware and lighting
Kendall Charcoal vs Urbane Bronze – Which is Better?
So which dark neutral paint color is better for your home – Kendall Charcoal or Urbane Bronze?
Consider Kendall Charcoal HC-166 if you want:
- A warm, cozy dark gray all-over color
- A versatile neutral that fits traditional decor
- An understated backdrop for bedrooms
- Soft, muted contrast
Consider Urbane Bronze SW 7048 if you want:
- A bold, intense brown accent color
- Maximum drama and visual impact
- Striking contrast for modern, contemporary spaces
- A saturated color for small doses
While Kendall Charcoal is subtle, Urbane Bronze makes a statement. Get samples before deciding. Either rich neutral you choose will suit your home beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Kendall Charcoal or Urbane Bronze? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Kendall Charcoal and Urbane Bronze?
The main differences are their undertones and uses. Kendall Charcoal is a warm dark gray suitable for full rooms. Urbane Bronze is an intense brown best for accents.
What colors go well with Urbane Bronze?
Urbane Bronze looks beautiful paired with lighter accents like white, light blue, brass metallics, and wood tones for nice contrast.
Can you use Kendall Charcoal in a kitchen?
Yes, Kendall Charcoal’s subtle and sophisticated gray hue would work wonderfully in a kitchen paired with white cabinets for a modern look.
Is Urbane Bronze suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Urbane Bronze’s 8 LRV is dark enough for a south facing room. Add lighter accents to balance the intensity.
Does Kendall Charcoal come in satin finish?
Yes, Kendall Charcoal comes in flat, eggshell, and satin finishes to suit any preference and application.
