When choosing the perfect warm, neutral paint color, two top options from Benjamin Moore are Pale Oak OC-20 and Revere Pewter HC-172. At first glance, these two light tan paints can appear very similar. But looking closer, there are noticeable differences between them that impact their aesthetics and uses.
In this article, we’ll compare Benjamin Moore Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter in-depth. We’ll analyze their undertones, LRV’s, real-world photos, and best room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how these two neutrals differ and which warm tan is the ideal choice for your space.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Pale Oak and Revere Pewter
Before examining all the details, here is a brief overview of how Pale Oak and Revere Pewter differ:
- Undertones: Pale Oak is a yellow-brown, Revere Pewter is a gray-brown.
- LRV: Pale Oak has a higher 68.64 LRV, Revere Pewter is darker at 55.05 LRV.
- Use: Pale Oak works well whole-home, Revere Pewter best accenting.
- Rooms: Pale Oak suits living rooms, Revere Pewter excels in bathrooms.
Now let’s explore Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter more closely!
Benjamin Moore Pale Oak OC-20
Pale Oak OC-20 is a gorgeous light tan paint color with subtle yellow undertones. Its versatility and brightness has made it hugely popular.
Here are some details about Pale Oak:
- LRV: 68.64
- Undertones: Yellow-brown
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, offices, halls
- Pairs With: Greens, blues, tans
Pale Oak is a pale golden yellow-brown tan without strong undertones. The yellow influence gives it a laidback warmth and brightness.
With an LRV of 68.64, Pale Oak reflects ample light to avoid feeling dark or dingy. The hint of yellow maintains an uplifting, sunny vibe.
This versatile neutral pairs beautifully with a wide color palette. Great combinations include:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
- Benjamin Moore Coventry Gray
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
While suitable anywhere, this sunny tan excels when used as the main paint color in:
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Hallways
Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172
Revere Pewter HC-172 is a gorgeous light gray-brown paint color with widespread popularity. Its versatility works across styles.
Here are some key details about Revere Pewter:
- LRV: 55.05
- Undertones: Gray-brown
- Sheen: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, accent walls
- Pairs With: Grays, blues, greens
Revere Pewter is a pale tan with subtle cool gray-brown undertones. This gives it a sophisticated neutral appearance.
With an LRV of 55.05, Revere Pewter reflects less light than lighter paint colors. This allows it to add cozy contrast as an accent shade. The grayness maintains an open feeling.
Some pleasing color combinations with Revere Pewter include:
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
- Benjamin Moore Coventry Gray
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
While great anywhere, this refined neutral excels when used strategically to accent:
- Bathrooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Kitchens
- Doors and trim
Comparing Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter
Now that we’ve explored Pale Oak and Revere Pewter individually, let’s directly compare the two paint colors:
Light Reflectance
With an LRV of 68.64, Pale Oak reflects substantially more light than the 55.05 LRV of Revere Pewter. Pale Oak will feel brighter and more cheerful.
Undertones
Here is the main difference. Pale Oak is a yellow-brown while Revere Pewter is a gray-brown.
Pale Oak’s yellowness gives it laidback warmth. Revere Pewter’s grayness feels more sophisticated.
Rooms
Pale Oak’s brightness makes it great whole-home, especially living rooms and bedrooms. Revere Pewter shines accenting bathrooms, kitchens, and with darker woods.
Paint Finishes
Both Pale Oak and Revere Pewter come in any sheen from matte to high-gloss. They provide beautiful, warm finishes.
Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of their major differences:
| Paint Color | Pale Oak OC-20 | Revere Pewter HC-172 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 68.64 | 55.05 |
| Undertones | Yellow-brown | Gray-brown |
| Use | Whole-home color | Accent color |
| Sheens | All finishes | All finishes |
Real Rooms Painted in Pale Oak and Revere Pewter
To better visualize Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter, let’s look at real rooms painted in the two Benjamin Moore colors:
Pale Oak OC-20
Revere Pewter HC-172
The images demonstrate how Pale Oak appears brighter and more yellow than subtle, sophisticated Revere Pewter. But lighting can make them seem somewhat similar.
Should You Choose Pale Oak or Revere Pewter?
So which warm neutral paint color is the better choice for your space – laidback Pale Oak or refined Revere Pewter? Here are a few tips for deciding:
Pick Pale Oak OC-20 if you want:
- A light tan with yellow undertones
- A casual whole-home color
- Bright cheerfulness for living areas
- A versatile neutral suitable anywhere
Choose Revere Pewter HC-172 if you want:
- A light brown with subtle gray undertones
- Sophisticated elegance perfect as an accent
- A cozy feel without being too dark
- A soft neutral for focal walls and trim
If still uncertain between the two, get samples and paint large swatches on your walls. View throughout different lighting and times before deciding.
Either Benjamin Moore paint color you select will provide beauty and warmth. But their differences mean one likely better suits your goals and style.
Ideal Room Applications
Here are some rooms that often suit Pale Oak and Revere Pewter best:
Pale Oak OC-20
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Hallways
Revere Pewter HC-172
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Doors and trim
Both can work well throughout any home, but the above applications maximize the strengths of each.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Pale Oak and Revere Pewter create welcoming backdrops. Paired with other colors and materials, they create gorgeous spaces:
Pale Oak Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (trim/ceilings)
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (accent wall)
- Benjamin Moore Coventry Gray (furniture)
- Medium wood tones
Revere Pewter Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore White Dove (trim/cabinets)
- Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green (accent wall)
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (furniture)
- Matte black fixtures
Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter – Which Color is Best for You?
When choosing between Pale Oak and Revere Pewter, keep your goals and preferences in mind:
Pick Pale Oak OC-20 if you want:
- A laidback light tan with yellow tones
- A casual whole-home color
- To brighten up living rooms and bedrooms
- A versatile neutral suitable everywhere
Choose Revere Pewter HC-172 if you want:
- A light brown with subtle cool undertones
- Sophisticated elegance perfect for accents
- A neutral with more depth than a pale cream
- Refined contrast for focal walls and trim
While they share some similarities, the differences mean one likely better suits your space. Get color swatches before deciding between casual Pale Oak and elegant Revere Pewter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter? Here are answers to some common questions:
Does Revere Pewter have any green undertones?
No, Revere Pewter does not have distinct green undertones. It leans solidly toward gray-brown tones without hints of green, blue, or yellow.
What colors complement Pale Oak on walls?
Pale Oak pairs beautifully with light blues, grays, whites and even some deeper colors like navy. Crisp whites like Chantilly Lace help highlight its laidback warmth.
Which Benjamin Moore paint color is darker?
With an LRV of 55.05, Revere Pewter is noticeably darker than the 68.64 LRV of light Pale Oak. However, Revere Pewter still reflects enough light to avoid feeling too somber.
Can you use Revere Pewter in a living room?
Yes, Revere Pewter can work well in living rooms when used strategically. Pair it with light airy walls and use Revere Pewter on an accent wall or fireplace to add cozy sophistication.
Is Pale Oak suitable for bathrooms?
Definitely! While Revere Pewter is more popular in bathrooms, the laidback Pale Oak tan can also give warmth to a bathroom without going too dark.
Conclusion
When comparing Benjamin Moore’s Pale Oak vs Revere Pewter paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:
- Pale Oak is a yellow-brown that works well whole-home providing laidback, casual brightness.
- Revere Pewter is a gray-brown that excels when used as an accent adding sophisticated elegance.
While they share some similarities, the contrasts in undertone and formality help one likely better suit your goals. Consider your space when deciding between Pale Oak and Revere Pewter. With large samples, you’ll confidently choose the perfect warm neutral!
