When searching for the perfect neutral paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades. Popular options like Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige SW 7036 and Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these beautiful neutrals?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Accessible Beige vs Edgecomb Gray in-depth to help you determine the right paint color 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 Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige and Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray:
- Undertones – Accessible Beige is a warm beige, Edgecomb Gray is a cool greige
- Light Reflectance – Accessible Beige has an LRV of 58, Edgecomb Gray has an LRV of 63.09
- Use – Accessible Beige suits traditional decor, Edgecomb Gray fits modern transitional spaces
- Rooms – Accessible Beige excels in living rooms, Edgecomb Gray shines in kitchens
- Availability – Both come in all paint sheens
Now let’s explore Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray more thoroughly.
Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige SW 7036
With its warm ivory hue, Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige SW 7036 creates an inviting backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile neutral works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Accessible Beige:
- LRV: 58
- Undertones: Warm ivory beige
- Finish: Available in all paint sheens
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Deep and navy blues, grays, wood tones
Accessible Beige is a soft washed out beige with distinct warm undertones. In certain lights it can take on a light camel or buttery cream appearance. The welcoming neutral has traditional appeal.
The 58 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark or dreary. Accessible Beige strikes a nice balance between cozy and bright.
This versatile beige complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular color pairings include:
- Sherwin-Williams Pure White
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
- Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Antique brass hardware and fixtures
While suitable anywhere in the home, Accessible Beige truly excels in these spaces:
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
Accessible Beige’s warm coziness helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color.
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173
With its hushed gray appearance, Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173 creates an understated backdrop suitable for both contemporary and classic spaces. This versatile greige has wide appeal.
Here are some details about Edgecomb Gray:
- LRV: 63.09
- Undertones: Cool greige
- Finish: Available in all paint sheens
- Rooms: Whole home color, especially living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms
- Pairs Well With: Bolds, whites, blacks, woods
Edgecomb Gray is a soft muted dove gray with subtle hints of beige. In certain lights it can take on a weathered blue-gray appearance. The adaptable neutral straddles both cool and warm tones.
The 63.09 light reflectance value keeps Edgecomb Gray light enough without being too stark or crisp. It strikes a harmonious balance suitable for most rooms.
This greige complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted tones. Popular Edgecomb Gray pairings include:
- Sherwin-Williams Pure White
- Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
- Ebony stained wood
- Matte black hardware
While suitable anywhere in a home, Edgecomb Gray truly shines in these spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
Edgecomb Gray’s understated versatility helps create a soothing, welcoming backdrop perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow other colors to pop.
Comparing Accessible Beige vs Edgecomb Gray
Now that we’ve looked at Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Accessible Beige has an LRV of 58 compared to Edgecomb Gray’s 63.09 LRV. This makes Accessible Beige noticeably lighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Accessible Beige is warm with yellow-beige undertones. Edgecomb Gray has subtle cool gray undertones.
Use & Rooms
Accessible Beige’s cozy warmth excels in living rooms and bedrooms. Edgecomb Gray’s cool adaptability allows whole home use.
Availability
Both Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray come in any sheen from matte to high-gloss.
Accessible Beige vs Edgecomb Gray Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Accessible Beige SW 7036 | Edgecomb Gray HC-173 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 58 | 63.09 |
| Undertones | Warm beige | Cool greige |
| Use | Living rooms, offices | Whole home color |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Traditional, classic | Modern, transitional |
Real-Life Photos: Accessible Beige vs Edgecomb Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray:
Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray
While they may overlap in some spaces, Accessible Beige generally reads as distinctly warm toned compared to the subtle cool greige of Edgecomb Gray. But lighting affects their appearance.
Should I Choose Accessible Beige or Edgecomb Gray?
So how do you decide between Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige or Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Accessible Beige SW 7036 if you want:
- A warm ivory beige shade
- An inviting backdrop for living spaces
- To accentuate traditional decor
- A cozy, welcoming ambiance
Choose Edgecomb Gray HC-173 if you want:
- A cool, understated greige
- A versatile whole home neutral
- A relaxing but modern feel
- To allow bold colors to pop
Get samples of both Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray. Paint large sections on your walls viewing at different times of day. This gives you the best sense of how the undertones come across in your lighting.
You can also pair them with decor you already have. Both are beautiful, versatile neutrals that suit many styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray paint colors:
Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
While both can work well throughout a home, the above applications tend to make optimal use of their distinct qualities.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Accessible Beige SW 7036 Pairings
- Sherwin-Williams Pure White
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Antique brass hardware and fixtures
- Navy or forest green accents
Edgecomb Gray HC-173 Pairings
- Sherwin-Williams Pure White
- Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green
- Matte black hardware
- Ebony stained wood
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
Accessible Beige vs Edgecomb Gray – Which is Better?
So which neutral paint color is the better choice for your home – Accessible Beige or Edgecomb Gray?
Consider Accessible Beige SW 7036 if you want:
- A warm ivory beige with yellow undertones
- A cozy welcoming backdrop for living spaces
- To accentuate classic traditional decor
- An inviting, peaceful ambiance
Consider Edgecomb Gray HC-173 if you want:
- A soft understated greige with cool undertones
- A versatile neutral suitable for any room
- A relaxing but still modern feel
- A paint color that allows bold colors to pop
While Accessible Beige offers coziness, Edgecomb Gray provides subtle sophistication.
Get samples before deciding. Either versatile neutral you choose will suit your home beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Accessible Beige or Edgecomb Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Accessible Beige and Edgecomb Gray?
The main differences are their undertones and suitability for varied styles. Accessible Beige is a warm ivory beige while Edgecomb Gray is a cooler, more modern greige.
What colors complement Accessible Beige?
Rich blues, forest greens, crisp whites, gray, and wood tones pair nicely with the warm ivory hue of Accessible Beige.
Can you use Edgecomb Gray in a nursery?
Yes, Edgecomb Gray’s subtle sophistication would work nicely in a nursery for a relaxing yet engaging backdrop. Its greige tone is versatile.
Is Accessible Beige suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Accessible Beige’s 58 LRV provides enough brightness for a south facing room without being overwhelming.
Does Edgecomb Gray come in semi-gloss?
Yes, Edgecomb Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss semi-gloss to suit diverse style needs.
