Soft neutrals continue to dominate interior design because they offer flexibility without feeling stark or cold. Two frequently compared options are City Loft and Classic Gray. Both are light, subtle neutrals, but their undertones can create different moods in your home.
Here’s how they compare.
Overall Color Tone
Sherwin-Williams City Loft (SW 7631)
- Soft greige
- Noticeable warmth
- Slight beige-pink undertone in certain lighting
- City Loft feels a bit deeper and warmer
Benjamin Moore Classic Gray (OC-23)
- Very light greige
- Subtle warm undertone
- Often reads off-white in bright spaces
- Classic Gray feels lighter and more airy
Undertones: Where They Differ
City Loft Undertones
- Beige base
- Soft gray influence
- Faint peach or pink undertone in warm lighting
- In some rooms, especially south-facing spaces, City Loft can appear warmer than expected
Classic Gray Undertones
- Light greige base
- Soft warmth without strong yellow
- Very subtle violet-gray influence in certain light
- Classic Gray is typically more restrained and neutral overall
If you want more visible warmth → City Loft.
If you want a lighter, barely-there neutral → Classic Gray
LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
- Sherwin-Williams City Loft LRV: 70
- Benjamin Moore Classic Gray LRV: 74.8
In smaller or darker rooms:
- Classic Gray reflects noticeably more light and it will feel brighter
- City Loft may feel slightly more grounded
The difference in LRV can significantly impact how open a space feels.
How They Look in Different Lighting
North-Facing Rooms:
- City Loft may feel more beige
- Classic Gray may show subtle gray-violet undertones
South-Facing Rooms:
- City Loft warms up considerably
- Classic Gray remains soft and balanced
Artificial Lighting: As with all soft neutrals, lighting makes a major difference. Warm bulbs can:
- Bring out peach tones in City Loft
- Add gentle warmth to Classic Gray
Best Uses for City Loft
Sherwin-Williams City Loft works well in:
- Open-concept living areas
- Homes with warm flooring
- Transitional interiors
- Spaces with creamy trim
It pairs beautifully with:
- Warm whites
- Brass hardware
- Natural wood tones
- Wood and faux wood blinds
Best Uses for Classic Gray
Benjamin Moore Classic Gray shines in:
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Light-filled living rooms
- Homes with cooler finishes
It pairs nicely with:
- Crisp white trim
- Light oak floors
- Soft gray accents
- Decorative concrete plasters
Because of its higher LRV, it works especially well when you want a light, airy feel.
Which One is More Versatile?
Classic Gray is often easier to use throughout an entire home because of its brightness and subtle undertones. City Loft has more warmth and personality, which can be ideal — but requires slightly more attention to surrounding finishes.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose City Loft if:
- You prefer warmer neutrals
- You have warm wood tones
- You want a slightly richer greige
Choose Classic Gray if:
- You want a light, airy neutral
- You prefer subtle undertones
- You’re aiming for a brighter overall look
What This Means for Homeowners
City Loft and Classic Gray are both safe, sophisticated neutrals. Before committing:
- Sample both on multiple walls.
- View them morning and evening.
- Compare against other aspects of the room like trim, flooring, and cabinets.
- Visit one of our paint stores near you and get guidance from trained team members that love to help!
