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Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray: Undertones and Where It Works

boothbay gray hc-165 paint color

Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray HC-165 is a soft blue-gray paint color known for its calming appearance. With its subtle coastal feel and balanced undertones, Boothbay Gray has become a popular choice for homeowners looking to create spaces that feel relaxed and clean

Because it sits between blue, gray, and a touch of green, Boothbay Gray can shift throughout the day depending on lighting and surrounding finishes. In many homes throughout Queens and Brooklyn neighborhoods like Forest Hills and Williamsburg, this color is often used to create airy interiors that still feel warm and inviting.

What Color Is Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray HC-165?

Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray HC-165 is a medium-toned blue-gray paint color with soft coastal undertones. While it clearly leans gray overall, its blue influence gives it a lighter and more tranquil appearance than traditional grays.

Depending on the lighting, Boothbay Gray can appear:

  • Soft gray in bright natural light
  • More blue in cooler north-facing rooms
  • Slightly blue-green in certain evening lighting
  • Crisp and airy when paired with bright white trim

Its versatility allows it to work in both modern and traditional spaces without feeling overly trendy.

Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray Undertones

Boothbay Gray features:

  • Blue undertones
  • Gray undertones
  • Slight hints of green

The gray base keeps the color grounded, while the blue undertones create a calming atmosphere. In some lighting conditions, especially near natural greenery or warm wood finishes, a subtle green influence may become noticeable.

Unlike brighter blue paint colors, Boothbay Gray remains muted and refined.

Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray LRV

Boothbay Gray has an LRV of approximately 43.26. With an LRV in the low 40s, this paint color falls into the medium range, meaning it offers noticeable color depth while still helping rooms feel open and comfortable.

In brighter spaces, the color feels lighter and softer. In darker rooms, the gray undertones become more pronounced.

Where Does Boothbay Gray Work Best?

  1. Living Rooms: Boothbay Gray creates a calm and welcoming atmosphere in living rooms, especially when paired with warm woods, textured fabrics, and layered neutral décor.
  2. Kitchens: This color works beautifully on kitchen walls, built-ins, and even cabinetry. It pairs especially well with marble-style countertops, brushed nickel hardware, and crisp white trim.
  3. Bedrooms: The soft blue-gray undertones help bedrooms feel peaceful and relaxing without becoming too cold.
  4. Bathrooms: Boothbay Gray is a popular bathroom color because of its spa-like appearance. In homes throughout areas like Astoria and Morris Park, it is often used to create bright yet calming bathroom spaces.

What Colors Pair Well With Boothbay Gray?

Crisp & Soft Whites

  • Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65
  • Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
  • Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117

Coordinating Grays & Neutrals

Accent Colors

  • Navy blue
  • Sage green
  • Charcoal
  • Warm taupe tones

Wood & Metal Finishes

  • Natural oak and weathered wood tones
  • Brushed nickel and polished chrome finishes.

Is Boothbay Gray More Blue or Gray?

Boothbay Gray is generally considered more gray than blue, but the blue undertones are still very noticeable. In bright natural light, the color often appears softer and grayer, while cooler lighting conditions can bring out more of the blue influence.

Because of this balance, Boothbay Gray works well for homeowners who want a hint of color without committing to a bold blue paint.

Final Thoughts

If you’re considering Boothbay Gray for your next project, stop by one of our local paint stores to speak with our paint experts, explore Benjamin Moore samples, and find the right products for your space.