BM Collingwood (OC-28) Review: A Soft Neutral Shade

When selecting the perfect neutral for your home, the variety of grays available can be overwhelming.

Benjamin Moore Collingwood (OC-28) might be the ideal color if you’re looking for a warm and inviting shade. 

With its subtle beige undertones, this light gray is a favorite among homeowners and designers alike for its versatility and understated style.

If you’re looking to refresh a single room or redesign your entire home, Collingwood offers a perfect balance of light and warmth, making it suitable for virtually any space. 

In this blog, we’ll share everything you need to know about Collingwood — from its unique undertones to how to incorporate it into your home design.

By the end, you’ll understand why this gray should be at the top of your list.

Why Collingwood Stands Out: A Balance of Light and Warmth

Unlike cooler grays, which sometimes feel too harsh, Benjamin Moore Collingwood leans toward a warmer, softer side. 

Its subtle blend of gray with soft beige undertones makes it the perfect choice for those who want gray’s calm, neutral quality without the coldness that other shades may bring.

One of the biggest draws of Collingwood is its ability to work seamlessly across different types of interiors. 

This gray can adapt to a modern, minimalist space or a more traditional, cozy atmosphere. 

It creates a serene and inviting environment, so it’s often used in bedrooms, living rooms, and even kitchens.

Understanding Collingwood’s Unique CharacterThe Perfect Balance of Warmth and Light

Collingwood strikes an ideal balance with its warm undertones, unlike cooler grays that can feel harsh or clinical.

The color maintains its gray base while incorporating subtle beige notes, creating a refined neutral that feels both contemporary and welcoming.

A Closer Look at Undertones

Collingwood’s undertones are what truly set it apart:

Primary undertone: Soft beige that provides warmthSecondary notes: Subtle taupe that adds depthNo purple or green undertones that can make some grays feel coldThe Science of Light: LRV and Room Impact

With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 63, Collingwood sits in the sweet spot of the medium-light range. This means that:

Reflects enough light to brighten spaces without causing glareMaintains its color integrity in both bright and dimmer conditionsCreates an excellent backdrop for artwork and furnishingsSeasonal ConsiderationsNatural Light ChangesSpring/Summer: Color appears lightest and warmestFall/Winter: Takes on a slightly cooler, more gray appearanceMorning light: Brings out warm undertonesEvening light: Creates a softer, more muted effectBest Application TimingIdeal temperature range: 65-85°FOptimal humidity: 40-50%Best seasons: Spring and FallAvoid painting during extreme temperature conditionsComplementary Colors for Collingwood

One of the main advantages of Collingwood is its versatility in pairing with other colors.

It blends beautifully with a wide range of hues, allowing you to create diverse looks based on your preferences and needs.

Below are a few complementary colors that work wonderfully with Collingwood in various settings:

1. Soft Neutrals and Creams

If you’re looking for a subtle, cohesive palette, pairing Collingwood with soft neutrals like cream, beige, or off-white creates a calm and serene space. 

This combination is perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, or any area where you want a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

Best Matches:

Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17)Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee (OC-45)Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)2. Rich, Deep Grays

You can pair Collingwood with darker, more intense grays for a more modern and refined look. 

This creates a balanced contrast that adds depth to the room without feeling too dark or moody.

Best Matches:

Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal (HC-166)Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray (HC-168)Sherwin-Williams Dorian Gray (SW 7017)3. Earthy Tones and Greens

Combine Collingwood with muted greens or soft brown tones for a more organic, nature-inspired design. 

The earthy elements work beautifully with the warm undertones in Collingwood, creating a grounded, natural feel.

Best Matches:

Benjamin Moore Ashwood (AF-10)Benjamin Moore Rushing River (SW 7746)Sherwin-Williams Sea Salt (SW 6204)4. Warm Wood Tones

Pairing Collingwood with natural wood tones brings a rustic warmth to your space. 

Whether it’s oak, walnut, or cherry wood, the combination of soft gray with rich wood accents creates a balanced and timeless look.

Best Matches:

Stain Color Classic Cherry (SW 3110) and Walnut Stain(MW439).Roy Croft Copper Red(SW2839), Green Vibes(SW6928) complement the warmth in Collingwood5. Soft Pastels

Pair Collingwood with pastel tones such as pale pinks, blues, or lavender for a softer, lighter look. 

This combination works well for nurseries, bedrooms, or spaces where you want a light and refreshing vibe.

Best Matches:

Benjamin Moore Passion Pink (2075-60)Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray (HC-171)Sherwin-Williams Regale Blue (SW 6801)How to Use Collingwood in Your Home

Due to its versatility, Collingwood works well in various areas of the home. 

Here are a few ways you can incorporate this soft gray into your space:

Living Room

Collingwood can provide a light and airy atmosphere in the living room while feeling warm and inviting. 

Pair it with soft neutrals, deep Grays, or pops of rich colors to create a space that feels refined yet comfortable. 

The warmth in the color makes it ideal for creating a cozy setting for entertaining or relaxation.

Bedroom

Collingwood is an excellent choice for the bedroom if you’re after a serene, restful retreat.

Its subtle warmth helps promote relaxation and pairs beautifully with soft whites, pastel tones, or rich wood furniture. 

The neutral color allows you to easily switch up your bedding and accessories and refresh your space whenever you like.

Kitchen

Collingwood provides a fresh, neutral backdrop for your cabinetry and countertops in the kitchen. 

Pair it with white or Gray cabinets, stainless steel accents, or warm wood finishes for a clean, timeless look.

If you’re going for a modern or classic style, this soft Gray works beautifully in the heart of your home.

Bathroom

In the bathroom, Collingwood creates a spa-like, best atmosphere. 

Combine it with white tiles, natural stone, or even wood accents to create a refined, relaxing space.

Its ability to reflect light while maintaining warmth makes it a great choice for bathrooms with limited natural light.

Final Thoughts

Benjamin Moore Collingwood is a soft, refined Gray that can uplift any room in your home. 

Its balanced undertones of Gray and beige create a versatile, warm neutral that works well in various settings. 

If you’re designing a modern, minimalist space or a traditional, cozy retreat, Collingwood offers the flexibility and timeless appeal you’re looking for.

Its moderate LRV reflects just the right amount of light, making it perfect for bright and dimly lit rooms. 

The range of complementary colors you can pair with Collingwood only adds to its versatility, allowing you to create a space that is uniquely yours.

If you’re searching for a color that strikes the perfect balance between light and warmth, Collingwood is an excellent choice to enhance your home for years to come.

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