Seapearl by Benjamin Moore (OC-19) is a sophisticated off-white that balances cool gray and warm yellow undertones. It’s a versatile shade that adapts well to different lighting conditions, making it a go-to choice for many homeowners and interior designers.
The LRV of Seapearl and Why It Matters
Seapearl has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 76, meaning it reflects a substantial amount of light while still maintaining some depth. This allows it to work in both bright and dimly lit spaces without appearing too stark or too dull.
The Undertones of Seapearl
How Lighting Affects Seapearl’s Undertones
- South-facing rooms: Seapearl appears warmer, with a creamy beige touch.
- North-facing rooms: It leans cooler, bringing out its subtle gray hues.
- Artificial lighting: The warmth or coolness of your bulbs will influence how Seapearl reads on your walls.
Comparing Seapearl to Other Off-Whites
- BM Classic Gray: Seapearl is slightly warmer and lighter.
- BM Dove Wing: Dove Wing has more saturation, giving it a richer feel.
- BM Swiss Coffee: Swiss Coffee is much warmer and reflects more light.
- BM Pale Oak: Pale Oak has stronger beige undertones, while Seapearl leans more neutral.
Where to Use Seapearl in Your Home
Living Rooms
Seapearl provides a fresh and welcoming atmosphere in living rooms. It pairs beautifully with wood furniture, soft textiles, and various decor styles, from modern to farmhouse.
Bedrooms
For a serene bedroom, Seapearl offers the perfect balance of warmth and lightness. Pair it with crisp white linens and soft neutrals for a relaxing retreat.
Kitchens
Seapearl is excellent for kitchen walls and cabinets, providing a clean and timeless look. It works well with both warm-toned and cool-toned countertops and backsplashes.
Bathrooms
Due to its balanced undertones, Seapearl works beautifully in bathrooms, giving them a spa-like, refreshing appeal. Consider pairing it with marble or matte black accents.
Home Exteriors
Seapearl’s neutral quality makes it a great exterior color. It looks stunning against dark trims and natural stone elements.
Best Trim Colors for Seapearl
Crisp White Trim Options
- BM Simply White – A soft, warm white that contrasts beautifully.
- SW Extra White – A cool, bright white for a modern touch.
- Behr Ultra Pure White – A true white that enhances Seapearl’s depth.
Tone-on-Tone Trim for a Seamless Look
Using Seapearl in a semi-gloss finish on trim while keeping walls in an eggshell or matte finish creates a subtle, elegant contrast.
Coordinating Colors for Seapearl
Cool-Toned Pairings
- BM Stonington Gray – A soft gray for a monochromatic look.
- BM Gray Owl – A warm gray that adds subtle depth.
- BM Arctic Gray – A cool blue-gray for a serene palette.
Warm-Toned Pairings
- BM Antique Pewter – A muted green-gray for an earthy touch.
- BM Storm Cloud Gray – A deeper gray for contrast.
- BM Knoxville Gray – A dramatic blue-gray accent.
Pro Tips for Decorating with Seapearl
- Test Before You Commit: Always swatch Seapearl in different areas of your room to see how lighting affects it.
- Layer in Textures: Add depth by incorporating wood, linen, and metal finishes.
- Use Accent Walls: Pair Seapearl with a bold accent wall for a dynamic space.
FAQs About Seapearl
Is Seapearl a warm or cool paint color?
Seapearl is a warm off-white, but it has enough gray undertones to balance it out, making it highly adaptable.
How does Seapearl compare to Classic Gray?
Classic Gray is a touch cooler and darker, while Seapearl has a bit more warmth and brightness.
Is Seapearl a good choice for small rooms?
Yes! With its high LRV, it reflects light well, making small rooms appear larger and airier.
Can Seapearl be used on kitchen cabinets?
Absolutely! It’s a fantastic choice for cabinets, offering a classic and timeless look that pairs well with various hardware and countertop choices.
Will Seapearl look too yellow?
Not at all. While it has warm undertones, its gray balance prevents it from appearing too yellow.
Seapearl by Benjamin Moore is a timeless, sophisticated choice for any home, offering versatility and elegance across various design styles. Whether you’re painting a single room or your entire home, this off-white hue is sure to provide a beautiful and enduring backdrop.
