12 of the Best Blue Gray Paint Colors to Transform Your Home 

Looking for the perfect blue gray paint color for your home? Blue gray shades are versatile, calming, and stylish, making them a popular choice in modern interiors. From soft, light hues to deep, dramatic tones, blue gray paint colors can adapt to various rooms and styles, adding elegance and depth to any space. Whether you’re refreshing a living room or adding a sense of calm to a bedroom, here’s a list of some of our favorite top blue gray paint colors to inspire your next project.

What Makes a Blue Gray Paint Color? Examining the Spectral Data

Color perception can be extremely subjective. The quality of light in a space, individual color acuity, and the surrounding environment all affect how we perceive color. That’s why at Three Bears Home Staging we like to take a look at something more scientific. Spectral data provides an objective way to compare and analyze paint colors, offering a precise breakdown of color components beyond what the eye can perceive. By examining hue angles, chroma, and light reflectance values, we can determine where a color falls on the color spectrum and how saturated or muted or bright it will appear on the wall.

Lighting has a HUGE effect on an interior paint color’s appearance. If you want your paint to look right, you’ve got to be sure you’re using the right light bulbs! For full details, read our blog post, How to Choose the Right Light Bulb for Home Staging & Paint Color

Hue Family: What Are Blue Gray “Undertones”?

Blue grays are muted, versatile colors from the Blue hue family. How do we know this? If you were to measure the dominant hue angle (h°) of each of the paint colors listed in this article using a colorimeter or spectrophotometer, you’d see that they all have a dominant hue angle between 217° and 252° — also known as the Blue family (see the color wheel below). Paint colors in the Blue family are considered “cool.” We’ve included each color’s hue angle below.

That being said, some of these blues may look a bit warmer or cooler when compared to one another (or to their environment). If you plot these colors onto a color wheel (below), you can see some blue grays are closer to the Blue-Green neighborhood (warmer), and some live closer to the Purple-Blue neighborhood (cooler). Viewing these colors in relation to one another on the color wheel makes it easier to see why some blue grays have a green “undertone” and some have a purple “undertone.” This also explains why some may work better with warmer or cooler coordinating colors.

Chroma: How Blue or Gray Is Your Blue Gray Paint Color?

Chroma (C), or colorfulness, is another objective value we examine when comparing paint colors. The blue grays we chose have relatively low chroma values, all below 9. That means their dominant color (blue) is blended with a significant amount of gray, resulting in a softer, more neutral appearance. If you prefer a color that leans more into its blue side or its gray side, take a look at the chroma value. Higher chroma blue grays, like Mt. Rainier Gray or Amsterdam, are bluer, more colorful options. Colors with a lower chroma value, like Silent Night and African Gray, are less visibly blue and more gray-looking. We’ve included chroma values for each color below.

LRV: Is Your Favorite Blue Gray Light and Bright or Moody and Dark?

Finally, it’s also worth noting each color’s light reflectance value. Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is a measure of how much available light a paint reflects back into a room, with 100% being highly reflective and zero being not reflective at all. Higher LRV colors reflect more light and can make a space feel brighter, while lower LRV colors reflect less light, creating a darker, cozier ambiance. The colors we’ve selected below are listed in order from highest LRV to lowest LRV. 

Soft and Light Blue Gray Paint Colors

Light blue gray paint colors with high light reflectance values (LRVs) are perfect for creating bright, airy spaces. Because they reflect a significant amount of light, these colors often look even brighter on a full wall than they do on a small paint chip in the store. Paint colors with an LRV between 60 and 65 strike an ideal balance for most interiors, as they bring enough light into the room without overwhelming the space. This makes them especially well-suited for rooms with average lighting, where they can enhance the sense of openness and tranquility without appearing too intense or too dark.

1. Benjamin Moore Mt. Rainier Gray 2129-60 

Spectral data: LRV: 59 | C: 8.61 | h°: 223.045°

This light and airy blue gray is perfect for spaces where you want a touch of color. Mt. Rainier Gray feels open and refreshing, making it ideal for smaller rooms or areas with less natural light. Mr. Rainier is the bluest color on our list, but its high LRV calms it down and keeps it from feeling too intense.

Need a similar color in a different brand? Try Sherwin-Williams Sleepy Blue SW 6225.

2. Benjamin Moore Gentle Gray 1626

Spectral data: LRV: 57 | C: 3.61 | h°: 236.672°

If you’re looking for a light, bright blue gray that’s a little less colorful, take a look at Gentle Gray. Gentle Gray is a versatile light blue gray paint with a soft undertone that creates a welcoming atmosphere. Its subtle hue complements both cool and warm decor, offering a timeless look that won’t go out of style. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? Sherwin Williams Upward 6239, the 2024 Color of the Year, is close but be aware that it definitely leans into it’s purple side (almost a periwinkle).

Popular Blue Gray Paint Shades with Medium Tones

Popular blue gray paint shades with medium tones fall within an LRV range of 36 to 55, offering a balanced depth that holds up well even in bright rooms. These shades start reflecting more light at an LRV of around 50, allowing them to maintain a soft glow without becoming too intense. However, in rooms with little or no natural light, these medium-tone colors—especially those with a lower chroma value—can feel slightly heavier or muted. This makes them ideal for well-lit areas where their subtle blend of blue and gray brings depth and sophistication without feeling overly dark or flat. Medium blue gray shades are versatile enough to complement both modern and traditional decor, making them a popular choice for high-traffic areas or spaces needing a touch of warmth and elegance.

3. Benjamin Moore Silent Night 1613

Spectral data: LRV: 45 | C: 2.39 | h°: 251.058°

This slightly darker blue gray paint shade provides a bit more depth while still feeling serene. It’s also the coolest color on our list so you may see it lean a bit purple in certain qualities of light. Silent Night pairs well with neutral furnishings and adds sophistication to any space. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? Check out Sherwin-Williams Stardew SW 9138.

4. Sherwin-Williams Uncertain Gray SW 6234 

Spectral data: LRV: 43 | C: 3.13 | h°: 219.584°

Uncertain Gray SW 6234 balances blue and gray effortlessly, making it a go-to choice for those who love a modern aesthetic. Of the colors on our list, this one is closest to the Blue-Green hue family so you might notice a wink more green in the right light. This bit of warmth also tends to make it a more flexible color for many homes (in our experience). Uncertain Gray’s medium tone provides just the right amount of color without overwhelming the space. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? Take a look at Benjamin Moore Marina 1599.

5. Benjamin Moore Solitude AF-545

Spectral data: LRV: 42 | C: 4.56 | h°: 235.427°

Solitude AF-545 offers a serene, mid-tone blue gray that complements contemporary and traditional decor alike. Its soft blue undertones create a relaxing ambiance perfect for unwinding at home. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? We like Sherwin-Williams Morning Fog SW 6255.

Rich and Dark Blue Gray Paint Colors for a Bold Look

Dark blue gray paint colors with an LRV of 35 or lower make a bold, dramatic statement in any space. These low LRV colors are deep and moody, reflecting only a small amount of light, which gives them a refined, almost velvety appearance. In well-lit rooms, these colors reveal a brighter, more distinct blue-gray hue that can add depth without overwhelming the space. However, in areas with minimal natural light, these rich tones can appear almost black, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere that works beautifully in bedrooms, media rooms, and accent walls. Ideal for creating contrast and emphasizing architectural details, dark blue gray shades bring sophistication and boldness to a well-designed space.

6. Sherwin-Williams Debonair SW 9139

Spectral data: LRV: 34 | C: 6.78 | h°: 231.880°

Debonair SW 9139 has a touch of warmth that sets it apart from other blue grays, making it versatile and inviting. This medium blue gray paint color works beautifully in spaces where you want a hint of color and coziness.

Need a similar color in a different brand? Benjamin Moore Dusty Cornflower CSP-605 is a great option.

7. Sherwin-Williams African Gray SW 9162

Spectral data: LRV: 31 | C: 2.47 | h°: 227.966°

African Gray SW 9162 is a sophisticated, slightly deeper blue gray paint that brings elegance and depth. Its rich tone pairs well with light accents and creates a refined backdrop. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? Check out Benjamin Moore Pewter 2121-30.

8. Benjamin Moore Amsterdam AF-550

Spectral data: LRV: 29 | C: 8.34 | h°: 240.634°

This deeper blue gray shade is ideal for creating a cozy, moody atmosphere. Amsterdam’s darker, more colorful hue adds warmth and comfort, making it a favorite for intimate spaces..

Need a similar color in a different brand? We like Sherwin-Williams Poolhouse SW 7603

9. Sherwin-Williams Slate Tile SW 7624

Spectral data: LRV: 15 | C: 6.02 | h°: 241.491°

Slate Tile SW 7624 offers a dramatic, bold blue gray that makes a statement in any room. Its depth of color brings sophistication and works well as an accent or for an entire room.

Need a similar color in a different brand? Check out Benjamin Moore Britannia Blue 1623.

10. Sherwin-Williams Web Gray SW 7075 

Spectral data: LRV: 13 | C: 2.88 | h°: 245.818°

A versatile dark blue gray, Web Gray SW 7075 creates a striking, modern look without feeling too heavy. Its rich tone brings character and is excellent for accent walls or cabinetry. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? Try Benjamin Moore Trout Gray 2124-20.

11. Sherwin-Williams Grays Harbor SW 6236

Spectral data: LRV: 12 | C: 4.72 | h°: 237.776°

Grays Harbor SW 6236 is a rich, deep blue gray paint color that exudes warmth and sophistication. Its bold shade pairs beautifully with metallic accents, adding drama to any room. 

Need a similar color in a different brand? Benjamin Moore Ocean Floor 1630 is a great option.

12. Sherwin-Williams Big Dipper SW 9645

Spectral data: LRV: 6 | C: 2.96 | h°: 226.000°

Big Dipper’s dark, almost charcoal-like blue gray offers a timeless, bold look. Perfect for making a room feel intimate and cozy, this color (part of SW’s Emerald Designer Color Collection) pairs well with warm lighting and wood finishes.

Need a similar color in a different brand? Benjamin Moore Cheating Heart 1617 is another of our favorites!

Choosing the Best Blue Gray Paint Colors for Your Home

Blue gray paint colors come in a wide range of shades, from soft and airy to deep and moody. When choosing the right color, consider the amount of natural light in the space and the overall mood you’d like to create. Lighter tones open up smaller rooms, while darker shades add a sense of intimacy to larger spaces. These versatile shades of blue gray add sophistication and timeless appeal, transforming any room into a cozy, welcoming environment.

Which ones did we miss? Share your favorites with us in the comments!