Choosing the right color for your kitchen cabinets can feel like a monumental task. It’s a decision that impacts the entire feel of the heart of your home, influencing everything from mood to perceived space. Amidst the endless swatches and trending tones, one color consistently emerges as a beloved choice for its warmth, versatility, and enduring appeal: Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray (HC-173). Far from just another gray, this sophisticated neutral offers a unique blend of warmth and softness that transforms kitchens into inviting, stylish spaces. If you’re contemplating a cabinet refresh and seeking a color that balances modern neutrality with timeless comfort, join us as we delve into the world of Edgecomb Gray cabinets – exploring why this particular shade continues to capture the hearts of homeowners and designers alike in 2025.
The Nuances of Edgecomb Gray (HC-173)
So, what exactly is Edgecomb Gray? Part of Benjamin Moore’s esteemed Historical Collection (HC) and also found in their Off-White Collection (sometimes known as Baby Fawn OC-15 or Alaskan Skies 972), Edgecomb Gray isn’t a typical gray, nor is it a straightforward beige. It belongs to the popular “greige” family – a skillful fusion of gray and beige. This blend gives it a unique character: warmer than a standard gray, yet more muted and sophisticated than a full-bodied beige. It strikes a beautiful balance, offering a soft, organic feel that avoids the potential coldness of true grays and the sometimes-dated look of heavier beiges.
Understanding its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) helps grasp its visual impact. Edgecomb Gray has an LRV of 63.09. On the LRV scale (where 0 is absolute black and 100 is pure white), this places it firmly in the light-to-mid range. This means it’s light enough to reflect a significant amount of light, helping spaces feel brighter and more open, but it possesses enough depth and pigment to avoid appearing washed out, even in well-lit rooms. It provides a gentle presence, a soft warmth that doesn’t overwhelm.
The conversation around Edgecomb Gray often turns to its undertones, which contribute significantly to its chameleon-like quality. While considered remarkably neutral, it does possess subtle undertones that can gently emerge depending on the lighting conditions and surrounding colors. Most commonly, a soft green undertone can peek through, especially in certain lighting or when placed near greenery outside a window. Occasionally, faint pink or even subtle violet notes might appear, particularly in the shifting light of the evening or under specific artificial bulbs. However, these undertones are generally muted and don’t dominate the color’s overall greige identity. This subtlety is key to its versatility, allowing it to adapt beautifully to various environments.
The Allure of Edgecomb Gray in the Kitchen
Why has Edgecomb Gray become such a go-to choice specifically for kitchen cabinets? Its popularity stems from a combination of aesthetic appeal and practical benefits that resonate with diverse design preferences. Firstly, its inherent neutrality makes it incredibly versatile. It serves as a sophisticated backdrop that doesn’t compete fiercely with other design elements, allowing countertops, backsplashes, hardware, and decor to shine. Whether your style leans towards modern farmhouse, coastal chic, transitional elegance, or even updated traditional, Edgecomb Gray cabinets can provide a grounding yet refined foundation.
Compared to the ubiquitous stark white kitchen, Edgecomb Gray offers a noticeable dose of warmth and coziness. Many homeowners seek an inviting atmosphere in their kitchen, a space that feels welcoming and lived-in. Edgecomb Gray delivers this warmth without sacrificing a sense of brightness or cleanliness. It feels softer, more organic, and less clinical than a pure white, creating a comfortable ambiance perfect for gathering and everyday life. It’s a step away from white without committing to a bold or potentially transient color trend.
Furthermore, this color possesses a timeless quality. While trends in kitchen colors come and go (think avocado green or Tuscan gold), complex neutrals like Edgecomb Gray tend to endure. Its balanced nature prevents it from feeling tied to a specific era. Choosing it for cabinets – a significant investment – offers peace of mind that your kitchen won’t look dated in just a few years. It provides a classic look that can be easily updated with new hardware, accessories, or wall colors as your tastes evolve. It also brilliantly bridges the gap between warm and cool tones within a space. If you have warm wood floors but prefer cooler countertop materials, or vice-versa, Edgecomb Gray cabinets can act as the perfect mediator, harmonizing disparate elements into a cohesive whole.
Perfect Pairings: Countertops and Backsplashes
Selecting the right countertops and backsplash is crucial for completing the look of your Edgecomb Gray cabinets. Thankfully, this color’s versatility extends to its compatibility with a wide range of materials and styles. For countertops, quartz remains a popular choice. Consider options like Calacatta Laza with its subtle warm veining, or simpler whites and off-whites that allow the cabinet color to stand out gently. Quartz that mimics the look of marble, featuring soft gray or beige veining, can also tie in beautifully. Don’t shy away from darker countertops for contrast; deep charcoal or even black granite or soapstone can create a dramatic and sophisticated look against the soft warmth of the cabinets. Natural stone like marble or certain granites can work wonderfully, provided their undertones harmonize. For a warmer, more organic or rustic feel, butcher block or other wood countertops pair exceptionally well, enhancing the inherent warmth of Edgecomb Gray.
When it comes to backsplashes, the options are equally varied. Classic white subway tile is a timeless choice that creates a clean, fresh look, allowing the cabinet color to be the star. You can opt for a simple gloss or matte finish, or add subtle texture. Marble slab or marble tile backsplashes (like Calacatta or Carrara) lend an air of luxury and sophistication, often picking up the gray tones. For a touch more visual interest, consider glazed ceramic tiles in complementary neutrals, soft blues, or greens, or even a textured tile like Zellige, which adds handcrafted character. The key is to ensure the undertones of the backsplash material complement, rather than clash with, the subtle complexities of Edgecomb Gray. Bringing samples home is essential to see how they interact in your specific kitchen lighting.
Hardware Finishes that Complement Edgecomb Gray
Cabinet hardware is like the jewelry of the kitchen – small details that can make a big impact on the overall style. Edgecomb Gray cabinets provide a beautiful neutral canvas that works well with numerous hardware finishes, allowing you to tailor the look to your specific taste. For a touch of warmth and elegance, brass finishes (especially brushed, antique, or satin gold) are a stunning choice. They pick up on the beige undertones in the paint, creating a rich, inviting, and slightly glamorous feel that’s very current.
If you prefer a cooler, more contemporary, or transitional look, brushed nickel or polished chrome hardware offers a clean, crisp contrast. These silvery tones complement the gray aspect of the paint and work well with stainless steel appliances. For a bolder statement and a touch of modern or industrial flair, matte black hardware is an excellent option. The strong contrast against the light greige cabinets creates a striking visual anchor and adds definition.
Oil-rubbed bronze or antique bronze finishes can lend a more traditional or rustic charm, offering warmth that’s subtler than bright brass. The best choice depends on the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for – warm metals enhance the cozy aspect, cool metals provide a sleeker contrast, and black adds modern drama. Consider the style of the hardware too; simple pulls, classic knobs, or modern bar pulls will each contribute differently to the final look.
Wall Colors to Enhance Edgecomb Gray Cabinets
Choosing a wall color to accompany Edgecomb Gray cabinets requires careful consideration to create a harmonious and balanced space. One popular approach is to use a crisp or soft white on the walls. This allows the beautiful greige of the cabinets to stand out as the main color feature, creating a clean, bright, and airy feel. Excellent white pairings recommended by designers include Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17), Chantilly Lace (OC-65), or Oxford White (CC-30). These whites provide sufficient contrast without being overly stark and generally harmonize well with Edgecomb Gray’s warmth. Avoid whites with very strong yellow undertones or overly cool blue undertones, which might clash or look jarring.
Alternatively, you could opt for another neutral on the walls, either slightly lighter or slightly darker than Edgecomb Gray, to create a subtle, layered effect. A lighter off-white or a slightly deeper greige can work, but ensure the undertones are compatible. For instance, Benjamin Moore’s Classic Gray (OC-23) is lighter, while Revere Pewter (HC-172) is darker and cooler but can provide sophisticated contrast when used thoughtfully. Be cautious when pairing Edgecomb Gray with other greiges that have strong violet undertones (like BM Balboa Mist or Collingwood), as these can sometimes clash and make both colors look ‘off’.
For a bit more color, consider soft blues or greens on the walls, especially those with grayed-out tones. Shades like Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray (HC-171) or Hale Navy (HC-154) for an accent wall can create beautiful, complementary palettes. Always test paint samples on your walls next to your cabinet sample, observing them in different lighting conditions throughout the day before making a final decision.
Lighting’s Crucial Role
We’ve touched on lighting, but its importance cannot be overstated when working with a nuanced color like Edgecomb Gray. This color is renowned for its ability to shift and change depending on the light it receives, which is part of its charm but also something to be keenly aware of. Natural light plays a huge role. In a kitchen with abundant south-facing light, Edgecomb Gray will lean into its warmer, beige side, appearing bright and inviting. In contrast, north-facing rooms receive cooler, indirect light, which will draw out the gray undertones, making the color appear cooler and potentially slightly greener. East-facing rooms will see warmer light in the morning and cooler light in the afternoon, while west-facing rooms experience the reverse.
Artificial lighting adds another layer of complexity. Warm white bulbs (lower Kelvin rating) will enhance the beige undertones, making the cabinets feel cozier in the evenings. Cool white or daylight bulbs (higher Kelvin rating) will emphasize the gray aspects and can potentially highlight any subtle green undertones more prominently. The interaction between natural and artificial light means the perceived color of your cabinets can fluctuate throughout the day and night. This is precisely why testing large samples (painted boards are ideal) directly in your kitchen, on different walls, and observing them at various times under different light sources is absolutely essential before committing to painting all your cabinets.
Sheen Selection for Durability and Look
Beyond the color itself, the paint sheen you choose for your cabinets significantly impacts both their appearance and practicality. Kitchen cabinets endure a lot – spills, splashes, grease, and frequent handling. Therefore, durability and washability are key considerations. While matte finishes are trendy for walls, they are generally not recommended for kitchen cabinets as they tend to show fingerprints more easily and are harder to clean effectively without burnishing the finish.
The most commonly recommended sheens for kitchen cabinets are Satin or Semi-Gloss. A Satin finish offers a subtle luster that is more forgiving of minor imperfections than higher gloss sheens. It provides good durability and is reasonably easy to wipe clean, making it a popular and practical choice. It strikes a nice balance between appearance and performance. Semi-Gloss offers even greater durability and washability due to its harder, shinier surface. It reflects more light than satin, which can make the color appear slightly lighter and brighter. While excellent for high-traffic areas and easy cleaning, its higher shine will also highlight any surface imperfections more readily. An Eggshell finish, often used for walls or paint samples, typically lacks the robustness needed for hardworking kitchen cabinets. Selecting a quality cabinet-specific paint in your desired sheen will ensure a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Edgecomb Gray too dark for kitchen cabinets?
No, generally not. With an LRV of 63.09, Edgecomb Gray falls into the light-to-mid range. It reflects a good amount of light while providing more warmth and presence than white. It typically makes kitchens feel inviting and warm, not dark, though its appearance is highly dependent on lighting.
What undertones does Edgecomb Gray have?
Edgecomb Gray is a greige (gray-beige). Its primary undertones are warm. However, subtle green undertones can appear in certain lighting (especially cooler, northern light or near exterior foliage). Less commonly, faint pink or taupe undertones might be perceived. Its undertones are generally considered soft and not overpowering.
What white trim color goes best with Edgecomb Gray cabinets?
Clean whites or soft off-whites pair beautifully. Popular choices from Benjamin Moore include White Dove (OC-17), Chantilly Lace (OC-65), and Oxford White (CC-30). These provide a crisp yet harmonious contrast. Avoid whites that are too yellow or too starkly blue-white.
Is Edgecomb Gray still popular for cabinets in 2025?
Yes, Edgecomb Gray remains a very popular and highly regarded choice for kitchen cabinets in 2025. Its timeless appeal, warmth, and versatility keep it relevant. While color trends evolve, classic, adaptable neutrals like Edgecomb Gray consistently stay in favour for long-term investments like cabinetry.
What countertops look best with Edgecomb Gray cabinets?
Edgecomb Gray is versatile with countertops. White or light quartz with subtle warm veining (like Calacatta styles), marble-look quartz, light granites, butcher block/wood countertops, and even contrasting dark options like black granite or soapstone can all look fantastic. The key is coordinating undertones and achieving the desired overall style (warm, contrasting, modern, etc.).
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Conclusion
Benjamin Moore’s Edgecomb Gray (HC-173) has firmly established itself as more than just a fleeting trend; it’s a timeless neutral that brings a unique blend of warmth, sophistication, and versatility to kitchen cabinets. Its ability to bridge the gap between gray and beige, creating a soft, inviting greige, makes it adaptable to countless styles and settings. While its subtle undertones and sensitivity to light require careful consideration and testing, the payoff is a kitchen that feels both fresh and cozy, modern yet enduringly classic.
Whether paired with crisp white quartz and brass hardware for a chic look, or warm wood tones and black accents for a modern farmhouse feel, Edgecomb Gray cabinets provide a beautiful, balanced foundation. As we move through 2025, its popularity endures because it offers a gentle step away from standard white or cool gray, infusing the heart of the home with a welcoming glow that feels both sophisticated and deeply comfortable. If you’re seeking a cabinet color that is light, warm, neutral, and possesses an undeniable charm, Edgecomb Gray is undoubtedly a compelling contender worthy of serious consideration.
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