Once a month, I like to share an inspiring paint color with you.  Well, really, I’d like to repaint my walls once a month just because there are so many great paint colors out there to try…but that’s not realistic now, is it?  So, instead, I’ll stick with sanity and simply talk about the colors of my painted rainbow here.  This month I’d like to introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Edgecomb Gray.

Even though the name has the word ‘gray’ in it, it’s more of a tan-y warm greige than the typical cool gray that comes to mind when you envision gray paint.

It’s a great neutral that turns almost creamy when bathed in natural light.

And it makes a perfect marriage with wood tones.  I could see it being used in older homes with original wood baseboards, floors and moldings.  Wouldn’t it give a Craftsman style home an airy lift?

If you’re searching for a light paint color for a finished basement, I believe Edgecomb Gray could be a front runner there.  In artificial light, it’s bright and warm at the same time…just what you’re looking for in a basement.

Probably my favorite characteristic of Edgecomb Gray is its ability to contrast.  It’s different enough from your bright white trim, doors and wainscoting to make them pop.  Yet, it’s still light enough to be used alongside black and mocha accents for a contrasting effect.

In a children’s room, Edgecomb Gray would make a great backdrop to deep teal and burnt orange.

In a grown-up casual living room, Edgecomb Gray could be part of a relaxing neutral scheme including white, black and camel accents a la Nate Berkus style.

Finally, for a fresh and modern guest room pair Edgecomb Gray with a deep taupe and rich coral.

I could definitely see this paint color making an appearance in our next home.  That’s how much I love it.  I really think it has the ability to make smaller rooms feel bigger.  And since we’re looking to downsize, making things appear bigger is going to be key.  What about you?  Have you used Edgecomb Gray somewhere in your home?  What’s one of your favorite paint colors for small spaces?  Chime in.

images:  1) Benjamin Moore  2) T. Keller Donovan for House Beautiful 3) Blossom Interiors 4) Justin Bernhaut for Domino via Flickr 5) Vanessa Francis for Decor Happy 6) Shiloe Bear via Tar Paper Crane 7-9) collages by Dana Miller using Benjamin Moore paint swatches