Soft Chamois (Benjamin Moore OC-13): Expert Insights

Soft Chamois (Benjamin Moore OC-13): Expert Insights

Choosing the perfect paint color for your home can seem impossible, especially when those tiny swatches don’t seem to capture how the color will truly look on your walls.

If you’re considering Soft Chamois Benjamin Moore (OC-13), you’re in the right place.

This warm, subtle neutral is a favorite of mine, and I’ve seen it work beautifully in many different spaces.

In this blog, we’ll cover why Soft Chamois is a great choice for your home, where this color works best in your space, colors that pair well with Soft Chamois, and tips for using it like a pro.

Let’s take a closer look and see if Soft Chamois is the perfect fit for your home.

Soft Chamois Benjamin Moore: About the Color

Soft_Chamois_Benjamin_Moore_About_the_Color

A soothing white with a warm, delicately shaded cast.

Soft Chamois is a perfect blend of beige and gray that I love to call a light greige. The first time I used this color in a client’s sunroom, I couldn’t help but notice how it gently changed throughout the day.

Its subtle transformation makes it truly special.

This shade belongs to Benjamin Moore’s OC (Off-White Collection), offering a soft, neutral base that strikes a perfect balance, neither too warm nor too cool.

What I appreciate about Soft Chamois is its versatility; it creates an inviting atmosphere in any room without being overpowering.

The best part about this color is its ability to adapt to different lighting, all while maintaining a warm, cozy feel. It’s ideal for those spaces where you want just a hint of color without it being too bold or in-your-face.

Soft Chamois brings a sense of calm, elegance, and warmth to any environment, perfect for creating a peaceful retreat. Here are some color specifications of Soft Chamois Benjamin Moore:

Light Reflectance Value (LRV)

With an LRV of 77.4, Soft Chamois reflects a lot of light. It works well in smaller rooms by making spaces feel brighter and more open, without the harshness of pure white.

HEX Color Code

Soft Chamois has a HEX code of #E8E5D8. This digital color code helps when matching fabrics, decor, or shopping online to coordinate with the paint.

RGB Values

Soft Chamois has the following RGB values:

  • Red: 230

  • Green: 227

  • Blue: 214

These balanced values create a warm, neutral tone, making Soft Chamois adaptable to various spaces.

Why Soft Chamois Stands Out in Interior Design

Soft Chamois is a game-changer in interior design. After working with this shade in various spaces, I’ve realized it’s the perfect neutral base that adapts beautifully to different styles and color palettes.

It brings warmth to a room without overwhelming the space, making it ideal for all kinds of interiors, whether you’re going for a modern look or something more traditional.

Here’s why Soft Chamois stands out in design:

  • Versatile neutral base: It pairs well with almost any color, making it a go-to for many design styles.
  • Warmth without overpowering: Unlike other neutrals, it adds just the right amount of warmth to any room.
  • Perfect for transitional spaces: Ideal for areas that bridge rooms with different styles or themes.
  • Works with various materials: Whether it’s wood, metal, or fabric, Soft Chamois complements a wide range of textures and finishes.
  • Subtle elegance: It offers a charming, understated look that’s never too bold or in-your-face.
  • Balances natural light: The color reflects light beautifully, making rooms feel airy without feeling stark.
  • Pairs beautifully with both cool and warm tones: If you’re working with cool blues or warm oranges, this color finds its balance.

In my experience, Soft Chamois is not just a paint color; it’s a design tool that changes any space. It brings a harmonious balance to rooms, making them feel inviting yet refined.

Best Spaces to Use Soft Chamois: A Color Guide

I’ve used Soft Chamois in many homes and found it works wonderfully in various rooms. Let me show you how this versatile shade performs in different spaces.

Living Room Soft Chamois Color Palette

Living_Room_Soft_Chamois_Color_Palette

This light greige creates a calm, bright environment that makes living rooms feel both open and cozy.

Base Color Structure:

  • Walls: Soft Chamois (OC-13)
  • Trim: Simply White (OC-117)
  • Ceiling: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

I recommend larger furniture in light neutrals like beige or soft gray to complement the walls without competing.

Accent Elements That Work:

  • Black or brass light fixtures
  • Wooden furniture with natural finish
  • Soft gray and beige throw pillows
  • Light-toned, woven rugs

Bedroom Soft Chamois Color Palette

Bedroom_Soft_Chamois_Color_Palette

Soft Chamois turns bedrooms into peaceful retreats with its warm, soothing quality.

Base Color Structure:

  • Walls: Soft Chamois (OC-13)
  • Trim: White Dove (OC-17)
  • Ceiling: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

Layer with soft textiles in light linens and neutral tones to enhance the room’s restful quality.

Accent Elements That Work:

  • Brass or copper nightstands
  • Wooden furniture with slightly distressed look
  • Soft textiles in pale pinks, blues, or sage greens
  • Simple white or gray curtains

Kitchen Soft Chamois Color Palette

Kitchen_Soft_Chamois_Color_Palette

This shade brings warmth and light to kitchens without overwhelming the space.

Base Color Structure:

  • Walls: Soft Chamois (OC-13)
  • Trim: Simply White (OC-117)
  • Cabinets: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

Pair with natural materials for a timeless look that stays fresh and inviting.

Accent Elements That Work:

  • Light wood or marble countertops
  • Stainless steel or matte black hardware
  • Light-toned cabinetry with dark handles
  • Neutral-toned rugs and dish towels

Entry Hallway Soft Chamois Color Palette

Entry_Hallway_Soft_Chamois_Color_Palette

Soft Chamois is perfect for both entryways and hallways, creating an open and welcoming atmosphere. This versatile neutral invites guests in with subtle warmth while making narrow spaces feel more expansive.

Base Color Structure:

  • Walls: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

  • Trim: White Dove (OC-17)

  • Ceiling: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

For a balanced look, pair this soft hue with simple, functional pieces that make a good first impression.

Accent Elements That Work:

  • Natural wood console tables

  • Black metal coat racks or light fixtures

  • Woven baskets for storage

  • Framed artwork in dark wood or black frames

Bathroom Soft Chamois Color Palette

Bathroom_Soft_Chamois_Color_Palette

Soft Chamois works wonders in bathrooms, bringing warmth and serenity to a space often dominated by stark white or cold tones. It creates an inviting, spa-like atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Base Color Structure:

  • Walls: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

  • Trim: Chantilly Lace (OC-65)

  • Ceiling: Soft Chamois (OC-13)

For bathroom furnishings, I recommend lighter-colored wood or white fixtures to maintain a clean, fresh look that complements the soft warmth of the walls.

Accent Elements That Work:

  • Polished nickel or chrome faucets

  • Natural stone or light-colored ceramic tiles

  • Crisp white towels and bath mats

  • Add greenery like small potted plants for a touch of freshness

Complementary Colors for Soft Chamois (Benjamin Moore)

Complementary_Colors_for_Soft_Chamois_Benjamin_Moore

Soft Chamois by Benjamin Moore is a versatile neutral that pairs well with a variety of colors, especially those with soft, muted undertones.

To bring out its warm greige tones, I love using complementary shades like soft purples or dark greens. These colors create a harmonious balance, offering depth without overwhelming the space.

Below, you’ll find a selection of colors that complement Soft Chamois beautifully and enhance its natural warmth.

Color Undertones Best Use Cases Complementary Palettes

Whispering Wind
(BM 1416)

Soft gray with a hint of lavender Bedrooms, living rooms Soft purples, muted grays, cool neutrals
Lavender Mist
(BM 2070-60)
Light lavender with gray undertones Modern, minimalist spaces Cool blues, soft greens, light grays
Grape Ice
(BM 1419)
Subtle purple with a touch of pink Accent walls, artwork, textiles Earthy tones, deep greens, soft taupes
White Dove
(BM OC-17)
Soft warm white with gray undertones Trim, ceilings, contrasting details Bright blues, light grays, soft greens
Hunter Green
(BM 2047-10)
Deep, dark green with a slight blue base Accent walls, furniture, decor Warm taupes, soft browns, brass accents
Naval
(BM 2061-10)
Deep navy blue with cool undertones Furniture, accent walls, cabinetry Warm woods, soft taupes, light grays
Shaker Beige
(BM HC-45)
Warm beige with a hint of gray Cozy spaces, living rooms Deep greens, rich browns, warm oranges

Colors That Resemble Soft Chamois Benjamin Moore

From my design experience, I’ve found that certain shades closely resemble Soft Chamois, offering similar soft greige tones that blend effortlessly in different spaces.

Here are a few of my top-tested shades that bring out the essence of Soft Chamois:

Soft Chamois + Sherwin Williams Alabaster

Soft Chamois + Sherwin Williams Alabaster

  • Why It Works: Alabaster’s soft warmth complements the gentle undertones of Soft Chamois, making it a perfect neutral backdrop.
  • Best Use: Ideal for living rooms or kitchens where a calm atmosphere is desired.

Soft Chamois + Benjamin Moore Ballet White

Soft_Chamois__Benjamin_Moore_Ballet_White

  • Why It Works: Ballet White’s light and airy feel mirrors Soft Chamois while adding a touch of elegance.
  • Best Use: Great for bedrooms or bathrooms, creating a serene and inviting environment.

Soft Chamois + Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee

Soft_Chamois__Benjamin_Moore_Swiss_Coffee

  • Why It Works: Swiss Coffee brings a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with Soft Chamois, offering warmth without overwhelming the space.
  • Best Use: Best suited for larger, open spaces like dining rooms or foyers where a welcoming feel is needed.

Soft Chamois + Behr Cotton Knit

Soft Chamois + Behr Cotton Knit

  • Why It Works: Cotton Knit’s soft neutrality makes it a perfect match for Soft Chamois, providing balance and harmony in any room.
  • Best Use: Excellent for ceilings or trim, giving a crisp, clean contrast to deeper wall colors.

These colors, similar to Soft Chamois, offer a classy and calm atmosphere, making them versatile for a variety of interior spaces.

Soft Chamois Care: Tips for Lasting Beauty

Taking care of Soft Chamois walls is essential to maintain its beautiful, soft glow. With just a few simple steps, you can keep this delicate color looking fresh and vibrant for years to come. Here are some tips I swear by:

  • Dust regularly with a soft microfiber cloth to prevent dust build-up and maintain the smooth finish.

  • Use a mild cleaning solution—mix water with a few drops of dish soap to gently wipe away smudges and stains.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the color and finish.

  • Clean spills promptly to prevent any stains from setting into the paint.

  • Use a soft sponge instead of a rough cloth to gently clean stubborn marks without damaging the surface.

  • Don’t scrub too hard—Soft Chamois has a delicate tone, and scrubbing can wear it down over time.

  • Test cleaning solutions in a small area before using them on the whole wall to ensure they won’t affect the color.

  • Touch up as needed—keep a small amount of Soft Chamois paint on hand for quick touch-ups to keep the walls looking flawless.

By following these simple steps, your Soft Chamois walls will retain their elegance and warmth, bringing a calm and inviting atmosphere to your home for years to come.

What Experts Say About Soft Chamois Benjamin Moore

Interior designers and color experts alike rave about Soft Chamois for its versatility and understated charm.

Many praise this color for its ability to create a warm, inviting atmosphere without overwhelming a space.

According to design professionals, Soft Chamois is an ideal choice for creating a neutral backdrop that complements various styles, from modern to traditional.

Experts also highlight its unique ability to adapt to different lighting conditions, providing a subtle shift in tone throughout the day.

This makes it a perfect option for rooms with natural light, as it can bring a soft glow to smaller or dimmer areas.

Overall, Soft Chamois is a favorite for those looking to balance warmth with neutrality. It offers a timeless, refined color choice that works across any room.

The Bottom Line

After working with Soft Chamois Benjamin Moore in countless homes, I can say this gentle greige truly stands out among neutral paint colors.

Its light reflectance value of 77.4 gives rooms an open feel without the stark brightness of pure white. The color shifts subtly throughout the day, showing warm undertones that create depth and interest on your walls.

This versatile shade works in every room, from busy kitchens to calm bedrooms. It pairs beautifully with whites, blues, greens, and wood tones, giving you plenty of design options.

If you want a paint color that feels both fresh and warm and can adapt to different lighting and decor styles, Soft Chamois deserves your attention.

What paint colors have you used in your home? Have you tried any Benjamin Moore neutrals? Share your experiences in the comments below – I’d love to hear which shades worked for your space!

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