Boothbay Gray by Benjamin Moore: Paint Color Review

Choosing the right paint color for a room can be a daunting task. You want a color that is both stylish and timeless, something that will give your space an elegant, sophisticated look. I get it. It took me over 2 years to decide on Boothbay Gray by Benjamin Moore for my office paint color, but now that it's done, I could not be happier with the result!

Boothbay Gray is a cool, medium, steely gray with blue undertones that give it a calming, soothing effect. It's a versatile color that can be used in a variety of spaces, from living rooms to bedrooms, offices, and even bathrooms. This hue pairs perfectly with bright whites, deep navy blues, and other cool-toned colors. It's also an excellent complement to wood accents, brass and gold, and natural fibers.

One of the best things about Boothbay Gray is that it's a timeless color that will never go out of style. It's a classic shade that has been popular for years and will continue to be a go-to hue for homeowners and decorators alike. Whether you're looking to update a room or give your entire exterior a fresh coat of paint, Boothbay Gray is a safe and sophisticated choice.

If you're hesitant about choosing gray for your walls, I can assure you that Boothbay Gray is not a dull or drab color. Its blue undertones give it a subtle hint of color that adds depth and interest to any room. It's a great option for those who want a neutral color that's not too bold or too boring.

Since I spent years deciding on a color, I had lots of questions and thought I would share some answers to FAQ's about Boothbay Gray.

What color is Boothbay Gray paint?

Boothbay Gray is a stunning paint color from Benjamin Moore that has been gaining popularity among homeowners and decorators alike. It is a classic and sophisticated shade that adds elegance to any room or exterior.

Boothbay Gray is a cool gray with blue undertones, which gives it a calming and serene feel. It's not too dark or too light, making it a great option for any space. The color is inspired by the historic coastal town of Boothbay Harbor in Maine, which is known for its picturesque scenery and traditional New England architecture.

One of the great things about this color is that it pairs well with a variety of other colors. It can be used as a neutral backdrop for bolder accents, or it can be paired with other cool tones for a monochromatic look. It also works well with warmer colors like beige, taupe, and gold.

A Color with a Rich History

Boothbay Gray is a part of the historic color collection by Benjamin Moore, a collection that pays tribute to America's historic landmarks and the US Bicentennial. This collection features elegant colors of the historical collection, including time-honored hues that have stood the test of time. Boothbay Gray is no exception, as it has been a popular choice for interior and exterior spaces for decades.

In fact, Boothbay Gray was first introduced in 1976 as part of the US Bicentennial celebration. This classic gray paint color quickly gained popularity and has remained a timeless color ever since. It is a perfect representation of the time-honored tradition of Benjamin Moore, which has been providing quality paint products for over 135 years.

Where can I buy Boothbay Gray paint?

Benjamin Moore has a wide network of retailers across the United States and Canada. You can use their store locator tool on their website to find a store near you.

When you go to the store, make sure to grab a paint swatch or sample before committing to a full gallon! You can test it on your walls to see how it looks in different lighting conditions and with your existing decor. You might also want to consider getting a sample of a lighter or darker shade in the same family to see which one works best for you.

Paint never ceases to amaze me with how drastically different it can look depending on the lighting. Paint colors also photograph very differently than what they look like in real life, so always test and make sure it's what you want before committing to a gallon of paint!

Does Boothbay Gray come in different sheens?

Yes, Boothbay Gray by Benjamin Moore comes in different sheens to suit your painting needs. You can choose from the following finishes: matte, eggshell, satin, semi-gloss, and high-gloss. Each sheen has its own unique characteristics that determine how it reflects light, how durable it is, and how easy it is to clean.

For example, a matte finish has a non-reflective surface that hides imperfections, but it is less durable and harder to clean than a semi-gloss finish which has a shiny and reflective surface that highlights details and is easy to wipe down.

It's important to choose the sheen that's right for the specific area you're painting and the look you're trying to achieve. Traditionally, people paint walls with an eggshell and trim with a semi-gloss, but depending on what vibe you're going for, you can mix things up!

How many coats of Boothbay Gray do I need to apply?

Boothbay Gray by Benjamin Moore is a beautiful and versatile paint color that is perfect for homeowners and decorators seeking a classic, sophisticated look. This gray hue falls into the category of warm grays, making it a popular choice for those who want a neutral color that is not too cold or sterile.

When it comes to applying Boothbay Gray, the number of coats you need will depend on various factors such as the surface you are painting, the quality of your paint, and your desired finish. In general, two coats of paint are recommended to achieve a smooth and even finish.

Before painting, it is essential to prepare the surface properly by cleaning it thoroughly and repairing any damages. Apply a primer if needed, and let it dry completely before painting. To get the best results, use high-quality paint and a good-quality brush or roller.

When applying Boothbay Gray, it is essential to work in small sections, starting from the top and moving downwards. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat. This will ensure that the paint adheres well and prevents any unevenness or streaks.

Does Boothbay Gray require a primer before painting?

The short answer is that it depends on the current color and condition of your walls.

If your walls are already a light color and in good condition, you may be able to get away with skipping the primer. However, if your walls are a darker color or have stains or imperfections, using a primer will ensure that the Boothbay Gray goes on smoothly and looks its best.

Primer also helps the paint adhere better to the walls, which can help prevent peeling or cracking down the line. It's always a good idea to err on the side of caution and use a primer if you're unsure.

Another benefit of using a primer is that it can help you use less paint overall. By creating a smooth, even surface, you may be able to get away with just one or two coats of Boothbay Gray instead of having to apply multiple coats to cover up imperfections.

What is the typical coverage area of a can of Boothbay Gray paint?

One of the best things about Boothbay Gray is its coverage. Benjamin Moore's paint products are known for their high quality and excellent coverage, and Boothbay Gray is no exception. A standard gallon of paint will cover approximately 350-400 square feet, depending on the surface and application method.

For best results, we recommend applying two coats of Boothbay Gray to ensure even coverage and depth of color. If you're painting over a dark or bold color, you may need an additional coat to fully cover the previous color.

Is Boothbay Gray, green or blue?

Boothbay Gray is a beautiful, classic paint color that is often described as a mix between green and blue. Depending on the lighting and surrounding decor, the color can appear more blue or more green.

This versatile tone is perfect for homeowners and decorators seeking a sophisticated and calming paint color for their walls.

What is Boothbay gray similar to in Sherwin Williams?

If you're a fan of Boothbay Gray but prefer to use Sherwin-Williams paint, you may be wondering what similar color options are available. One popular Sherwin-Williams color that is often compared to Boothbay Gray is "Mindful Gray." While it is not an exact match, Mindful Gray also has a mix of green and blue undertones and is a beautiful, calming color option for any room in your home.

Other similar colors in Sherwin Williams' collection include "Repose Gray" and "Colonial Gray." It's always a good idea to purchase a small sample of the color you're considering to test it out on your walls and make sure it's the perfect fit for your space.

It's also important to note that most Sherwin-Williams stores have the ability to mix a Benjamin Moore color for you if you ask! I've done this many times!

Is Boothbay Gray considered warm or cool?

Boothbay Gray is typically considered a cool paint color due to its blend of green and blue undertones. However, it can also have a subtle warm feeling in certain lighting conditions.

This versatility makes it a great option for a variety of spaces, from bedrooms to living rooms and even bathrooms. When paired with warm wood tones or accents, Boothbay Gray can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Conversely, when paired with cooler tones such as white or silver, it can enhance the sophisticated and calming feel of a room.

Features and Benefits of Boothbay Gray

Boothbay Gray is a timeless color that offers both style and functionality. Let's take a closer look at its features and benefits and why it is a great product for any interior or exterior space.
Application Method: Boothbay Gray is part of Benjamin Moore's Aura paint line, which offers a luxurious matte finish. This high-performance resin paint is designed to provide great depth of color and a fresh look to any space.
Regal Paint: Boothbay Gray is also available in Benjamin Moore's Regal Select paint line, which is known for its time-honored tradition of quality and easy-to-clean surface. This flat coating paint is perfect for covering less-than-perfect surfaces, and it offers excellent hiding and color vitality.
Waterborne Formula: Boothbay Gray is also available in Benjamin Moore's waterborne formula, which utilizes the latest technology to provide a wide variety of surfaces with a performance that rivals traditional oil paint. This formula is perfect for those who want the performance of oil-based paint without the strong odor and long drying time.
High-Performance Resin: Benjamin Moore's waterborne ceiling paint is formulated with high-performance resin, providing a smooth and easy-to-apply finish. This paint is perfect for high-humidity environments, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas prone to moisture.
Proprietary Gennex Colorant: Boothbay Gray, like all Benjamin Moore paints, uses the proprietary Gennex colorant, which ensures that the color stays true and vibrant over time. This colorant also offers color rub-off resistance, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
Versatile Use: Boothbay Gray is part of the historic color collection, which features elegant colors of the historical collection. This makes it a perfect introduction to the world of premium paint. It is also available in the most popular finish options, including flat, eggshell, and satin, making it suitable for any space.

How to Use Boothbay Gray in Your Home

Now that we know the features and benefits of Boothbay Gray, let's explore some ways to use it in your home.

Interior Walls: Boothbay Gray is a perfect choice for interior walls, especially in low-traffic areas such as bedrooms and living rooms. Its luxurious matte finish adds a touch of sophistication to any space, and its excellent hiding and color vitality make it an excellent choice for an interior paint job.
Ceilings: Boothbay Gray is also an excellent choice for ceilings, especially in areas with common ceiling problems like uneven texture or minor imperfections. Its flat paint finish offers a softly polished glow, and its spatter-resistant feature makes it easy to apply without worrying about drips or splatters.
Trim: If you want to add a touch of elegance to your trim details, Boothbay Gray is a great option. Its slightly darker shade compared to white trim offers a subtle contrast that adds depth and interest to your space.
Front Door: Boothbay Gray is also a popular color for front doors. Its cool gray tone with blue undertones makes it stand out, yet still complements other exterior colors. It also offers excellent hiding and color retention, making it perfect for high-traffic areas like your front door.

Overall, Boothbay Gray is a beautiful and classic paint color that can add depth and elegance to any space in your home. It is a popular choice for those seeking a timeless and versatile color that can work with a range of decorating styles. Whether you prefer a more traditional or modern look, Boothbay Gray can provide the perfect backdrop for your furnishings and decor.