In this blog, I’m diving into the perfect complementary shades that work seamlessly with White Dove, to create spaces that feel complete, balanced, and beautiful.
Have you ever struggled with finding the perfect color to complement your neutral walls? Maybe you’ve painted your room with the timeless Benjamin Moore White Dove, and while it’s lovely, but feels like something’s missing. The room feels a little too blank like it’s waiting for that special touch to bring it to life. So, how do you elevate it into something truly stunning? The answer lies in the world of complementary colors.
Curious? Keep reading to discover which colors can transform your space and why they work so well with White Dove.
Qualities of Benjamin Moore White Dove
Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17) is a soft, warm white paint that has earned its place as a timeless favorite among homeowners and designers.
Known for its subtle creamy undertones, White Dove provides warmth without leaning too yellow or beige, making it a versatile choice for a variety of spaces.
One of White Dove’s standout qualities is its ability to adapt to different lighting conditions. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 85.38, it reflects plenty of light, making spaces feel bright and airy without appearing stark or harsh.
This quality makes it suitable for both walls and trim, where its soft brightness can highlight architectural details while keeping the overall look cohesive.
White Dove is beloved for its versatility and compatibility with a wide range of colorTo10s. It pairs beautifully with muted tones, earthy shades, and even bold, dramatic hues, making it a favorite for interior and exterior projects.
Whether used for walls, cabinets, ceilings, or exteriors, White Dove adds a touch of elegance and sophistication while maintaining a welcoming and cozy feel.
Complementary Colors That Elevate White Dove
Let me walk you through ten of my absolute favorite complementary colors that work beautifully with White Dove.
Revere Pewter (HC-172)
One of my all-time favorites when it comes to pairing with White Dove is Revere Pewter.
This color has the perfect balance of gray and beige, which gives it a warm, cozy feeling.
I’ve used Revere Pewter in several rooms—most recently in my bedroom—and it’s always a hit. The combination of Revere Pewter on the walls and White Dove on the trim creates a timeless, inviting atmosphere that’s both calming and sophisticated.
The LRV of 55.05 and RGB values of 204, 196, and 184 ensure that it’s light enough to keep the space feeling open while still offering enough contrast to make things interesting.
It’s a great option if you want a neutral that doesn’t feel too cold or stark, and I highly recommend it for bedrooms, living rooms, or even hallways.
Hale Navy (HC-154)
If you’re looking for something with a bit more drama, Hale Navy is a game-changer.
I first tried Hale Navy on my kitchen island, pairing it with White Dove on the surrounding cabinets, and let me tell you—it completely transformed the space.
Hale Navy is a deep, rich blue that adds elegance and depth, and when combined with the light, warm tones of White Dove, it creates the perfect balance.
The contrast between these two colors is bold but not overpowering, which is exactly what I love.
With an LRV of 8.36 and RGB values of 67, 76, and 85, Hale Navy makes White Dove pop while still creating a grounded, sophisticated vibe.
This combination is perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or any space where you want to add a bit of drama without going overboard.
Palladian Blue (HC-144)
If you’ve been looking to add a touch of tranquility to your home, Palladian Blue is a must-try.
I used this soft, muted blue-green in my guest bathroom, with White Dove on the trim and ceiling, and the effect was nothing short of serene.
Palladian Blue creates a fresh, calming atmosphere that blends seamlessly with White Dove’s warmth.
The LRV of 61.17 and RGB values of 195, 209, and 201 make Palladian Blue light and airy enough to brighten up a space while still providing a subtle pop of color.
If you’re designing a bathroom, bedroom, or any other space where relaxation is key.
Saybrook Sage (HC-114)
For a more earthy vibe, I love Saybrook Sage.
This muted green has just the right amount of warmth to complement White Dove’s creamy undertones without clashing.
I used Saybrook Sage in my kitchen dining area, and the combination was a total game-changer.
The green tone brings a touch of nature into the space, while White Dove keeps things light and airy.
With an LRV of 44.18 and RGB values of 153, 158, and 138, Saybrook Sage adds just the right amount of color without overwhelming the space.
This is perfect for spaces where you want a soft, natural look without feeling too heavy or dark.
Kendall Charcoal (HC-166)
If you want a high-contrast pairing that’s both sophisticated and dramatic, look no further than Kendall Charcoal.
This deep, rich gray works wonders when paired with White Dove, especially if you want to create a more modern, elegant atmosphere.
I used Kendall Charcoal for built-in shelves in my home office, and the results were stunning. The combination of White Dove walls and the dark gray shelves created an incredibly chic, contemporary look that I just couldn’t get enough of.
With an LRV of 12.96 and RGB values of 88, 88, and 83, Kendall Charcoal adds depth and sophistication without being too stark or overpowering.
It’s a perfect option for creating bold focal points in a room.
Edgecomb Gray (HC-173)
If you love neutral tones but want something a little warmer than traditional grays, Edgecomb Gray is a wonderful option.
I used it in my living room, paired with White Dove trim, and it created a warm, inviting space that felt light but still had enough substance.
The beauty of Edgecomb Gray lies in its subtle mix of gray and beige, which makes it versatile and easy to work with.
With an LRV of 63.09 and RGB values of 211, 205, and 193, it’s light enough to create a fresh feel, but still warm enough to feel cozy.
Edgecomb Gray is a fantastic choice for any room where you want a neutral backdrop that’s neither too cool nor too warm.
Newburyport Blue (HC-155)
For those of you who love color, Newburyport Blue is one of my favorite bold choices to pair with White Dove.
This deep, rich blue has a timeless quality that adds sophistication and charm to any space.
I used it on my front door with a White Dove on the trim, and the contrast was striking. Newburyport Blue feels regal and classic, and it pairs perfectly with White Dove’s soft warmth.
With an LRV of 10.95 and RGB values of 67, 86, and 100, this combination is ideal for creating a welcoming, elegant entryway or any other space where you want a dramatic yet timeless color statement.
Balboa Mist (OC-27)
For those who prefer a softer, more subtle contrast, Balboa Mist is a perfect complement to White Dove.
I used this soft, neutral gray in my hallway, and the result was a space that felt both light and cozy.
Balboa Mist is just a touch warmer than typical gray, with subtle beige undertones that blend beautifully with White Dove.
The LRV of 67.37 and RGB values of 218, 213, and 204 make it light enough to keep the space feeling airy while still offering a hint of warmth.
This is a great option for spaces like hallways, entryways, or even living rooms where you want a neutral, inviting atmosphere.
Wythe Blue (HC-143)
If you want to create a vintage-inspired look, Wythe Blue is an excellent choice.
This soft, muted blue-green creates a relaxed, peaceful vibe when paired with White Dove.
I’ve used it in my breakfast nook, and it created a cheerful yet serene space that I couldn’t get enough of.
With an LRV of 48.11 and RGB values of 157, 175, and 165, Wythe Blue adds just enough color to keep the room interesting without overwhelming the senses.
It’s the perfect complement to White Dove in spaces where you want a touch of calm, coastal charm.
Wrought Iron (2124-10)
If you love the idea of a high-contrast, modern look, Wrought Iron is your go-to color.
This near-black shade of charcoal has the power to make White Dove pop like no other.
I used Wrought Iron on a feature wall in my entryway, and the dramatic contrast made an incredible statement.
The LRV of 6.16 and RGB values of 74, 74, and 73 ensure that this color brings a touch of drama and depth to any space.
I’d recommend using Wrought Iron on accent walls, doors, or even furniture for a bold, contemporary effect.
How to Choose the Right Complementary Color for Your Space?
Choosing the right complementary color for your space can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about finding what resonates with you.
Start with a base color you love, like Benjamin Moore White Dove. Your base should be something that already fits with your furniture, flooring, or other design elements.
Next, think about the mood you want to create. If you want a calm and relaxing environment, try colors like soft blues or greens.
I paired White Dove with Palladian Blue in my bedroom, creating a serene vibe. For something more vibrant, try bold colors like Hale Navy for a dramatic pop.
Lighting plays a huge role in how colors appear. I learned this the hard way when I paired Revere Pewter with White Dove in a room with artificial light—it didn’t work as well as I thought it would.
If your room gets a lot of natural light, you can play with deeper colors, but if it’s darker, stick to lighter, softer hues like Edgecomb Gray. Always test colors in your space before committing.
Size and proportion matter too. Lighter colors like Balboa Mist complement White Dove well in larger rooms, while darker shades like Newburyport Blue work better in smaller spaces.
Finally, consider your existing furniture and decor. I paired Wythe Blue with White Dove in a room with warm wood tones, and it brought everything together beautifully.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right complementary color for Benjamin Moore White Dove can truly transform your space from simply “nice” to truly exceptional. From my personal experience, I can confidently say that these colors bring out the best in White Dove, highlighting its warmth while adding depth and character to any room.
Remember, the key to creating a harmonious and inviting space is to carefully consider the mood you want to evoke, the lighting in your room, and how the colors interact with your existing decor. Don’t forget to test out the colors in your space to see how they react with your lighting and furnishings.
FAQs
Why is Benjamin Moore White Dove so popular for interiors?
Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17) is incredibly versatile, offering a warm, soft white that isn’t too stark or cold. Its subtle creamy undertones make it perfect for creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere in any space. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 85.38, it reflects light beautifully, making rooms feel airy and bright. Whether you’re painting walls, trim, or cabinetry, White Dove offers the ideal balance between lightness and warmth. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s such a designer favorite.
Can I use dark colors like Hale Navy or Kendall Charcoal with White Dove in small rooms?
Absolutely! Darker colors like Hale Navy and Kendall Charcoal can work wonders in smaller spaces, as long as the room gets plenty of light. They create a beautiful contrast with White Dove, adding drama without overwhelming the room. I’ve used these colors in smaller spaces and found that they make the room feel cozy and elegant—just be mindful of the lighting and size of the room. Dark tones can create a bold statement, so balance them with light accents to keep the room from feeling too heavy.
Can I pair multiple complementary colors with White Dove, or just one?
While it’s entirely possible to use multiple complementary colors with White Dove, I recommend keeping it balanced. Start with a primary complementary color and then use accents to enhance the look. For example, you could pair Palladian Blue on the walls with Revere Pewter on the trim for a fresh, serene vibe. Add some accents like throw pillows or artwork in Newburyport Blue for a subtle pop of drama. Mixing complementary colors can create a dynamic yet cohesive space—just make sure the colors flow together to avoid overwhelming the room.
Any tips for pairing colors with White Dove?
It’s understandable to be cautious about picking complementary colors! My top tip? Test, test, test! Paint swatches on your wall and see how the colors interact with your space’s lighting and furnishings. Try different combinations and live with them for a few days before making a final decision. And remember, lighting is a game-changer. Natural light can make colors appear different than artificial lighting, so make sure to observe your colors at different times of day.
What colors should I avoid pairing with White Dove?
While White Dove is versatile, you’ll want to avoid pairing it with colors that are too jarring or intense in contrast. Bright neon tones or overly saturated hues can clash with its soft, subtle warmth. Strong reds, oranges, or yellows might overpower White Dove, making the room feel unbalanced. Stick to colors that complement its warmth—think soft blues, grays, or muted greens for a calm and harmonious vibe.
How can I make my room feel warmer using White Dove?
To enhance the warmth of White Dove, pair it with complementary earthy tones like Saybrook Sage or Cedar Key. These colors bring out the warm undertones in White Dove and make the space feel inviting and cozy. If you prefer a more neutral palette, combine White Dove with soft beige or taupe accents to add richness and depth without clashing. Lighting plays a big role here—opt for warm lighting over cooler LED lights to maintain that soft, inviting atmosphere.
