Sherwin Williams Light French Gray Review – The Dreamiest Gray?

Purely out of minimalism, this subtle cool gray is bound to color your lives with it’s brightest charm. 

Now the name suggests, ‘Light French Gray’ but… it really isn’t that light!

Trust me. That name is a little deceiving.

Sherwin Williams Light French Gray is a cool, mid-toned gray color which is more blended towards the crispness than the creamier side of the color.

 

I would say it has a nice grayish touch with minimal undertones; in short, it is definitely a neutral color.

I love the classic Light French Gray and I am sure, you will too if as long as you use it carefully.

However, you should know that the color tends to change its looks in excess of or limited light!

It is definitely timeless and pretty when lit well.

You could really think about using this color in your home as long as you are aware of the whereabouts and how bouts of the color!

And here is a disclaimer, you need to know that the color needs to be well paired in opposition! You simply can’t use it with any other random shade.

So, are you excited to know what this color has to offer to you?

Well, I too am excited to spill the beans here.

Let’s get started!

Sherwin Williams Light French Gray SW 0055 – Details and Specifications

Every color has its own story!

They all are linked with their own color psychology and color theory.

Just like the others, Light French Gray too has underlying theories to reveal.

However, take note – these values are as important to know when implementing them. 

First and foremost, the Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Light French Gray is 53.

Well, NOT BAD!

It falls on the mid-toned scale which means the color is neither too-dark nor too-light!

Based on this information, you can derive in what areas does this color has to be used!

Oh, if you want to just try Light French Gray so you’ll know just how it’ll look, you can easily with a peel-and-stick sample from Samplize. Order some samples now!

Secondly, it is important to note the RGB and HEX Values!

Red = 194

Green = 192

Blue = 187

HEX Value = #c2c0bb

Okay, I am done with technical aspects of the color now. Let’s get started with the practical applications!

How Does Light French Gray Feel in a Space?

Sherwin Williams Light French Gray is going to make your space feel ICY and yet sophisticated.

Setting a perfect example of timeless neutral, Light French Gray is bound to add a characteristic touch to your space!

So, if you live in warmer southern states, I highly recommend using this paint color to add freshness and coolness to your room.

Meanwhile, if you are living in colder areas, this color is definitely a no-no!

Also, if you have space issues in your home, why not give a chance to Light French Gray?

How Does Light Affect the Color?

A stark white bathroom with a bright window gets a touch of warmth from this gray paint color

Light has a major role to play here!

Due to its mid-scaled reflectivity, ample natural light makes the room look brighter whereas the absence of lighting can make it look dull and dark!

You can use this color in any room you want – however, do note the effect of window placements and lighting here.

If you use it in north-facing rooms, the color is much likely going to feel cooler and icy with blue hidden undertones, meanwhile, the west or south-facing rooms make the Light French Gray feel creamy and warm!

So, it’s a given that the color does absorb the surrounding temperature! 

Also, remember to take into consideration the saturation and temperature of the paint color you want to opt for!

I am sure this information can help you determine the mood of your space. 

To truly see what your home’s environment and lighting will do here, try out a real paint sample. It takes out the guess work!

What are the Coordinating Colors for Sherwin Williams Light French Gray?

Now that you are thinking about using this color in your home, it is important to note how best you can use it!

You could either go for a monochromatic color scheme or a contrasting color palette!

Well, this really depends on your design style and color preferences!

Just in case if you do plan to use this color in a monochromatic theme, here is a list of colors that you could incorporate:

1. Silverpointe SW 7653 – check out my SW Silverpointe article here
2. Silver Plate SW 7649
3. Ellie Gray SW 7650
4. Stamped Concrete SW 7655

I can already imagine the priceless look of your room!

Well, the other way round is a contrasting theme, so if you’re planning to use it, remember to make use of the following shades.

1. Rock Candy SW 6231 (See Rock Candy review here)
2. Cadet SW 9143
3. Rare Gray SW 6199

This way you can best add pop to your room while maintaining a sense of balance. 

Also, in the case of trims and moldings, I would highly recommend choosing SW Pure White and SW High Reflectance White!

Light French Gray Vs. Similar Colors

I understand if you’re looking for alternatives to this color.

Well, everyone needs second and third choices, right?

Even while we go out for shopping, that’s the ultimate scene!

So, here the colors that most resemble Light French Gray are SW Knitting Needles and SW Silverplate.

Light French Gray Vs. Knitting Needles

Sharing the same LRV’s of 53, these colors are a perfect alternative to each other, undoubtedly.

However, Knitting needles has a slight purple undertone that you can notice if closely observed!

When comparing both, it might be seen that Knitting needles may appear darker and bold on the walls as compared to Light French Gray.

For an accurate comparison, I would recommend buying real-time paint samples and swatches to observe the exact results.

Order a wall-stick sample of Knitting Needles here to help you compare colors in your own space.

Light French Gray Vs. Silverplate

Another very subtle alternative to Light French Gray is SW Silverplate.

With perfect blue and gray undertones, this color is adored by many homeowners across the world.

Silverplate too shares the LRV similarities with Light French Gray!

But, on the contrary, it may appear quite lighter and crisp if painted on walls. 

Do yourself a favor and grab some stick-on sample sheets of these two colors and see what looks best in your home.

Where to Use Light French Gray in Home?

Hillary from Project Nursery experiments with Light French Gray in the nursery

Light French Gray can make a good option for your neutrals as well as bases!

I will recommend using the color if it really excites you!

However, it is important to consider the color palette to create a seamless experience.

What materials you want to pair it with and what would best blend in?

Yes, I have answers to them all below!

Let’s have a look.

Light French Gray in Living Room

The gal behind The Sawdust Girl pairs Light French Gray with hardwood floors and white door and window frames

Yes, you can ABSOLUTELY use it in your living room as far as you are creating a seamless look.

Do you have hardwood floors stained in light or dark brown?

In that case, Light French Gray is a great option.

However, I wouldn’t recommend this color if you have wall-to-wall carpeting!

Fireplace is a focal point for many living rooms and if you’re doubting what finish should it be – you could either choose black slate, marble, or even exposed brick!

The cabinets could be white but say a no to wooden oak ones!

Light French Gray in Bedroom

From the photo above you can see that the classic and timeless appearance of Light French Gray in a bedroom is simply mesmerizing. 

Bedrooms are the most personal spaces in your home.

If your design preference allows, do go for Light French Gray paired opposite with white fabrics, dark grey upholstery, and black metal bedframes and nightstands.

For an added touch of accent, you could choose gold-tints in the form of chandeliers, light lamps, and pull handles.

Also, remember to use white sheer curtains as they would further brighten your space!

Light French Gray in Kitchen

The DIYer’s over at 2 Cabinet Girls painted these cabinets in Light French Gray

If you want a calm and soothing kitchen, light French gray is definitely a “to-go” solution!

For a better aesthetic, you could use white upper and lower cabinets and black fixtures or pull handles to create a dramatic effect in your kitchen!

To streamline the design style, use black metal-tinted or white chandeliers over the island table!

Light French Gray on Exteriors

As I always say, using Light French Gray in the exteriors is going to make your home look lighter and brighter.

It is timeless, so you can pair it with white trims and moldings or travertine stone wainscoting.

Even the darker roof tiles will complement this classic color!

Great Paint Sample Tip!

Here’s my favorite tip when it comes to testing out a color like Light French Gray – go and order a peel-and-stick sample from Samplize.

These guys figured out a great way to sample colors much more easily. Simply stick it up instead of having to get a small can of actual wet paint.

For a few bucks you get a nice sized square to throw up temporarily anywhere you want to “try” on a paint color and any possible coordinating hues you like. Too cool!

So, are you excited to use Light French Gray in your home?

Well. I am sure the results would be great if you choose to blend it well!

Let me know in the comments below about your experiences with the color as I would love to hear from you!

Sharing is Caring!