James

AC-23 | benjamin-moore | HEX: #87999F | RGB: 135, 153, 159

Benjamin Moore James AC-23: A Timeless Neutral with Subtle Sophistication

Benjamin Moore James AC-23 is a versatile, warm neutral that exudes understated elegance and a sense of calm. Part of the brand’s celebrated Affinity Color Collection, this shade is designed to harmonize effortlessly with other hues, making it a go-to choice for creating cohesive, balanced interiors. With its nuanced undertones and timeless appeal, Benjamin Moore James AC-23 offers endless design possibilities for both traditional and contemporary spaces.

The Undertones: Soft and Subtle

One of the defining characteristics of Benjamin Moore James AC-23 is its unique balance of warm and cool undertones. At its core, James is a soft greige—a blend of gray and beige—that leans slightly warm. However, it also carries faint green undertones, which give it a grounded, earthy quality. These subtle undertones allow the color to adapt to various lighting conditions, making it appear warmer in natural sunlight and slightly cooler in artificial or shaded light. This chameleon-like quality makes James a reliable choice for a wide range of rooms and styles.

Coordinating Colors

Benjamin Moore James AC-23 works beautifully with a curated palette of complementary shades, allowing you to craft harmonious and visually appealing spaces. Here are some coordinating color suggestions:

Whites and Off-Whites: To create a clean and airy look, pair James with crisp white trim or ceiling colors like Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65 or Simply White OC-117. These shades enhance James’ warmth while maintaining a fresh, modern aesthetic.
Deeper Neutrals: For added depth, consider pairing James with deeper, earthy tones like Pashmina AF-100 or Kendall Charcoal HC-166. These combinations create a sophisticated monochromatic palette.
Soft Blues and Greens: If you're looking to add subtle color contrast, try pairing James with serene shades like Palladian Blue HC-144 or Saybrook Sage HC-114. These colors highlight the green undertones in James while maintaining a relaxed, cohesive feel.
Warm Accents: Add warmth and vibrancy with accent colors like Confident Orange 2016-40 or York Harbor Yellow 2154-40. These pops of color create visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Ideal Uses and Applications

Benjamin Moore James AC-23’s versatility makes it suitable for a variety of applications throughout your home. Here are some suggestions for incorporating this elegant neutral into your design:

Living Rooms and Family Spaces

James is an excellent choice for living rooms and family spaces, where its warm, inviting nature helps create a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Use it on walls to establish a neutral backdrop that highlights furniture, artwork, and other décor elements.

Bedrooms

Transform your bedroom into a serene retreat by using James AC-23 on walls, complemented by soft linens and natural textures. Its subtle undertones promote relaxation, making it perfect for restful spaces.

Kitchens and Dining Rooms

In kitchens and dining areas, James pairs beautifully with white or cream cabinetry and natural wood finishes. Its warm greige tone enhances the overall ambiance, whether you’re aiming for a farmhouse-style kitchen or a modern, minimalist dining space.

Bathrooms

For bathrooms, James offers a spa-like vibe when paired with soft blue or green accents and polished chrome fixtures. Its neutral undertones provide a calming canvas for layering other design elements.

Entryways and Hallways

In entryways and hallways, James AC-23 sets a welcoming tone, especially when paired with crisp white trim. Its adaptability ensures it will flow seamlessly into adjacent rooms, creating a cohesive transition throughout the home.