Benjamin Moore Metropolitan AF-690: The Perfect Balance of Sophistication and Versatility

Benjamin Moore Metropolitan AF-690 is a refined and timeless shade that embodies understated elegance. Selected as Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year in 2019, this soft gray tone is celebrated for its ability to create calm, balanced spaces while acting as a versatile backdrop for a wide range of design aesthetics. Whether you're updating a traditional interior or designing a modern minimalist space, Metropolitan AF-690 seamlessly adapts to your vision.

Undertones: A Subtle Harmony

One of the defining features of Metropolitan AF-690 is its subtle undertones. This hue leans toward a neutral gray with faint hints of green and blue undertones, giving it a cool and calming vibe. These undertones prevent it from feeling too cold or stark, making it a truly balanced gray. The green and blue undertones are especially noticeable in rooms with natural light, adding depth and dimension to the color.

Its chameleon-like quality allows Metropolitan AF-690 to shift slightly depending on the lighting conditions and surrounding decor. In spaces with warm artificial light, it takes on a cozier, warmer appearance, while in cooler natural light, it reveals its crisp, modern essence.

Coordinating Colors: Perfect Pairings

Metropolitan AF-690 works beautifully with a wide spectrum of coordinating colors, making it a versatile choice for any home. Its neutral base allows it to complement a variety of hues, from soft pastels to bold accent colors. Below are some suggestions for coordinating colors to elevate your space:

• Soft Neutrals: Pair Metropolitan AF-690 with shades like Chantilly Lace OC-65 or White Dove OC-17 for a clean and classic look. These whites provide a crisp contrast while maintaining a serene aesthetic.
• Earthy Tones: Enhance the natural undertones of Metropolitan AF-690 by pairing it with warm, earthy shades like Edgecomb Gray HC-173 or Revere Pewter HC-172.
• Bold Accents: Add a pop of color with bold shades such as Hale Navy HC-154 or Golden Honey 297 for a striking contrast that energizes the space.
• Muted Pastels: For a softer, more delicate palette, consider pairing it with blush tones like First Light 2102-70 or sage greens such as October Mist 1495.

These combinations allow you to create anything from a soothing sanctuary to a dynamic and dramatic focal point.

Best Uses for Metropolitan AF-690

Metropolitan AF-690 is a versatile color that can be used throughout your home, whether you’re designing a cozy living room, a serene bedroom, or a polished office space. Below are some of its most popular applications:

Living Rooms

Metropolitan AF-690’s neutral gray tone creates a sophisticated foundation for living spaces. Pair it with plush textiles and metallic accents for a luxurious feel, or layer it with natural textures like wood and linen for a relaxed, organic vibe.

Bedrooms

This tranquil hue is perfect for bedrooms, fostering a restful and inviting atmosphere. Use it as an all-over wall color and pair it with soft whites and muted pastels for a dreamy retreat.

Kitchens

For a modern kitchen, Metropolitan AF-690 is an excellent choice for cabinetry or walls. Pair it with sleek black hardware or warm brass fixtures to create a contemporary, high-contrast look.

Bathrooms

Its cool undertones make it ideal for bathrooms, where it evokes a spa-like ambiance. Complement it with marble countertops, chrome fixtures, and crisp white trim for an effortlessly chic aesthetic.

Home Offices

In a home office, Metropolitan AF-690 provides a calm and focused environment, free of distraction. Pair it with rich wood tones and deep accent colors for a professional and elegant workspace.

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