Stonington Gray by Benjamin Moore: Our Review

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It seems like more people than ever are looking to paint their homes right now, so we’re pulling through with another paint review! When it comes to timeless neutrals, few shades have earned the reputation of Stonington Gray. It’s one of those rare paint colors that seems to work everywhere, inside and out. 

In this article, we’re sharing all the reasons why this light shade is a color you can count on.

Meet Stonington Gray

Benjamin Moore describes Stonington Gray (HC-170) as a cool, refined gray with subtle blue undertones. As a member of Benjamin Moore’s Historical Collection, this shade lives in the sweet spot between light and mid-toned gray. Considering this color was inspired by American architecture, that alone should tell you it’s built to stand the test of time.

This paint color is cool-toned without being icy, and modern without feeling sterile. The whisper of blue in the undertone gives it depth without tipping into awkward baby blue territory, and in natural light, that subtle coolness keeps it crisp and balanced. In the shade, it magically transforms into a moodier, stormier feel. 

If you’ve ever wished gray could feel calm without feeling cold, Stonington Gray is about to become your new favorite shade.

A home painted with Stonington Gray, designed by brick&batten.

How Stonington Gray Performs on Exteriors

Homeowners (and our designers) love Stonington Gray because it adapts beautifully to its surroundings. On exteriors, it shifts subtly with the light throughout the day, creating interest without needing a bold color palette.

Morning light brings a soft, breezy gray with a faint blue tint, while midday it becomes a clean, true gray. In the evening, it feels cozy and classic, especially with warm outdoor lighting.

Those wanting a home that feels sophisticated without becoming dramatic will want to choose Stonington Gray. It’s understated and versatile, and it quietly elevates everything around it. 

Best Trim and Accent Pairings for Stonington Gray

The magic of Stonington Gray really shines when you pair it thoughtfully. Some of our go-to combinations include:

  • Chantilly Lace (OC-65): Crisp, clean white for a fresh contrast.
  • White Dove (OC-17): Softer, warmer white for a more classic pairing.
  • Wrought Iron (2124-10): A soft black alternative that feels balanced.
  • Hale Navy (HC-154): Deep navy that adds dimension and drama.

You can also pair Stonington Gray beautifully with natural accents like stone, cedar, or modern brick for warmth and texture. 

Architectural Styles That Shine in Stonington Gray

Stonington Gray works beautifully across a range of home styles, but each brings out something a little different in the color. Some of the best styles for this shade include:

  • Coastal Homes: The cool undertone echoes ocean hues, especially when paired with white trim or light wood accents.
  • Colonials: This historical shade keeps the look of a colonial timeless and clean, perfect for traditional architecture.
  • Modern Farmhouses: When paired with darker elements like black windows and charcoal metal roofing, this shade feels stylish and current.
  • Cottages: Stonington Gray softens smaller homes, giving them charm without overwhelming the architecture. 

If you’re unsure whether your home can pull off gray, this is a great shade to start with. See what your home will look like using our paint visualizer!

A home designed by brick&batten that uses Stonington Gray on the exterior.

How Stonington Gray Compares to Similar Shades

If you’re debating between this color and other popular grays, here’s how it stacks up:

  • Gray Owl (OC-52): This shade is lighter and warmer with green undertones, and it looks lovely on interiors.
  • Coventry Gray (HC-169): This gray is slightly darker and cooler with a stronger blue cast.
  • Revere Pewter (HC-172): This color is warmer and more beige, perfect for those wanting a solid “greige” shade.
A house with brick painted in Stonington, designed by brick&batten.

Tips for Using Stonington Gray Outdoors

Before you grab your paintbrush, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

Test Before You Commit

Grays can shift dramatically depending on light and the environment. Paint a swatch on each side of your home and check them at different times of day. You can also try Samplize for convenient peel-and-stick samples – no paintbrush required.

Mind Your Surroundings

Stonington Gray looks cooler against bright green landscaping or warm stone, so keep that in mind when planning your palette. If you’re looking for a warmer look, try pairing with a cooler stone or trim, or opt for a warmer gray shade.

Add Contrast

Don’t forget to use warm wood tones, metal accents, or rich front door colors to balance this gray’s cool undertone. The beauty of this color is in its versatility, so don’t be afraid to pair it with colors and textures that make it pop.

Final Thoughts: See How Stonington Gray Looks on Your Home

When it comes to timeless, dependable neutrals, Stonington Gray is hard to beat. It’s elegant without being dramatic and cool without feeling frigid. Plus, its flexibility is perfect for complementing almost any home style. If you’re looking for a gray that you’ll love today and five years from now, this is the one. 

Considering this gorgeous shade, but can’t quite picture it? Our designers can help. Our team can take a photo of your home and create a custom virtual exterior design with it, complete with color suggestions and materials. Get started today and see how your home could shine with this shade.

Author

Alexis Bishop is a professional writer and journalist based in East Tennessee. As a writer for over a decade, she has created content on a wide variety of topics ranging from tech to healthcare for small businesses. As a journalist, she primarily follows the latest music and entertainment trends and has written for publications like WUOT, K FUSE, and Teen Vogue.  Outside of writing, Alexis has worked as a secondary science teacher and a professional development consultant in higher education. She is also a homeowner passionate about home design and regularly finds herself DIYing throughout her house on the weekends. 

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