Barrier Reef

Technical Profile

What color is Barrier Reef? It's a light cool neutral with the hex code #8CAEAC. Colors similar to Barrier Reef include Sherwin-Williams Drizzle, Valspar Fog Blue, Behr Stone Fence. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. Barrier Reef has a neutral undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Understanding a color's undertone is key to avoiding combinations that clash — it often matters more than the surface color itself. Barrier Reef (#8CAEAC) by Dunn-Edwards is a light neutral paint color with a gentle, subdued character. It delivers a bright, welcoming quality that keeps interiors feeling fresh. On the temperature spectrum this shade carries a cool cast, lending calm and collected elegance. In its RGB breakdown, green is the dominant channel, which gives it a subtle earthy, organic quality even under different lighting conditions. Its Light Reflectance Value of 65 means it reflects a healthy amount of light, keeping spaces bright without feeling stark. Light neutrals like this are go-to choices for whole-home color schemes, working seamlessly in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways without competing with decor. Eggshell or satin finishes complement light tones nicely, balancing a subtle sheen with durability for high-traffic areas. For color coordination, Barrier Reef pairs beautifully with red tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring blue and green hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its neutral undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. If Dunn-Edwards is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from Sherwin-Williams, Valspar, Behr and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Barrier Reef offers a breezy, coastal serenity that keeps spaces feeling clean and refreshed. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for a wide range of interior design styles. As part of the Dunn-Edwards palette, Barrier Reef benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. As with any paint color, Barrier Reef can shift noticeably between natural daylight, warm incandescent, and cool LED lighting — testing a sample swatch on your wall under different conditions is always recommended. This tone works well alongside natural textures like jute rugs, bleached wood, ceramic tile, and woven baskets, building an inviting, tactile space. You can order Barrier Reef (DE5745) directly from Dunn-Edwards or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.