Earl Gray

Technical Profile

What color is Earl Gray? It's a light warm gray with the hex code #A6978A. Colors similar to Earl Gray include Behr Studio Taupe, Sherwin-Williams Sticks & Stones, Hirshfield's Rain Barrel. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. Earl Gray 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. Earl Gray (#A6978A) by PPG is a light gray paint color with a gentle, subdued character. It delivers a bright, welcoming quality that keeps interiors feeling fresh. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. Its RGB channels are closely balanced, contributing to its neutral, even-keeled visual character. Its Light Reflectance Value of 60 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, Earl Gray pairs beautifully with blue tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring yellow and red hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its neutral undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. If PPG is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from Behr, Sherwin-Williams, Hirshfield's and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Earl Gray radiates an inviting, sun-washed warmth that makes guests feel immediately at ease. 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 PPG palette, Earl Gray benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. As with any paint color, Earl Gray 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 Earl Gray (1020-5) directly from PPG or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.