What Makes Chantilly Lace Paint a Popular Choice?
Have you ever walked into a room and felt instantly captivated by its crisp, clean walls?
After testing dozens of white paints in my own home, I kept coming back to one color that outperformed all the rest.
Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace isn’t just another white paint; it’s the secret behind those bright, airy spaces you see in designer magazines.
This paint is exceptionally bright, making it one of the brightest whites available. It reflects light beautifully without those yellow or pink undertones that make other whites look dirty or cold.
Let me show you exactly why interior designers and homeowners can’t stop talking about this particular shade of white.
Chantilly Lace Paint: Why It’s a Designer Favorite
Chantilly Lace (OC-65) by Benjamin Moore stands as one of the most beloved white paint colors among interior designers and homeowners alike.
This crisp, clean white captures the essence of fresh cotton and pure silk, offering an almost true white appearance that works beautifully in any space.
The paint’s versatility shines through its ability to complement both modern and traditional design styles. It reflects natural light effectively, creating open, airy spaces that feel larger and more inviting.
Chantilly Lace Paint Characteristics
Color Format | Value |
---|---|
Paint Code | OC-65 |
Color Name | Chantilly Lace |
HEX Code | #F5F5EF |
RGB Values | R: 245, G: 245, B: 239 |
LRV | 90.64 |
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value) is a measurement that indicates how much visible light a color reflects, expressed as a percentage from 0 to 100.
- HEX code is a 6-digit alphanumeric code that represents colors in digital formats.
- RGB (Red, Green, Blue) uses three numbers from 0-255 to define colors.
Where to Use Chantilly Lace?
This versatile white paint works beautifully across multiple surfaces and rooms, from kitchen cabinets to exterior trim, thanks to its neutral undertones and exceptional light-reflecting properties.
1. Kitchen Cabinets
Chantilly Lace works beautifully on kitchen cabinets, especially with bright white quartz countertops. Its clean, neutral quality pairs well with marble surfaces, black or brass hardware, and natural wood elements for a timeless kitchen look.
The paint’s durability withstands daily kitchen use while maintaining its bright appearance. Consider using a satin or semi-gloss finish for easy cleaning and maintenance.
2. Bathrooms
The crisp, clean nature of Chantilly Lace makes it an ideal choice for bathrooms. Its high light reflection helps brighten smaller spaces while maintaining a fresh, spa-like atmosphere that works with various tile and fixture finishes.
The paint resists moisture well when applied properly, making it an ideal choice for powder rooms and master bathrooms. It pairs beautifully with subway tiles and modern fixtures
3. Living Rooms
With its high LRV, Chantilly Lace brightens living spaces effectively, especially those with large windows. It creates an open, airy feel that makes rooms appear larger while providing a neutral backdrop for furniture and decor.
The paint works well in both formal and casual settings, complementing everything from bold artwork to natural textures. It’s perfect for creating that modern farmhouse aesthetic.
4. Exterior Applications
Chantilly Lace creates a bright, clean exterior appearance on siding and trim. However, consider softer whites for primary house color, as this shade can appear stark in direct sunlight on large surfaces.
It works well for shutters, front doors, and architectural details. The paint holds up well against the weather when using exterior-grade formulas. Consider the surrounding landscape when choosing this bright white for large exterior areas.
Now that you know where Chantilly Lace works best, let’s discuss some easy styling tips to make the most of this stunning shade.
Real-World Styling Tips with Chantilly Paints
These practical design strategies help you maximize Chantilly Lace’s potential and avoid common mistakes when incorporating this bright white into your space.
- Match trim and walls – Paint both walls and trim in Chantilly Lace to avoid contrasting undertones and create seamless flow.
- Layer natural textures – Pair with linen, light wood, or woven accents to add warmth and depth to the crisp white backdrop.
- Add bold contrast – Incorporate darker elements like black window frames or navy furniture to make the white pop dramatically.
- Use statement lighting – Since Chantilly Lace acts as a neutral backdrop, bold pendants or chandeliers will stand out beautifully against it.
- Test lighting conditions – Always sample the paint in your specific room lighting, as it reflects surrounding colors and changes throughout the day.
- Avoid warm undertone pairings – Skip warm yellows or honey oak finishes, as they may make Chantilly Lace appear pinkish or dirty.
Chantilly Lace delivers the clean, bright white that designers love while remaining versatile enough for any style. Its exceptional light reflection and minimal undertones make it a safe choice that consistently performs well across different rooms and lighting conditions.
Coordinating Colors that Shine with Chantilly Lace
Find the perfect palette companions that enhance Chantilly Lace’s crisp grace, from soft neutrals to bold accents that create surprising, harmonious spaces.
1. White OC-151
White (OC-151) is a pure, clean white with subtle warm undertones that prevent it from appearing stark or cold. This versatile shade offers a soft, creamy finish that works beautifully as a main wall color or trim, providing timeless polish without the harshness of true white.
2. Horizon OC-53
Horizon (OC-53) is a soft, worldly gray with subtle blue undertones that evokes the serene meeting point of sky and sea. This calming neutral creates an airy, tranquil atmosphere while maintaining enough depth to feel grounded and refined in any space.
3. Seapearl OC-19
Seapearl (OC-19) is a delicate, warm white with gentle gray and beige undertones that creates a soft, pearl-like luminosity. This sophisticated neutral offers subtle depth and warmth, making it perfect for creating serene, elegant spaces that feel both fresh and inviting.
4. Edgecomb Gray HC-173
Edgecomb Gray (HC-173) is a versatile beige that perfectly balances warm beige and cool gray tones, creating a sophisticated neutral that adapts beautifully to different lighting conditions.
Similar Colour for Chantilly Lace
Finding similar whites when Chantilly Lace isn’t available or studying slight variations to match your specific lighting and style preferences.
Ice Mist (2123-70) is a pale, ethereal blue-gray that captures the delicate essence of morning frost and winter skies.
This whisper-soft shade brings tranquil civilization to any space, offering subtle coolness without feeling cold, making it perfect for creating serene, spa-like atmospheres with timeless appeal.
While no paint perfectly matches Chantilly Lace across brands, ice mist comes closest for those needing an alternative. However, testing samples in your specific lighting remains essential for any white paint selection.
Maintenance Tips for Chantilly Lace Paint
Keep your bright white walls looking fresh and pristine with these simple care strategies that preserve the paint’s exceptional light-reflecting qualities.
- Clean gently with mild soap – Use warm water and gentle dish soap to remove marks and fingerprints without damaging the paint finish.
- Touch up scuffs immediately – Keep leftover paint for quick touch-ups, as white shows every mark but covers easily with proper application.
- Dust regularly with microfiber cloths – Weekly dusting prevents buildup that can make white walls appear dull or yellowed over time.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Skip bleach-based cleaners that can cause discoloration; stick to pH-neutral cleaning products for best results.
- Use proper lighting – Install quality LED bulbs (3000-4000K) to maintain the paint’s true white appearance without unwanted color casts.
- Repaint high-traffic areas every 3-5 years – Areas like hallways and kitchens may need refreshing sooner to maintain that crisp, clean look.
Conclusion
Now you understand why Chantilly Lace paint has earned its reputation as a designer favorite.
With its exceptional and minimal undertones, this Benjamin Moore white consistently delivers the bright, clean look that makes spaces feel larger and more inviting.
The beauty of this color lies in its versatility; it works equally well on kitchen cabinets, bathroom walls, and trim throughout your home.
While alternatives exist, few match its perfect balance of brightness and neutrality.
Ready to convert your space with this popular white? Start by ordering paint samples and testing them in your specific lighting conditions.
Your walls will thank you for choosing a color that not only looks beautiful but also performs well.