Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measures the percentage of light a paint color reflects or absorbs, typically on a scale from 0 (absolute black) to 100 (pure white).
A higher LRV (above 50) makes spaces brighter and feel larger, while a lower LRV (below 50) creates cozier, darker, or more dramatic, moody spaces.
- Scale & Meaning: 0–100. Lower numbers (e.g., 5-10) are dark/absorbent; higher numbers (e.g., 80-90) are light/reflective.
- Locating LRV: Found on the back of paint chips in-store or on manufacturer websites.
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Why It Matters:
- Lighting: Helps determine how much artificial lighting is needed. Low-LRV rooms require more, while high-LRV rooms maximize natural light.
- Room Size: Light colors (High LRV) make small rooms feel larger.
- Exterior Energy Efficiency: Lighter exterior colors reflect more heat, keeping buildings cooler.
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Range Characteristics:
- < 20 (Dark): Absorbs most light.
- 20-50 (Midrange): Balanced, but tends to feel darker.
- 50-80 (Light): Brightens spaces considerably.
- > 80 (White): Reflects maximum light