Understanding Color

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. Why It Matters: Lighting: Helps determine how much artificial lighting is needed. Low-LRV rooms require more, while high-LRV rooms maximize natural...

Color really does make the room. The perfect shade and finish can enlarge a small space, bring in more light, or deliver that kick of energy you need with your morning coffee. But finding the right one? Now that’s another story.

Most paint colors are created by using two or more colors. An undertone is created when there is a higher percentage of one color over the other. White paint colors are especially prone to taking on different tonalities from morning to evening, under both natural and artificial lighting conditions.