Benjamin Moore's White Dove and Chantilly Lace are two incredibly popular white paint colors, often leading homeowners to a frustrating decision: which one is right for their space? Both are considered "greige" shades—meaning they subtly blend gray and beige—but their undertones and overall effect differ significantly. This detailed comparison will help you understand their nuances and choose the perfect white for your home.
What is White Dove?
White Dove (OC-17) is a warm, creamy white with subtle beige undertones. Its gentle warmth makes it incredibly versatile, working beautifully in a wide range of lighting conditions and with various decor styles. It's a popular choice for creating a calm, inviting atmosphere, lending itself to both traditional and modern aesthetics. Its subtle gray undertones prevent it from appearing too yellow or stark.
What is Chantilly Lace?
Chantilly Lace (OC-65) is a crisper, brighter white with cooler undertones. Unlike White Dove's creamy softness, Chantilly Lace offers a cleaner, more contemporary feel. Its subtle gray undertones prevent it from appearing too stark or cold, making it a sophisticated choice for modern or minimalist interiors. It's known for its ability to make a room feel larger and brighter.
White Dove vs. Chantilly Lace: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | White Dove (OC-17) | Chantilly Lace (OC-65) |
|---|---|---|
| Undertones | Warm, creamy beige | Cool, crisp gray |
| Overall Feel | Soft, inviting, calming | Crisp, clean, bright, contemporary |
| Light Reflection | Reflects light softly | Reflects light more brightly |
| Best For | Traditional, transitional, cozy spaces | Modern, minimalist, bright spaces |
| Room Size | Works well in all room sizes | Particularly flattering in larger rooms |
How Much Do White Dove and Chantilly Lace Differ?
While both are considered white, the difference in undertones is noticeable. White Dove leans warmer, appearing almost creamy in certain lighting, while Chantilly Lace presents a cooler, brighter hue. The difference is subtle, but significant enough to impact the overall mood and feel of a room. Consider testing paint samples in your space under various lighting conditions before making a final decision.
Which paint is brighter, White Dove or Chantilly Lace?
Chantilly Lace is the brighter of the two. Its cooler undertones and higher light reflectance contribute to a brighter, more airy feel. White Dove, while still bright, offers a softer, more subdued illumination.
Which paint is warmer, White Dove or Chantilly Lace?
White Dove is undeniably the warmer of the two. Its creamy beige undertones provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, unlike Chantilly Lace's crisp, cool tones.
Is Chantilly Lace too bright?
Whether Chantilly Lace is "too bright" is subjective and depends on your personal preference, the amount of natural light in the room, and the overall design aesthetic. In rooms with limited natural light, it might appear too stark. However, in well-lit spaces, it can create a fresh, airy ambiance.
Is White Dove too yellow?
While White Dove has warm undertones, it rarely appears overtly yellow. The subtle beige undertones balance the warmth, preventing it from looking excessively yellow. However, in rooms with warmer lighting, the beige undertones might become more pronounced.
Choosing the Right White for Your Home
The best way to choose between White Dove and Chantilly Lace is to test paint samples in your space. Consider the amount of natural light, the size of the room, and your overall design style. Observe the samples throughout the day to see how the color changes in different lighting conditions. This will ensure you select the perfect shade to complement your home's unique character. Remember, a small investment in sample pots saves you from a potentially costly mistake!
