Reviewing Benjamin Moore Beach Glass (1564)
Have you ever noticed how the perfect paint color can transport you to your happy place?
That’s exactly what Benjamin Moore Beach Glass does – it captures the serene beauty of sea glass tumbled smooth by ocean waves.
In this guide, you’ll discover why Beach Glass might be the coastal color you’ve been searching for.
Whether you dream of a peaceful bedroom retreat or a fresh kitchen makeover, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this soothing blue-green shade.
As a home decorator who’s used Beach Glass in dozens of projects, I can tell you why it works in some spaces and not in others.
I’ll share real examples, color combinations that sing, and practical tips to help you decide if it’s right for your home.
No more second-guessing your paint choice – let’s find out if Beach Glass is your perfect match.
What Color Is Benjamin Moore Beach Glass (1564)?
Beach Glass (1564) is a soft, muted blue-green that reminds me of weathered sea glass washed up on the shore. When I first saw it, I was struck by how it shifts between blue and green depending on the light – just like real beach glass does.
Here’s what makes this color special: It has a gray undertone that tones down the brightness, making it more sophisticated than typical coastal colors. Think of that misty morning light at the beach, and you’ll get the idea.
In north-facing rooms, you’ll notice more of its blue side coming through. But catch it in the warm afternoon sun, and its gentle green notes become more obvious. That’s what I love about Beach Glass – it’s like getting multiple colors in one.
The numbers behind the color
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 63.
- Color Collection: Classic.
- Color Family: Blue-Green.
It’s lighter than a teal but deeper than a mint. If you’re worried about it being too “beachy,” don’t be – it’s subtle enough to work in any style home, from modern to traditional.
The Secret Behind Beach Glass’s Undertones
Let’s talk about what really makes Beach Glass tick. As someone who’s tested this color in every lighting situation imaginable, I can tell you that its undertones are what set it apart from other coastal colors.
The magic lies in its gray base. This isn’t just a straightforward blue-green – it has a sophisticated gray undertone that acts like a filter, softening the whole color. Think of it like wearing sunglasses at the beach – everything gets this beautiful, muted quality.
Here’s what I’ve noticed about its undertones in different lights: In the morning light, the color leans into its gray side, creating a soft, misty feel. By midday, the blue undertones step forward. And in the evening? That’s when the green notes really shine through.
But here’s the thing about Beach Glass that often surprises people: it never goes too warm or too cool. The gray undertone keeps it balanced, preventing those dreaded “hospital green” or “baby blue” moments that can happen with other coastal colors.
If you’re wondering whether it’ll go yellow or pink in your space – it won’t. The gray undertone acts like an anchor, keeping the color true to itself no matter what time of day it is.
How Beach Glass Looks in Different Lighting
I’ve seen Beach Glass transform throughout the day in countless homes, and here’s the fascinating part – it’s like a chameleon but in the best possible way.
1. Natural Light
In north-facing rooms, Beach Glass takes on a cooler, more tranquil blue tone.
It’s perfect for creating that peaceful coastal vibe without feeling cold. South-facing spaces bring out its warmer side, where the green undertones become more noticeable, making the color feel alive and welcoming.
East-facing rooms get the most dramatic show. In the morning, Beach Glass glows with a crisp, energizing blue. By afternoon, it settles into a softer, more muted shade. In west-facing spaces, it’s the opposite – subdued in the morning, then warming up beautifully as the sun sets.
2. Artificial Light
LED lights tend to sharpen Beach Glass’s blue notes.
Under incandescent bulbs, the color warms up slightly, bringing out more of its green side. Halogen lighting strikes a nice balance, letting both blue and green undertones shine through evenly.
Here’s the most important thing I’ve learned: Beach Glass never looks harsh or jarring, regardless of your lighting situation. The gray undertone acts as a buffer, keeping the color sophisticated and easy on the eyes from dawn to dusk.
Remember to test your paint sample at different times of day in the actual room you’re planning to paint. The way light interacts with Beach Glass in your space might surprise you – in a good way.
Perfect Color Pairings with Benjamin Moore Beach Glass
After using Beach Glass in dozens of homes, I’ve discovered which colors make it truly shine. Let me share my favorite combinations that never fail to impress.
1. White Pairings
White Dove (OC-17) is my go-to trim color with Beach Glass. It’s soft without being yellow, creating a clean, fresh look. For a crisper contrast, I often use Chantilly Lace (OC-65).
The pure white makes Beach Glass appear more sophisticated and modern.
Natural Wood Here’s something that surprises my clients: Beach Glass looks amazing with both light and dark wood tones. It brings out the warmth in walnuts while making oak feel fresh and contemporary.
2. Deeper Colors
Want to add some drama? Hale Navy (HC-154) is a perfect companion – it grounds Beach Glass without overwhelming it. For a softer approach, Gray Cashmere (2138-60) creates a beautiful layered effect.
3. Metallic Accents
I’ve found that Beach Glass has a special relationship with metals:
- Brushed nickel keeps things coastal and clean
- Aged brass adds warmth and sophistication
- Chrome brings out the color’s modern side
For a foolproof accent wall, try Stonington Gray (HC-170). It’s like they were made for each other – neither color competes for attention, but together, they create something special.
Remember, the best pairings let Beach Glass be the star while adding their own subtle support to your overall design story.
Real-Life Spaces Featuring Benjamin Moore Beach Glass
Let me walk you through some actual homes where I’ve used Beach Glass and share what worked (and what surprised us).
1. The Modern Farmhouse Kitchen
I painted Beach Glass on the kitchen cabinets of a farmhouse-style home last summer. The color transformed basic white cabinets into a subtle showstopper.
The space felt fresh but not too beachy with white quartz counters and black hardware. The biggest surprise? How it made the brass light fixtures pop without feeling too trendy.
2. A Cozy Home Office
In a north-facing home office, we used Beach Glass on all four walls. Instead of feeling cold (which can happen with blue greens in north light), it created this incredibly focused, calm atmosphere.
The homeowner says it’s like working in a soft cloud – energizing but peaceful.
3. Primary Bathroom Success
One of my favorite projects was a bathroom makeover. Beach Glass on the walls paired with marble-look tile brought in that spa-like feel everyone wants. Under the vanity lights, the color stayed true – no green shifts like you sometimes get with other blue greens.
4. The Living Room Test
Here’s an honest moment: In one client’s large, open-concept living room, Beach Glass needed help. The room’s mix of natural and artificial light was making the color look uneven.
The solution? We adjusted the lighting first, adding some wall sconces, and suddenly, the color came alive exactly as intended.
Remember, what worked in these spaces might look different from yours, but that’s what makes Beach Glass so versatile. It adapts to your home’s unique personality.
Is Benjamin Moore Beach Glass Right for You?
After years of using this color, I’ve learned who falls in love with Beach Glass and who might want to keep looking. Let me help you decide.
1. Beach Glass Might Be Perfect If
You’re drawn to calm, serene spaces but don’t want them to feel cold. Maybe you love coastal style but want something more sophisticated than traditional aqua. Or perhaps you’re looking for a color that can grow with your style over time.
2. It’s Also Great When
- Your room gets good natural light
- You want a color that works in both modern and traditional spaces
- You’re aiming for that spa-like feeling in bathrooms
- Your home has open-concept spaces that need a subtle flow
Think Twice If: Your room is already dark – Beach Glass needs light to show its true personality. Also, if you’re hoping for a bold statement color, this subtle shade might not give you the drama you’re after.
Here’s my practical advice: Paint a large sample board (at least 2×2 feet) and move it around your space throughout the day. Watch how it changes. If you find yourself drawn to its subtle shifts and feeling more relaxed when you look at it, Beach Glass might be your perfect match.
Remember, there’s no such thing as a universally perfect color – but Beach Glass comes pretty close for the right space and style.
Expert Tips for Using Beach Glass Effectively
After countless Beach Glass projects, I’ve gathered some practical tips that can make the difference between “nice” and “wow.” Let me share what really works.
1. Sample Smart
Don’t just paint one tiny swatch. I always tell my clients to paint large boards (2×2 feet minimum) and move them around the room. Here’s a pro tip: Paint two coats on your sample – Beach Glass can look quite different with proper coverage.
2. Lighting Matters
Natural light is your friend with this color. But if your room lacks windows, here’s what I’ve learned:
- Layer your lighting sources
- Use daylight bulbs (5000K-6500K) to bring out the true color
- Add some uplighting to create depth
4. Prep Makes Perfect
Beach Glass shows wall imperfections more than darker colors. Trust me on this – take the extra time to:
- Patch any holes completely
- Sand your walls smooth
- Use a high-quality primer
5. The Right Finish
In my experience, eggshell finish works best for walls – it gives just enough sheen to let the color’s subtle shifts show through. For trim, I stick with semi-gloss for durability and contrast.
One last thing I’ve discovered: Beach Glass looks most authentic when you let it be the star. Keep your decor simple and let this sophisticated color do what it does best – create a peaceful, upscale atmosphere.
Bringing Beach Glass Home
Beach Glass is more than just another pretty coastal color – it’s a versatile choice that can transform your space into something truly special.
From my experience with countless home projects, I’ve seen it create peaceful bedrooms, sophisticated kitchens, and spa-like bathrooms that stand the test of time.
The key to success lies in understanding how this chameleon-like color behaves in your specific space and lighting conditions.
Whether you’re diving into a full home makeover or just dipping your toes into coastal colors, Beach Glass offers that perfect balance of sophistication and serenity.
Remember to test it in your space, consider your lighting, and trust your instincts. If you’re drawn to its subtle shifts and calming presence, Beach Glass might just be the perfect color to write your home’s next chapter.
Take your time with samples, follow the prep work guidelines, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a space that feels both fresh and timeless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beach Glass too beachy for a non-coastal home?
Not at all. While it’s inspired by sea glass, its sophisticated gray undertones make it versatile enough for any home style. I’ve used it successfully in urban apartments, mountain homes, and modern farmhouses – it’s all about how you style it.
Will Beach Glass make my small room feel dark?
In my experience, with its LRV of 63, Beach Glass actually helps brighten spaces. However, it performs best in rooms with adequate natural light. In very small, dark rooms, I recommend testing it carefully before committing.
Does Beach Glass look different on cabinets versus walls?
Yes, it does. On cabinets, beach glass tends to appear slightly more saturated due to the different paint finishes and vertical surfaces. I always recommend testing it on both surfaces if you’re planning to use it throughout a space.
How many coats of Beach Glass will I need?
Most of my projects require two full coats for perfect coverage, especially over lighter colors. Over darker colors, you might need a tinted primer plus two coats. Always wait for each coat to dry completely before adding the next.
Can Beach Glass work in a south-facing room?
Absolutely! In south-facing rooms, Beach Glass shows off its versatility. The warm light brings out its greener undertones during the day while maintaining its sophisticated blue-gray base. Just be prepared for the color to shift slightly throughout the day – it’s part of its charm.
