Reviewing Chantilly Lace (OC-65) Paint for Exteriors
When I started looking for the perfect white paint for my home’s exterior, I thought it would be easy. But standing in front of all those tiny swatches at the store? Not so simple.
That’s when I found Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore. It’s one of those colors people keep coming back to, and now I know why.
It’s bright but not harsh. Clean without looking cold. And it works well with almost any style of home.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through:
- What makes Chantilly Lace special
- Where it works best on a home’s exterior
- The colors it pairs best with
If you want your home to look crisp, classic, and fresh without guessing in the paint aisle, this guide will help you decide if Chantilly Lace is the right white for your space.
Understanding Chantilly Lace (OC-65) by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace is one of the whitest paint colors. It’s known for its clean, pure appearance, which many homeowners choose for both inside and outside their homes.
Basic Color Profile
- High LRV (92.2), very bright and reflective
- Minimal undertones (leans neutral-cool)
- Great for both modern and traditional homes
This paint color shows almost no yellow, blue, or gray hints, making it appear as a true white.
With its high Light Reflective Value, it bounces back most of the light that hits it, creating bright spaces. This quality makes it stand out among other white paints on the market.
Chantilly Lace as an Exterior Paint
Chantilly Lace has become a top pick for home exteriors because of its pure white quality that stays true in various lighting conditions.
Unlike other whites that might show yellow or gray tints outdoors, this paint maintains its clean look throughout the day.
Clean, Classic Curb Appeal
The high brightness level of Chantilly Lace helps it reflect sunlight beautifully, making homes look fresh and well-kept year-round. This quality makes houses stand out in neighborhoods without looking out of place.
The paint helps highlight special parts of your home’s design, such as trim, columns, or window frames, adding depth without being too bold.
Style Compatibility
What makes this color truly useful is how it fits with so many home styles. From beach houses to farmhouses, from old colonial buildings to sleek modern designs – Chantilly Lace works well with them all.
This wide range of use explains why so many builders, painters, and homeowners choose it for their projects. The paint allows other elements of your home’s design to shine while providing a clean background.
Things to Know Before You Paint
Before you buy your cans of Chantilly Lace for your home’s exterior, there are some key points to keep in mind. This will help you plan your project better and avoid any surprises along the way.
Brightness in Full Sunlight
Chantilly Lace can look very bright on sunny days. On large wall areas, this intense whiteness might seem too stark or plain without anything to break it up.
To balance this effect, think about adding some greenery around your home or using darker shutters or doors. These touches help create a more pleasing look that isn’t too overwhelming to the eye.
Coverage and Application
When painting with Chantilly Lace, be ready to apply multiple coats. Many users report needing 2-3 layers, even when using white primer underneath. This is common with very white paints like this one.
To get the best results, buy good-quality exterior primer and use top-notch brushes, rollers, or sprayers. Taking time with your prep work will lead to a much better finish that lasts longer.
Choosing the Right Finish
- Flat: This finish has no shine and hides small bumps or flaws in your siding. It’s perfect for large wall areas but may show dirt more easily.
- Satin: With a light shine, satin is easier to clean than flat paint. It works well for trim pieces or smaller accent areas that you might wash more often.
- Semi-gloss/Gloss: These very shiny finishes are best for places that need frequent cleaning, like doors, handrails, and small details. They stand up well to scrubbing but will show any flaws in the surface.
Chantilly Lace vs. Other White Exterior Paints
When choosing a white paint for your home’s outside, it helps to see how Chantilly Lace compares to other popular options. This can make your decision easier based on the look you want to achieve.
| Feature | Chantilly Lace | Simply White | White Dove |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall tone | Clean, pure white | Warm white | Soft white |
| Undertones | Minimal, neutral-cool | Yellow undertones | Gentle gray undertones |
| Brightness | Very bright (LRV 92.2) | Bright but softer | More muted |
| Best for | Modern, coastal, clean looks | Traditional, cozy looks | Classic, subtle looks |
| Appearance in sunlight | Crisp and sharp | Warm and glowing | Soft and smooth |
| Pairing with | Bold accents and trims | Natural wood tones | Stone, brick, and earthy colors |
| Coverage needs | Often needs 2-3 coats | Usually 2 coats | Often 2 coats |
The main difference is that Chantilly Lace has fewer color hints than the others, making it look like a more “true” white.
Simply White (OC-177) feels warmer and cozier, while White Dove (OC-17) offers a softer, more gentle white that’s less bright on the eyes.
Best Color Pairings for a Complete Look
Picking the right colors to go with Chantilly Lace can make your home look complete and well-designed. The pure white base works with many color options.
Trim & Shutters
Charcoal gray creates clear outlines without being too harsh against the bright white. Navy blue offers a classic look that stays in style year-round.
Soft black defines windows and edges without the harshness of true black. Greige (gray-beige mix) provides a gentle contrast that still catches the eye while keeping things soft.
Front Doors and Accents
Warm wood tones bring natural warmth to balance the clean, crisp lines of Chantilly Lace. Slate blue doors offer a calm, welcoming feeling for guests.
Dusty sage connects your white exterior to the surrounding greenery. Muted reds add just enough color to draw attention to your entrance without being too bold.
These color pairings help a white house feel finished rather than plain, highlighting your home’s best features.
Final Thoughts
If you’re aiming for a bright, crisp white that works with almost any home style, I’d definitely consider Chantilly Lace. I’ve used it myself, and it gives everything a clean, fresh look.
When you’re picking a color for your exterior, think about your home’s setting and overall style. This shade can really lift the look of any building.
Make sure to prep well and plan for a couple of coats. The right trim can make all the difference.
Want more exterior paint ideas? You’ll find helpful tips in my other home design blogs on the website.
