Country squire is a classic neutral paint color that works well in many home interiors. It’s a light tan or beige shade that provides a subtle, warm backdrop in living spaces. As a versatile neutral, country squire allows room accents and furnishings to take center stage. But what exactly is the country squire color? Here’s an in-depth look at this popular neutral paint shade.
The Origins of Country Squire
Country squire is a long-standing paint color that has been offered by several major paint brands over the years. It first emerged as a popular color choice in the 1990s and has remained a staple neutral shade for the past few decades.
The name “country squire” evokes a rural, pastoral feel that translates into the warm, earthy tone of this color. It brings to mind images of country estates and sophisticated rustic spaces.
Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams have been two of the leading purveyors of country squire paint. Their versions of the color have set the standard for this creamy, beige-based neutral shade.
Benjamin Moore Country Squire
The Benjamin Moore take on country squire is a pale tan paint color. It has undertones of gray and brown that temper its warmth. The company describes it as a traditional beige with faint yellow traces.
In the Benjamin Moore lineup, country squire falls under the neutral paint collection. It coordinates well with other popular Benjamin Moore neutrals like edgecomb gray, revere pewter, and white dove.
The RGB values for Benjamin Moore Country Squire are:
- R: 201
- B: 178
- G: 158
These values give it a soft, muted appearance while retaining enough saturation to avoid looking drab or lifeless.
Sherwin-Williams Country Squire
Sherwin-Williams defines its country squire as a rich, warm neutral paint color. It has a brownish-gray undertone that differentiates it from Benjamin Moore’s more tannish version.
In the Sherwin-Williams color system, country squire belongs to the neutrals family. It works as a warmer alternative to popular gray paint colors like agreeable gray, accessible beige, and cityscape.
The RGB values for Sherwin-Williams Country Squire are:
- R: 209
- G: 189
- B: 165
These values give the Sherwin-Williams country squire a subtle cocoa appearance that sets it apart from other beige paint shades.
Country Squire Color by Room
Country squire is versatile enough to work in nearly any room of the home. Here is an overview of how country squire paint works in some of the main living spaces:
Living Room
In the living room, country squire creates a welcoming backdrop for furniture and decor. Its versatility allows it to blend with any style from modern to traditional. The warm undertones give the space a cozy, relaxed feel.
Bedroom
Country squire evokes a peaceful, settled vibe that makes it an ideal bedroom color. It’s soothing without appearing too dull or lifeless. Pair country squire walls with white bedding and neutral furnishings.
Kitchen
For kitchens, country squire provides a pleasant balance between warm and cool undertones. It makes an excellent color for kitchen cabinets paired with countertops in complementary neutrals like white marble.
Bathroom
In bathrooms, country squire paint helps create a relaxing spa-like atmosphere. It acts as a soft backdrop that allows the textures and fixtures to stand out. Use country squire on walls or vanities.
Dining Room
Country squire is an appetizing neutral shade for dining room walls. It provides a refined but welcoming backdrop for furnishings and art. Pair it with bouquets of flowers for a pop of color.
Entryway
The muted warmth of country squire makes it right at home in an entryway. It creates an inviting first impression while allowing accent pieces and architectural details to shine.
Country Squire Paint Color Combinations
On its own, country squire reads as a soft neutral. But it can shift warmer or cooler depending on the colors paired with it. Here are some recommended color combinations:
- Warm accent colors like terracotta red, mustard yellow, and rust orange make country squire feel more earthy and grounded.
- Cool accent colors like sky blue, sage green, and violet give country squire a more relaxing, tranquil look.
- Crisp white trim adds definition and a clean contrast against country squire walls.
- Rich wood tones in floors and furniture play up the subtle browned undertones in country squire.
- Warm metallics like antique brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and unlacquered brass make country squire feel sophisticated.
The decor materials like stone, jute, ceramic and linen will also blend seamlessly with country squire’s organic vibe. Country squire is a versatile neutral that pairs well with a wide range of colors and textures.
Country Squire Paint Undertones
The undertones present in a paint color have a significant effect on how it looks. Country squire derives much of its character from its distinctive base undertones.
Most versions of country squire have undertones that fall along the red-yellow color spectrum. But density and proportions of the pigments produce different effects. Here are the main undertones in country squire:
- Yellow: Adds brightness and a sunny disposition. Most noticeable in the Benjamin Moore country squire.
- Brown: Contributes earthiness and a subtle richness. Most pronounced in Sherwin-Williams country squire.
- Gray: Produces a more muted, versatile neutral shade. Evident in both major brand versions.
- Red: The faintest red undertones provide subtle warmth and gravitas.
The balance of these four base undertones gives country squire its characteristic beige-tan appearance that leans warm without venturing into overtly yellow or orange territory.
Country Squire Sheen Recommendations
Interior paint sheen affects the aesthetic quality and functional performance of the paint. When using country squire or any neutral wall color, sheen is an important consideration.
Here are recommended sheens for country squire paint:
- Flat: Provides a matte, velvety look. Recommended for ceilings and low-traffic areas.
- Eggshell: Adds subtle luster while retaining some matte qualities. Ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.
- Satin: Strikes a balance between shine and matte. Suitable for hallways, dining rooms, and bathrooms.
- Semi-gloss: Imparts a smooth, sleek finish with some reflectivity. Best for kitchens, trim, and cabinets.
In most cases, eggshell and satin sheens work best for country squire walls, as they provide durable, wipeable finish with just enough luster to showcase the color. Semi-gloss gives trim and cabinets bold definition against the muted walls.
Where to Use Country Squire Paint
Country squire is one of those flexible neutrals that looks right at home in just about any interior space. Here are some of the best places to embrace this adaptable paint color:
- Living rooms: Provides a warm, welcoming backdrop for furniture and decor.
- Dining rooms: Offers an elegant earthy feel for hosting guests.
- Bedrooms: Fosters a peaceful ambiance conducive to rest.
- Bathrooms: Contributes a light, airy spa-like environment.
- Offices/studies: Supports focus while avoiding starkness.
- Kitchens: Warms up cabinets or walls without going too bold.
- Entryways: Greets visitors with inviting intuitiveness.
- Small spaces: Maximize lightness to prevent claustrophobia.
Beyond walls, country squire also works beautifully on ceilings, doors, trim, and cabinetry throughout the home. The key is maintaining a cohesive feel by using complimentary paint sheens.
Pros and Cons of Country Squire Paint
Like any paint color, country squire has both advantages and potential drawbacks to weigh:
Pros:
- Versatile warm neutral suits any style.
- Welcoming and intuitive without being boring.
- Softens and brightens rooms without going too light.
- Coordinates well with many colors and materials.
- Feels upscale and sophisticated but not formal.
Cons:
- May read dingy if lighting is poor.
- Has limited contrast with flooring in similar toned woods.
- May make a space feel monochromatic if overused.
- Lacks the cheerful brightness of lighter neutrals.
Balancing country squire with plenty of lighting, textural contrast, and accent colors minimizes any potential downsides. Thoughtful use plays up its versatility as a refined neutral suitable for elegant everyday spaces.
Alternative Paint Colors
While country squire has widespread appeal, there are plenty of alternative neutral paint colors to also consider. Here are a few options in the same color family:
Warmer neutrals:
- Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams
- On the Rocks by Behr
- Heirloom Linen by Valspar
- Shoji White by Benjamin Moore
Cooler neutrals:
- Agreeable Gray by Sherwin-Williams
- Gathering Place by Behr
- Collonade Gray by Valspar
- Palladian Blue by Benjamin Moore
Test different swatches at home to find the perfect neutral that complements your space and decor style.
Conclusion
Country squire endures as a perennial favorite paint color because of its adaptable, livable neutral shade. It embodies a balance of warmth and softness that suits informal elegance. While the exact country squire tone shifts between paint brands, its core essence remains a creamy, welcoming beige-tan that provides a soothing backdrop for any style of interior design.
Smart use of country squire considers the undertones, sheen variations, and color combinations that allow this versatile neutral to shine. Embracing country squire adds casual sophistication and an elevated yet comfy feel to living spaces throughout the home.
