Barren Plain vs Shale
Both from Benjamin Moore's palette. These are both greige-greys, so the question isn't which hue to choose — it's where within greige-grey to land. Barren Plain (LRV 62) reflects noticeably more light than Shale (LRV 50), a difference of 12 points that becomes especially apparent in rooms with limited natural light. Both lean red, so they'll behave similarly in mixed or changing light conditions. The ΔE 7.4 gap is real but not dramatic — close enough to use together, distinct enough to matter as a choice. Below, 5 simulated room previews show how each color reads at scale — real-room photos will be added as they become available.
Color Details
Barren Plain vs Shale Simulated Comparison
5 simulated room previews — drag the slider on each to see Barren Plain on one side and Shale on the other.
Digital color is approximate. These simulations are generated from the manufacturer's hex values and overlaid on grayscale room photos — your screen's calibration, brightness, and viewing angle all affect how they render. Before committing to either color, test physical samples in your own space under the light you actually live with.
More Barren Plain comparisons
See how Barren Plain stacks up against other well-photographed colors across different brands and tones.
