Benjamin Moore’s Hushed Hue (1520) is a gentle, neutral shade that brings calm to any room.
This soft color sits in Benjamin Moore’s neutral collection, offering a subtle background for various settings.
Homeowners and designers choose Hushed Hue because it creates a peaceful feeling without being plain.
The color has slight green hints that add depth while working as a flexible base for different design styles.
This article covers Hushed Hue (1520), its undertones, the best ways to use it in your home, and which colors pair well.
We’ll also share examples of how this paint color can change the look of different spaces.
What is Hushed Hue (1520)?
A soft, muted, neutral color from Benjamin Moore with a hint of green.
It’s a gentle shade between light and medium on the brightness scale with a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) that helps it work well in various lighting conditions.
This color belongs to Benjamin Moore’s Classic Color Collection and is part of their Neutral Paint Colors lineup.
It’s a timeless option that has tested changing design trends.
A hushed Hue strikes a pleasant balance on the color spectrum – neither warm nor cool.
This middle-ground quality makes it highly useful in many settings, as it doesn’t look too yellow in some lights or too gray in others.
Understanding the Undertones of Hushed Hue
The hushed Hue has soft green undertones that give it more character than plain beige or gray.
This green hint is very mild—you might not notice it immediately, but it adds a natural feel to the color.
Different lighting changes how Hushed Hue looks throughout the day.
The green undertones become more visible in bright natural light. In dim or artificial light, it may look like a warm neutral, with less green showing.
Compared to other Benjamin Moore colors, Hushed Hue has its personality.
It’s lighter than Stone Hearth, which has stronger brown undertones. Hush is a bit warmer overall with less green.
These small differences matter when choosing the right neutral for your space. Undertone changes can affect your room’s feelings; other colors appear next to your walls.
Best Rooms for Using Hushed Hue
Living Room
Hushed Hue creates a calm and inviting atmosphere in living rooms.
Its neutral base makes it easy to work with existing furniture while adding a touch of warmth.
This color looks great with wooden furniture of various tones and fits well with neutral decor items.
The hint of green helps bring a touch of nature indoors without being too strong.
Bedroom
In bedrooms, Hushed Hue helps promote rest and quiet.
The soft color creates a good background for sleep and helps make the room feel more spacious.
It pairs well with soft white bedding or light pastel accent colors.
The gentle tone works with both modern and classic bedroom styles.
Kitchen & Dining Area
Hushed Hue offers a clean yet warm backdrop for kitchens and dining spaces.
It complements white cabinets nicely and works well with light wood tones on countertops or floors.
This color helps make meal prep areas feel clean and warmer than plain white, making dining spaces more welcoming.
Bathroom & Spa-Like Spaces
For bathrooms, Hushed Hue creates a calm feeling you might find at a nice hotel or spa.
It helps enhance natural light, making smaller bathrooms feel more open and airy.
The color pairs well with white fixtures and natural stone elements like marble or limestone.
How Hushed Hue Compares to Similar Colors
| Color Comparison | Main Differences |
|---|---|
| Hushed Hue vs. Hush | Hush is warmer with subtle pink undertones; Hushed Hue has light green undertones. |
| Hushed Hue vs. Inner Balance | The Inner Balance shows more green; the Hushed Hue is more neutral |
| Hushed Hue vs. Fossil | Fossil is cooler with gray undertones; Hushed Hue is warmer and more natural. |
Room Considerations:
- Small rooms: A hushed Hue makes spaces feel bigger
- North-facing rooms: Adds warmth to cool light
- South-facing rooms: Green undertones become more visible
- Large spaces: Provides subtle color without overwhelming
Complementary Colors and Design Pairings
Trim & Ceiling Colors
Chantilly Lace creates crisp contrast with Hushed Hue while keeping spaces light.
Simply White adds subtle warmth when used on trim or ceilings.
Accent Colors
Soft blues enhance the calming feel of Hushed Hue.
Gray accents add sophistication and depth. Muted greens create a cohesive nature-inspired palette.
Furniture & Decor
Natural wood tones from light oak to medium walnut bring out Hushed Hue’s green undertones.
Gold and brass accents highlight warmth.
Neutral textiles in natural fibers maintain a peaceful aesthetic.
Combine Hushed Hue with soft blue accents and cream fabrics for a serene space. Use darker gray elements sparingly to add depth.
Create an organic feel with muted sage accessories and natural materials.
Finish and Paint Sheen Recommendations
| Finish | Best For | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Flat or Matte | Bedrooms, low-traffic areas | Hides wall imperfections, no shine, not washable |
| Eggshell or Satin | Living rooms, hallways | Slight shine, more washable, good balance |
| Semi-Gloss | Kitchens, bathrooms | More durable, moisture-resistant, easy to clean |
Flat or Matte
Flat and matte finishes work best in bedrooms and quiet areas.
They show the truest color. These finishes hide wall flaws well.
They aren’t easy to clean. Use them in spaces that stay mostly clean.
Eggshell or Satin
Eggshell and satin finishes are perfect for living rooms and hallways.
They have a soft shine. You can wipe them clean when needed.
They balance looks and function. Most homeowners choose this finish for main living spaces.
Semi-Gloss
Semi-gloss is right for kitchens and bathrooms.
It stands up to moisture. It cleans easily.
The shine might make the green undertones more visible, works well in busy, wet areas.
Tips for Painting with Hushed Hue
- Test before committing – Try a sample in different lighting to see how it looks throughout the day.
- Use a quality primer – This helps the color appear true to its intended shade.
- Pair with soft textures – Combine natural materials like wood or linen for a warm, inviting space.
- Choose the right finish—matte for a modern look, satin for durability, or semi-gloss for added brightness.
- Apply two coats – For even coverage and a rich, smooth finish.
Conclusion
Hushed Hue is a timeless, versatile neutral that brings warmth and softness to any space.
Its subtle green undertones create a calming atmosphere, making it a great choice for various rooms.
Before painting, test a sample in different lighting to ensure it complements your space.
Whether paired with natural textures for a cozy feel or crisp whites for a modern touch, Hushed Hue adapts beautifully.
With the right finish and decor, this shade can transform your home into a relaxing retreat.
Try it out and enjoy its understated charm.
