What is LRV in paint colors?
What the number means
Paint manufacturers often list LRV on the back of a paint chip or on the product page. A color with a high LRV reflects more light, so it tends to make a room feel brighter. A color with a low LRV absorbs more light and can make a space feel cozier or more dramatic.
LRV is useful for comparing colors that look similar. Two grays can have very different LRVs, and that difference often explains why one feels airy and the other feels heavy in the same room.
- Near 0 is very dark, close to black
- Near 100 is very light, close to white
- Use LRV to compare colors in the same family
- Check it on the swatch or product sheet
Using LRV in planning
Rooms with little natural light usually benefit from a higher LRV, which helps bounce light around. Rooms with strong sun can handle deeper colors with a lower LRV. Compare the LRV of your trim to your walls, since a big gap creates strong contrast.
Keep in mind that LRV is only one factor. Undertone and the light in your room matter just as much when you decide.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a dark color in a small, dim room without checking its LRV.
- Assuming two colors with the same name have the same LRV across brands.
- Ignoring LRV when picking trim color against walls.
Related questions
- How do I choose a paint color for my living room?
- What is the best way to pick a paint color without seeing it in person?
- How many paint colors should I use in one room?
- Should I choose paint color before or after furniture?
- How do I pick a paint color that matches my existing decor?
- What is the best way to test a paint color on a wall?