Ibis white is a popular off-white paint color that has gained popularity in recent years for its versatility and ability to brighten up any space. But what exactly is the LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of Ibis white? Keep reading to find out!
The LRV is a measure of how much light a color reflects. The scale ranges from 0 (absolute black) to 100 (pure white). Knowing the LRV of a particular paint color can help you understand how light or dark it will look on the wall and whether it will work well for a particular room. An LRV of 50 would be a mid-tone neutral color. Higher LRVs above 70 will read as light colors and below 30 as dark colors.
What is the LRV of Ibis White?
According to most major paint brands, Ibis White has an LRV right around 80. Specifically:
- Benjamin Moore Ibis White: LRV 81
- Sherwin Williams Alabaster (close match to Ibis White): LRV 86
- Behr White Metal (close match): LRV 81
An LRV in the low 80s means Ibis White reflects a high amount of light. It will read as a light neutral color on the wall, appearing crisp and bright in a space. The high reflectance value gives it an airy, open feel.
How Does the LRV Impact How Ibis White Looks?
The high LRV of Ibis White has a noticeable effect on how it looks on the walls compared to a lower LRV color. Here are some of the impacts of the high light reflectance value:
- Appears brighter and more illumination – With an LRV in the 80s, far more light bounces off Ibis White walls vs. a color with an LRV in the 30s-40s. This brightness enhances illumination in the room.
- Can make rooms feel more open – Light colors expand a space, making it feel larger and more airy. Ibis White’s high LRV helps small rooms feel more open.
- Provides contrast with dark colors – The high LRV creates strong contrast if paired with a dark color. Trim or furniture in a dark espresso brown will really pop against Ibis White.
- Requires more maintenance – Higher LRVs show scuffs, marks and imperfections more easily. Ibis White will require more touch-ups compared to a mid-tone paint.
- Not ideal for hiding imperfections – The lightness shows flaws, so Ibis White is better for newer construction with smoother walls.
So in summary, the high LRV of Ibis White makes it perfect for maximizing brightness and illuminating smaller spaces. But it also means you need surfaces in good shape for the best results.
How Does Ibis White Compare to Other Popular Whites?
Here’s how the LRV of Ibis White stacks up to other popular white and off-white paint colors:
Paint Color | LRV |
---|---|
Chantilly Lace (Benjamin Moore) | 82 |
White Dove (Benjamin Moore) | 84 |
Simply White (Behr) | 86 |
Swiss Coffee (Behr) | 60 |
Accessible Beige (Sherwin Williams) | 48 |
Some takeaways:
- Ibis White is very similar in LRV to the popular Benjamin Moore white Chantilly Lace.
- It reflects a bit less light than brighter true whites like White Dove or Simply White.
- It’s significantly lighter than popular off-white beiges like Swiss Coffee and Accessible Beige.
So Ibis White hits a nice sweet spot, lighter than a warm beige but not as stark as a bright white.
LRV Considerations by Room
Here are some tips on selecting an LRV for different rooms:
Bedrooms
LRVs in the 60s provide enough light for bedrooms. Ibis White could work but some may find it too bright for a relaxing sleep space. Consider pairing it with darker bedding and window treatments.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms benefit from light colors like Ibis White to create a clean, hygienic feel. The high LRV also reflects more light, helping to make small baths feel larger.
Kitchens
Kitchens are often bright active spaces where light colors are practical. The high LRV of Ibis White will make the space feel open and airy. Be aware the color may require more frequent touch-ups.
Living Rooms
Ibis White is a great choice for living rooms, illuminating the space while providing a neutral backdrop. Pair with pops of color in furniture and decor.
Achieving the Perfect Ibis White
Achieving the perfect Ibis White comes down to proper prep and application:
- Proper prep is crucial – fill cracks, sand glossy surfaces, and prime walls for best results.
- Invest in high quality primer and paint – this provides better coverage and makes touch ups easier.
- Apply multiple thin coats – slowly building up the color results in a more even shade without streaks.
- Use flat or eggshell finish – this helps hide imperfections better than a glossy sheen.
- Cut in edges first – cutting in edges with a brush delivers the crispest lines.
Putting in the prep work helps achieve a flawless Ibis White that takes advantage of its high LRV.
Conclusion
With an LRV in the low 80s, Ibis White is a gorgeous light neutral that brightens and expands any space. Compared to darker off-whites, the higher LRV amplifies illumination and contrast. Bathrooms, kitchens and living spaces are all complemented by the uplifting brightness of Ibis White. Just take care to properly prep and apply when using this crisp near-white color. Achieving full coverage and evenness brings out Ibis White’s best qualities.