Stone Hearth Benjamin Moore Cabinets: A Designer’s Guide to Warm, Timeless Kitchen Elegance
Hey there! I’m Sarah, an interior designer with 15 years of experience transforming kitchens across New England. Today, I’m diving deep into Benjamin Moore’s Stone Hearth (984) for cabinets – a color that’s become my secret weapon for creating warm, inviting kitchens.
Why Stone Hearth Stands Out
I discovered Stone Hearth during a client project when we needed something that wasn’t “just another greige.” With its LRV of 48.45, it hits that sweet spot between light and dark, making it perfect for modern kitchens.
Key Features:
- Warm taupe undertones without yellow casting
- Medium depth that hides cooking splatters well
- Plays nicely with both cool and warm metal finishes
- Works in both north and south-facing kitchens
Real Talk: What You Need to Know
Before you grab that paint brush, here’s what I’ve learned from painting countless cabinets:
The Good:
- Exceptional coverage with Benjamin Moore Advance
- Pairs beautifully with white quartz countertops
- Versatile enough for any kitchen style
- Shows minimal wear and tear
The Challenges:
- Requires perfect lighting to showcase true color
- Needs two coats minimum for optimal results
- Can look different throughout the day
- Prep work is crucial for lasting results
Perfect Pairings
Through trial and error, I’ve found these combinations work best:
Countertops:
- White quartz with subtle veining
- Soapstone
- Butcher block
Wall Colors:
- Chantilly Lace (bright white)
- Swiss Coffee (soft white)
- Gray Owl (light gray)
Hardware:
- Aged brass
- Matte black
- Brushed nickel
Pro Tips for Application
Listen, I’ve made every mistake possible with cabinet painting. Here’s what actually works:
- Sand thoroughly – no shortcuts
- Use Benjamin Moore Advance primer
- Apply thin coats with a foam roller
- Let each coat dry completely (24 hours minimum)
- Add handles only after 7 days of curing
Budget Breakdown
Basic Cabinet Refresh:
- Paint: $65/gallon
- Primer: $45/gallon
- Basic supplies: $50
- Total: Around $160
Full Transformation:
- Paint + primer: $110
- Quality brushes/rollers: $75
- New hardware: $100-200
- Prep supplies: $50
- Total: $335-435
Real Project Example
Last month, I transformed Jenny’s 1990s oak kitchen using Stone Hearth. The difference was night and day. Her dark, dated space became bright and welcoming, while maintaining enough warmth to feel cozy during New England winters.
The project took:
- 2 days for prep
- 2 days for painting
- 3 days for curing
- Total cost: $375
Final Thoughts
Stone Hearth isn’t just another neutral – it’s a workhorse color that delivers consistent results. After using it in over 30 kitchens, I can confidently say it’s one of Benjamin Moore’s most versatile cabinet colors.
Remember: The key to success isn’t just in the color choice, but in the preparation and application. Take your time, follow the steps, and you’ll end up with cabinets that look professionally painted.
Have questions? Drop them below! I check comments daily and love helping fellow DIY enthusiasts get the best results possible.