Kendall Charcoal and Peppercorn: the documented difference
Kendall Charcoal has an LRV of 14.61; Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn SW-7674 is 10. The difference is 4.61 points, with Kendall Charcoal returning more light under the reference measurement. Choose by the material relationship as well as the number. Kendall Charcoal is a deep gray that can provide a strong cabinet outline beside white stone. Peppercorn is a deep gray described as balanced in temperature.
| Color | Brand / code | LRV |
|---|---|---|
| Kendall Charcoal | Benjamin Moore HC-166 | 14.61 |
| Peppercorn | Sherwin-Williams SW-7674 | 10 |
The choice beside white counters and oak floorboards
The counter overhang creates a more demanding view than the showroom wall, so that position should inform the depth decision.
Set up both candidates with white counters and oak floorboards. Use equal-sized boards with the intended finishes and place them in the same orientation. Do not put one directly beside a window and leave the other in shadow. A difference that follows the position rather than the board is a lighting observation, not evidence that the formula changed.
What the comparison can—and cannot—settle
The alternative Gauntlet Gray has an LRV of 17. The undertones and neighboring colors covers that related choice.
Approve a sample below the worktop overhang; a showroom chip can understate the final shadow. Assess Kendall Charcoal and Peppercorn alone as well as side by side. The unchosen board will not remain in the finished room, and a preference created only by that neighbor may not survive its removal. Before ordering samples, compare room-planning features in the paint color visualizer roundup.
Sources & notes
Color specifications: Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal HC-166. The recorded LRV is 14.61. Named comparison values come from the respective manufacturers; material schemes are editorial suggestions.
This guide reviews published color information and proposes practical sample checks. It does not claim first-hand paint testing or customer-review scores. Benjamin Moore does not sponsor or endorse this site. Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. Confirm the color in a physical sample and select the coating for the actual surface and finish.