Smoke Gray 2120-40 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication and serenity, Benjamin Moore’s Smoke Gray (2120-40) might just be your perfect match. This muted, cool-toned gray with subtle blue undertones brings an air of calm elegance to any space, making it a go-to choice for homeowners who crave a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, designing a restful bedroom, or crafting a focused home office, Smoke Gray delivers versatility without sacrificing personality.

One of the standout qualities of Smoke Gray is its adaptability. It plays well with a range of decor styles—think modern, industrial, Scandinavian, or minimalist. The blue undertones give it a contemporary edge, while the muted finish keeps it from feeling too stark or cold. Pair it with crisp white trim like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove for a classic look, or layer it with warm wood tones and textured fabrics to soften its coolness. The color’s depth makes it equally stunning as an all-over wall choice or as an accent to highlight architectural details.

Lighting plays a big role in how Smoke Gray performs in your space. With a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 21.08%, it sits comfortably in the medium range, meaning it reflects a fair amount of light without washing out. In sun-drenched rooms, it appears lighter and airier, almost like a soft mist. But as daylight fades, it transforms into a moodier, more intimate shade—ideal for creating cozy nooks. If you’re working with a smaller or dimly lit room, consider balancing Smoke Gray with lighter furnishings or mirrors to keep the space feeling open.

Application is a breeze, even for beginners. The coverage is excellent—you’ll likely only need one or two coats—and it’s touch-up friendly, so minor scuffs or marks won’t leave you scrambling for a full repaint. Choose from Matte, Eggshell, or Satin finishes depending on your needs. Matte offers a velvety, non-reflective look perfect for hiding imperfections, while Eggshell and Satin add a subtle sheen that’s easier to clean, making them great for high-traffic areas. And because it’s low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about harsh fumes during or after painting.

Smoke Gray’s cool, balanced tone makes it a dream to pair with other colors. For a harmonious palette, lean into its blue undertones with complementary shades like soft blues, crisp whites, or even muted greens. If you want to add contrast, introduce warm accents in burnt orange, terracotta, or golden yellows—these hues pop beautifully against the gray’s cool base. For a monochromatic scheme, explore its lighter siblings (like 2133-40 or 2124-30) or darker cousins (such as 2125-20 or 1609) to create depth and dimension.

Of course, no color is without its considerations. Smoke Gray’s darker side means it might feel a bit heavy in rooms with little natural light, so plan accordingly. And while it’s wipeable and washable, the matte finish (if you go that route) could show fingerprints or smudges more easily, so regular dusting or cleaning might be needed in high-touch areas. But these small trade-offs are worth it for the timeless, polished look it delivers.

Furniture and decor choices can make or break the vibe. In a living room, try pairing Smoke Gray walls with a sleek charcoal sofa and metallic accents for an industrial feel, or go Scandinavian with light wood tones and minimalist textiles. In a bedroom, layer it with plush bedding in creams and taupes for a serene retreat. For a home office, combine it with black-framed artwork and a bold, modern desk to keep things sharp yet inviting. The possibilities are endless because this color is such a chameleon.

At the end of the day, Smoke Gray is more than just a paint color—it’s a mood. It’s the quiet confidence of a well-designed space, the soothing backdrop to your everyday life. Whether you’re drawn to its modern edge or its calming presence, it’s a shade that adapts to you, not the other way around. So grab a sample, test it in your space at different times of day, and see how it speaks to you. You might just find it’s the missing piece your home has been waiting for.

Real Room Photo of Smoke Gray 2120-40

Undertones of  Smoke Gray ?

The undertones of Smoke Gray are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Blue. These subtle underlying hues are what give the color its depth and complexity. For example, a gray with a blue undertone will feel cooler and more modern, while one with a brown undertone will feel warmer and more traditional. It’s essential to test this paint in your home and observe it next to your existing furniture, flooring, and decor to see how these undertones interact and reveal themselves throughout the day.

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HEX value: #757B82

RGB code: 117, 123, 130

Is  Smoke Gray Cool or Warm?

This paint leans towards the cool side of the spectrum, with its blue and gray undertones providing a refreshing vibe. It creates a serene atmosphere, making it ideal for spaces where relaxation is key. If you prefer colors that evoke a sense of calm, Smoke Gray is a perfect fit.

Understanding Color Properties and Interior Design Tips

Hue refers to a specific position on the color wheel, measured in degrees from 0 to 360. Each degree represents a different pure color:

• 0° represents red
• 120° represents green
• 240° represents blue

Saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color and is expressed as a percentage:

• At 0%, the color appears completely desaturated—essentially a shade of gray
• At 100%, the color is at its most vivid and vibrant

Lightness indicates how light or dark a color is, also expressed as a percentage:

• 0% lightness results in black
• 100% lightness results in white

Using Warm Colors in Interior Design

Warm hues—such as reds, oranges, yellows, warm beiges, and greiges—are excellent choices for creating inviting and energetic spaces. These colors are particularly well-suited for:

• Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where warmth enhances comfort and sociability
• Large rooms, where warm tones can help reduce the sense of emptiness and make the space feel more intimate

For example:

• Warm beige shades provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
• Warm greige (a mix of beige and gray) offers the warmth of beige with the modern appeal of gray, making it a versatile backdrop for dining areas, bedrooms, and living spaces.

However, be mindful when using warm light tones in rooms with limited natural light. These shades may appear muted or even take on an unpleasant yellowish tint. To avoid a dull or flat appearance:

• Add depth by incorporating richer tones like deep greens, charcoal, or chocolate brown
• Use textured elements such as curtains, rugs, or cushions to bring dimension to the space

Pro Tip: Achieving Harmony with Warm and Cool Color Balance

To create a well-balanced and visually interesting interior, mix warm and cool tones strategically. This contrast adds depth and harmony to your design.

• If your walls feature warm hues, introduce cool-colored accents such as blue or green furniture, artwork, or accessories to create contrast.
• For a polished look, consider using a complementary color scheme, which pairs colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red with green, orange with blue).

This thoughtful mix not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive.

Light Temperature Affects on Smoke Gray

Natural Light

Natural daylight changes in color temperature as the sun moves across the sky. At sunrise and sunset, the light tends to have a warm, golden tone with a color temperature around 2000 Kelvin (K). As the day progresses and the sun rises higher, the light becomes cooler and more neutral. Around midday, especially when the sky is clear, natural light typically reaches its peak brightness and shifts to a cooler tone, ranging from 5500 to 6500 Kelvin. This midday light is close to what we perceive as pure white or daylight-balanced light.

These shifts in natural light can significantly influence how colors appear in a space, which is why designers often consider both the time of day and the orientation of windows when planning interior color schemes.

Artificial Light

When choosing artificial lighting, pay close attention to the color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). This determines how warm or cool the light will appear. Lower temperatures, around 2700K, give off a warm, yellow glow often used in living rooms or bedrooms. Higher temperatures, above 5000K, create a cool, bluish light similar to daylight, commonly used in kitchens, offices, or task areas.

Use the slider to see how lighting temperature can affect the appearance of a surface or color throughout a space.

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LRV of Smoke Gray

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Smoke Gray is 21.08%, which places it in the Medium colors category. This means it reflect a lot of light. Understanding a paint’s LRV is crucial for predicting how it will look in your space. A higher LRV indicates a lighter color that reflects more light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. A lower LRV signifies a darker color that absorbs more light, creating a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. Always consider the natural and artificial lighting in your room when selecting a paint color based on its LRV.

Detailed Review of  Smoke Gray

Smoke Gray is one of those colors that can instantly elevate your space. Its soft, cool undertone adds depth without overwhelming the senses, making it perfect for any room needing a touch of tranquility. When applied, it has a lovely matte finish that absorbs light beautifully while still reflecting a hint of warmth. The coverage is also commendable; typically, one to two coats will do the job, allowing for easy application and touch-ups down the line. This color pairs well with both bold and neutral accents, giving you flexibility in your decor choices. If you’re after a chic, modern look, Smoke Gray is definitely worth considering!

Pros & Cons of  2120-40 Smoke Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Smoke Gray

FAQ on 2120-40 Smoke Gray

What types of finishes are available for Smoke Gray?

Smoke Gray is available in several finishes, including Matte, Eggshell, and Satin. Each finish offers its unique look and feel. Matte provides a soft, non-reflective surface, while Eggshell and Satin add a subtle sheen that enhances durability and makes cleaning easier. Choosing the right finish depends on the space and the look you’re aiming for.

Is Smoke Gray suitable for smaller spaces?

Yes, Smoke Gray can work in smaller spaces, but it’s essential to consider the lighting. In well-lit areas, it can make a cozy nook feel inviting and spacious. However, in darker rooms, it might appear more enveloping. Pair it with lighter accents or decor to balance the depth of the color and keep the space feeling open.

Comparisons Smoke Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Smoke Gray 2120-40