Smokestack Gray 2131-40 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication with serenity, look no further than Benjamin Moore’s Smokestack Gray (2131-40). This muted gray with its subtle blue-green undertones is a designer favorite for a reason—it’s versatile, timeless, and brings a calming energy to any space. Whether you’re refreshing a living room, bedroom, or home office, this hue has the power to transform your walls into a backdrop that feels both polished and inviting.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Smokestack Gray is its depth. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 22.78%, it sits comfortably in the medium color range, meaning it reflects a good amount of light without feeling too heavy. In bright, natural light, those blue-green undertones come alive, giving the color a fresh, almost coastal vibe. But as the light fades, it softens into a cozy, muted gray that still feels warm enough to avoid that sterile, cold look some grays can fall into. This dynamic quality makes it perfect for rooms with varying light throughout the day—think living rooms with large windows or bedrooms where you want a relaxing retreat.

When it comes to application, Smokestack Gray is a dream. It’s beginner-friendly, with excellent coverage that often only requires one or two coats. Whether you’re rolling it on or brushing it smooth, you’ll find it dries quickly and is touch-up friendly, which is a lifesaver for busy households. Plus, it’s available in matte, eggshell, and satin finishes, so you can choose the sheen that best suits your space. Need a low-maintenance option? Go for satin—it’s scrubbable and holds up well in high-traffic areas. And if you’re eco-conscious, you’ll appreciate that it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, so you can breathe easy knowing your home stays healthy.

Now, let’s talk pairings. Smokestack Gray plays well with a wide range of colors, making it a go-to for designers. For a crisp, modern look, pair it with White Dove or another clean white for trim and ceilings. This creates a striking contrast that highlights the gray’s cool undertones. If you prefer a warmer vibe, soft beiges or light wood tones add just enough warmth to keep things inviting. And if you’re feeling bold? Muted pastels like blush pink or sage green bring a subtle pop of color, while deeper jewel tones—think emerald or navy—add drama without overwhelming the space.

As for decor styles, this color is a chameleon. In a modern farmhouse setting, it pairs beautifully with shiplap and black metal accents. For an industrial loft, it grounds exposed brick and concrete floors. Coastal lovers will appreciate how it echoes the tones of sea and sky, especially when paired with rattan and driftwood. And if Scandinavian minimalism is your jam, Smokestack Gray provides the perfect neutral backdrop for clean lines and textured textiles.

Of course, no color is without its considerations. In low-light rooms, Smokestack Gray can appear darker, so if your space lacks natural light, you might want to test a swatch first. It also leans cool, so if your existing decor is heavy on warm tones (like reds or yellows), you’ll want to introduce some transitional elements—think creamy whites or natural wood—to balance things out. And while it’s a forgiving color, careful color matching with trim is key to avoiding a disjointed look.

Wondering if it works in small spaces? Absolutely. Its mid-tone quality creates depth without closing things in, especially when paired with lighter accents. Try it in a hallway or a cozy home office—it’ll feel intimate but never cramped. And if you’re renting, this is a great choice for creating a polished look that’s still neutral enough to appeal to future tenants.

At the end of the day, Smokestack Gray is more than just paint—it’s a mood. It’s the calm of a misty morning, the sophistication of a tailored suit, the restful vibe of a well-designed retreat. Whether you’re using it on all four walls or as an accent, it brings a sense of balance and harmony to your home. So grab a sample, test it in your space, and see how this versatile hue can elevate your decor. You might just find it’s the perfect shade you’ve been searching for.

Real Room Photo of Smokestack Gray 2131-40

Undertones of  Smokestack Gray ?

The undertones of Smokestack 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: #728287

RGB code: 114, 130, 135

Is  Smokestack Gray Cool or Warm?

Smokestack Gray skews cool with its unique undertones. It stands out as a crisp option for those who appreciate a more serene and refreshing palette. This coolness enhances its versatility, allowing it to complement various color schemes effortlessly.

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 Smokestack 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 Smokestack Gray

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Smokestack Gray is 22.78%, 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  Smokestack Gray

Smokestack Gray is more than just a color; it’s a versatile hue that brings a tranquil ambiance to your space. When applied, it can shift under different lighting conditions, showcasing its subtle complexity. In natural light, the blue-green undertones come to life, adding depth and character to your walls. Meanwhile, in dimmer settings, it retains a cozy feel without feeling heavy or dark.

One of the standout features of Smokestack Gray is its adaptability. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek modern look or a more relaxed coastal vibe, this color fits seamlessly. It pairs beautifully with crisp whites and warm wood tones, allowing you to create a layered, inviting atmosphere. Homeowners looking to refresh their living areas will find that this hue transforms any room into a sanctuary of style.

Pros & Cons of  2131-40 Smokestack Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Smokestack Gray

FAQ on 2131-40 Smokestack Gray

Can Smokestack Gray be used in small spaces?

Absolutely! Smokestack Gray can work wonderfully in smaller areas. Its mid-tone quality allows it to create an illusion of depth without overwhelming the space. When paired with lighter trim or accents, it can help open up a room while still providing a cozy feel.

What colors pair well with Smokestack Gray?

Smokestack Gray is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of colors. Crisp whites, such as White Dove, create a clean contrast. For a warmer palette, consider soft beiges or light woods. If you want to add a pop of color, muted pastels or deeper jewel tones can bring vibrancy without clashing.

Comparisons Smokestack Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Smokestack Gray 2131-40