Nocturnal Gray 2135-30 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with versatility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Nocturnal Gray (2135-30). This deep, moody gray with subtle blue undertones is a designer favorite for a reason—it’s the kind of shade that can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary with just a few brushstrokes. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy bedroom retreat, a sleek home office, or a living room that exudes modern elegance, Nocturnal Gray might just be your perfect match.

One of the first things you’ll notice about this color is its chameleon-like ability to shift with the light. In natural daylight, those cool blue undertones come forward, giving the room a crisp, refreshing vibe. But as the sun sets and artificial lighting takes over, it deepens into a richer, almost mysterious hue that feels incredibly inviting. This duality makes it a fantastic choice for rooms where you want the atmosphere to evolve throughout the day. Just be sure to test a sample on your walls first—seeing how it plays with your specific lighting is key.

Nocturnal Gray has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 13.81%, which means it reflects very little light. That puts it squarely in the medium-dark category, so it’s not going to brighten up a space the way a pale gray would. Instead, it creates intimacy and depth, making it ideal for rooms where you want to cultivate a sense of calm and coziness. Think bedrooms, reading nooks, or even a moody dining room where the walls feel like a warm embrace. If you’re working with a smaller space, don’t shy away—just balance it with lighter trim (like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove) or plenty of reflective surfaces to keep things airy.

The blue undertones in Nocturnal Gray are what give it its unique character. Unlike warmer grays that lean toward taupe or brown, this one stays cool and modern, making it a great fit for contemporary, industrial, or even coastal-inspired spaces. Pair it with light wood tones, crisp whites, or brushed brass fixtures, and you’ve got a look that’s both timeless and on-trend. And if you’re worried about it feeling too cold, layering in textiles with warm neutrals or soft blush tones can soften the effect beautifully.

When it comes to application, Nocturnal Gray is beginner-friendly. It rolls on smoothly, dries quickly, and is touch-up friendly—a dream for DIYers. You’ll likely need two coats for full coverage, especially if you’re painting over a lighter color, but the finish is worth it. Opt for a matte or eggshell finish to lean into its sophisticated vibe, or go with satin if you want a bit more durability (great for high-traffic areas like hallways). And because it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, you can feel good about using it in your home.

Now, let’s talk about pairing. This color plays well with others. For a monochromatic look, layer it with lighter grays like Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl or deeper shades like Kendall Charcoal. If you want to add contrast, try crisp whites or even a muted red (its complementary hue) for a bold accent. And don’t forget about texture—think linen curtains, a chunky knit throw, or a sleek metal lamp to keep the space dynamic.

Is Nocturnal Gray right for you? If you love depth, sophistication, and a color that adapts to your mood and lighting, absolutely. It’s a shade that feels both current and classic, so it won’t date your space. Just remember: dark colors like this thrive in rooms with good natural light or plenty of artificial lighting. If your space is already on the darker side, consider using it as an accent wall rather than covering all four.

At the end of the day, paint is personal. But if you’re drawn to Nocturnal Gray, trust that instinct. It’s a color that can anchor a room, elevate your decor, and create a backdrop that feels intentional and polished. Grab a sample, see how it looks in your space at different times of day, and imagine the possibilities. Your perfect gray might just be waiting for you.

Real Room Photo of Nocturnal Gray 2135-30

Undertones of  Nocturnal Gray ?

The undertones of Nocturnal 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: #55656B

RGB code: 85, 101, 107

Is  Nocturnal Gray Cool or Warm?

This shade leans towards the cool side, making it a great option for spaces that benefit from a calming atmosphere. It’s perfect for creating a serene backdrop in areas where relaxation is key, like bedrooms or reading nooks. However, it can also blend harmoniously with warmer tones, providing a nice balance in mixed decor.

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 Nocturnal 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 Nocturnal Gray

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Nocturnal Gray is 13.81%, which places it in the Medium Dark category. This means it reflects very little 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  Nocturnal Gray

Nocturnal Gray is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to add depth and sophistication to their home. It pairs wonderfully with light woods and bright whites, making it a versatile option for various decor styles. When applied, it provides a smooth finish that doesn’t show brush strokes, which is a huge plus for DIY enthusiasts. This color can create a cozy atmosphere in bedrooms or an inviting ambiance in living spaces. However, be prepared for multiple coats if you’re covering a lighter shade, as it may not achieve full coverage in just one. Overall, Nocturnal Gray is a chic choice that can evolve with your space and decor over time.

Pros & Cons of  2135-30 Nocturnal Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Nocturnal Gray

FAQ on 2135-30 Nocturnal Gray

How does Nocturnal Gray perform in different lighting?

Nocturnal Gray is incredibly versatile when it comes to lighting. In natural light, it reveals its cooler undertones, creating a refreshing vibe. In contrast, artificial light can enhance its deeper, moodier aspects, making it an ideal choice for cozy spaces. Always test samples at different times of the day to see how it interacts with your specific environment.

Is Nocturnal Gray suitable for small spaces?

Yes, Nocturnal Gray can work well in small spaces, provided it’s complemented with lighter trims and decor. Its depth creates an intimate feel, which can make smaller areas appear cozier rather than cramped. However, consider using it on an accent wall or paired with brighter tones to maintain a sense of openness.

Comparisons Nocturnal Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Nocturnal Gray 2135-30