Gray Lake 2138-70 by Benjamin Moore

Ever walked into a room and immediately felt a sense of calm wash over you? That’s the magic of the right paint color—it doesn’t just cover walls; it sets the tone for how you experience a space. Today, let’s talk about one of those effortlessly soothing shades: Benjamin Moore’s Gray Lake. Whether you’re refreshing a bedroom, reimagining a living room, or giving your home office a serene upgrade, this color might just be the perfect backdrop for your next project.

Gray Lake (2138-70) is a soft, light green-gray with an LRV of 78.79, meaning it reflects a lot of light, making rooms feel airy and open. It’s the kind of color that doesn’t shout for attention but quietly elevates everything around it. Picture the gentle shimmer of sunlight on a quiet lake—subtle, serene, and endlessly versatile. That’s the essence of Gray Lake.

One of the standout qualities of this shade is its balance. It walks the line between warm and cool with ease, so it won’t clash with your existing decor. Whether your style leans modern, Scandinavian, coastal, or even farmhouse, Gray Lake adapts. It’s a chameleon in the best way, shifting slightly with the light. In a sun-drenched room, it feels crisp and fresh. In lower light, it deepens just enough to create a cozy, intimate vibe.

Now, let’s talk undertones. Gray Lake has a subtle green base, which gives it that tranquil, nature-inspired feel. But don’t worry—it’s not so green that it reads as mint or sage. It’s more like a whisper of green, just enough to keep it from feeling sterile or cold. If you’ve ever painted a room gray only to realize it looks too blue or too beige in certain lights, you’ll appreciate how Gray Lake sidesteps those pitfalls. It’s neutral without being boring.

Application is a breeze, even if you’re a DIY beginner. It’s roller-ready, brush-smooth, and dries fast. Coverage is good—you’ll likely need just one or two coats, depending on your surface. And because it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, you won’t have to worry about harsh fumes lingering in your home. Touch-ups? No problem. Gray Lake is forgiving, so small fixes blend seamlessly.

Wondering where to use it? Almost anywhere. It’s a star in bedrooms, where its calming vibe promotes rest. In living rooms, it creates an inviting backdrop for bold art or textured fabrics. Bathrooms feel spa-like with Gray Lake on the walls, especially paired with crisp white trim. Even home offices benefit—its soothing quality helps keep distractions at bay while maintaining a professional feel.

Finishes matter, too. For a velvety, elegant look, matte or eggshell is ideal. They enhance Gray Lake’s softness without glare. If durability is a priority (think kitchens or hallways), satin offers a bit more sheen and easier cleaning. Just avoid anything too glossy, as it can overpower the color’s delicate charm.

Pairing Gray Lake with other colors is where the fun begins. For a timeless look, try it with White Dove or Simply White on trim—clean and classic. Want contrast? Navy or forest green adds depth without overwhelming. Earthy tones like warm taupes or soft terracottas bring out its warmth, while muted pastels keep things light and airy. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a pop of its complementary hue—a soft purple—can add unexpected harmony.

A few things to keep in mind: Gray Lake’s subtlety means it might not satisfy those craving bold drama. And while it’s versatile, always test a sample in your space. Lighting, furniture, and even flooring can influence how it reads. Paint a large swatch, observe it at different times of day, and see how it plays with your decor.

In the end, Gray Lake is more than just paint. It’s a mood—calm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re designing a peaceful retreat or a stylish gathering space, this color delivers. So grab a brush, trust your instincts, and let Gray Lake transform your home into the serene sanctuary you’ve been dreaming of.

Real Room Photo of Gray Lake 2138-70

Undertones of  Gray Lake ?

The undertones of Gray Lake are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Green. 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: #E4E8E2

RGB code: 228, 232, 226

Is  Gray Lake Cool or Warm?

Gray Lake strikes a perfect balance between warm and cool, making it suitable for a wide range of settings. Its soft undertones lend a cozy vibe while maintaining a crisp, modern edge. This balance allows it to adapt to different lighting conditions and decor styles 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 Gray Lake

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 Gray Lake

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Gray Lake is 78.79%, which places it in the Off‑White 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  Gray Lake

Gray Lake is a beautiful choice for those seeking a calming atmosphere without sacrificing style. It reflects natural light beautifully, making rooms feel more open and inviting. When applied, it maintains its soft charm while allowing for other decor elements to shine. The color pairs wonderfully with both warm and cool tones, ensuring a seamless blend with various furnishings and textiles. Users have noted its adaptability in different lighting conditions, transforming from a gentle gray to a richer tone depending on the time of day. For best results, ensure proper surface preparation and consider using a quality primer if applying on a darker surface. Overall, Gray Lake is a top-notch option for creating serene and stylish spaces.

Pros & Cons of  2138-70 Gray Lake

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Gray Lake

FAQ on 2138-70 Gray Lake

What types of finishes are best for Gray Lake?

Gray Lake shines in a variety of finishes, but for a soft and elegant look, consider using a matte or eggshell finish. These finishes offer a subtle sheen that enhances the color’s calming qualities without being overly glossy. If you’re looking for something more durable, especially in high-traffic areas, satin or semi-gloss could be a great choice as they provide better washability and durability while still showcasing the beautiful hue of Gray Lake.

How do I pair Gray Lake with other colors?

Gray Lake pairs beautifully with a range of colors thanks to its balanced undertones. For a serene palette, consider pairing it with soft whites like White Dove or Simply White for trim or accents. If you want a bit more contrast, deeper colors such as navy or forest green can create a striking look. For a warmer touch, you might explore earthy tones or muted pastels that complement its calming essence, ensuring a cohesive and inviting space.

Comparisons Gray Lake with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Gray Lake 2138-70