Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40): A Review

Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40) is a versatile medium gray paint color that enhances nearly any home environment.

Its balanced composition of warm and cool undertones creates spaces that feel perfectly calibrated – neither too dark nor too light.

This adaptable gray showcases unique properties that allow it to change with changing daylight, revealing subtle hints of taupe, green, or blue depending on the room’s exposure and lighting conditions.

With an LRV of 56.39, Smoke reflects sufficient light to maintain space brightness while providing definitive wall color.

It performs exceptionally well in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Smoke beautifully complements white trim, wood furnishings, and decorative accents.

This guide covers the paint’s characteristics, light properties, appearance variations, and everything you need to know before painting with Benjamin Moore Smoke.

Benjamin Moore Smoke: Understanding Paint Color Basics

Color terminology

Undertones

• A balanced gray with subtle warm undertones that prevent it from feeling cold or harsh
• It contains a gentle hint of taupe that adds softness and depth to the base gray color
• It shows very slight green undertones in north-facing rooms or cooler lighting
• It can reveal soft purple-brown undertones when bathed in warm afternoon sunlight.

How lighting affects paint colors

• In north-facing rooms, Smoke looks cooler, and its blue tones come out more.
• South-facing rooms with lots of sun make Smoke look warmer and lighter
• Morning light brings out more of the green undertones in Smoke
• Evening light can make Smoke appear more neutral gray
• Always test Smoke on different walls in your room, as it looks different on each wall

The Psychology of Different Color Families

• Smoke’s gray tone creates a feeling of calm and balance in rooms
• The slight blue undertones help spaces feel more relaxing and peaceful
• Its green hints connect to nature, making rooms feel more fresh
• This neutral gray works well as a backdrop that won’t compete with your furniture
• Smoke creates a smart, grown-up feeling without being too dark or sad like some grays

Why Choose Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40)

Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40) is a wonderful medium gray with just the right amount of warmth. It looks good in all rooms if they get lots of sun or very little. This color creates a calm feeling without being boring or too dark.

Key Features

Benjamin Moore Smoke works well with many different colors in your home. It looks great next to wood, stone, or other materials. You can use it in living rooms, bedrooms, or even kitchens, and it will help rooms flow together nicely.

Durability

Benjamin Moore Smoke, especially when used with their better paints, like Aura or Regal Select, stands up well to daily life.

It won’t easily show fingerprints or small marks like lighter colors might. If applied correctly, the paint cleans well and keeps its color for many years.

Texture Patterns

Benjamin Moore Smoke gives walls a soft, rich look that adds depth to any room. It creates gentle shadows that make rooms feel cozy. This color makes textured walls or special details in your home stand out subtly.

Why It Works

Benjamin Moore Smoke works so well because it’s not too dark or light. With its Light Reflective Value around 56.39, rooms still feel bright but with a grounded feeling.

This versatile gray looks good all day long as the light changes. It pairs nicely with warm and cool colors, making it easy to use in any home.

Room-by-Room Color Recommendations

Living spaces and open floor plans

Benjamin Moore Smoke creates an ideal flow across open areas, adapting beautifully to changing light conditions.

Its balanced gray maintains consistency between rooms while adding subtle depth. Pair with consistent white trim and consider deeper accent tones in conversation areas for added dimension.

Bedrooms and relaxation areas

“Smoke” offers a perfect neutral backdrop for bedrooms, promoting relaxation without feeling cold. Its gentle undertones shift pleasantly between day and evening.

To enhance its versatility, pair it with soft textiles in lavender or sage, crisp white linens, and natural wood tones.

Bathrooms and spa-like retreats

In bathrooms, “Smoke” provides cultivated neutrality that complements various fixtures and finishes. Its balanced undertones prevent clashing with both warm and cool tiles.

The medium tone adds dimension without darkening small spaces while reflecting ample light for an open feel.

Color Pairings and Combinations for Smoke (2122-40)

Benjamin Moore Smoke is a versatile medium gray with subtle warm undertones. Its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 56.39 makes it a balanced neutral that adds depth to spaces without feeling too dark.

Here are some excellent trim color pairings for this shade:

• Cloud Cover (OC-25) – A soft, airy off-white that creates a clean contrast against Smoke while maintaining a cohesive look
• Steel Wool (2121-40) – A deeper gray that pairs beautifully with a refined tone-on-tone effect
• Chantilly Lace (2121-70) – A bright, crisp white that provides sharp definition and makes Smoke appear richer
• Wind’s Breath (OC-24) – A warm, light greige that complements Smoke’s undertones for a harmonious flow

Crafting Perfect Color Schemes with Smoke

1. Monochromatic Scheme

A monochromatic scheme uses different shades of Smoke to create interest without overwhelming the space. It’s amazing how this versatile gray can make a room feel unified yet dynamic.

My recommendations are:

• Smoke on walls with Cloud Cover trim creates a subtle, refined contrast
• Try a semi-gloss finish of Smoke on door frames – it adds just the right dimension!
• Add Steel Wool on an accent wall or built-ins for a touch more depth
• Layer in textured grays like wool throws and concrete accessories to bring the whole look to life

2. Warm Color Palette

Smoke’s balanced undertones pair beautifully with warmer colors. This combination feels especially inviting and grounded, creating comfortable spaces.

My recommendations are:

• Use Taos Taupe in dining spaces – it creates a rich, welcoming atmosphere
• Alexandria Beige works wonderfully in connecting spaces and helps rooms flow together
• Kingsport Gray makes bedrooms feel cozy and restful
• Try Copley Gray for a subtle accent that adds warmth without dominating

3. Cool Color Palette

Smoke balances perfectly with cooler colors to create fresh, contemporary spaces. This mix produces modern and crisp rooms but never cold or sterile.

My recommendations are:

• Boothbay Gray in bathrooms alongside Smoke living areas creates a peaceful flow
• Silver Lake in bedrooms establishes a peaceful vibe while maintaining depth
• Stormy Monday makes home offices feel focused and professional
• A Graystone accent wall provides just enough contrast to create visual interest

Coordinating with Furniture and Decor

Wood Tones

Benjamin Moore Smoke looks stunning with dark walnut and rich mahogany. It also pairs well with medium woods like oak and cherry. Both warm and cool-toned woods complement this versatile gray.

Metals

Silver and chrome hardware highlight Smoke’s cooler undertones. Brass and gold bring warmth to the space. Matte black creates a striking contrast against this balanced gray paint.

Fabrics

Navy blue textiles create classic refinement with Smoke. Sage green fabrics add a natural, calming element. Blush pink accents bring unexpected warmth. Ivory and linen neutrals maintain an airy feel.

Decor

Stone accessories enhance Smoke’s natural quality. Black-and-white photography looks graceful against gray walls. Textured ceramics add visual interest. Greenery and plants provide a refreshing contrast against this adaptable gray.

Similar Paint Colors: Perfect Alternatives to Smoke (2122-40)

1. Wales Gray (1585)

• Looks a bit softer with hints of blue that make rooms feel calm and peaceful
• A little lighter than Smoke, so rooms feel brighter but still grown-up
• Looks good with wood furniture and gold or brass handles and lamps
• Works great in rooms that don’t get much sun where Smoke might look too cold

2. Yarmouth Blue (HC-150)

• A light blue-gray that has more color than Smoke but still goes with everything
• Makes rooms feel more beachy or classic than Smoke’s more modern look
• Looks beautiful next to white stone and cream-colored fabrics
• Helps connect rooms with warm colors to rooms with cool colors

3. Brittany Blue (1633)

• A deeper blue-gray that stands out more while still being easy to use, like Smoke
• Makes bedrooms and dining rooms feel cozy and warm
• Great choice for one wall or kitchen cabinets when Smoke seems too plain
• Looks good all day long as the light changes, keeping its true color

Summing It Up

Benjamin Moore Smoke is a reliable friend for your home – it works hard without causing problems. This balanced gray looks good all day and in all rooms.

It pairs nicely with many colors, from bright whites to warm beiges to cool blues. If you decide Smoke isn’t right, similar colors like Wales Gray, Yarmouth Blue, or Brittany Blue might work better.

Remember that simple touches like soft pillows, shiny lamps, or colorful art make Smoke look its best. This color’s magic is how it changes with different lights while still keeping its true gray character.

If your style is modern or traditional, Smoke provides a solid background that lets your furniture and decorations shine.

With its perfect balance of practicality and beauty, Benjamin Moore Smoke is a smart choice for years to come.

Remember, When life gets foggy, Smoke is a clear choice!