Benjamin Moore Smoke: The Definitive Guide to This Versatile Gray Paint Color

Are you on the hunt for that elusive, perfect gray paint color? A shade that feels both sophisticated and inviting, never cold or sterile?

Then look no further than Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40). This exceptionally gentle and adaptable shade has earned its reputation as a homeowner favorite, capable of transforming spaces with its subtle charm and effortless elegance. It’s a color that creates calm, serene environments without ever feeling dull or lifeless.

What truly sets Benjamin Moore Smoke apart? Its remarkable ability to shift and evolve throughout the day. Depending on the light, you’ll witness a beautiful dance between warm and cool tones, revealing soft blue undertones in some moments and leaning into a truer gray in others. This dynamic quality is precisely what makes it such a sought-after choice for interior designers and homeowners alike.

Many homeowners struggle to find the right gray – one that isn’t too dark, too light, too blue, or too beige. Benjamin Moore Smoke often provides the ideal solution to these common dilemmas, offering a balanced and elegant foundation for any room.

In this comprehensive guide, backed by over 15 years of experience as a paint professional rigorously testing Benjamin Moore colors, you’ll discover everything you need to know about Benjamin Moore Smoke. We’ll explore:

A detailed breakdown of this unique shade and its undertones.
How Benjamin Moore Smoke appears in various rooms and under different lighting conditions.
The significance of its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) and what it means for your space.
Expert-approved color combinations and design schemes to perfectly complement Smoke.
Practical tips for testing, applying, and mastering this exquisite paint color in your home.

Having guided hundreds of homeowners to their ideal shades, I’m here to help you determine if Benjamin Moore Smoke is the perfect fit for your decorating aspirations. Let’s dive in!

What Color Is Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40)?

Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40) is best described as a sophisticated, mid-tone gray that subtly reveals soft blue undertones. It’s not a stark or overtly cool gray, nor does it lean heavily into the warmer beige-grays (greiges). Instead, it occupies a unique and desirable space, perfectly balancing between these two common gray categories.

The true magic of Smoke lies in its dynamic nature. As a paint professional, I’ve observed countless times how this color transforms throughout the day, responding beautifully to varying light conditions:

Morning Light: In the gentle, often cooler light of the morning, Benjamin Moore Smoke tends to highlight its serene blue notes, giving the room a crisp, fresh, and slightly airy feel.
Afternoon Light: As the day progresses and the light becomes brighter and more direct, Smoke often appears as a truer, more balanced gray, showcasing its foundational neutrality.
Evening Light: Under the warmer, softer glow of sunset or artificial lighting, you might even catch subtle hints of warmth, preventing the color from ever feeling cold or unwelcoming.

Let’s distill its key characteristics:

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): With an LRV of 56.49, it’s a true mid-tone, offering a perfect balance that isn’t too light nor too dark. We’ll delve deeper into LRV shortly.
Undertones: Its primary undertone is a soft, delicate blue, which contributes to its calming and refreshing vibe.
Temperature: While it leans cool, it’s far from icy. Smoke maintains a beautiful equilibrium, avoiding the extremes of overly warm or excessively cool grays.
Versatility in Lighting: It performs admirably under both natural and artificial light, demonstrating its chameleon-like quality without losing its inherent elegance.

I’ve applied this shade in numerous homes, and each time, Benjamin Moore Smoke reveals a slightly different personality. In north-facing rooms, where light is typically cooler and softer, its blue undertones are more pronounced, creating a crisp and tranquil atmosphere. Conversely, in south-facing rooms, bathed in warmer, brighter light, Smoke can soften, allowing its subtle warmer qualities to peek through. This adaptability is why I often describe it as a “chameleon” – a color that adapts gracefully to its environment, unlike flatter, more static grays.

Benjamin Moore Smoke LRV: Understanding Its Impact

To truly understand a paint color, especially one as nuanced as Benjamin Moore Smoke, it’s essential to grasp the concept of Light Reflectance Value (LRV). Simply put, LRV measures how much light a paint color reflects, ranging from 0 (absolute black, absorbing all light) to 100 (pure white, reflecting all light).

Benjamin Moore Smoke has an LRV of 56.49. This places it firmly in the medium range, meaning it’s neither extremely light nor notably dark. It strikes an ideal balance, reflecting a good amount of light without making a room feel stark or washed out, yet also providing enough depth to feel substantial.

What does this specific LRV mean for your room’s ambiance and functionality? My experience shows that Smoke’s mid-range LRV offers significant versatility:

In Bright, Naturally Lit Rooms:

The color appears lighter and airier, enhancing a sense of openness.
Its subtle blue undertones become more evident and vibrant.
It contributes to a fresh, expansive feeling, making it an excellent choice for rooms with large windows or abundant natural light.
Surprisingly, even in well-lit small spaces, it helps create an illusion of greater size and airiness.

In Darker Rooms or Spaces with Limited Natural Light:

Benjamin Moore Smoke takes on a deeper, more saturated gray tone, adding a sense of cozy sophistication.
It can make a room feel more intimate and enveloping, perfect for bedrooms or reading nooks.
While it won’t drastically lighten a dark room, its LRV is high enough to prevent it from feeling like a cave. However, additional artificial lighting (like lamps or overhead fixtures) might be needed to maintain its charm and prevent it from appearing too flat.
In these conditions, the color shifts are often less dramatic, settling into a consistent, deeper gray.

Here’s a helpful tip from my professional toolkit: If your room receives minimal natural light, you can optimize Benjamin Moore Smoke’s appearance. Consider pairing it with lighter trim colors (like crisp whites), reflective surfaces (mirrors, glass), and strategically placed accent lighting. This will help maintain its balanced feel and prevent it from leaning too heavily into its cooler undertones, ensuring it always feels inviting.

Is Benjamin Moore Smoke Cool or Warm?

While paint colors often fall clearly into “warm” or “cool” categories, Benjamin Moore Smoke offers a fascinating study in nuance. It leans towards the cool side, but it’s crucial to understand why it’s not simply a cold or harsh color, and how its subtle blue undertones play a significant role.

Smoke possesses soft blue undertones, which inherently give it a cool foundation. However, it’s not the icy blue-gray that can sometimes feel stark or unwelcoming. Instead, think of the gentle, ethereal quality of early morning fog or the soft haze of a distant mountain range – that’s the kind of serene, approachable coolness Benjamin Moore Smoke embodies.

How Benjamin Moore Smoke Behaves in Different Exposures:

In North-Facing Rooms: These rooms typically receive cooler, indirect light. Here, Smoke’s cool tones and blue undertones are more pronounced, contributing to a crisp, fresh, and almost ethereal atmosphere. It creates a genuinely calm and contemplative mood.
In South-Facing Rooms: Bathed in abundant, warmer natural light, Smoke softens considerably. While its cool nature persists, the stronger, warmer light can temper the blue, allowing some subtle warmer hints to emerge. This creates a more balanced and inviting feel, preventing it from ever appearing too chilly.
East-Facing Rooms: These rooms get bright, warm light in the morning and cooler light in the afternoon. Smoke will showcase its brighter blue notes in the morning and transition to a more muted, balanced gray later in the day.
West-Facing Rooms: Experiencing cooler morning light and warmer afternoon/evening light, Smoke will appear softer and more purely gray in the morning, gradually revealing more of its nuanced character as the warmer light hits it later in the day.

Here’s my secret tip for harmonizing Smoke’s cool essence: The key to making any cool color feel balanced and inviting is thoughtful layering. Introduce a variety of textures within your room – the softness of wool blankets, the sleekness of polished metals, the organic warmth of rough-hewn woods, or the inviting pile of a natural fiber rug. This interplay of textures helps to visually and tactilely balance the temperature of the color, preventing it from feeling monolithic or sterile.

I always advise my clients that paint colors are like partners in a dance. Benjamin Moore Smoke leads with its graceful cool steps, but by carefully adding warm elements through furnishings, decor, and lighting, you can choreograph the perfect, balanced ambiance for your space. It’s about creating a dialogue between the paint and its surroundings.

Pros and Cons of Benjamin Moore Smoke

Every paint color, no matter how popular, comes with its own set of advantages and potential drawbacks. Benjamin Moore Smoke is no exception. Understanding these can greatly assist you in deciding if it’s the ideal shade for your unique home and design vision. Here’s a detailed look:

Pros of Benjamin Moore Smoke	Cons of Benjamin Moore Smoke
Exceptional Versatility Smoke’s balanced gray with soft blue undertones allows it to adapt beautifully across a wide range of interior design styles, from modern minimalist and traditional elegance to coastal casual and even contemporary farmhouse. It acts as a sophisticated backdrop that lets your furnishings and decor shine.	Can Lean Too Cool in Specific Conditions In rooms with very limited natural light, or predominantly north-facing rooms, the blue undertones can become more prominent, potentially making the space feel cooler or even a bit austere if not properly balanced with warm elements.
Creates a Calming and Tranquil Atmosphere The gentle gray-blue tones inherent in Smoke are renowned for their ability to foster a serene, peaceful, and relaxing environment. This makes it an excellent choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, or any area where a sense of calm is desired. It’s a color that promotes rest and introspection.	Potential for Clashing with Strong Warm Tones While Smoke is adaptable, it can sometimes clash with very dominant warm colors, such as deep oranges, vibrant reds, or strong yellow-based neutrals, especially if not introduced thoughtfully. Careful color planning is key to ensure harmony.
Dynamic Behavior in Various Lighting Its “chameleon” quality means it’s always interesting. In bright, sunlit spaces, it appears fresh, airy, and inviting. In dimmer or artificial light, it deepens, offering a sense of coziness and understated sophistication. This adaptability ensures the room never feels static.	Requires Careful Balancing Act To prevent a potentially cool or flat appearance, especially in certain lighting conditions, Benjamin Moore Smoke often benefits from being paired with warm elements. This includes warm wood tones, brass or gold metallics, soft textures, and strategically chosen lighting.
Sophisticated and Timeless Appeal Smoke offers a classic elegance that transcends fleeting trends. It provides a timeless foundation that can evolve with changing decor preferences, ensuring your home remains stylish and appealing for years to come without feeling dated.	Testing is Absolutely Essential Because of its dynamic nature and responsiveness to light, testing Benjamin Moore Smoke directly in your specific room is non-negotiable. What looks perfect in a showroom or on a small swatch might appear quite different on your walls.

My honest take as a professional: I genuinely love Benjamin Moore Smoke for its versatility and the tranquil ambiance it creates in most spaces. However, its dynamic nature means that rigorous testing in your specific environment is paramount. How it performs in my showroom, under ideal lighting, will almost certainly differ from how it behaves in your living room, influenced by your unique light, existing furniture, and surrounding elements. Embrace the testing process – it’s the best way to ensure Benjamin Moore Smoke lives up to its full potential in your home.

Inspirational Ideas for Different Rooms with Benjamin Moore Smoke

Benjamin Moore Smoke is more than just a paint color; it’s a design element that injects serenity, understated elegance, and incredible versatility into any space. Its ability to create a tranquil backdrop while adapting to various design styles makes it a go-to choice. But where does this particular shade truly shine the brightest? Let me guide you through some inspirational ideas for incorporating Smoke into key areas of your home, drawing on my extensive experience.

1. Living Rooms: An Oasis of Calm

I’ve consistently found that living rooms are among the most spectacular canvases for Benjamin Moore Smoke. Here’s why and how to make it work:

Foundational Serenity: Smoke creates an incredibly calm and collected base, perfect for family gatherings, entertaining guests, or simply unwinding after a long day. Its soft nature prevents overstimulation.
Architectural Harmony: It pairs exquisitely with crisp white ceiling beams, crown molding, or wainscoting, creating a classic, refined contrast that highlights architectural details.
Light Play: The abundant natural light typically found in living areas beautifully accentuates Smoke’s gentle color shifts, making the room feel alive and dynamic throughout the day.
Furniture Flexibility: Whether you prefer light-colored linen sofas for an airy feel or deep charcoal sectionals for a dramatic anchor, Smoke complements both seamlessly, offering incredible design versatility.

Design Tip: To amplify the comfort and visual interest, introduce textured throw pillows and blankets in creamy whites, soft blues, and even muted gold tones. I recently applied this combination in a client’s spacious living room, pairing Smoke walls with an oatmeal-colored sofa and touches of brass, resulting in a perfectly harmonious and inviting space for daily relaxation and elegant entertaining.

2. Bedrooms: Your Personal Sanctuary

The bedroom is arguably where Benjamin Moore Smoke truly showcases its peaceful and restorative nature, making it an ideal choice for creating a serene retreat. From my experience, here’s how to maximize its effect:

Cozy Envelopment: Painting all four walls (and even the ceiling for a truly immersive feel) in Smoke creates a beautifully cohesive and cozy cocoon, perfect for unwinding and sleep.
Crisp Contrast: Use pure white bedding to create a clean, refreshing contrast against the soft gray walls. This keeps the space feeling light and airy despite the depth of the wall color.
Earthy Accents: Integrate natural wood nightstands, dressers, or a headboard. The warmth of the wood beautifully balances Smoke’s cool undertones, adding a touch of organic comfort.
Soft Layering: Hang curtains in a soft, coordinating gray (perhaps a shade lighter or darker than Smoke) or a textured cream. This adds depth and softness without introducing jarring colors.

My favorite setup involves layering various gray tones through luxurious bedding, textured rugs, and even upholstered furniture. One client achieved a stunning effect by adding silver picture frames; they caught the light beautifully, creating subtle sparkle against the calming walls and adding a touch of refined elegance to their private sanctuary.

3. Bathrooms: A Spa-Like Escape

Transform your bathroom into a personal retreat where you can relax and refresh. Benjamin Moore Smoke creates an instant spa-like ambiance. Consider these ideas:

Seamless Design: For a truly immersive and sophisticated look, consider painting the ceiling the same color as the walls. This blurs the lines and can make a smaller bathroom feel larger and more cohesive.
Bright Accents: Use crisp white towels, bath mats, and ceramics to create a clean, refreshing contrast that pops against Smoke’s soft gray.
Metallic Finishes: Install chrome, brushed nickel, or even polished silver fixtures. These cool-toned metals enhance Smoke’s blue undertones beautifully, adding a touch of modern elegance.
Reflective Surfaces: A large, white-framed mirror not only serves a functional purpose but also reflects light, further brightening the space and enhancing the subtle nuances of Smoke.

Real-world example: In a recent project, we painted a small, windowless powder room entirely in Benjamin Moore Smoke. By incorporating ample recessed lighting, a large vanity mirror, and bright white subway tile, the room felt surprisingly spacious, luxurious, and incredibly inviting, proving Smoke’s ability to elevate even challenging spaces.

4. Kitchens: Modern and Inviting

Benjamin Moore Smoke is also an excellent choice for kitchens, providing a clean, modern, and inviting backdrop that allows other elements to stand out. Here’s how I often recommend using it:

Cabinet Harmony: Paint the kitchen walls in Smoke while keeping cabinets a crisp white (like Chantilly Lace or Simply White). This creates a fresh, bright look with a subtle depth on the walls.
Countertop Complement: Pair Smoke with gray-toned stone counters, such as marble with gray veining or a light gray quartz. This creates a cohesive and elegant palette.
Hardware Choices: Opt for brushed nickel, polished chrome, or matte black hardware on cabinets. These finishes complement Smoke’s cool undertones, adding a contemporary touch.
Enhanced Lighting: Install under-cabinet lighting and proper task lighting to ensure the kitchen remains bright and functional, allowing Smoke to appear true to color.

Pro Tip: If you have an open floor plan, Benjamin Moore Smoke is fantastic for defining the kitchen area while maintaining a harmonious flow with adjacent living or dining spaces. It offers a subtle differentiation without creating abrupt visual breaks, making the entire area feel connected and cohesive.

5. Home Office: Focused Productivity

Create a home office that feels both professional and comfortably inspiring with Benjamin Moore Smoke. Its calming effect can aid concentration without feeling overly stark. Try these approaches:

Accent Wall: Consider painting one accent wall in Smoke, particularly the wall behind your desk, to provide a focused backdrop. Keep other walls a softer white or a lighter gray for balance.
Clean Furnishings: Pair Smoke with clean-lined white or light-colored desk furniture. This provides a crisp, modern aesthetic that promotes clarity and organization.
Warmth of Wood: Integrate warm wood shelving, a wooden desk, or a natural wood flooring to introduce warmth and ground the space, balancing Smoke’s cool undertones.
Optimal Lighting: Ensure your office has excellent task lighting (a good desk lamp) and ambient lighting to keep the space bright and functional, supporting productivity.

Personal experience: In my own home office, I’ve used Benjamin Moore Smoke on the walls, complemented by light natural wood shelves and crisp white furniture. This combination fosters a sense of calm and helps me maintain focus during long work hours, preventing the space from feeling too closed-in or distracting. It’s a truly conducive environment for creative and analytical work.

Expert Tips for Using Benjamin Moore Smoke Effectively

Choosing the perfect paint color can sometimes feel daunting, but with my guidance, I’m here to simplify the process for you. Benjamin Moore Smoke is a truly stunning and versatile shade, yet like any paint color, it yields the best results when a few critical steps are taken before you fully commit. Drawing from my many years of hands-on experience with this particular paint, allow me to share the most impactful tips that will save you both time and potential frustration.

1. Always Test Before You Paint

This initial step is absolutely non-negotiable. You must test Benjamin Moore Smoke directly in your space. The way a color appears on a small chip or online can be drastically different from how it looks on your walls due to varying lighting, existing decor, and surrounding colors. Here’s how to conduct an effective test:

Use Large Sample Swatches: Purchase a sample pot of Benjamin Moore Smoke and paint large swatches (at least 2’x2’) on several different walls in the room you intend to paint. If you prefer a cleaner method, use large peel-and-stick samples.
Observe at Different Times of Day: Critically important! Observe these swatches in the morning, afternoon, and evening. Note how natural light changes its appearance – does it look more blue, more gray, or does it take on a subtle warmth?
Test with Your Lighting: Assess how Smoke looks under both natural light and your room’s artificial lighting (lamps, overhead fixtures). Artificial light, especially LED bulbs with different color temperatures, can dramatically enhance or mute its undertones.
Consider Existing Elements: Place your swatches next to your existing flooring, furniture, and any permanent fixtures (like cabinetry or trim) that will remain in the room. This helps you see how the colors interact.

Seeing Smoke in your unique environment, under your specific lighting conditions, is the most reliable way to confirm if it truly feels right for your home. This small investment in time and a sample pot can prevent a costly repainting project down the line.

2. Embrace Contrast for Balance and Depth

Benjamin Moore Smoke’s inherent cool tones genuinely thrive when paired with thoughtful contrast. It’s all about creating a harmonious balance that prevents the space from feeling monotonous or overly cool. Think of it as creating visual interest and warmth where needed.

If you’re aiming for a bolder, more dramatic look:

Deep Furniture: Pair Smoke walls with dark navy, charcoal gray, or even rich evergreen furniture. This creates a sophisticated, grounded, and striking aesthetic.
Vibrant Accents: Introduce vibrant art pieces, colorful throw pillows (think mustard yellow, burnt orange, or a deep coral), or patterned area rugs to make the room pop and inject personality.

If you prefer soft textures and a serene ambiance:

Light, Natural Fabrics: Utilize light, airy fabrics like linen, cotton, or even a soft boucle in shades of cream, beige, soft white, or oatmeal. These textures add warmth and softness.
Subtle Patterns: Incorporate rugs, curtains, or cushions with subtle geometric or organic patterns. This adds visual depth without overwhelming the calming effect of Smoke.
Warm Wood Tones: Bring in medium to dark wood furniture or flooring. The natural warmth of wood is a perfect counterpoint to Smoke’s cool essence, grounding the space beautifully.

This strategic mix of contrasting elements ensures that your space remains visually engaging and comfortable, allowing Benjamin Moore Smoke to remain the elegant, foundational star of your design.

3. Don’t Overlook the Finishing Details

Sometimes, it’s the seemingly small details that culminate in a truly polished and cohesive space. When working with Benjamin Moore Smoke, these finishing touches can make a significant difference in enhancing its beauty and ensuring your room feels complete and inviting.

Crisp White Trim: To maintain a fresh and clean aesthetic, pair Smoke walls with a crisp, bright white trim. Colors like Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) or Simply White (OC-117) are excellent choices that create a sharp, elegant contrast.
Metallic Accents: Introduce metallic accents strategically. Brushed gold or brass elements can bring a touch of warmth and luxury, beautifully balancing Smoke’s cool undertones. Silver or polished nickel, on the other hand, can reinforce a sleek, modern, and cooler vibe.
Greenery for Life: Add lush indoor plants. The vibrant green of natural foliage brings life and an organic touch into the space, wonderfully complementing Smoke’s calming, naturalistic vibe. It creates a fresh contrast and softens the overall look.
Art and Mirrors: Thoughtfully chosen artwork can introduce pops of color and personality. Large mirrors can also reflect light and the beautiful wall color, expanding the sense of space.

Paying attention to these details will elevate your design, making your room feel expertly curated and truly lived-in, ensuring Benjamin Moore Smoke shines its brightest.

Coordinating Colors and Design Schemes with Benjamin Moore Smoke

Benjamin Moore Smoke is celebrated for its versatility, but its true magic unfolds when thoughtfully paired with the right complementary colors and integrated into specific design schemes. Let me share how to bring this elegant shade to life in your home, creating a cohesive and stunning environment.

Perfect Complementary Colors for Benjamin Moore Smoke

Choosing the right companion colors is crucial for enhancing Smoke’s inherent beauty and defining the mood of your space. Here are my top recommendations:

1. For Trim or Ceilings:

Crisp Whites: For a clean, classic, and fresh look, pair Smoke with bright, true whites like Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) or Benjamin Moore Simply White (OC-117). These choices create a sharp, elegant contrast that defines architectural features.
Softer Whites/Off-Whites: If you prefer a more subtle transition and less stark contrast, a softer white like Benjamin Moore Classic Gray (OC-23) or even White Dove (OC-17) can offer a seamless, understated, and slightly warmer look, especially appealing in bedrooms.

2. For Accent Walls or Furniture:

Deep Navies: A rich, deep navy such as Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154) provides incredible depth and sophistication when paired with Smoke. This combination feels classic, masculine, and highly elegant, perfect for a study or a dramatic living room accent.
Muted Greens: Earthy, muted greens like Benjamin Moore October Mist (1495) (Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year 2022) or Sage Green create a natural, organic, and serene vibe. These tones beautifully complement Smoke’s gentle coolness, evoking a sense of the outdoors.
Soft Blues: To lean into Smoke’s blue undertones, consider a slightly deeper or more saturated blue-gray as an accent. This creates a monochromatic yet layered look.

3. For Decor and Accessories:

Warm Metallics: Gold, brass, or copper accents are fantastic for balancing Smoke’s cool tones. They introduce warmth, luxury, and a touch of glamour without competing with the wall color. Think picture frames, light fixtures, or decorative bowls.
Pops of Color: For a lively contrast, incorporate accessories in bolder, warmer colors like coral, mustard yellow, or even a soft terracotta. These vibrant touches add personality and energy to the serene backdrop.
Natural Textures: Jute, rattan, wicker, and various wood tones in furniture and decor elements bring organic warmth and texture, grounding the cool gray with earthy elements.

Popular Design Schemes Featuring Benjamin Moore Smoke

Benjamin Moore Smoke is incredibly adaptable, serving as an ideal foundation for a multitude of interior design styles. Let’s explore how to integrate Smoke into some popular design schemes:

1. Coastal Cool: Breezy and Relaxing

Smoke’s blue undertones make it a natural fit for a sophisticated coastal aesthetic, evoking the colors of sea and sky.

Walls and Accents: Use Benjamin Moore Smoke on the walls, and pair it with crisp white shiplap walls, beadboard paneling, or trim. Introduce soft blue and seafoam green accents through pillows, throws, and decorative objects.
Natural Textures: Incorporate natural textures liberally with wicker chairs, rattan light fixtures, jute rugs, and light-colored linen upholstery. These elements add a relaxed, beachy feel.
Decor: Complete the look with subtle nautical touches like seashell collections, pieces of driftwood, or ocean-inspired artwork. Keep it light, airy, and uncluttered for a truly serene coastal retreat.

2. Modern Farmhouse: Refined Rustic

Benjamin Moore Smoke brings a touch of modern sophistication to the rustic charm of the farmhouse style, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere.

Walls and Structure: Combine Smoke walls with bold black window frames and exposed wood beam ceilings. This creates a striking contrast that defines the modern farmhouse aesthetic.
Accents and Fixtures: Use off-white trim (like White Dove) to soften the edges and incorporate vintage-inspired fixtures in matte black or oil-rubbed bronze.
Cozy Elements: Layer in warm and cozy elements such as plaid throws, chunky knit blankets, galvanized metal accents, and substantial wooden furniture. Distressed wood and industrial touches will further enhance the look.

3. Minimalist Elegance: Clean and Serene

For those who prefer uncluttered spaces and clean lines, Benjamin Moore Smoke provides an ideal backdrop for minimalist elegance, adding depth without distraction.

Main Color: Use Smoke as the primary wall color throughout the space, allowing its subtle shifts to add quiet interest.
Clean Lines: Furnish the room with clean-lined, contemporary furniture in neutral tones such as white, black, or light wood. Focus on quality over quantity.
Neutral Palette: Stick to a refined neutral palette of whites, various grays (including Smoke), and muted blues. This creates a cohesive and tranquil environment.
Minimal Decor: Keep decor sparse and intentional. Select a few statement pieces, such as a large abstract painting, a sleek sculpture, or a simple vase with fresh greenery, to add personality without clutter. The focus should be on texture, form, and light.

What Colors Are Similar to Benjamin Moore Smoke?

While Benjamin Moore Smoke might be the perfect gray-blue for many, it’s natural to explore other options or similar shades that might offer a slightly different nuance. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with excellent alternatives. There are several Benjamin Moore shades that share Smoke’s serene vibe but offer subtle distinctions, making them potentially perfect for your specific vision.

1. Benjamin Moore Silver Lake (BM 1598)

What’s similar? Like Smoke, Silver Lake is a beautiful, soft mid-tone gray that carries discernible blue undertones, contributing to a calm and airy feel. It has a similar versatility.
What’s different? Silver Lake leans slightly more purely gray than blue compared to Smoke. Its blue hint is a bit more restrained, making it feel a touch more neutral and potentially less susceptible to fluctuating greatly with light.

Where to use it: Choose Silver Lake if you desire a truly subtle, calming backdrop that hints at blue without it being a dominant feature. It’s excellent for bedrooms, living rooms, or any space where you want a very soft, quiet neutral that still has character.

2. Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray (BM HC-165)

What’s similar? Boothbay Gray shares the same serene gray-blue character that makes Smoke so appealing. It also creates a fresh and tranquil atmosphere.
What’s different? Boothbay Gray is generally perceived as having stronger, more pronounced blue tones than Smoke. This gives it a bolder, more coastal, and often cooler presence. Its LRV is slightly lower (43.43), meaning it’s a bit darker and more saturated.

Where to use it: This color is perfect if you love the gray-blue aesthetic and want to amplify the blue, especially in a coastal-inspired living room, a bathroom, or a dining room paired with crisp white trim. It creates a more definitive “color” statement than Smoke.

3. Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (BM OC-52)

What’s similar? Gray Owl offers a light, airy gray with noticeable cool undertones, much like Smoke. It’s known for its ability to shift subtly throughout the day.
What’s different? Gray Owl has less obvious blue undertones, leaning more towards a balanced, slightly greener gray compared to Smoke’s blue. Its LRV is higher (65.77), making it a lighter option.

Where to use it: Gray Owl is an excellent choice for spaces where you want a light, soft gray that doesn’t lean too heavily into blue. It works beautifully in rooms with varying light conditions, adjusting gracefully and offering a very versatile, almost chameleon-like quality that is a touch brighter than Smoke.

4. Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray (BM HC-171)

What’s similar? Wickham Gray embodies a similar soft elegance and subtle coolness to Benjamin Moore Smoke. It’s a classic Benjamin Moore gray known for its sophistication.
What’s different? Wickham Gray is a touch lighter (LRV 67.84) and often appears more neutral, with just a hint of blue or sometimes a very subtle green undertone, making it a “cleaner” gray for some. It tends to be a bit more muted than Smoke.

Where to use it: Wickham Gray is ideal for smaller spaces, hallways, or rooms where you want to keep things bright, airy, and open, but still desire that sophisticated, cool gray character with a hint of color that isn’t too overwhelming.

Each of these alternatives offers a unique spin on the beloved gray-blue spectrum. Testing samples of these alongside Benjamin Moore Smoke will empower you to make the most informed decision for your home.

Purchasing Information on Benjamin Moore Smoke

If you’ve fallen in love with Benjamin Moore Smoke and are ready to infuse its tranquil beauty into your home, it’s time to talk practicalities. As a seasoned professional, I’ve guided countless homeowners through the purchasing process, and I’m here to share the most effective ways to acquire this exceptional paint.

Where to Buy Benjamin Moore Smoke:

Benjamin Moore paints, including the popular Smoke (2122-40), are considered premium quality and are typically available through specialized retailers. You’ll find Benjamin Moore Smoke at:

Local Benjamin Moore Dealers: These dedicated stores offer the full range of Benjamin Moore products, expert color matching, and often have highly knowledgeable staff who can provide personalized advice on paint types, finishes, and quantities.
Paint Specialty Stores: Many independent paint and decorating stores are authorized Benjamin Moore retailers. They often provide similar levels of expertise and service to brand-specific dealers.
Select Hardware Stores: Certain larger hardware chains may carry Benjamin Moore paints, but it’s always wise to call ahead to confirm availability and ensure they have the exact shade and base you need.
Authorized Online Retailers: While less common for full paint gallons due to shipping costs, some authorized online retailers might offer Benjamin Moore samples or specific products. However, for full orders, local pickup is usually the most convenient.

Money-saving tip from a pro: Always try to buy all your paint at once for a single project. Many stores offer discounts on larger purchases (e.g., buying multiple gallons), and this also ensures consistent color matching across all cans, preventing slight variations that can occur between different batches.

Essential Considerations Before You Buy:

Before you finalize your purchase, take a moment to confirm these crucial details:

Store Return Policy: Understand the store’s policy on returns or exchanges, especially for custom-tinted paint, which is often non-returnable.
Paint Warranty Information: Familiarize yourself with Benjamin Moore’s product warranties for quality assurance.
Proper Prep Supplies: Ensure you have all the necessary tools and supplies for paint preparation, such as painter’s tape, primer (if needed), sandpaper, drop cloths, and brushes/rollers.
Correct Paint Amount: Accurately calculate the amount of paint you’ll need. A general rule of thumb is one gallon covers approximately 350-400 square feet with one coat. Always account for two coats and a little extra for touch-ups. Most paint store staff can help you calculate this if you provide your room dimensions.
Choose the Right Sheen: Benjamin Moore Smoke comes in various finishes.
- Flat/Matte: Best for ceilings or low-traffic areas where you want to hide imperfections and achieve a deep, rich color. Not very washable.
- Eggshell: My most recommended finish for walls in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms. It offers a soft, subtle sheen that’s durable and washable without being too reflective.
- Satin: Ideal for high-traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. It’s more durable and easier to clean than eggshell, with a slightly higher sheen.
- Semi-Gloss/High-Gloss: Best for trim, doors, and cabinets. These finishes are very durable, highly washable, and offer a noticeable shine that highlights architectural details.
Primer Use: For best results, especially if you’re painting over a darker color or bare drywall, use a high-quality primer. Benjamin Moore Fresh Start primers are excellent choices.

Store finder tip: To easily locate an authorized Benjamin Moore retailer near you, visit benjaminmoore.com and utilize their “Find a Retailer” tool by entering your zip code. This ensures you’re purchasing from a legitimate source and receiving authentic products.

Conclusion: Embrace the Enduring Charm of Benjamin Moore Smoke

After dedicating many years to working with and recommending this exceptional paint color, I can confidently state that Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40) truly delivers on what many homeowners desire: a sophisticated, adaptable gray that feels both serene and inviting. It’s a shade that offers a refreshing alternative to traditional neutrals, bringing a sense of calm and understated elegance to any space.

Benjamin Moore Smoke’s greatest asset lies in its dynamic quality. It gracefully shifts with the light, revealing subtle blue undertones in cooler conditions and leaning into a softer, truer gray as the light warms, yet always remaining true to its gentle, versatile nature. From my extensive experience, this unique shade seamlessly enhances a wide array of spaces:

In Bright Rooms: It gains a subtle depth, preventing it from appearing washed out, and accentuates its crisp, airy qualities.
In Darker Rooms: It still feels brighter than many mid-tone grays, lending a cozy yet refined atmosphere without feeling oppressive.
In Small Spaces: Its LRV of 56.49 helps maintain an open feel, preventing smaller rooms from feeling enclosed.
In Large, Open-Concept Rooms: It provides a cohesive and connected backdrop, tying different areas together with effortless flow.

The ultimate key to success with Benjamin Moore Smoke, as with any paint color, is thorough testing. Don’t underestimate the power of observing a large sample swatch directly in your space. Watch how it transforms from the soft light of morning to the warm glow of evening, and see how beautifully it interacts with your existing furniture, decor, and unique architectural elements.

Ready to experience the enduring charm of Benjamin Moore Smoke in your own home? Begin your journey with a sample and discover firsthand why this timeless, versatile shade continues to be a top choice for homeowners and design professionals seeking a perfect, nuanced gray.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benjamin Moore Smoke

Is Benjamin Moore Smoke suitable for small rooms?

Yes, absolutely! With an LRV of 56.49, Benjamin Moore Smoke is an excellent choice for small rooms. Its mid-tone nature reflects a good amount of light, preventing the space from feeling too dark or enclosed. To maximize this effect, pair it with crisp white trim or warm, light-colored accents and ensure adequate lighting to prevent it from leaning too cool.

Does Benjamin Moore Smoke change with lighting?

Yes, significantly! This is one of its most celebrated characteristics. In natural daylight, especially from cooler north-facing windows, Smoke’s subtle blue undertones become more apparent, giving it a fresh, airy feel. In artificial or dimmer lighting, it tends to deepen, appearing as a more muted, sophisticated gray, offering depth and coziness. This chameleon-like quality makes it dynamic and always interesting.

What’s the best paint finish for Benjamin Moore Smoke?

For most interior walls, Eggshell is an ideal choice. It offers a soft, subtle sheen that balances durability with a beautiful, understated look, making it perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. For high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, or hallways, opt for a Satin finish, as it’s more durable, moisture-resistant, and easier to clean. For trim and doors, Semi-Gloss will provide a crisp, contrasting finish.

Can Benjamin Moore Smoke be used on trim?

While Benjamin Moore Smoke is primarily used on walls, it could be used on trim for a monochromatic, seamless look. However, it’s far more common and often recommended to pair Smoke walls with a crisp white trim, such as Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) or Simply White (OC-117). This creates a clean, classic contrast that highlights architectural details and makes the wall color pop.

How does Benjamin Moore Smoke compare to Boothbay Gray?

Both Benjamin Moore Smoke and Boothbay Gray are popular gray-blue paint colors, but they have distinct differences. Smoke (LRV 56.49) is a softer, more balanced mid-tone gray with subtle blue undertones, making it highly versatile and less overtly blue. Boothbay Gray (LRV 43.43) is deeper, more saturated, and has stronger, more pronounced blue tones, giving it a bolder, more definitively coastal feel. If you want a more subtle, adaptable gray-blue, Smoke is often preferred. If you desire a more vibrant and assertive blue-gray, Boothbay Gray might be a better fit.

Is Benjamin Moore Smoke a good exterior paint color?

Yes, Benjamin Moore Smoke can be a beautiful exterior paint color, particularly for homes seeking a sophisticated coastal or modern farmhouse aesthetic. On exteriors, colors often appear lighter and slightly brighter due to abundant natural light, so Smoke will likely appear as a fresh, airy gray with its charming blue undertones. It pairs wonderfully with white trim and natural stone accents for a timeless curb appeal. Always test a large sample on an exterior wall before committing.