Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40): The Guide to a Serene Shade

Looking for the perfect gray paint?

Benjamin Moore Smoke is a gentle, versatile shade that works in many homes. This soft gray creates calm spaces without feeling cold or dull.

What makes this color special?

It changes with the light throughout the day, offering subtle shifts between warm and cool tones.

Many homeowners need help picking the right gray—too dark, light, blue, or beige. Smoke solves these common paint problems.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

How this shade look in different rooms and lighting
The best color combinations for your space
Expert tips for testing and applying the paint

As a paint professional with 15+ years of experience testing Benjamin Moore colors, I’ve helped hundreds of homeowners find their ideal shade.

Let’s help you decide if Smoke is right for your home.

What Color Is Benjamin Moore Smoke?

Benjamin Moore Smoke (2122-40) is a gentle mid-tone gray with subtle blue hints.

You might notice how it sits perfectly between warm and cool grays when you first see it.

But here’s what makes it special: This paint color shifts throughout the day. In the morning light, you’ll spot soft blue notes.

By afternoon, it leans toward a true gray. At sunset, it can show warm undertones.

Let’s break down its main traits:

Medium-light reflectance value (LRV of 56.49)
Soft gray base with blue undertones
Not too warm, not too cool
Works well with both natural and artificial light

I’ve tested this shade in many homes, and I’ve noticed that Smoke feels different in each room.

In north-facing spaces, it shows its cooler side, while south-facing rooms bring out its warmer qualities.

Think of it as a chameleon – but in a good way!

Unlike stark grays that stay flat, Smoke responds to its surroundings.

Benjamin Moore Smoke LRV

Let me explain Light Reflectance Value (LRV) simply: it shows how much light a paint color bounces back into the room. The scale runs from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white).

Benjamin Moore Smoke has an LRV of 56.49. This means it sits right in the middle range – not too light, not too dark.

What does this mean for your room?

I’ve seen this color in action, and here’s how the LRV affects different spaces:

In bright rooms

The color looks lighter and airier
It shows more of its blue undertones
Creates an open feeling
Works well in small spaces

In darker rooms

It takes on a deeper gray tone
Can feel more cozy
It might need extra lighting
Shows less color shift

Here’s a helpful tip: If your room gets little natural light, you can make Smoke work better by:

Is Benjamin Moore Smoke Cool or Warm?

Benjamin Moore Smoke leans toward the cool side, but it’s not as simple as that. Let me explain why.

Smoke has soft blue undertones that give it a cool base. But it’s not a cold or harsh color.

Think of early morning fog – that’s the feeling it creates.

How does it behave in different spaces?

In north-facing rooms

The cool tones become more clear
The blue undertones show up more
The color feels crisp and fresh
Creates a calm mood

In south-facing rooms

The color softens
It shows some warm hints
Feels more balanced
It still keeps its cool nature

Here’s my secret tip: Layer different textures in your room. Soft blankets, smooth metals, rough woods – this mix helps balance the temperature of the color.

I always tell my clients that paint colors work like partners in a dance.

Smoke leads with cool steps, but you can add warm elements to create the perfect balance for your space.

Pros and Cons of Benjamin Moore Smoke

Let’s break it down.

Every color has its strengths and challenges, and Benjamin Moore Smoke is no exception.

Here’s a quick overview to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your space:

Pros	Cons
Versatility – Smoke adapts beautifully to modern, traditional, and coastal styles.	It might feel too cool – It may feel overly gray in rooms with limited natural light.
Calming effect – Its soft gray-blue tones create a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere.	Challenging in warm-toned spaces – It can clash with warm colors like deep reds or oranges.
It works in various lighting – In bright spaces, it looks fresh and airy. In dim areas, it feels cozy and sophisticated.	Requires balance – You’ll need to pair it with warm decor or lighting to avoid a cold feel.

My honest take: I love this color for most spaces, but you need to test it in your specific room.

How it works in my showroom might differ from how it looks in your home.

Inspirational Ideas for Different Rooms

Benjamin Moore Smoke isn’t just a paint color; it’s a mood.

It brings serenity, elegance, and versatility to any space. But where does it shine the most?

Let me walk you through some ideas for your home.

1. Living Rooms

I’ve found living rooms really shine with Smoke on the walls. Here’s why:

The color creates a calm base for family gatherings
It pairs well with white ceiling beams
Natural light brings out its gentle shifts
Works with both light and dark sofas

Design tip: Add textured pillows in cream and soft blue. I recently used this combo in a client’s space, and it created a perfect spot for daily relaxation.

2. Bedrooms

The bedroom is where Smoke truly shows its peaceful nature. From my experience:

Paint all walls for a cozy feel
Use white bedding for clean contrast
Add natural wood nightstands
Mix in soft gray curtains

My favorite setup is to layer different gray tones through bedding and rugs.

One of my clients added silver picture frames—they catch light beautifully against the walls.

3. Bathrooms

Your bathroom can feel like a personal retreat with Smoke. Try these ideas:

Paint the ceiling the same color as the walls
Use white towels for contrast
Install chrome or nickel fixtures
Add a white-framed mirror

Real example: In a recent project, we painted a small bathroom entirely in Smoke. With good lighting and white tile, it felt much bigger.

4. Kitchens

Smoke works well in kitchens, too. Here’s what I recommend:

Paint walls while keeping white cabinets
Use gray stone counters
Add brushed nickel hardware
Install under-cabinet lighting

Pro tip: If you have an open floor plan, Smoke helps connect your kitchen to living spaces while keeping each area distinct.

5. Home Office

Make your workspace feel professional yet comfortable:

Paint one accent wall
Use white desk furniture
Add warm wood shelving
Include good task lighting

Personal experience: My home office uses Smoke with natural wood shelves and white furniture.

It helps me focus without feeling closed in.

Expert Tips for Using Benjamin Moore Smoke

Choosing the perfect color can feel tricky, but I’m here to make it easier for you.

Benjamin Moore Smoke is a stunning shade, but like any paint, it works best when you take a few key steps before committing.

From my years of experience with this paint color, let me share the most helpful tips to save you time and money.

1. Test Before You Paint

This step is non-negotiable. Always test the color in your space.

Here’s how you can do it:

Use sample swatches: Paint a few patches on different walls in your room.
Check at different times of day: Morning, afternoon, and evening light can completely change how Smoke looks.
Test with your lighting: Artificial light can enhance or mute its undertones.

Seeing it in your unique space will help you decide if Smoke feels right.

2. Contrast for Balance

Benjamin Moore Smoke’s cool tones love the contrast. It’s all about balance.

If you’re going bold

Pair Smoke walls with dark navy or charcoal furniture for a dramatic look.
Add vibrant art pieces or colorful throw pillows to make the room pop.

If you prefer soft textures

Use light fabrics like linen or cotton in cream, beige, or white.
Introduce rugs, curtains, or cushions with subtle patterns for warmth and comfort.

This mix keeps the space visually interesting while letting Smoke remain the star.

3. Don’t Skip the Details

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference. Here are some finishing touches:

Match Smoke with trim in a crisp white (like Chantilly Lace) to keep it fresh and clean.
Use metallic accents—brushed gold, brass, or silver—to complement its cool undertones.
Add greenery for a natural touch. Plants bring out Smoke’s calming vibe beautifully.

Coordinating Colors and Design Schemes

Benjamin Moore Smoke is versatile, but the magic happens when you pair it with the right colors.

Let me show you how to make this shade come alive in your space.

Perfect Complementary Colors

1. For trim or ceilings

Crisp whites like Chantilly Lace or Simply White to keep it fresh.
A softer choice like Classic Gray for a seamless, understated look.

2. For accent walls or furniture

Deep navy like Hale Navy to add depth and sophistication.
Muted greens like October Mist for a natural, serene vibe.

3. For decor and accessories

Warm metallics like gold or brass to balance Smoke’s cool tones.
Pops of coral or mustard for a lively contrast.

Popular Design Schemes with Smoke

Let’s discuss how to use Smoke in different styles. This shade adapts beautifully to a variety of looks.

1. Coastal Cool

Pair Smoke with white shiplap walls and soft blue accents.
Add natural textures like wicker chairs and jute rugs.
Use seashell or driftwood decor to complete the look.

2. Modern Farmhouse

Combine Smoke with black window frames and wood beam ceilings.
Accent with off-white trim and vintage-inspired fixtures.
Layer in cozy elements like plaid throws and galvanized metal accents.

3. Minimalist Elegance

Use Smoke as the main wall color and add clean-lined furniture.
Stick to a neutral palette of whites, grays, and muted blues.
Keep decor minimal, with a few statement pieces like an abstract painting or sleek vase.

What Colors Are Similar to Benjamin Moore Smoke?

Maybe you love Benjamin Moore Smoke but want to explore other options.

Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

There are several similar shades that might be perfect for your space.

1. Silver Lake (BM 1598)

What’s similar? Like Smoke, Silver Lake is a soft gray with blue undertones.
What’s different? Silver Lake leans slightly more gray than blue, making it a great choice if you want a more neutral feel.

Where to use it: Try Silver Lake in spaces where you want a subtle, calming backdrop without too much color.

2. Boothbay Gray (BM HC-165)

What’s similar? Boothbay Gray shares the same serene gray-blue vibe.
What’s different? It has stronger blue tones, making it bolder and more coastal.

Where to use it: Pair Boothbay Gray with crisp white trim in a coastal living room or bathroom.

3. Gray Owl (BM OC-52)

What’s similar? Gray Owl offers a light, airy gray with cool undertones, much like Smoke.
What’s different? It has less blue, leaning toward a more balanced gray.

Where to use it: Gray Owl works well in spaces with a mix of natural and artificial light, adjusting beautifully throughout the day.

4. Wickham Gray (BM HC-171)

What’s similar? Wickham Gray shares Smoke’s soft elegance.
What’s different? It’s a touch lighter and more neutral, with just a hint of blue.

Where to use it: Wickham Gray is ideal for smaller spaces where you want to keep things light and airy.

Purchasing Information on Benjamin Moore Smoke

If you’re ready to bring Benjamin Moore Smoke into your home.

Then, let me share the best ways to buy this paint based on my experience helping homeowners select and purchase Benjamin Moore Smoke.

Where to Buy

You’ll find Benjamin Moore Smoke at:

Local Benjamin Moore dealers
Paint specialty stores
Select hardware stores
Authorized online retailers

Money-saving tip: Buy all your paint at once. Many stores offer discounts on larger purchases.

Before You Buy

Check these details:

Store return policy
Paint warranty info
Proper prep supplies
Correct paint amount

Store finder tip: Visit benjaminmoore.com and enter your zip code to find stores near you.

Conclusion

After working with this paint color for many years, I can say that this shade offers what many homeowners want.

It shifts with light but stays true to its gentle nature.

From my experience, this shade suits many spaces:

Bright rooms gain subtle depth
Dark rooms feel brighter
Small spaces stay open
Large rooms feel connected

The key to success? Test the color in your space.

Watch how it changes from morning to night, and see how it plays with your furniture and decor.

Ready to try Smoke in your home?

Start with a sample and see why so many homeowners choose this timeless shade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Benjamin Moore Smoke Suitable for Small Rooms?

Yes! With an LRV of 56.49, Smoke works well in small rooms, especially with good lighting.

Pair it with crisp whites or warm accents to avoid feeling too cool or enclosed.

Does Benjamin Moore Smoke change with Lighting?

Absolutely. In natural light, Smoke’s blue undertones appear more vibrant.

In artificial or dim lighting, it leans toward a muted gray, offering depth and coziness.

What’s the Best Finish for Benjamin Moore Smoke?

Eggshell is a great choice for most rooms, as it balances durability with a soft look.

Opt for satin in high-traffic areas like kitchens or bathrooms.

Can Benjamin Moore Smoke be used on Trim?

Yes, but it’s more commonly used on walls.

For trim, pairing Smoke walls with crisp white options like Chantilly Lace creates a clean and classic contrast.

How does Benjamin Moore Smoke Compare to Boothbay Gray?

Both have gray-blue tones, but Boothbay Gray is deeper and more coastal.

Smoke is softer, making it more versatile for a range of styles and lighting.