Benjamin Moore Universal (2118-10): A Luxurious Deep Gray with Timeless Charm

Benjamin Moore Universal (2118-10) is a rich, deep gray that exudes sophistication and versatility. Its bold presence makes it an ideal choice for creating dramatic interiors or adding a grounding element to a space. Universal is a color that feels luxurious and self-assured, offering a sense of modern elegance while maintaining a timeless appeal.

Undertones of Universal (2118-10)

Universal is a warm charcoal gray with subtle brown undertones, giving it a slightly earthy quality. These undertones soften the depth of the color, making it feel welcoming rather than cold or stark. The warmth embedded in Universal allows it to pair beautifully with both warm and cool color palettes, giving you incredible flexibility when designing a space.

This shade doesn’t lean overly blue or green, as many dark grays can, making it feel grounded yet neutral. Its understated warmth makes it an excellent choice for spaces that aim to feel cozy and enveloping, such as living rooms, bedrooms, or formal dining areas.

Coordinating Colors for Universal (2118-10)

Benjamin Moore Universal is a versatile color that pairs harmoniously with a variety of shades. Here are some coordinating color suggestions to help you craft stunning palettes:

Neutral Pairings

• Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17): A soft, creamy white that contrasts beautifully with Universal, creating a crisp and timeless look.
• Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray (HC-173): A warm greige that complements Universal’s earthy undertones for a seamless and sophisticated palette.

Bold Accents

• Benjamin Moore Caliente (AF-290): A vibrant red that adds energy and drama to a space when paired with the richness of Universal.
• Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154): A deep blue that works wonderfully with Universal to create a moody and modern aesthetic.

Earthy Complements

• Benjamin Moore Sparrow (AF-720): A soft taupe that enhances the warmth of Universal for a cozy, nature-inspired color scheme.
• Benjamin Moore Tarrytown Green (HC-134): A deep, rich green that brings a grounding, organic feel to spaces featuring Universal.

Best Uses for Benjamin Moore Universal

Universal (2118-10) is an incredibly versatile color that can be used in a variety of ways to elevate your interiors. Its bold yet neutral nature makes it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces. Here are some ideas for incorporating Universal into your design:

Feature Walls

Create a dramatic feature wall in a living room, bedroom, or dining room with Universal. Its deep hue draws the eye and adds architectural interest to a space. Pair it with lighter walls to make the feature stand out.

Kitchen Cabinets

Universal is an excellent choice for kitchen cabinetry, especially when paired with brushed brass or matte black hardware. Its bold color adds depth and richness to the heart of the home while maintaining a modern vibe.

Accent Furniture

Use Universal on accent furniture pieces, such as a buffet table, console, or built-in shelving, to add dimension and contrast to rooms with lighter color schemes.

Ceilings

For a bold and unexpected design choice, Universal can be used on ceilings to create a cozy, cocoon-like effect—perfect for intimate spaces such as bedrooms or libraries.

Exterior Applications

Universal is not just for interiors. Its rich tone works beautifully as an exterior accent for front doors, shutters, or trim, lending a modern yet classic aesthetic to your home’s curb appeal.

Why Choose Universal (2118-10)?

Benjamin Moore Universal is a color that invites creativity while providing a timeless foundation for any design. Its perfect balance of depth and warmth ensures it will remain a beloved choice for years to come. Whether you’re curating a bold modern space or enhancing a classic, cozy interior, Universal delivers versatility, elegance, and sophistication in equal measure.