Benjamin Moore Smokey (983): A Timeless Neutral for Any Space

Benjamin Moore Smokey (983) is a versatile and sophisticated neutral that blends effortlessly into a variety of interior design styles. This soft, medium gray has a subtle warmth, making it an inviting choice for creating cozy, balanced spaces. Its understated charm and earthy undertones make Smokey a favorite for homeowners and designers looking to achieve a refined, timeless aesthetic in any room.

Undertones of Benjamin Moore Smokey (983)

What sets Smokey apart from other grays is its nuanced undertones. This color carries gentle taupe and beige undertones, which lend it a warmer, more approachable feel compared to cooler blue-based grays. These undertones allow Smokey to work beautifully in spaces with both natural and artificial light, as it shifts subtly throughout the day. In brighter rooms, the beige undertones become more pronounced, giving the color an almost greige-like appearance. Meanwhile, in dimmer spaces, the gray tones take center stage, creating a cozy and grounding effect.

Coordinating Colors for Benjamin Moore Smokey (983)

Smokey (983) is a chameleon-like hue that pairs effortlessly with a wide range of coordinating colors. Whether you’re creating a monochromatic palette or introducing complementary accents, Smokey provides a harmonious foundation. Here are some ideas for pairing it with other hues:

Complementary Colors:

• Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17): This soft, creamy white is a perfect match for Smokey, offering a crisp contrast that highlights Smokey’s warmth without overpowering it. Ideal for trim, moldings, and ceilings.
• Benjamin Moore Hale Navy (HC-154): For a bold and dramatic pairing, Hale Navy introduces depth and sophistication, making Smokey an ideal wall color in spaces where you want to anchor the room with a statement.
• Benjamin Moore Soft Fern (2144-40): A muted green with earthy undertones, Soft Fern beautifully complements Smokey’s warmth, creating a serene and nature-inspired palette.

Monochromatic Pairings:

• Benjamin Moore Silver Chain (1472): A lighter, cooler gray that adds dimension and contrast when layered with Smokey.
• Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray (HC-167): A darker gray that deepens the mood of the space while maintaining a cohesive look.

Accent Colors:

• Benjamin Moore Golden Straw (2152-50): A warm golden yellow that adds a cheerful pop of color to Smokey’s neutral base.
• Benjamin Moore Raspberry Blush (2008-30): A bold coral-red that energizes the space without clashing with Smokey’s understated elegance.

Ideal Uses for Benjamin Moore Smokey (983)

Benjamin Moore Smokey’s versatility makes it a go-to choice for virtually any room in your home. Its warm gray tones provide a neutral backdrop while still exuding personality and depth. Here are some of the best ways to incorporate Smokey into your design:

Living Rooms:

Smokey creates a cozy yet polished atmosphere in living spaces. Pair it with plush furniture in neutral tones, layered textiles, and metallic accents for a modern-meets-classic look. Use it as the main wall color and highlight architectural features with a clean white trim such as Chantilly Lace (OC-65).

Bedrooms:

With its calming undertones, Smokey is an excellent choice for bedrooms. Pair it with soft, muted bedding in blush tones or sage greens to create a serene retreat. Add texture with natural materials like linen curtains or a woven rug to enhance the room’s cozy vibe.

Kitchens:

Smokey works beautifully in kitchens, especially as a cabinet color paired with white quartz countertops and a subway tile backsplash. For a modern farmhouse look, combine Smokey with brass hardware and warm wood accents.

Bathrooms:

For a spa-like feel, use Smokey on the walls of your bathroom. Pair it with marble finishes, soft white towels, and greenery to evoke a sense of relaxation and luxury.

Home Offices:

Smokey sets the tone for a productive and focused workspace. Its neutral warmth makes it a great backdrop for bookshelves, artwork, and statement lighting.

Why Choose Benjamin Moore Smokey (983)?

Benjamin Moore Smokey (983) is more than just a paint color—it’s a design element that brings balance, warmth, and elegance to any space. Its ability to work seamlessly with a variety of palettes and finishes ensures it will remain a timeless choice for years to come. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or reimagining your entire home, Smokey offers the flexibility and sophistication you need to create your dream space.