Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe 983 is a neutral paint color that blends beige, brown, and soft gray undertones into a balanced finish. Its grounded appearance makes it a popular choice for homeowners looking to create spaces that feel warm, comfortable, and timeless without leaning too yellow or overly gray.
Unlike cooler greige paint colors, Smokey Taupe carries a richer warmth that helps rooms feel inviting while still maintaining a clean look. In homes throughout Queens neighborhoods like Forest Hills and areas of Brooklyn such as Gravesend, warm taupe paint colors continue to remain a popular choice.
What Color Is Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe 983?
Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe 983 is a medium-toned taupe paint color with warm gray and brown undertones. It sits comfortably between beige and gray, creating a soft neutral appearance that adapts well to different lighting conditions.
Depending on the lighting, Smokey Taupe can appear:
- Warm beige-taupe in bright natural light
- Slightly grayer in north-facing rooms
- Rich and cozy in evening lighting
- Soft and earthy alongside warm wood finishes
Its versatility makes it an excellent whole-home neutral for homeowners who want warmth without committing to darker browns.
Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe Undertones
Smokey Taupe features:
- Warm brown undertones
- Soft gray undertones
- Subtle beige influences
The gray influence helps tone down the warmth, keeping the color balanced. Unlike some taupes that can shift pink or purple, Smokey Taupe generally stays grounded and neutral.
In brighter rooms, the beige warmth becomes more noticeable, while lower-light spaces may emphasize the smokier gray side of the color.
Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe LRV
Smokey Taupe has an approximate LRV of 54.
LRV, or Light Reflectance Value, measures how much light a paint color reflects on a scale from 0 to 100. With an LRV in the mid-50s, Smokey Taupe reflects a moderate amount of light, helping spaces feel warm and comfortable without appearing too dark.
This balance makes it suitable for both smaller rooms and larger open spaces.
Where Does Smokey Taupe Work Best?
- Living Rooms: Smokey Taupe creates a warm and welcoming backdrop for living rooms, pairing beautifully with bookshelf built-ins and warm wood furniture.
- Bedrooms: Its soft warmth helps bedrooms feel calm and cozy while maintaining a clean, neutral appearance.
- Dining Rooms: Smokey Taupe adds depth and sophistication to dining spaces without becoming overly dramatic or heavy.
- Hallways & Open Floor Plans: Because of its balanced undertones, Smokey Taupe transitions smoothly between rooms and works especially well in open-concept layouts often found in newer homes around Williamsburg and Astoria.
What Colors Pair Well With Smokey Taupe?
Warm & Creamy Whites
- Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
- Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee OC-45
- Benjamin Moore Simply White OC-117
Coordinating Neutrals
- Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172
- Benjamin Moore Pale Oak OC-20
Accent Colors
- Olive green
- Dusty blue
- Charcoal gray
- Soft black accents
Is Smokey Taupe Warm or Cool?
Smokey Taupe is generally considered a warm taupe paint color, though the soft gray undertones keep it from feeling overly beige or yellow. In brighter lighting, the warmth becomes more noticeable, while cooler lighting conditions can emphasize the muted gray side of the color.
Its balanced appearance makes it a versatile option for homeowners who want warmth without the heaviness of traditional brown paint colors.
Final Thoughts on This Paint Color
Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe 983 is a timeless warm neutral that combines softness, warmth, and versatility. Its blend of beige, brown, and gray undertones allows it to work beautifully across a variety of lighting conditions and design styles.
If you’re considering Smokey Taupe for your next painting project, visit one of our local paint stores to speak with our paint experts, explore Benjamin Moore samples, and find the right products for your home.