If you’re searching for a dark paint color that’s bold but not too black, Black Pepper by Benjamin Moore might be just right.
This deep gray has subtle warmth and softness, making it feel rich without being harsh. It’s a perfect in-between look for anyone who wants a moody look with a cozy, lived-in feel.
Whether you’re updating a home office, refreshing cabinetry, or adding contrast to a light space, Black Pepper brings balance and style.
In this guide, we’ll explore why this color works so well, how to use it in your home, what colors pair beautifully with it, and how it compares to similar shades. If you’re ready to go a little darker without diving into pure black, this color could be a great fit.
Why Benjamin Moore Black Pepper Is a Favorite
Black Pepper (2130-40) is a dark, smoky gray that leans just slightly warm. It’s not a true black, and it’s not icy cold either. That balance is exactly why people love it—it feels deep and grounded but still soft and inviting.
This color adds sophistication and contrast without overwhelming the room. It’s bold enough to make a statement yet subtle enough to be used in more than just accent spots.
Designers often use it when they want a darker shade that still works well with light neutrals, soft woods, and natural textures.
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Soft, smoky gray with a balanced, slightly warm undertone
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Pairs beautifully with light neutrals like creams, off-whites, and soft grays
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Adds depth without feeling cold or stark
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Works in both modern and traditional spaces
It’s also part of Benjamin Moore’s Classic Color Collection, so you know it’s tried, tested, and timeless.
Specifications of Black Pepper by Benjamin Moore
This soft, smoky gray strikes the perfect balance—it’s rich and moody without feeling cold or too intense. It pairs effortlessly with light neutrals like cream, off-white, and soft gray, subtly adding depth and contrast.
Designers love how it complements natural materials like wood, linen, and stone, making it easy to layer textures and create a warm, lived-in look.
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Color Code: 2130-40
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Collection: Classic Color Collection
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Finish Options: Available in matte, eggshell, satin, semigloss, and more
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RGB: Red 82, Green 85, Blue 87
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HEX Code: #525557
It’s dark but not pitch black, which makes it a great choice for creating mood without going too extreme.
Using Black Pepper by Benjamin Moore
Black Pepper is versatile. It fits in a variety of spaces and styles—from modern to traditional, minimal to cozy. Here’s where it really shines:
1. Living Rooms
Use Black Pepper to bring depth to your living space.
It works beautifully on all four walls in rooms with natural light or as an accent behind a sofa or fireplace.
Pair it with off-white trim, natural wood furniture, and woven textures for a cozy, modern feel.
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Creates a calm, grounded backdrop that’s perfect for layering soft neutrals
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Adds just the right amount of contrast without feeling too bold or stark
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Works well with modern, farmhouse, or transitional living room styles
2. Bedrooms
This dark gray brings a calming vibe that’s perfect for bedrooms. Use it on the wall behind your bed to anchor the room, or go full-on moody for a cocoon-like effect.
Add warm bedding, layered lighting, and soft textiles to keep the space inviting.
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Makes the room feel restful and intimate without being too dark
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Highlights headboards and artwork when used as a feature wall
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Pairs beautifully with neutral linens and brass or wood accents
3. Kitchens
Want darker cabinets without going completely black? Black Pepper is a stylish pick. It adds richness to cabinetry, especially when paired with brass or matte black hardware, white countertops, and warm backsplash tile.
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Gives cabinets a soft, elegant look with a modern edge
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Complements marble, butcher block, or light quartz countertops
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Offers a timeless alternative to black or navy cabinetry
4. Dining Rooms
This color creates an intimate, dinner-party-ready feel in dining rooms. Try it on the walls with a wood table, linen curtains, and brass light fixtures to set a cozy yet elegant tone.
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Enhances mood lighting and creates a welcoming dining atmosphere
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Works well with traditional or modern farmhouse decor
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Makes wood tones and soft textiles stand out beautifully
5. Offices and Studies
Black Pepper is a great color for focus and quiet. Use it in your home office or study to create a space that feels grounded and calming. Add wood shelves, leather chairs, or classic desk lamps for a refined, comfortable setup.
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Reduces visual distractions and promotes concentration
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Feels warm and collected without being overpowering
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Adds sophistication to shelves, desks, or built-ins
6. Accent Walls
If you’re not ready for full-room drama, try it on one wall. Behind a bed, sofa, or built-in shelving, Black Pepper adds subtle contrast and polish—without overpowering the room.
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Instantly defines a focal point without taking over
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Looks great with light walls and natural decor elements
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Easy way to test out dark paint in a safe, stylish way
7. Exteriors and Doors
Black Pepper also works beautifully outside. If you want something softer than pure black but still deep and stylish, use it for front doors, shutters, or siding.
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Adds timeless curb appeal with a slightly softer finish than black
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Pairs well with brick, stone, and light or neutral exteriors
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Makes a great contrast to greenery and natural landscapes
Coordinating Colors with Black Pepper
Because it’s a neutral dark gray, Black Pepper pairs well with both cool and warm tones. Here are some great ideas:
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Soft Whites & Creams: Create contrast with colors like White Dove, Simply White, or Swiss Coffee.
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Warm Woods: Oak, walnut, or even light pine help soften and warm up the darker gray.
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Gold or Brass Accents: Hardware or lighting in warm metals adds a bit of elegance and glow.
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Terracotta or Clay: Add earthy color for a cozy, grounded feel.
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Dusty Blues or Greens: These muted shades blend well with Black Pepper’s subtle undertones and keep things feeling fresh.
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Greige or Taupe: For a layered, tonal look that feels calm and cohesive.
Black Pepper vs. Other Dark Paint Colors
Let’s compare Black Pepper with a few similar Benjamin Moore shades:
1. Black Pepper vs. Wrought Iron
Wrought Iron is darker and cooler, leaning closer to black with subtle blue undertones. Its deep, rich tone creates a striking contrast against lighter elements and often appears almost blue-black in certain lighting conditions.
The coolness gives it a crisp, modern feel that works particularly well in contemporary spaces where strong definition is desired.
2. Black Pepper vs. Soot
Soot is a deep, inky blue-black that’s bolder and cooler than Black Pepper. This rich shade creates a dramatic contrast in spaces and holds its depth even in varying light conditions.
The blue undertones give Soot a distinct character that makes it more assertive and statement-making than typical neutral darks. Its coolness pairs exceptionally well with metals like chrome and stainless steel, creating a contemporary, sophisticated aesthetic.
3. Black Pepper vs. Kendall Charcoal
Kendall Charcoal is a warm, medium-to-dark gray with slight brown undertones. This versatile shade has a softer appearance that creates depth without the intensity of deeper charcoals.
Kendall Charcoal’s warmth makes it particularly welcoming in living areas and bedrooms, where a cozy atmosphere is desired.
Its brown undertones help it complement wood tones and natural textiles, creating harmonious traditional interiors.
4. Black Pepper vs. Iron Mountain
Iron Mountain is another dark gray, but it leans slightly purple in certain lights.
This subtle violet undertone becomes more apparent in natural daylight or when paired with cool whites, creating an unexpected complexity that adds sophistication to spaces.
The purplish cast gives Iron Mountain a distinctive character that can feel both elegant and slightly mysterious, making it an interesting choice for accent walls or furniture pieces.
Reviews of Black Pepper by Benjamin Moore
Homeowners and designers love how calm, classic, and rich Black Pepper feels in real spaces. Many say it’s the perfect choice when you want a dark color but don’t want to commit to full black.
Common feedback includes:
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“Soothing and modern.”
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“Pairs with everything.”
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“Just the right amount of drama.”
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“Gorgeous on cabinets and trim.”
It’s especially loved in rooms with natural light, where its softness really shines. And at night, it transforms spaces into cozy, inviting retreats.
Conclusion
Benjamin Moore Black Pepper is a dark gray that’s elegant, soft, and endlessly usable. It’s the perfect alternative to pure black—deep enough for drama, but gentle enough to live with every day.
Use it on walls, cabinets, doors, or even furniture to bring a refined, cozy feel to your space. Pair it with warm woods, soft whites, or muted tones for a balanced, welcoming look.
If you’re ready to try something bold but livable, Black Pepper might be your new favorite color.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Benjamin Moore Black Pepper Warm Or Cool?
Black Pepper is a dark gray with a slightly warm undertone, making it feel softer and more versatile than a cool or blue-toned gray.
What Colors Pair Well With Black Pepper?
It pairs beautifully with soft whites, warm woods, brass accents, greige tones, and muted colors like dusty blue, sage green, or terracotta.
Is Black Pepper Too Dark For Small Rooms?
Not at all—when balanced with light trim, soft lighting, and natural textures, it can actually make small spaces feel cozy and grounded.
Does Black Pepper Work On Kitchen Cabinets?
Yes, it looks elegant and timeless on kitchen cabinets, especially when paired with gold or black hardware and lighter countertops.
What Finish Looks Best With Black Pepper?
Eggshell or satin works well for walls, while semigloss enhances durability and depth for trim, doors, and cabinetry.