Benjamin Moore Whale Gray (2134-40) Paint Review

Benjamin Moore Whale Gray (2134-40) is a deep, cool gray with strong blue undertones. I love how it’s bold but not too dark, offering a grounded, stylish look to any room.

If you’re anything like me and searching for a rich, modern gray that feels both clean and cozy, Whale Gray could be just the right choice for your home.

I’ve used this color on accent walls, in full rooms, on cabinetry, and even on furniture. It has a beautiful depth and personality, with just enough softness to keep a space from feeling too heavy.

One of the things I really appreciate about Whale Gray is how well it pairs with natural materials, cool metals, and crisp whites.

It’s a flexible color that perfectly complements both modern and traditional styles.

In this blog, I’ll explain everything you need to know about Benjamin Moore Whale Gray: what kind of color it is, where to use it, how to pair it, and why it stands out as such a stylish and timeless gray.

What Kind of Color Is Benjamin Moore Whale Gray (2134-40)?

Whale Gray is a medium-to-dark charcoal gray with strong cool undertones. It has hints of blue that make it feel crisp and fresh, yet its overall tone is deep and moody.

This makes it perfect for adding contrast or drama without being black.

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is 23.1%, so it reflects a small amount of light. That means it’s best used in rooms with good natural light or balanced lighting.

It won’t brighten up a dark space, but it will bring richness and depth to any room.

Whale Gray is a balanced and bold gray that works beautifully as a main color or an accent. It’s a great choice for modern interiors, dramatic spaces, or homes that need a sleek and calming tone.

Whale Gray: A Deep and Versatile Color for Every Room

Whale Gray is flexible enough to be used in many rooms, from bedrooms to bathrooms to kitchens. It creates a sense of calm and strength while still feeling soft and welcoming.

Living Room

Whale Gray adds a cool, stylish touch to living rooms. I like how it works with white trim, neutral furniture, and both metal and wood accents.

You can use it on one wall or go bold and paint all four walls for a dramatic look. Add texture with soft rugs, woven baskets, and cozy throws.

Bedroom

Whale Gray creates a cozy, restful mood in a bedroom. I’ve paired it with white bedding, wood headboards, and soft lighting to create a calming space.

This gray gives you a rich backdrop that makes other colors and textures stand out. It’s perfect for creating a modern retreat or a classic cozy corner.

Kitchen

I’ve found that Whale Gray looks amazing on lower cabinets or kitchen islands. It gives a strong, grounded look that contrasts well with white countertops or light wood floors.

Pair it with brushed nickel or matte black hardware for a sleek, clean finish.

Bathroom

In a bathroom, Whale Gray creates a spa-like feel with just the right amount of depth.

I’ve used it on walls, vanities, and even ceilings when I want something bold but calming. White tile, chrome fixtures, and soft towels help complete the look.

How to Use Whale Gray in Small or Low-Light Spaces

Since Whale Gray is a darker color, using it in small or low-light spaces requires some planning. But with the right accents and lighting, it can still look beautiful and cozy.

Accent Walls: Try using Whale Gray as an accent wall in a small space. It brings depth and interest without overwhelming the room. Keep the other walls light and neutral to balance it out.

Hallways and Entryways: In narrow spaces, Whale Gray can feel dramatic and welcoming when paired with bright trim, mirrors, and soft lighting. Use it to add personality without making the area feel too enclosed.

How to Pair Whale Gray with Other Paint Colors and Accents

Whale Gray pairs well with many other colors and finishes, thanks to its cool undertones and rich depth. It blends beautifully with both bold and soft accents.

Neutral Colors

Pair Whale Gray with bright whites, soft grays, or creamy beiges. These tones help lighten the space and bring out the cool undertones in Whale Gray. White Dove or Chantilly Lace are great trim options.

Warm Accents

To bring balance, add warm woods, tan leather, or brass fixtures. These tones keep the space from feeling too cold and add a cozy, lived-in feel. Try light oak floors or warm brown furniture for contrast.

Bold Colors

Whale Gray also looks great with jewel tones like navy, forest green, or deep burgundy. For a playful look, try mustard yellow or burnt orange accents. These pops of color stand out against the dark base and bring the room to life.

What Style Works Best with Benjamin Moore Whale Gray?

Whale Gray fits into many different design styles thanks to its cool, balanced tone. It can feel modern, classic, industrial, or even coastal, depending on what you pair it with.

In modern homes, it adds sleek style and pairs well with minimal furniture and cool metal finishes.

In farmhouse or transitional styles, Whale Gray offers a strong contrast to light woods, white shiplap, and soft decor.

In industrial spaces, it works beautifully with black metal, exposed wood, and bold art.

In coastal homes, it mimics the stormy sea and pairs nicely with crisp whites, soft blues, and sandy neutrals.

Is Benjamin Moore Whale Gray a Warm or Cool Color?

Benjamin Moore Whale Gray (2134-40) is a cool color. It has strong blue undertones that give it a crisp and refreshing look.

This cool base is what helps the color feel calm, modern, and clean. It’s not icy or sharp, but it definitely leans toward the cooler side of the spectrum.

In rooms with a lot of natural daylight, the blue tones in Whale Gray become more noticeable.

In artificial lighting or evening light, it can appear a bit softer, but it still keeps that cool, balanced feel.

That makes it a great choice for rooms where you want to create a relaxing and quiet space.

Cool colors like Whale Gray are great for bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices because they help create a sense of calm and focus.

If your space already has warm wood, brass, or tan elements, Whale Gray can balance those out beautifully, giving your home a well-rounded, peaceful look.

Color Characteristics Table

How to Test This Color in Your Space Before Painting

Before committing to Whale Gray, test it in your space. It can look different depending on the lighting and surroundings.

1. Buy a Sample: Grab a sample pot from a Benjamin Moore store or online.

2. Paint Large Swatches: Paint sections on different walls to see how the color looks throughout the room.

3. View at Different Times: Check the swatches in morning and evening light to catch undertone changes.

4. Compare with Furniture: Hold up fabric, flooring, and trim samples nearby to see how they match.

What Paint Finish Works Best for Whale Gray?

The finish you choose depends on the space and how you plan to use it:

1. Matte or Flat Finish: Best for bedrooms or low-traffic areas. It gives a smooth, non-shiny look.

2. Eggshell or Satin Finish: Great for living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. These finishes are easy to clean and have a soft sheen.

3. Semi-Gloss or Gloss Finish: Ideal for trim, doors, or cabinets. These finishes are more durable and offer a bit of shine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Whale Gray

A few things to watch for when using Whale Gray:

• Skipping the Sample Test: Always try it first. Lighting changes how it looks.

• Using Cool Lighting Only: Cool lighting can make the color feel colder. Mix in warm lighting to soften the look.

• Pairing with Cold Whites: Use warm or soft whites for trim and ceilings to create balance.

Why People Love Benjamin Moore Whale Gray

Homeowners and designers love Whale Gray because:

• It’s bold but not too dark

• It’s flexible and easy to match

• It brings style to modern and classic homes

• It adds depth without making rooms feel small

It’s a reliable, stylish color with just enough personality to make a space feel finished.

Conclusion

Benjamin Moore Whale Gray (2134-40) is a cool, deep gray that brings strength, balance, and style to any space.

It’s rich but not too dark, bold but not overwhelming. Use it in bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, or living rooms for a grounded and calming feel.

This color works well with crisp whites, warm woods, brass or black fixtures, and even pops of bold color.

It’s great for modern, coastal, farmhouse, and industrial homes. With an LRV of 23.1%, it adds depth and contrast while still feeling clean and simple.

Whale Gray is a go-to color if you want something modern, stylish, and easy to match. Try a sample, see how it looks in your home, and enjoy the strong, cozy look it brings to your space.