Some colors like blue, green, mauve, and beige are quite easy to detect and determine, even if you’re not a color consultant or decorating professional.
However, for the not so professional homeowner, taupe is one color category that is hard to recognize.
You might have heard that it’s quite closer to beige, tan, and greige – but the fact is that there are some key differences.
Taupes, in general, are darker shades of brown-grays that are quite more likely an espresso gray than charcoal and warm grays.
Similarly, just like other Benjamin Moore neutral colors, even taupes tend to appear cool or warm – and that can be determined depending upon the undertones.
However, this color is inclined primarily towards the warmer side with a feel and look of an earthy paint color.
So, if you want to invite an earthy vibe indoors, this is one color category to have an eye on.
Before we move forward, let me also disclose that taupes are one of the most difficult colors to work with.
The dominant brown and gray undertones tend to make it difficult for the other hues to cohesively blend with taupe and its variations.
But don’t worry!
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Benjamin Moore Taupes.
Here we go!
Guide to Benjamin Moore Taupe Collection
The blend of earthy browns and sophisticated grays is what makes up this color category.
They’re bound to be extra relaxing, calm, and comfortable but with a touch of boldness, drama, and depth.
If you prefer the touch of warmer tones but are not completely satisfied with beiges and tans – welcome to the world of taupes.
And since they’re dark – it’s generally best to use them as an accent in your home.
Even the various BM taupe options have many different appearances and looks!
So let’s check this out more:
Here are a few examples from the Benjamin Moore taupe paint color swatch.
Benjamin Moore Driftwood is a dark-toned taupe with a dominant pink undertone.
In various lighting conditions, it may also appear as a blush!
On the other hand, Benjamin Moore Hancock Gray is a dark-toned warm taupe.
This one will readily make a great statement with wooden textures and black powder-coated metallic tints.
Another popular taupe is Benjamin Moore Shaker Beige that inclines more towards the “beige” end of the scale.
It works amazingly well in traditional design setups.
Lastly, if you observe Benjamin Moore Indian River, you’re quite likely to detect an earthy tone but that is muted and subdued at the same time.
So, now that you’ve compared a few of these , you’ll see that taupes are available in a variety of tones, tints, and shades.
And that’s why you have to first determine your interior design style, color palette scheme, and the size of your space.
Each one of them has a major role to play in your space.
In doing so they can equally alter the look and feel of the surroundings.
The Magic of Undertones in Taupes
Despite the seeming overlaps, Benjamin Moore taupes have quite some different undertones as compared to beiges and greiges.
And some of the prominent ones are pink, yellow, violet, gray, and even beige itself.
Taupes with pink and violet undertones will quite likely make your space feel more eclectic and charming.
Whereas the ones with a gray or brown undertone will make the space feel more earthy and organic.
Some taupes also have yellow undertones that can closely relate to beiges – for instance, Benjamin Moore Shaker Beige.
A Pro Tip:
Always determine the neutral paint color swatch in various natural lighting conditions to know the true hue and feel of the color.
Lighting Matters
Lighting has a strong game to play here!
Firstly, it can dominantly determine the undertones of the taupe paint color and also make the space appear enhanced, lighter, and airier.
Yes, the more light you give to a paint color – the lighter your room will appear.
Let’s discuss how a generic taupe paint may behave in different compass directions.
For instance, in the north-facing rooms, a taupe paint color will dominantly reflect a gray undertone. It may feel slightly cooler and crisper!
On the other hand, in the west and south-facing rooms, the same taupe paint will reflect a tinge of brown, pink, yellow, or violet to it.
And since it’s quite a dark paint color, you must allow the room to have ample penetrating natural light.
At the same time, ensure that the size of your room is large enough to inculcate the depth of the bold taupe paint color.
Yes, don’t forget to experiment with a couple of swatches here and there.
Taupes in Interior and Exterior Design Styles
Taupes can make a phenomenal statement in both the interior as well as exterior design styles.
In the interiors, you must use this paint color as an accent – mainly on the focal walls and built-in cabinetry.
Especially for interior design styles like modern, Japandi, contemporary, modern farmhouse, and transitional – this color will definitely make a wonderful statement.
For the exterior design styles like Ranch, Victorian, transitional, modern industrial, and French Country – the taupes can make a great base as well as accent.
Try avoiding the use of these colors in Coastal, Scandinavian, and Shabby Chic styles.
Best Places to Use Benjamin Moore Taupe Paint Colors
Benjamin Moore taupes can be used in your kitchen cabinets, home office or living room built-in shelves, and bedroom focal walls.
You can even use it on the furniture frames and exterior walls of your home.
However, don’t forget to analyze the size and scale of your space before picking that perfect “taupe” for your home.
Best Benjamin Moore Taupe Paint Colors
Now comes one of the most interesting topics to talk about!
Here are some of the popular and handpicked best Benjamin Moore taupe paint colors to choose from.
Benjamin Moore offers tremendous options for taupe paint colors in a variety of undertones and vibes.
So, let me proceed with the popular ones and then my absolute personal favorites.
5 Most Popular
Benjamin Moore Driftwood:
Benjamin Moore Driftwood is an intriguing taupe that blends the tones of brown, gray, and tan to create an utmost versatile appeal.
It’s quite dark with an LRV of 25.29 to add immense depth and character to the walls.
So, consider incorporating the color in larger spaces with ample incoming natural light!
In various lighting conditions, this paint color also reflects a tinge of beige and pink that might be quite dominant at various times of the day.
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This color will best complement wooden textures, creamy off-whites, and shades of blue.
Here are some other color specifications you must get acquainted with!
Red = 151
Green = 133
Blue = 122
HEX Value = #99877D
Benjamin Moore Shaker Beige:
Benjamin Moore Shaker Beige is a medium-toned warmer taupe with a deep yellow undertone.
It inclines more towards the beiges and tans, also sharing a ton of similarities with them.
This color has an LRV of 53.53 – falling on the medium end so you can best incorporate it in the larger and medium-sized spaces.
I recommend you fusing this color with shades of blue, off-white, and blush to create an eye-catchy and ‘wow’ effect!
Especially for interior design styles like traditional, modern farmhouse, and transitional – this color will play flawless.
As usual, it is important to understand the associated RGB and HEX Values that are as follows:
Red = 209
Green = 194
Blue = 167
HEX Value = #d1c2a7
Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe:
Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe is an appealing warm gray with a touch of coziness and welcomeness.
With an LRV of 54.53 – this color falls on the medium end of the scale – which is why you must allow ample natural light to flourish in.
You can best pair this color with warm whites, bronze, black, shades of blue and light gray.
Whether it’s the kitchen cabinets or living room focal wall – this color is definitely something to have an eye on.
And since this color is quite versatile, you can almost pair it with any hue, material, pattern, and texture.
It is now time to look through the color details and specifications to know more about it!
Red = 204
Green = 193
Blue = 180
HEX Value = #CDC3B6
Benjamin Moore Ashley Gray:
Benjamin Moore Ashley Gray is an elegant dark-toned taupe with a deep violet undertone.
It may look quite intimidating and bold – so this must be carefully used in the smaller spaces.
With an LRV of 33.45 – this color is equally bold and dramatic.
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You can best use this paint with either powder coated black or satin brass fixtures to add an ultimate statement of luxe and elegance.
I highly recommend the use of this color in the kitchens, living room walls, and even exteriors and kids play areas.
Here enlisted are the important associated RGB and HEX Values that you must know!
Red = 164
Green = 154
Blue = 141
HEX Value = #A69C90
Benjamin Moore Sparrow:
Benjamin Moore Sparrow is a popular taupe paint color with a unique dark gray appearance and an earthy brown undertone.
With an LRV of 21.14 – this color is quite bold, dramatic, and dark – this one too must be carefully used in a smaller rooms.
This earthy color can be used to invite a sense of warmth, organic, and coziness.
You can also best use this paint color with warm whites, lighter blush, black, shades of soft blue, and sage green.
I recommend understanding the associated RGB and HEX Values to know more about the color specification!
Red = 134
Green = 126
Blue = 113
HEX Value = #888175
TIP: You can order stick-on wall samples for any of the above colors. It’s the most convenient way and truly helps you choose the color(s) that look best in your OWN space. Order at Samplize now!
5 Next Popular
Benjamin Moore Indian River:
Benjamin Moore Indian River is a subtle and balanced taupe with slightly confusing undertones.
With an LRV of 36.66 – this color is comparatively on the medium end to play a great role as an accent.
You can best infuse these tones with warm whites and shades of light gray or blue.
Benjamin Moore Hancock Gray:
Benjamin Moore Hancock Gray is a nuanced taupe paint color with a deep green undertone.
Falling on the warmer end of the scale, this color has an LRV of 26.86 to add an utmost bold statement.
It’s a great earthy paint color since it has a touch of moss and brown to it.
Benjamin Moore Weimaraner:
Benjamin Moore Weimaraner is one of the most subtle and neutral taupe paint colors.
This balanced taupe has a perfect blend of brown and gray to create a warm and earthy look.
It has an LRV of 30.99 – thus, quite dark and deep enough to add character to any space.
Benjamin Moore Upper West Side:
With a clean brightness and an utmost creamy and soothing character, Benjamin Moore Upper West Side is definitely something to have an eye on.
It pairs well with creamy off-whites and can be best used in home offices and living rooms.
With an LRV of 39.06 – it can add utmost depth and livability to any space.
Benjamin Moore Stone Hearth:
Benjamin Moore Stone Hearth shares tremendous characteristics with a greige paint color.
It has a tinge of warmth to make the space appear absolutely lively and charming.
You can infuse tones of black, creamy off-whites, and blues to play a cohesive palette.
***Make sure to test out any of these amazing colors with a sample you can put up right in your home. Pick up samples now!
5 Hand Picked Favorites
Benjamin Moore Brandon Beige:
Benjamin Moore Brandon Beige offers the best of both worlds. With a tinge of green, this taupe is all set to bring an organic vibe.
It has an LRV of 37.86 to add an equally bold statement.
You can also blend the hue with various off-whites and lighter grays.
Benjamin Moore Smoky Ash:
Benjamin Moore Smoky Ash is a typical neutral taupe paint color that plays a great role in traditional and transitional backdrops.
And, it works amazingly well with warm whites as well – so, you have the best of both worlds.
With lush hardwood floors, it’s a great plus point!
Benjamin Moore Buckhorn:
Benjamin Moore Buckhorn is a dark-toned taupe that will play a great role on the exterior walls, specifically.
You can use it to add a dramatic, bold, and moody statement into any space.
I recommend pairing it with shades of warm white and yellow!
Benjamin Moore Pashmina:
Benjamin Moore Pashmina is a great taupe to add an authentic character into any space.
This can also be categorized under ‘greiges’ – a perfect bold and dramatic hue.
And since it has an LRV of 44.2 – you must be careful around the size, scale, and the overall color palette.
Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist:
If you like the feeling of lighter taupes – consider Benjamin Moore Balboa Mist.
It’s a soothing and soft greige/taupe color that can totally add a versatile and timeless look into any space.
Also, it looks fabulous on the kitchen cabinets.
Grab some samples of these colors to see how they’ll look in your environment. Order real paint, peel-and-stick samples!
Inspiration and Examples
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Benjamin Moore Pashmina is a great recommendation for the bedroom! Totally with it, right?
Benjamin Moore Shale is equally soft, calm, and charming!
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Benjamin Moore Ashley Gray is bold and dramatic, so really it must be used in the larger rooms.
Benjamin Moore River Reflections is another not so popular taupe paint that will make a great statement in the transitional spaces.
This bedroom proves how blissful a taupe color may feel!
Summing It Up
You see – Benjamin Moore has formulated quite a few taupe paint colors for you to choose from!
Now that we have discussed the major aspects and types of taupes, do you feel confident in incorporating any one of them in your home?
Well, I highly recommend them on the exterior doors and window frames, accent walls, and even mudrooms and laundry rooms.
So, without a thought – pick up your favorite Benjamin Moore taupe now and don’t forget to let me know your thoughts in the comments below!