Updated on Mar 21, 2025
19 Minute Read

Carolina Gull 2138-40 Paint Color by Benjamin Moore

Fall for the simple charm of a classic gray

The first time I saw Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore (2138-40), I was really drawn to it. It’s a soft blue-green with a calm, fresh feel—like quiet coastal waves. On the walls, it gives off such a peaceful vibe, perfect for relaxing after a busy day.

The versatility of Carolina Gull is what truly sets it apart for me. It pairs effortlessly with both neutral tones and bolder colors, allowing endless options for decorating.

Whether you’re looking to refresh a living room or add some peace to a bedroom, this color could be the ideal choice. It’s reminiscent of nature and has a timeless quality that doesn’t overwhelm.

I appreciate how Carolina Gull manages to be both soothing and sophisticated. Whether in natural light or under artificial illumination, it retains its elegance and depth.

In my experience, this color adds a touch of sophistication while maintaining a warm and inviting ambiance. It’s become a favorite in my palette, providing both inspiration and comfort.

Carolina Gull 2138-40 Paint Color by Benjamin Moore
via benjaminmoore.com

What Color Is Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore?

Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore is a rich, muted green with hints of blue and gray, creating a versatile and calming shade. This color brings a touch of nature indoors, reminding one of a peaceful, foggy morning by the sea. Its balanced tones make it a wonderful choice for a variety of rooms, from living areas to bedrooms.

In terms of interior styles, Carolina Gull fits beautifully with modern, coastal, and rustic designs. In a modern space, it adds warmth and depth without overpowering the clean, simple lines.

Within a coastal theme, it echoes the colors of the ocean and sky, enhancing the airy and relaxed feel. For rustic interiors, this color provides a fresh contrast to the warmth of wood and earth tones.

Carolina Gull pairs well with both natural and refined materials. It complements wooden furniture, especially those with a light or medium finish, and looks fantastic against white or cream accents.

Textured fabrics like linen and cotton in neutral shades bring out the softness of the color, while metallic elements such as brushed nickel or brass add a touch of contrast and elegance. Whether as a feature wall or throughout an entire space, the color provides a comforting backdrop for various textures and decor styles.

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Is Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore Warm or Cool color?

Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore is a paint color that brings a calm feeling to any room. This shade is known for its balanced mix of blue and gray, creating a soothing and versatile tone. In homes, it works well in both large and small spaces, making rooms feel open and airy without overwhelming them.

The subtle undertone means it can match well with various styles of furniture and decor, whether modern or traditional. It pairs nicely with white trims and wood accents, adding a touch of freshness to living rooms, bedrooms, or even kitchens.

The color reflects light in a way that can make a room look and feel more inviting throughout the day. Whether it’s used on a feature wall or throughout the entire space, Carolina Gull manages to create a welcoming atmosphere, making any home a more pleasant place to spend time and relax.

Undertones of Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore

Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore is a complex color with various undertones that can change how it looks. The undertones include hints of mint, pale pink, lilac, olive, dark turquoise, purple, pale yellow, light blue, light green, light turquoise, light purple, orange, blue, dark green, pink, violet, brown, navy, light gray, yellow, turquoise, green, fuchsia, red, dark blue, and dark grey.

These undertones affect how we perceive Carolina Gull. Depending on the lighting in a room and the surrounding colors, certain undertones can become more noticeable.

For example, in a room with lots of natural light, the cooler undertones like mint, light blue, or turquoise might stand out more. This can make the color feel fresh and lively.

In a dimly lit room, the warmer undertones such as pale pink, pale yellow, or orange could be more prominent, giving the color a cozier feel.

When used on interior walls, Carolina Gull can create a subtle and versatile backdrop. The various undertones allow it to pair well with both warm and cool color schemes. It can add interest and depth to a room without being overpowering. Whether you’re aiming for a calm atmosphere or a vibrant space, Carolina Gull’s undertones provide flexibility, making it a great choice for different moods and styles.

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What is the Masstone of the Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore?

Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore, labeled as 2138-40, has a unique grey masstone (#808080) that gives it a versatile and modern feel. This color works well in many homes because it is neutral and provides a calming effect. The grey tone can change depending on the lighting in a room, making it appear warmer or cooler.

This flexibility allows it to fit in different spaces, whether a cozy living room or a sleek kitchen.

When used in smaller rooms, Carolina Gull can make the space feel larger and more open, which is perfect for urban apartments. In larger rooms, it can add a sense of unity and cohesiveness. It pairs well with other colors, acting as a perfect backdrop that doesn’t overpower but instead complements accents and décor.

Carolina Gull’s balanced hue can enhance both traditional and contemporary designs, making it a favorite choice for many homeowners and designers.

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How Does Lighting Affect Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore?

Lighting plays a crucial role in how we perceive colors. The same color can appear differently under various types of lighting, affecting the mood and appearance of a room. Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore is no exception. This color is a soft, muted green with gray undertones, and its look can change depending on the light source.

In artificial light, especially under warm incandescent bulbs, Carolina Gull tends to appear warmer and more inviting. The gray undertones become more subdued, allowing the green to be more prominent. However, under cooler fluorescent lighting, the gray tones might become more noticeable, making the color look a bit muted and less vibrant.

In natural light, Carolina Gull may change throughout the day. In a north-facing room, which typically receives cooler and consistent lighting, the color may appear more subdued. The natural light in these rooms is indirect and can bring out the gray undertones in the paint, giving the space a cooler, calmer feel.

In south-facing rooms, where the sunlight is abundant and warm, Carolina Gull may appear brighter and more vibrant. The warm light can enhance the green tones in the paint, making the room feel more lively and cheerful.

East-facing rooms get bright, warm light in the morning, which can enhance the green in Carolina Gull, giving a fresh look early in the day. As the sun moves, the color might take on a cooler, more muted tone.

West-facing rooms receive warm, golden light in the afternoon and evening. In these conditions, Carolina Gull tends to look richer and warmer, with the green and gray undertones blending into a soft, welcoming hue as the day transitions.

Overall, the appearance of Carolina Gull can vary greatly with different lighting conditions, so it’s wise to test the color in your room throughout the day to see how it interacts with the available light.

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What is the LRV of Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore?

LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value, which is a measurement that tells us how much light a color reflects. It is measured on a scale from 0 to 100, where 0 is the darkest black, absorbing all light, and 100 is the brightest white, reflecting all light.

The LRV of a color helps us understand how bright or dark a color will appear once it’s painted on a wall. A lower LRV indicates a darker color that will reflect less light, making a room feel cozier and sometimes smaller.

Conversely, a higher LRV means the color will reflect more light, helping a space feel more open and airy. It’s an important consideration for choosing paint colors, as it can affect everything from atmosphere to mood in a room.

Carolina Gull has an LRV of 27.41, indicating it’s a darker shade that absorbs more light than it reflects.

This makes the color appear more muted and subdued, which can give a room a cozy and intimate feel. In spaces with a lot of natural light, Carolina Gull might appear slightly lighter due to the light it does reflect, but in dimly lit rooms, it could make the space feel more enclosed. This particular LRV value makes Carolina Gull a good choice for areas where you want a grounded, calming vibe, but it’s also important to consider lighting conditions to ensure it doesn’t make the space feel too dark.

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Coordinating Colors of Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore

Coordinating colors are shades that work well together to create a harmonious look in a space. They complement each other while adding variety and interest to a room’s design. When paired with Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore, the coordinating colors Light Khaki, Mountain Peak White, Soft Chamois, and Nantucket Gray create a balanced and cohesive aesthetic.

These colors have been chosen for their ability to enhance the subtlety of Carolina Gull, a muted green with gray undertones, creating a sense of unity in the overall palette.

Light Khaki offers a warm, earthy tone that enhances the cozy feel of any space, perfectly matching the subdued elegance of Carolina Gull. Mountain Peak White is crisp and clean, providing a bright contrast that lightens the color scheme and adds a touch of freshness.

Soft Chamois is a gentle, creamy neutral that wraps spaces in a soft warmth, perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere.

Nantucket Gray, with its muted greenish-gray shade, ties the hues together, adding depth and sophistication. Together, these colors create an inviting, harmonious setting, suitable for any room needing a soft yet refined look.
You can see recommended paint colors below:

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What are the Trim colors of Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore?

Trim colors are the hues used on the edges or borders in a room, such as the baseboards, moldings, and window frames, to create a definition between the walls and other elements. When choosing colors for trims, it is important to find ones that complement and enhance the main wall color.

For Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore, which is a soft green with blue undertones, selecting the right trim colors can really make the main color stand out.

Trim colors like OC-72 Pink Damask and OC-149 Decorator’s White can help balance and highlight the subtle beauty of Carolina Gull. Proper trim colors not only define spaces but also add an extra layer of visual appeal to the room.

OC-72 Pink Damask is a soft, muted pink that offers a gentle contrast without overpowering the main color.

This soft hue can add warmth and a touch of cozy elegance to the space. On the other hand, OC-149 Decorator’s White is a classic, crisp white that provides a clean and fresh look.

Its bright and neat appearance enhances the clarity of Carolina Gull, making the room feel open and airy.

Together, these trim colors work with Carolina Gull to create a room that feels cohesive, welcoming, and beautifully composed.
You can see recommended paint colors below:

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Colors Similar to Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore

Similar colors play an important role in design by creating harmony and balance within a space. When working with a color like Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore, choosing similar shades can enhance the overall aesthetic without clashing or overwhelming the senses.

Colors such as Garden Oasis, Cos Cob Stonewall, Duxbury Gray, and Intrigue complement Carolina Gull beautifully by sharing undertones that are easy on the eyes. These variations help maintain a cohesive look while providing options for diversity.

When used together, these colors can subtly influence the mood of a room, making it feel more unified and pleasing.

Garden Oasis is a vibrant hue that adds a touch of liveliness without straying far from the serene nature of Carolina Gull.

Cos Cob Stonewall, on the other hand, offers a more grounding effect with its muted tones, perfect for creating a sense of stability.

Duxbury Gray is a deeper color that can add depth to a space, serving as a strong element of contrast yet maintaining harmony with its understated elegance.

Meanwhile, Intrigue is a darker shade that can bring a sense of mystery and sophistication, adding a touch of boldness to an otherwise soft palette. Together, these colors work to complement each other, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
You can see recommended paint colors below:

  • 699 Garden Oasis
  • 1483 Cos Cob Stonewall
  • HC-163 Duxbury Gray
  • 1580 Intrigue
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Colors that Go With Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore

Choosing colors that pair well with Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore is essential because they create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere in a space. Carolina Gull itself is a soft, muted blue-green, which makes it versatile and easy to match with other colors.

When paired with Misted Green 2138-50, a pale, soothing green, it enhances the calm feeling in a room. Southern Vine 2138-10 is a deep, rich green that adds depth and contrast, making a bold statement next to Carolina Gull.

To bring in a sense of lightness and airiness, Gray Cashmere 2138-60 is a light and gentle gray that maintains balance.

Mohegan Sage 2138-30 complements the palette with its earthy, sage green tone, offering a natural feel that enhances Carolina Gull’s subtle elegance.

Green Grove 2138-20 is another darker green option, adding warmth and richness, making it an excellent choice for grounding the overall look. Lastly, Gray Lake 2138-70, with its soft, muted blue-gray tones, effortlessly blends with Carolina Gull, keeping the mood light and peaceful.

Together, these colors create a well-rounded palette that is both comforting and refreshing, perfect for any space where relaxation and balance are desired.

You can see recommended paint colors below:

  • 2138-50 Misted Green
  • 2138-10 Southern Vine
  • 2138-60 Gray Cashmere
  • 2138-30 Mohegan Sage
  • 2138-20 Green Grove
  • 2138-70 Gray Lake
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How to Use Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore In Your Home?

Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore is a versatile and calming color choice for homes. This shade is a soft blue-grey, which makes it perfect for creating a peaceful atmosphere in any room. It works well in bedrooms and living rooms where a soothing environment is desired. The color pairs beautifully with white trim and natural wood tones, bringing a fresh and airy feel.

In the kitchen or dining area, Carolina Gull can add a touch of calm while still being stylish. It works nicely with stainless steel appliances and light-colored cabinets, creating a modern look. This shade can also be used in a bathroom to produce a spa-like feel, especially when paired with white or light grey accents.

For those looking to add a subtle and calming touch to their home, Carolina Gull is a lovely choice that complements various styles and décor elements without overpowering the space.

Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore vs Duxbury Gray HC-163 by Benjamin Moore

Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore is a muted green with hints of blue and gray, giving it a calm and balanced appearance. It’s versatile, working well in both traditional and modern spaces due to its understated elegance. This color can add a touch of nature to a room without being overpowering.

On the other hand, Duxbury Gray HC-163 is a rich, deep gray with a pronounced green undertone. It’s darker and more intense than Carolina Gull, offering a strong presence that can create a dramatic impact in a space.

While Carolina Gull gives a softer feel, Duxbury Gray can be bold and more defined. Carolina Gull is great for creating a light, airy environment, whereas Duxbury Gray can provide a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Both colors are excellent choices but serve different purposes based on the ambiance you want to create.
You can see recommended paint color below:

  • HC-163 Duxbury Gray
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Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore vs Cos Cob Stonewall 1483 by Benjamin Moore

Carolina Gull (2138-40) by Benjamin Moore is a deep, muted green with blue-gray undertones, creating a natural and calming vibe. It reminds you of a coastal landscape or a quiet forest, with its cool, earthy feel. This color works well in spaces where you want a touch of nature’s calm.

On the other hand, Cos Cob Stonewall (1483) by Benjamin Moore is a softer, more neutral gray with subtle green undertones. It’s versatile, providing a gentle, airy backdrop that can complement a wide range of other colors and styles. It feels like a quiet, overcast day, offering a subtle elegance.

While both colors can create a relaxing atmosphere, Carolina Gull is bolder, drawing more attention, whereas Cos Cob Stonewall is more subtle and adaptable. Depending on your space, you might choose Carolina Gull for an accent wall to add depth, while Cos Cob Stonewall can serve as a soothing overall background.
You can see recommended paint color below:

  • 1483 Cos Cob Stonewall
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Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore vs Intrigue 1580 by Benjamin Moore

Carolina Gull 2138-40 and Intrigue 1580 are both colors by Benjamin Moore, but they offer different moods and feelings. Carolina Gull is a muted, soft green with gray tones. It’s a calm and understated color that adds a touch of nature to a room without being overwhelming. Its gray undertone gives it a subtle and versatile feel, making it suitable for various settings.

On the other hand, Intrigue 1580 is a deeper, more intense blue-green. It’s rich and bold, offering a stronger visual impact. Intrigue can create a cozy and dramatic atmosphere, making it a great choice for spaces where you want a bit more depth.

While Carolina Gull provides a gentle and soothing backdrop, Intrigue stands out with its vibrant and lush appearance. Both colors can be used to create different styles and ambiances, depending on the effect you want in your living space.
You can see recommended paint color below:

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Carolina Gull 2138-40 by Benjamin Moore vs Garden Oasis 699 by Benjamin Moore

Carolina Gull and Garden Oasis are two unique colors by Benjamin Moore that offer different vibes for a room. Carolina Gull is a sophisticated shade of blue-green with gray undertones. It has a calming and muted tone, which makes it perfect for a cozy living room or a relaxing bedroom. It pairs well with neutral colors and can add depth without overwhelming the space.

On the other hand, Garden Oasis is a more vibrant, lively green. It’s brighter than Carolina Gull and brings a sense of energy and freshness to a room. This color is great for a kitchen or a playful space, adding a touch of nature and cheerfulness.

It pairs beautifully with whites and light woods, creating an inviting and lively atmosphere.

While both colors have their charm, Carolina Gull leans towards a tranquil, subtle expression, whereas Garden Oasis boasts a bold, refreshing feel.

You can see recommended paint color below:

  • 699 Garden Oasis
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Conclusion

After reading all about the 2138-40 Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore, I can tell you that this is a color that feels really nice and comforting. It’s like when you put on your favorite cozy sweater or wrap up in a warm blanket. This color is a soft, gentle blue that is restful and calm, like the sky on a clear day, or the ocean when it is peaceful.

After going through everything, I understand why people would want to paint their rooms with it. It makes a room feel open yet inviting, with a clean look that helps your mind feel clear too. It’s not a color that shouts for attention, but rather it softly says, “Hey, come in and relax.”

When colors are mentioned by Benjamin Moore, I feel like they put a lot of thought into picking just the right shades that people will enjoy. This one is no different; it brings balance to a room, making it a happy place to be.

This blue isn’t too bright or too dark, so it goes well with lots of other colors and looks good with different styles.

I think if I had a room at home painted this color, I would feel happy spending time there, doing homework or just hanging out. It makes everything feel more peaceful and makes a space feel just right for enjoying time with family and friends.

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