Smoky Ash

Technical Profile

What color is Smoky Ash? It's a light warm brown with the hex code #9A8C76. Colors similar to Smoky Ash include MPC Briny Bronze Met., Sherwin-Williams Sawdust, Vista Paint Tropical Tan. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. Smoky Ash has a neutral undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Understanding a color's undertone is key to avoiding combinations that clash — it often matters more than the surface color itself. Smoky Ash (#9A8C76) by Benjamin Moore is a light brown paint color with a gentle, subdued character. It delivers a bright, welcoming quality that keeps interiors feeling fresh. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. In its RGB breakdown, red is the dominant channel, which gives it a subtle rosy warmth even under different lighting conditions. Its Light Reflectance Value of 55 means it reflects a healthy amount of light, keeping spaces bright without feeling stark. Light neutrals like this are go-to choices for whole-home color schemes, working seamlessly in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways without competing with decor. Eggshell or satin finishes complement light tones nicely, balancing a subtle sheen with durability for high-traffic areas. For color coordination, Smoky Ash pairs beautifully with blue tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring yellow and red hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its neutral undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. If Benjamin Moore is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from MPC, Sherwin-Williams, Vista Paint and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Smoky Ash radiates an inviting, sun-washed warmth that makes guests feel immediately at ease. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for a wide range of interior design styles. As part of the Benjamin Moore palette, Smoky Ash benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. As with any paint color, Smoky Ash can shift noticeably between natural daylight, warm incandescent, and cool LED lighting — testing a sample swatch on your wall under different conditions is always recommended. This tone works well alongside natural textures like jute rugs, bleached wood, ceramic tile, and woven baskets, building an inviting, tactile space. You can order Smoky Ash (986) directly from Benjamin Moore or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.