Benjamin Moore’s Carolina Gull: A Timeless Choice for Modern Homes

Have you searched for a paint color that makes your home feel fresh and familiar?

I know the struggle of finding that perfect green-gray shade – one that’s not too bold or subtle and works in any room. Most options I tried felt flat or overwhelming, leaving me with sample patches all over my walls.

I was thrilled when I found Benjamin Moore’s Carolina Gull. This mid-toned green brings a sense of calm and sophistication to spaces without dominating them. 

In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on experience with Carolina Gull and help you decide if it’s right for your home.

Carolina Gull 2138-40: Color Description

As someone who works with paint colors daily, I can tell you that Carolina Gull (2138-40) by Benjamin Moore is a mid-toned green that brings a soft, understated feel to any space.

The shade has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 27.41, which tells us it won’t reflect too much light. In my experience, it is a gentle green with gray undertones that shift throughout the day.

The color feels grown-up and refined without being stuffy. I’ve seen it work wonderfully in both traditional homes and current styles.

Warm or Cool?

Here’s what makes Carolina Gull special – it’s technically a warm green but has an interesting personality.

Its warmer side will come through in south-facing rooms filled with natural sunlight. However, the gray undertones will become more noticeable in north-facing spaces, creating a cooler effect.

What Makes Carolina Gull a Popular Choice?

From my years of working with clients, I’ve noticed several qualities that make Carolina Gull stand out:

Adaptable Nature

 I’ve watched this color perform beautifully across different settings. It fits perfectly in kitchens, living rooms, and even exteriors. I find it most interesting how it looks current while maintaining a timeless quality.

Subtle Sophistication

Carolina Gull brings a gentle presence, unlike bolder greens that can overwhelm a space. I often recommend it to clients who want color but worry about going too far. The gray undertones help it stay grounded and sophisticated.

Practical Benefits

Here’s what I’ve observed in real homes:

• It hides marks and scuffs better than lighter colors
• Shows minimal fading over time
• Works well with both natural and artificial lighting
• Pairs easily with white trim and wood tones

Designer Appeal

As a color consultant, I appreciate how this shade:

• Creates a nice background for artwork
• Complements most furniture styles
• It looks good in both small and large spaces
• Maintains its appeal across seasons

The color’s success lies in its balance—it’s interesting enough to make a statement but subtle enough to be comfortable with long-term.

Interior Spaces Featuring Carolina Gull Paint

1. Living Room Applications

In my design practice, I’ve found Carolina Gull creates a welcoming atmosphere in living rooms. When I painted my client’s walls this shade, the space felt instantly more put-together.

Here’s what works well with it:

• Light cream or white sofas for contrast
• Natural wood coffee tables and shelving
• Navy blue accent chairs
• Brass or black metal lighting fixtures
• Textured neutral rugs in beige or gray

2. Bedroom Serenity

I love how Carolina Gull brings a sense of calm to bedrooms. The color feels soft and restful, perfect for sleeping spaces. From my experience, these combinations work beautifully:

• White bedding with light gray accents
• Natural linen curtains
• Woven wood shades
• Black metal bed frames
• Light oak or walnut furniture
• Cream-colored area rugs

3. Bathroom Refinement

This color performs well in bathrooms – I’ve used it many times in these moisture-rich spaces. Here’s what I recommend:

• Semi-gloss finish for better moisture resistance
• White porcelain fixtures for clean contrast
• Chrome or brushed nickel hardware
• Light-colored tiles for balance
• Natural stone countertops
• Clear glass shower doors

4. Kitchen and Cabinetry

Some of my favorite projects involve Carolina Gull kitchen cabinets. The color adds character without overpowering the space. Here’s what I suggest:

Cabinetry Combinations:

• White quartz countertops
• Marble backsplashes
• Brass or black cabinet hardware
• Stainless steel appliances
• Light oak open shelving

Wall Applications:

• White cabinets for contrast
• Butcher block countertops
• Black pendant lights
• Gray stone floors
• Glass cabinet doors

I often tell my clients that Carolina Gull acts like a neutral in these spaces while still adding visual interest. It’s become one of my most recommended colors for kitchen updates.

Carolina Gull in Exterior Spaces

Exterior Siding and Trim

I’ve used Carolina Gull on numerous home exteriors, and it’s proven reliable. The color holds up well in different weather conditions, and I’ve noticed it looks particularly good in sunny and cloudy settings.

What I’ve learned about using Carolina Gull outside:

• The color stays true even after years of sun exposure
• It pairs beautifully with white trim work
• Natural stone and brick foundations look great with it
• Dark gray or black shutters create nice contrast
• The shade looks different but pleasant in all seasons

Tips from my experience:

• Use high-quality exterior paint for better durability
• Apply two coats for even coverage
• Check how it looks at different times of day
• Consider your neighborhood’s color scheme
• Factor in your landscaping colors

Front Door Statement

When I suggest Carolina Gull for front doors, my clients often smile at the results. It’s not your typical door color, which makes it special without being flashy.

Successful combinations I’ve used:

• White siding with Carolina Gull door
• Brick homes with Carolina Gull door and trim
• Gray homes with Carolina Gull and black accents
• Natural wood elements near the entry
• Bronze or black door hardware

Extra touches that work well:

• Black metal light fixtures
• Brushed nickel house numbers
• Natural fiber welcome mats
• Green plants in black planters
• Clear glass sidelights

Tips for Painting with Carolina Gull by Benjamin Moore

• Sample the color on each wall, as lighting changes its appearance throughout the day.
• Start with a quality primer for the truest color result.
• Choose eggshell finish for walls, semi-gloss for trim, and pearl finish for bathrooms.
• Paint large test patches instead of small swatches to better understand the color.
• Apply paint in morning light to catch any missed spots easily.
• Use good quality 2-inch angled brushes for crisp edges near trim.
• Roll in W-patterns for even coverage without streaks.
• Wait three hours between coats for best results.
• Clean walls thoroughly before painting to ensure smooth application.
• Buy all your paint at once to ensure color consistency.
• Test your lighting options before committing to the final paint job.
• Consider the existing colors in your room when planning your project.

Interior Designer Insights on Carolina Gull

Professional Tips:

• Paint large sample boards you can move around rooms
• Look at the color during three different times of day
• Consider your flooring’s undertones before choosing
• Test with your existing furniture colors

Designer Secrets:

• Pair with cream fabrics instead of stark white
• Add natural textures through baskets and linens
• Mix in glass and mirror elements for light reflection
• Include brass or black metal accents
• Layer different wood tones for depth

These insights come from years of seeing how this color performs in real homes, making spaces feel pulled together and personal.

Final Words

After using Carolina Gull in countless homes, I can confidently say it’s a color that keeps giving. Its gentle green-gray tones create spaces that feel both fresh and familiar.

I’ve watched this shade adapt to different settings, from kitchen cabinets to exterior walls, while maintaining its charm.

Remember to test the color in your space and observe it at different times. Your lighting, furniture, and decor will all affect how Carolina Gull appears in your home.

Looking to start your painting project? Begin with a small area like a powder room or accent wall. This lets you get comfortable with the color before taking on bigger spaces.

When you’re ready for your Carolina Gull transformation, make sure to prep your surfaces well and use quality brushes for the best results.