Steel Wool featured
Benjamin Moore2121-20

Steel Wool

Often used for its versatile qualities, Steel Wool remains a staple for Benjamin Moore designers. It is widely considered one of the best colors in its class to perfect for adding character to any space. We've gathered 11 real-home scenarios to help you visualize this color alongside our expert data.

Hex

#787B7D

LRV

20.73

Light Reflectance Value
20.73
Dark
Tone
Timeless
UseInterior & Exterior
Collection

Steel Wool in Real Rooms

Steel Wool has a medium LRV of 20.73 — it adds real depth and will read noticeably darker as natural light fades. Grouped in the Gray and Neutral family, the photos below show it applied in a house, kitchen cabinets, bathroom and misc.

5 House Photos

When choosing Steel Wool for an exterior, you are opting for a color that respects the landscape. It feels like it grew out of the earth rather than being dropped onto it, creating a harmonious relationship between the architecture and the garden.

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool house exterior color review

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool house exterior color review

@ellenkparks

Benjamin Moore 2121-20 house exterior color

Benjamin Moore 2121-20 house exterior color

@bcpaintersltd

Benjamin Moore 2121-20 house exterior

Benjamin Moore 2121-20 house exterior

@bcpaintersltd

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool house exterior

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool house exterior

@lambertcoatingsllc

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool exterior paint

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool exterior paint

@herbertpainting

2 Kitchen Cabinets Photos

The depth of Steel Wool on kitchen cabinets is excellent for hiding the inevitable wear and tear of a busy kitchen. It's a practical choice that doesn't sacrifice an ounce of style, providing a durable-looking finish that remains elegant for years.

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool kitchen cabinets color

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool kitchen cabinets color

@maurie.minichiello.design.co

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool kitchen cabinets color

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool kitchen cabinets color

@maurie.minichiello.design.co

3 Bathroom Photos

The interaction between Steel Wool and steam or humidity creates a beautiful, diffused atmosphere in a bathroom. It's a color that feels "alive," shifting slightly in character as the environment changes during a hot shower or a long soak.

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool bathroom vanity color review

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool bathroom vanity color review

@samoreclosets

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool bathroom vanity color

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool bathroom vanity color

@samoreclosets

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool bathroom vanity color

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool bathroom vanity color

@jldesignsphilly

1 Misc Photo

These examples of Steel Wool in transitional spaces—like entryways or landings—show how the color can act as a "thread" that ties the upper and lower floors of a house together into one cohesive story.

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool wall paint

Benjamin Moore Steel Wool wall paint

@maurie.minichiello.design.co

Coordinating Colors

Similar Colors

Color Codes

HEX#787B7D
RGB120, 123, 125
HSL204° 2% 48%
CMYK4 2 0 51
CIE LabL: 51.4 a: -0.7 b: -1.5
XYZX: 0.18 Y: 0.20 Z: 0.22