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IndustrialUniversal

Ink Black

Behr · N490-7

The Analysis

Ink Black is a charcoal-leaning black that absorbs significant light, making a room feel more intimate and enclosed. Because it has an LRV of 6.57, it will make a space feel smaller and more grounded, rather than open or airy.

It is best used as a bold accent wall, a cabinet finish, or for dramatic trim work rather than covering an entire room. It acts as a heavy anchor that draws the eye toward specific architectural features.

LRV 7

History & Origin

While dark paint was a staple of Victorian-era libraries, this specific shade feels firmly modern. It fits current trends favoring high-contrast, graphic design elements.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

This shade shines in rooms with high natural light or as a statement in media rooms. Pair it with warm, natural wood tones or brushed brass hardware to soften the harshness of the pigment.

The Mood

This color creates a restful, cocoon-like atmosphere that minimizes visual clutter and distractions. It feels sophisticated and controlled, helping a room transition into a quiet, focus-oriented space.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Railings

    Farrow & Ball · 31

  • Winter Coat

    Behr · HDC-WR14-4

  • Cyberspace

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7076

  • Raccoon Fur

    Benjamin Moore · 2126-20

  • Black Horizon

    Benjamin Moore · 2132-30

  • SOPHISTICATED BLUE

    Jotun · 4744

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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