MinimalistUniversal

Carbon Copy

Benjamin Moore · 2117-10

The Analysis

Carbon Copy is an extremely dark, near-black charcoal that absorbs almost all light rather than reflecting it. Because of its very low Light Reflectance Value (LRV 3.66), it will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, effectively blurring the corners of the space.

This is best used as a bold accent or for 'color drenching'—where you paint the walls, trim, and doors the same shade to create a dramatic, seamless look. It is too dark to serve as a standard neutral backdrop for a whole-home color scheme.

LRV 4

History & Origin

This shade leans into a modern, contemporary aesthetic rather than a traditional period look. It represents the current design trend of using deep, saturated tones to modernize architectural features.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

It excels in media rooms, home offices, or powder rooms to create a sophisticated, moody atmosphere. Pair it with warm walnut wood tones for contrast or unlacquered brass hardware to break up the deep pigment.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding, serious, and highly controlled. It creates a cocoon-like environment that feels restorative and private, making it excellent for de-stressing after a busy day.

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.

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  • Universal Black

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  • Domino

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6989

  • Twilight Zone

    Benjamin Moore · 2127-10

  • Onyx

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  • Space Black

    Benjamin Moore · 2119-10

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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