Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Char Brown

Benjamin Moore · 2137-20

The Analysis

Char Brown is a deep, earthy neutral that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 8.14. It will make a room feel noticeably smaller and more enclosed, effectively 'pulling in' the walls to create a dense, grounded atmosphere.

This color is best used as a bold accent wall, a dramatic cabinet finish, or a moody treatment for an entire room like a library or media space. It serves as a strong, sophisticated backdrop rather than a subtle neutral.

LRV 8

History & Origin

Char Brown aligns with a Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the dark, rich wood-panelled interiors found in traditional studies and Victorian-era dens. It leans into a timeless, grounded look rather than a fleeting modern trend.

Undertonewarm
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

Use this in smaller, secondary spaces where you want a cozy, high-end feel. Pair it with warm brass hardware to pop against the dark tones, or light oak wood floors to provide a necessary visual break.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels restful and secure, as it lacks the harsh contrast of true black. It provides a stable, quiet environment that is excellent for winding down, though it can feel heavy if the room lacks adequate lighting.

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.

  • Eagle Rock

    Behr · S-H-730

  • Dried Leaf

    Behr · S-H-710

  • Roasted Sepia

    Valspar · 6006-2C

  • Muddled Basil

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7745

  • Enduring Bronze

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7055

  • Shadow Ridge

    Behr · 730D-7

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K