Charlton Brown
Benjamin Moore · CW-265
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The Analysis
Charlton Brown is a deep, saturated mahogany that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, which naturally makes a room feel more enclosed and intimate. With an LRV of 6.53, it is very dark; expect it to shrink the perceived size of a room, creating a 'jewel-box' effect rather than an airy or spacious feeling.
Due to its intensity, this is best used as a bold accent wall, for built-in cabinetry, or in small spaces like powder rooms where you want to lean into the drama. It is too overwhelming for a main wall color in most standard-sized homes unless you are specifically aiming for a moody, high-contrast aesthetic.
LRV 7History & Origin
This shade leans heavily into the Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the dark, paneled interiors and rich upholstery found in Victorian and Edwardian homes. It provides an authentic, traditional weight that feels established and sophisticated.
How to Use It
Pair this with warm brass or unlacquered copper hardware to bring out the red undertones, or use matte black to emphasize its modern architectural side. It looks best with medium-to-dark wood tones like walnut or cherry, which harmonize with its earthy base.
The Mood
This color promotes a sense of grounded, heavy stability that feels highly restful and shielded from the outside world. It is not an energizing or 'clean' color, but rather one that encourages a cozy, library-like focus in the evening hours.
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.
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
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