Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Dark Chocolate

Benjamin Moore · CSP-270

The Analysis

Dark Chocolate is a deep, saturated brown that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 8.64. It creates an intimate, enclosed feeling, making large rooms feel grounded and cozy rather than expansive.

It is best used as a bold accent wall or for high-impact spaces like a library or powder room. Using it on every wall requires a well-lit room to avoid making the space feel like a cave.

LRV 9

History & Origin

This is a classic 'heritage' shade, reminiscent of traditional wood-paneled dens and formal dining rooms from the early 20th century. It brings a sense of weight and established permanence to a home.

Undertonewarm
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to maintain a rich palette. Use unlacquered brass hardware to add contrast, or stick to matte black for a modern, monochromatic look.

The Mood

This color provides a sense of stability and restfulness, functioning as a 'quiet' anchor for a space. Because it is so dark, it feels grounding and sophisticated rather than energizing or distracting.

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.

  • Revival Mahogany

    Behr · 760B-7

  • Falcon Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 1238

  • Sierra Spruce

    Benjamin Moore · 2108-20

  • If a Tree Fell …

    Valspar · V131-6

  • Roasted Nuts

    Behr · UL130-2

  • Sable

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6083

Lighting

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

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