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HeritageSouth-Facing

Lampblack

Benjamin Moore · CW-695

The Analysis

Lampblack is a deep, moody charcoal that absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 21.72, it will make a room feel smaller, cozier, and more enclosed.

This is a bold choice best used as a dramatic accent wall or for high-impact spaces like cabinetry or doors. Avoid using it as a main wall colour in small, windowless rooms unless you are intentionally aiming for a 'jewel box' effect.

LRV 22

History & Origin

This shade leans into a classic, historical aesthetic often found in 19th-century trim work or traditional libraries. It feels established and timeless rather than trendy or disposable.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones or unlacquered brass to prevent the space from feeling cold. It excels on kitchen cabinets or as a fireplace surround, but ensure your room has ample layered lighting to avoid the space feeling like a cave.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding and restful, as it lacks the harshness of a pure, stark black. It creates a calm, serious atmosphere that is perfect for focused work or evening relaxation.

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.

  • Whale Gray

    Benjamin Moore · 2134-40

  • PERSIAN GREY

    Jotun · 5002

  • Urban Obsession

    Dulux

  • City Break®

    Crown Paints

  • Subtle Shadow 0534

    Colourtrend

  • City Storm

    Valspar · 4008-2A

Lighting

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

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