Night Shade
Benjamin Moore · 2116-10
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The Analysis
Night Shade is a deep, near-black brown that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its very low 4.52 LRV. It will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere rather than expanding the space.
Due to its intensity, it is best utilized as a dramatic accent wall, for built-in cabinetry, or to paint a room entirely for a high-impact, moody effect. Using it on baseboards and doors in a lighter room can also create a sharp, architectural frame.
LRV 5History & Origin
While dark, saturated tones were used in Victorian-era libraries to convey status and weight, this specific brown-black feels thoroughly modern. It fits current design trends that favor high-contrast, monochromatic interiors over traditional light-and-bright palettes.
How to Use It
Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the transition, and use unlacquered brass hardware to create a luxury contrast. It is perfect for media rooms or home offices, provided you have adequate artificial lighting to navigate the space at night.
The Mood
This shade provides a restful and grounded environment, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to retreat or disconnect. It feels sophisticated and stable, helping to settle a room rather than energizing it.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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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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- 5500K