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Raisin

Benjamin Moore · 1237

The Analysis

Raisin is a deeply saturated, dark brown with strong undertones. Because its LRV (Light Reflectance Value) is very low at 10.86, it absorbs the vast majority of light, making walls feel like they are receding and creating a cozy, enclosed atmosphere that makes large rooms feel more intimate.

This is a high-impact, bold color that is best used as a dramatic accent wall, a moody library, or for cabinetry. It is too heavy for a main wall color in small or windowless rooms, as it will make those spaces feel cramped.

LRV 11

History & Origin

Raisin evokes a classic, traditional aesthetic reminiscent of 19th-century libraries or refined, wood-paneled studies. It feels established and sophisticated rather than trendy or minimalist.

Undertonewarm
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

Pair this with warm metallic finishes like unlacquered brass or copper to bring out the rich undertones. It looks excellent against natural walnut wood or clean white trim, which provides the necessary contrast to prevent the room from feeling like a cave.

The Mood

Living with Raisin feels grounding, stable, and deeply restful. It is not an energizing color, so it works best in spaces where you want to wind down or create a sense of focused, quiet concentration.

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.

  • Chocolate Fondue

    Benjamin Moore · CC-482

  • Pine Cone

    Benjamin Moore · 2106-30

  • Cottage Chocolate

    Dulux

  • EARTHY BROWN

    Jotun · 12127

  • Sumatra Blend

    Valspar · 2008-9A

  • Moose Trail

    Behr · N190-7

Lighting

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

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