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Black Opal

Dulux

The Analysis

Black Opal is a deep, charcoal-toned blue that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its very low LRV of 3.2. Because it reflects so little light, it will make a room feel smaller and more intimate by visually pulling the walls inward.

This is a bold, high-impact choice best used as a feature wall, for built-in cabinetry, or in a moody media room. It is too heavy for a main wall colour in smaller spaces unless you intend to embrace a completely enclosed, dramatic aesthetic.

LRV 3

History & Origin

This colour leans into a modern, contemporary aesthetic rather than a specific period look. It fits perfectly with current design trends that favor dark, high-contrast backdrops to highlight architectural features.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this shade with warm wood tones like walnut or brushed brass hardware to prevent the room from feeling too cold. Use it in rooms where you want to create a den-like atmosphere, such as a study or a bedroom, and ensure you have layered lighting to counteract the dark walls.

The Mood

Living with a colour this dark creates a grounded, restful, and cocooning environment. It lacks the harshness of true black, offering a sophisticated, steady presence that feels calm rather than energizing.

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.

  • Slow Swing

    Dulux

  • Blue Coal

    Valspar · 4011-3

  • Anchors Aweigh

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9179

  • Old Navy

    Benjamin Moore · 2063-10

  • Dock Blue

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Deep Royal

    Benjamin Moore · 2061-10

Lighting

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

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