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Black Plum

Dulux

The Analysis

Black Plum is a deep, near-black violet with an LRV of 4.27, meaning it absorbs almost all light rather than reflecting it. It will make a room feel significantly smaller and more intimate, effectively blurring the wall boundaries to create a cocoon-like effect.

This is best used as a bold accent wall, an immersive choice for a media room, or a dramatic treatment for cabinetry and trim. It is too dark to serve as a general main wall colour unless you are intentionally aiming for a moody, high-contrast aesthetic.

LRV 4

History & Origin

While dark, pigmented walls are a hallmark of moody Victorian interiors, this specific shade is distinctly modern. It fits perfectly into contemporary designs that utilize high-contrast, saturated palettes.

Undertonecool-purple
FamilyPurple

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to prevent the room from feeling too cold, and use brushed brass hardware to add a necessary pop of metallic contrast. It works exceptionally well in smaller spaces like powder rooms or dens where you want to lean into the enclosed atmosphere.

The Mood

Living with this colour is restful and grounding, as it minimizes visual clutter by obscuring shadows and corners. It provides a sophisticated, quiet backdrop that feels stable 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.

  • Deep Mulberry

    Benjamin Moore · 2069-10

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    Dulux

  • Story Teller

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  • Blackberry Bush

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  • Black Currant

    Valspar · V125-6

  • Black Swan

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6279

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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