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Blackened

Farrow & Ball · 2011

The Analysis

Blackened is a cool, crisp grey with a slight blue undertone that feels very clean and architectural. With an LRV of 70.79, it reflects a significant amount of light, meaning it will make a room feel open and airy rather than cramped.

It works best as a main wall color in spaces where you want a gallery-like backdrop that doesn't distract from your furniture. It’s too neutral to be a dramatic accent, but it provides a sophisticated foundation for bolder art or textiles.

LRV 71

History & Origin

While it draws inspiration from the industrial steel colors of the Victorian era, it reads as a distinctly modern, pared-back tone. It fits perfectly into contemporary homes that prioritize clean lines over ornate detail.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

Use this in bright, sun-filled rooms to balance out excessive heat, or in offices where you need a clear-headed atmosphere. Pair it with light oak or walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to lean into its industrial roots.

The Mood

This color creates a calm, focused environment that feels organized and professional. Because it lacks warm, yellow undertones, it’s a restful choice for those who want a neutral space that feels modern and uncluttered.

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.

  • Grey Wisp

    Dulux

  • Pixel White

    Behr · N530-1

  • Subtle Touch

    Behr · 790E-1

  • Spatial White

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6259

  • White City

    Behr · N140-1

  • Pearl Grey

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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