Swatchd
Sign inGet started
MinimalistSouth-Facing

Black Currant

Valspar · V125-6

The Analysis

Black Currant is a deep, charcoal-toned plum that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low 4.335 LRV. This shade will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, effectively blurring the corners of a space to create a dense, moody atmosphere.

This is best used as a bold accent or a deliberate 'color-drenching' choice for walls and trim. It is too heavy to function as a neutral backdrop and works best when you want to make a dramatic statement in a specific area.

LRV 4

History & Origin

This shade leans into a modern, sophisticated aesthetic rather than a traditional period look. It avoids the dusty feel of heritage palettes in favor of a sharp, contemporary edge.

Undertonecool
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

Use this in smaller rooms like media dens or powder rooms to lean into the cozy factor. Pair it with warm brass hardware to pop against the dark base or light oak wood tones to provide necessary contrast.

The Mood

This color is highly restful and grounding, making it an excellent choice for spaces intended for winding down. Because it is so dark, it removes visual clutter, resulting in a clean and focused environment that feels quiet 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.

  • Black Swan

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6279

  • Bohemian Black

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6988

  • Galaxy

    Benjamin Moore · 2117-20

  • Toucan Black

    Benjamin Moore · 2118-20

  • Plum Martini

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-540

  • Dark Basalt

    Benjamin Moore · 2072-10

Lighting

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

  • Natural