Noir
Valspar · 4009-2
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The Analysis
Noir is an extremely dark charcoal that absorbs almost all light, effectively blurring the corners of a room. It makes a space feel more intimate and enclosed rather than expansive or bright.
This shade works best as a bold accent wall, a dramatic ceiling colour, or in smaller rooms like studies and powder rooms where you want to lean into the darkness. It is too intense for a whole-house wall colour unless you are aiming for a high-contrast, moody aesthetic.
LRV 3History & Origin
While deep blacks have appeared in period homes for dramatic trim or formal parlors, Noir is firmly planted in modern design. It is a staple for contemporary interiors that prioritize sharp lines and high-impact contrast.
How to Use It
Pair this with warm walnut wood tones or bright brass hardware to keep the room from feeling flat. Use it in rooms with plenty of secondary lighting, like lamps or wall sconces, to avoid the space feeling like a black hole.
The Mood
Living with Noir creates a grounded, serious, and restful atmosphere. It reduces visual clutter, making the room feel like a quiet sanctuary that is perfect for focus or relaxation.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural