Sherwin-Williams Black Paints: Which One Works Best for YOUR Home?

 

Nothing can replace black! And that’s the beauty of this sophisticated and beautiful paint color (or, I should say color collection).

Because…can you easily figure out the differences between various black paints? 

Well, let me tell you, Sherwin Williams Black paints are no exception when it comes to subtle yet important differences offered across their amazing collection of blacks! 

Many of them look alike and we keep wondering which one we’re looking at, right?

Don’t worry! I have been down that same road! 

But after  years of experience, it is much clearer to me which black is what and in turn, how to best use each one depending on the space, lighting and color scheme.

And I am here to unveil all the secrets to you! Yes, in just one article! 

First and foremost, Sherwin Williams Black paints can be confusing to say the least. It’s not all bad though.

That is why I recommend picking up paint swatches and buying samples to determine the true hue in different lighting conditions and of course, in different rooms!

So, if you are looking to choose from the best popular “black” paint colors – here in this guide, I will showcase various paints by Sherwin Williams that you must consider or try in your home.

All of them have their own whereabouts and how abouts – but one thing is a given – you can take advantage of the beauty and timelessness of this color.

So, let’s see what Sherwin Williams blacks have to offer!

Black Is the King of Versatility

The darkest of them all, black paint is mainly comprised of blending red, blue, and yellow in equal parts. 

And unlike SW whites, these paints have the tendency to outgrow tones and tints. 

Blacks don’t adhere  to a specific interior design style and can be incorporated literally any and everywhere. 

For example, you can use black in a Scandinavian interior design style that preaches the use of whites, off-whites, and other pastels. (Black can be used creatively in smaller aspects such as frames and accents).

Well, you should be happy to know that Sherwin Williams has formulated many of its colors to best pair with these black paints. 

Also, their experimentation with various shades of blacks will leave you awestruck! There are just so many that you you’ll never run out of options.

This paint can be used as accents or even bases in your homes depending on the size of your rooms. 

Use as an accent if you have a smaller space and as a base if you have a larger-sized space.

So, let’s get some hands on the darkest color of the palette. 

Blacks Can Differ…and for Good Reason

Just like both whites and gray colors from Sherwin-Williams that are majorly ruled by undertones so are SW Blacks.

Even though many SW black paints may seem alike – the fact is that they are all different! 

Different in undertones and different in reflectivity. 

Some may appear warm, some may appear cool, and some absolutely true! 

Following below I will be breaking down a few black paint examples for you so you can understand the differences with each of their undertones and lighting considerations.

When we’re done, you’ll have a much better idea on what to pick for your home!

The Magic of Undertones and Black

So, if you plan to add more of blues, greens, and purples to your existing black, the result will be a cool-toned black. 

This paint will appear more crisp and clean and at the same time will exhibit a colder feel in your space.

On the other hand, if you plan to add reds, browns, yellows, and taupes to an existing black, the result will be a warm-toned black. 

This paint will appear more warm and cozy!

Moreover, know that this paint has the ability to make your spaces seem smaller than they are. 

Due to the bold and daring character, the depth of the color tends to bring your walls together and make the room feel enclosed.  

The true black will simply not incline to any of the undertones – rather be stringent about its own identity. 

But don’t be too dependent on these undertones as…

Lighting Matters

I often say that lighting plays a major role on paint colors. 

It further tends to overpower the true undertones with its saturation – whether warm or cool.

But, with black paints, it gets more challenging as the size of your room needs to be ample in order to let the light play its role.

Best Places to Use Sherwin Williams Black Paint Colors?

Before choosing a paint color for your home, it is crucial to analyze the compass directions and the size of your rooms. 

Whether it is facing the north or the east, west, and south – the paint colors often tend to alter their appearances!

In the case of a north and south-facing room, the black paints may appear even more crisp and cool whereas on the west and east-facing rooms, it will appear warm and cozy!

So, keeping this concept in mind, try to interchange the undertones. 

For example, use warmer blacks in north and south whereas cooler blacks in east and west. 

To be rest assured, try examining different paint swatches in different lighting conditions to determine how the color would appear. 

I would classify the color as a ‘trend’ as it appears to be more stylish and jazzy! (Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze is the color of the year for 2021)

Best Sherwin Williams Black Paint Colors

Now comes one of the most awaited topics to talk about! Isn’t this what you’re waiting for?

So, here I will be discussing some of the popular black paint colors that are also quite sophisticated to be used in the interior design industry.

5 Most Popular

Sherwin Williams Iron Ore:

One of the most popular, Sherwin Williams Iron Ore is a black paint color that clearly indicates a ‘true’ exposure. 

With an LRV of 6, this paint color feels more like black and gray in certain lighting conditions. 

With ample natural light pouring in, it somehow also tends to appear grayish, and you can always play with artificial lighting to create a desirable look. 

So, if you want to add a refined look to your space, you can definitely incorporate this color. 

 

Moreover, it is important to understand the associated RGB and HEX Values that are as follows:

Red = 67

Green = 67

Blue = 65

HEX Value = #434341

This paint can be incorporated in Contemporary, Modern, Scandinavian, as well as French Country style interior design.

Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze:

Is it really a black paint? Well, not exactly because it is a blend of golden, brown, and a bit of black! 

But it may still appear like that in certain lighting conditions. 

So, I would list it here! With an LRV of 8, this color feels very organic and natural and not very bold and daring like the other blacks. 

So, it proves to be a perfect alternative! Here is my full guide on Urbane Bronze.

 

Similar dark colors that aren’t quite black but can certainly appear so are: SW Cyberspace and the ever-popular SW Black Fox colors.

Again, it is important to understand the associated RGB and HEX Values that are as follows:

Red = 84

Green = 80

Blue = 74

HEX Value = #54504a

Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black:

A true black paint color, tricorn black defines utmost beauty in black. With an LRV of 3, this black paint is probably the darkest of them all! 

It’s also on my list of the best Sherwin Williams paint (including lights AND darks), so that’s saying something!

It feels absolutely clean and crisp when used on the walls of your home. 

And due to this low reflectivity, I recommend using only in larger spaces or accommodating the paint as an accent in homes! 

 

As usual, it is important to understand the associated RGB and HEX Values that are as follows:

Red = 47

Green = 47

Blue = 48

HEX Value = #2f2f30

Tricorn black on kitchen cabinets are absolutely priceless. Do try it! Learn more about Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black here.

Sherwin Williams Caviar:

A very fine black paint color, Sherwin Williams Caviar is a bold and crisp paint color that also tends to look warmer in east and west-facing rooms. 

With an LRV of 3, it is understood that the color needs to be very carefully used in spaces – as you might not want to overwhelm your interior, right? 

So, considering this – try only incorporating as accents! 

 

Make sure you understand the associated RGB and HEX Values that are as follows:

Red = 49

Green = 48

Blue = 49

HEX Value = #313031

Learn a bunch more about SW Caviar in my article on it here.

Sherwin Williams Black Magic:

Truly magical, Sherwin Williams Black Magic is no different than Tricorn Black or Caviar (all of them have an LRV of 3). 

It is bold, authentic, and proves to be a must in homes that are larger in size and have a modern, sleek, and sophisticated appearance.

This is also one of the most admired colors in the Hollywood Californian styles. 

So, if you own a mansion or a seaside bungalow with double-heighted living room, why not try this color out? 

 

For reference, RGB and HEX Values for this one are as follows:

Red = 50

Green = 49

Blue = 50

HEX Value = #323132

TIP: You can order stick-on wall samples for any of the above colors. It’s the most convenient way and truly helps you choose the color(s) that look best in your OWN space. Order at Samplize now!

5 Next Most Popular

Sherwin Williams Inkwell:

A black paint color with deep blue undertones, you can absolutely use this color especially if you plan to blend blues and greens. 

With an LRV of 4, this paint feels cool and crisp at the same time – while allowing some room for a touch of creativity!

See my full guide on SW Inkwell here!

Sherwin Williams Black of Night:

Another cool-toned black, this color has deep blue undertones that can be observed in various lighting conditions. 

With an LRV of 4, this color feels quite intriguing!

 Actually, it is one of my absolute favorites – because of a perfect tint of cool blue, maybe? 

Sherwin Williams Domino:

Even though it is quite unlikely, but this color has slight warm undertones. Frankly, in certain conditions – it may appear that way! 

However, this color is even more darker with an LRV of 3. You can absolutely incorporate this color in homes – whether base, accent, or neutral!

Sherwin Williams Greenblack:

One of the most intriguing, Sherwin Williams Greenblack is the perfect black paint to go if you prefer to choose green undertones. 

With an LRV of 4, this color is a great complement to green and blue interiors – especially if you want to incorporate greens like emerald greens.

Sherwin Williams Bohemian Black:

A black in purple? Or a purple in black? Although this color is not so famous – it still has its own beauty! 

With an LRV of 4, this color appears equally warm and cool depending on the incoming natural lighting conditions. 

***Make sure to test out any of these amazing colors with a sample you can put up right in your home. Pick up samples now!

My Personal Favorites

Sherwin Williams Deep Forest Brown:

A warm-toned black, this color majorly feels brown in warm lighting conditions – especially in east and west-facing rooms. 

Sherwin Williams Black Swan:

Featuring the beautiful blue and purple, this black paint is a bold and authentic one. 

With an LRV of 4, this color feels absolutely beautiful and unique.

Grab some samples of these colors to see how they’ll look in your own living environment. Order real paint, peel-and-stick samples!

Some of My Favorite Inspiration Photos for SW Blacks

Do you like the sophisticated black walls?

Well, SW Black Magic defines utmost sophistication, undoubtedly.

This transitional kitchen reveals the use of SW Inkwell on the lower kitchen cabinets.

Isn’t it simply priceless?

Not only the bedrooms and the living rooms but the SW Caviar black paint can also be incorporated on the door and window frames.

Doesn’t it look unique?

This Asian bedroom features the beautiful use of black SW Tricorn Black paint color.

It further complements the beige contrast!

My Final Thoughts

Now that we have discussed the major aspects and types of blacks, do you feel confident in incorporating any one of them in your homes? 

Well, I would say blacks are bold and sophisticated!

And if you’re a fan of Benjamin Moore paints too, be sure to check out my list of best BM black paints!

Whether it is the hallways or the exteriors, bedrooms, or the living room – blacks speak for themselves at each and every point! 

You just have to give them an opportunity!

Also, let me tell you, blacks can align to almost any and every color. 

Well, name and you can have it! So, without a thought – pick up your favorite black now and don’t forget to let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

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