Is Charcoal Blue right for your home? This deep shade from Sherwin Williams mixes blue and gray to create a color that feels both bold and calm.
Charcoal Blue (SW 2739) works in many rooms, from bedrooms to living rooms. With an LRV of 6, it’s on the darker side, which means it soaks up more light than it gives back.
This makes spaces feel cozy and warm. The color changes throughout the day – sometimes looking more blue, other times showing more gray.
It pairs well with light wood, white trim, and metal touches. If you want a color that adds depth without being too bright, Charcoal Blue might be just what you need.
Let’s look at what makes this paint special and how it could work in your home.
Understanding Charcoal Blue Undertones
Charcoal Blue mixes both cool and neutral tones. It’s a deep blue that also has some gray in it. This mix makes it change how it looks depending on where you put it.
The light in your room really changes how Charcoal Blue looks. In the morning, it might seem more blue. By afternoon, you might see more of the gray coming through.
If your windows face north, the room gets less direct sun. This makes Charcoal Blue look more gray and dark. In rooms with south-facing windows that get lots of sunshine, the blue part of the color stands out more.
This color shifts between blue and gray throughout the day, making it interesting to look at no matter what time it is.
Color Terminology
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Color Code | SW 2739 |
| Light Reflective Value (LRV) | 6 |
| Hex Code | #3D4450 |
| RGB Value | 61, 68, 80 |
What These Numbers Mean?
Color Code (SW 2739): The official Sherwin Williams color identifier.
LRV (6): A very low Light Reflectance Value, meaning it absorbs more light than it reflects.
Hex Code (#3D4450): Used in digital designs for a consistent color match.
RGB (61, 68, 80): The balance of red, green, and blue tones that create a deep charcoal-blue appearance.
Psychology of Dark Blue Shades
Dark blues like Charcoal Blue make people feel calm, steady, and grown-up. This deep color works best in rooms where you want to create a dramatic and cozy feeling.
Dark blue can make you feel:
- Peaceful at the end of a busy day
- Safe and protected in your space
- Thoughtful and focused when working
The color changes with different lights – it looks richer in warm lamp light and more cool under bright daylight. Dark blue looks good with light woods, white trim, and gold or brass details.
Why Choose This Color?
Charcoal Blue is a color that works well in many types of rooms. This deep shade brings a sense of calm to any space in your home.
You can use it as a bold pop of color on one wall or paint all walls for a cozy feeling. The mix of blue and gray makes it perfect for new, industrial, or old-style homes.
This color looks good next to many things you already have in your home. It goes well with wooden tables, metal lamps, or cloth items like curtains and pillows.
If you want a color that makes a room feel special but still fits with your other stuff, Charcoal Blue is a great pick. It’s not too bright but still stands out in a good way.
Key Features of Charcoal Blue
- A deep blue color with hints of gray mixed in.
- Fits in many home types, from newer homes to older ones.
- Looks good with white trim or light-colored tables and chairs.
- Helps create a calm feeling in busy rooms.
- Can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, or even as a fun color in bathrooms.
Durability of Charcoal Blue
Sherwin Williams makes paint that lasts a long time. When you pick Charcoal Blue, you get a color that stays looking fresh for years. Here’s what makes it last:
- The paint stays strong even when walls get bumped or touched a lot
- The color won’t fade much over time, even in sunny rooms
- It can be cleaned with a damp cloth when it gets dirty
- You won’t need to repaint as soon as with cheaper paints
Texture & Finish Options for Charcoal Blue
Charcoal Blue comes in many types of finish. Each one gives a different look to your room:
- Flat finish: Hides small bumps in your walls but is harder to clean
- Eggshell finish: A bit shiny and easier to wipe clean
- Satin finish: More shine and very easy to clean, good for busy rooms
The paint goes on smoothly and helps cover up small marks on your walls. When it dries, it leaves a nice, even color all over.
Room-by-Room Color Recommendations
Living Spaces and Open Floor Plans
Charcoal Blue makes open areas look stylish and modern. It works best as an accent wall in big rooms, where it adds depth without making the space feel small.
The deep color catches the eye but doesn’t take over the whole room.
Tips to Remember:
- Place furniture away from the Charcoal Blue accent wall to let the color stand out.
- Use light-colored rugs and curtains to balance the darker wall color.
Bedrooms and Relaxation Areas
This color helps create a calm and fancy bedroom. When you add warm lights and soft blankets or pillows, Charcoal Blue makes the room feel cozy and peaceful.
It’s dark enough to help with sleep but not too dark to make the room feel small.
Tips to Remember:
- Choose cream or light gray bedding to create a nice contrast with the walls.
- Add one or two items in the same blue shade to tie the room together.
Kitchens and High-Traffic Zones
Charcoal Blue looks great next to white cabinets and silver or gold handles. If you’re tired of navy blue or gray kitchens, this color gives you something different that still looks nice.
Tips to Remember:
- Use good lighting in Charcoal Blue kitchens so the color shows its true shade.
- Clean the walls with a damp cloth to keep the finish looking fresh.
Bathrooms and Spa-Like Retreats
This color makes bathrooms look fancy and modern. When you put Charcoal Blue next to white sinks, tubs, or marble, it creates a clean look with strong contrast. The color makes the bathroom feel special and relaxing.
Tips to Remember:
- Add plants or flowers to bring life to the deep blue bathroom walls.
- Choose towels in light colors like white, light gray, or cream to stand out against the walls.
Color Pairings and Combinations for Charcoal Blue
| Color Name | SW Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Creamy | SW 7012 | A warm, soft light color that makes rooms feel bigger and calmer when paired with Charcoal Blue. |
| Gossamer Veil | SW 9165 | A light gray with a hint of warmth, creating a clean and simple look with Charcoal Blue. |
| Moonlit Orchid | SW 9153 | It is a purple shade that adds a fun pop of color next to Charcoal Blue; great for accent walls. |
| Accessible Beige | SW 7036 | A cozy beige that balances the coolness of Charcoal Blue, ideal for kitchens and dining rooms. |
Creating Cohesive Color Schemes
Cool Color Scheme
Cool colors work well with Charcoal Blue to make spaces feel calm and fresh. The blue-gray tone creates a modern look that isn’t too bright.
- Combine with silver and gray tones for a nice modern look.
- Use blues and greens to make the cool feeling stronger.
Monochromatic Scheme
Using different shades of the same color family makes rooms feel put-together and smooth. This approach works great with Charcoal Blue.
- Pair with lighter blues for a layered look.
- Add depth with darker navy or charcoal touches.
Warm Color Scheme
Adding warm colors to Charcoal Blue creates a nice balance between cool and warm. This mix makes rooms feel cozy but still fresh.
- Pair with warm beige and soft white for good contrast.
- Introduce wood tones to bring warmth to the space.
Similar Paint Colors: Finding Your Perfect Alternative
Mineral Gray (SW 2740)
Mineral Gray is a lighter shade than Charcoal Blue. It has more gray in it and less blue. This color works well in bedrooms and offices where you want a calm feeling.
Indigo Batik (SW 7602)
Indigo Batik is darker than Charcoal Blue with more purple tones. It makes rooms feel cozy and warm. It looks great on accent walls or in dining rooms.
Naval (SW 6244)
Naval is a deep blue color that is richer than Charcoal Blue. It has less gray and more true blue in it. This color is good for bathrooms and front doors to make them stand out.
Anchors Aweigh (SW 9179)
Anchors Aweigh is almost black with blue hints. It is the darkest of these choices. This color works well for kitchen cabinets or as a bold accent wall in any room.
Texture Partners
| Material Type | Best Texture Partners | Effect on Charcoal Blue |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Natural oak, walnut, dark-stained wood | It adds warmth and softens the boldness of Charcoal Blue |
| Metal | Matte black, brushed nickel, antique brass | Enhances modern, industrial, or classic aesthetics |
| Stone | White marble, quartz, dark slate | Creates a striking contrast while keeping a balanced, elegant look |
| Fabric | Linen, velvet, wool | Adds softness and texture to complement the deep tones |
| Tile | White subway tile, navy or charcoal mosaic, textured ceramics | Offers a clean, timeless, and structured appearance |
| Glass | Frosted, clear, tinted | Reflects light, helping maintain depth without making the space feel too dark |
| Brick | Painted white, exposed red brick | Provides a rustic or urban contrast that highlights Charcoal Blue’s richness |
Application Tips and Techniques
Charcoal Blue is a versatile color that can look different depending on how you apply it. Taking time to plan your painting project will help you get the best results with this rich, deep shade.
- Surface Preparation: Clean walls and fill holes before painting. Use primer if needed. Good prep helps paint stick better and last longer.
- Choosing the Right Finish: Matte hides flaws but is hard to clean. Satin works well in kitchens and bathrooms. Gloss is good for trim. Your finish choice affects how Charcoal Blue looks.
- Best Tools for Application: Use quality brushes and rollers that don’t shed. A 2-inch angled brush works for edges. Choose the right roller nap for your walls. Better tools spread the paint evenly without streaks.
Final Thoughts
Charcoal Blue from Sherwin Williams is a deep mix of blue and gray that changes how it looks as light shifts through the day. It works well in many rooms – from cozy bedrooms to open living spaces.
This color pairs nicely with light woods, white trim, and gold or brass items. If you use it on all walls or just one accent wall, Charcoal Blue adds a calm feeling to your home.
Remember to prep your walls, pick the right finish for your room, and use good tools when painting. With an LRV of 6, this darker color gives depth without making spaces feel small.
Have you tried Charcoal Blue in your home? What room did you paint? Share with us in the comments below
