You’re drawn to Sherwin-Williams Black Magic for your next project, but you’re worried about how it will look once it’s on your walls.
You’ve heard horror stories about paint colors looking completely different than expected, and you can’t afford to make an expensive mistake.
The truth is, Black Magic has subtle undertones that make it much more livable than true black paint.
When you pair it with the right colors, it creates a completely different mood than other popular dark shades like Sherwin-Williams peppercorn.
Let me show you exactly what to expect and which pairing colors will make Sherwin-Williams Black Magic sing in your space.
What Makes Sherwin-Williams Black Magic Stand Out
Black Magic is a rich, deep black with subtle warm undertones. It’s not your basic flat black; there’s depth here that makes rooms feel cozy instead of cold.
Unlike flat blacks that can look harsh or boring, Black Magic has subtle undertones that add depth and richness to any space.
I love how this color changes throughout the day. It looks deep charcoal in bright light, but reveals its true black beauty in softer lighting
The color works perfectly for accent walls, kitchen cabinets, or exterior trim. It’s bold enough to make a statement but refined enough for upscale homes.
While bold colors can sometimes hurt resale value, Black Magic is an exception; it’s actually one of the best Sherwin-Williams colors for resale value because it appeals to design-conscious buyers looking for something special.
The Undertones of Sherwin-Williams Black Magic (SW 699)
Sherwin-Williams Black Magic isn’t a harsh, flat black; instead, it carries a subtle warmth in its undertone. This soft warmth keeps the color from feeling stark or cold, which is why it works so well in both modern and traditional settings.
How Lighting Affects Black Magic:
Lighting plays a big role in how this shade comes to life, with an LRV of 3.125:
- Natural Daylight: In bright sunlight, Black Magic reveals its bold, statement-making quality. The warmth stays subdued, but you’ll notice the richness of the black standing out clearly on walls or cabinetry.
- Artificial or Soft Lighting: Under lamplight or evening shadows, that gentle warmth becomes more noticeable. Instead of feeling heavy, the color leans cozier and more intimate, making it perfect.
Where Sherwin-Williams Black Magic Works Best
Black Magic changes different spaces in unique ways, from creating cozy living rooms to sleek modern kitchens
1. Living Rooms: Black Magic creates the perfect statement wall behind your sofa or TV. It makes artwork pop and gives you that cozy backdrop for movie nights. I’ve seen it transform bland spaces into something special.
2. Kitchens: This color is stunning on kitchen cabinets or islands. It gives you that sleek, modern look without being too trendy. Pair it with white countertops and you’ll have a kitchen that feels both timeless and current.
3. Bedrooms: Want drama in your bedroom? Black Magic delivers. Use it on one accent wall and balance it with light bedding or furniture. It creates this sophisticated vibe that makes your room feel like a luxury hotel.
4. Exteriors: Don’t forget about your home’s exterior! Black Magic works beautifully on front doors, window trim, or shutters. It adds curb appeal and makes your house stand out from the neighborhood.
Perfect Pairings for Sherwin-Williams Black Magic
Black Magic looks beautiful when paired with the right colors and materials. Here are the combinations that bring out its best qualities and create beautiful, balanced spaces.
Whites and Off-Whites
Pure White gives you sharp lines and clean edges. Alabaster softens things up a bit with its warm undertones.
Some whites with purple undertones that shift throughout the day complement Black Magic beautifully.
Neutrals and Grays
Sometimes stark white feels too harsh. That’s where neutrals come in. Agreeable Gray creates a softer, more relaxed vibe.
Peppercorn Sherwin-Williams shines; use it alongside Black Magic for beautiful tone-on-tone depth. The gray undertones in Peppercorn complement Black Magic’s warmth perfectly.
Warm Woods and Metals
Natural oak or walnut brings instant warmth to Black Magic’s intensity. Add brass fixtures or copper accents, and you’ve got a space that feels rich but not cold.
The texture of wood grain balances out the smoothness of painted surfaces.
Bold Accent Colors
Deep burgundy, navy, or forest green create gorgeous layered looks with Black Magic. These colors share that same depth and richness. They work together instead of competing for attention.
Conclusion
Black Magic isn’t just another black paint; it’s a game-changer for your home. Those warm undertones make all the difference between a color that works and one that falls flat.
Test it in different lighting before committing. Pair it with whites for drama, neutrals for balance, or rich colors for depth. Start small, maybe an accent wall or some cabinets, and see how it changes your space.
Your home deserves paint that makes you smile every time you walk in. Black Magic might just be that color
Alex Guerrero, a graduate with a Fine Arts degree from the Rhode Island School of Design, has been a visionary in the world of color and design for over 15 years. His professional journey began in the heart of the fashion industry in Milan, where he developed an acute sense for color harmonies and trends. Alex joined our team in 2018, offering fresh and innovative perspectives on color utilization in various spaces. Renowned for his ability to blend contemporary trends with timeless elegance. Outside of work, Alex is an accomplished painter and a volunteer art therapist, his artistic talents further enriching his professional insights.
