Benjamin Moore offers a wide range of green paint colors, from light, bright greens to deep, dark forest greens. Determining the “darkest green” Benjamin Moore color is subjective, but based on light reflectance values (LRV), one of their darkest greens is Gentleman’s Forest (2062-10). This deep forest green has an LRV of 4.75.
What is Light Reflectance Value (LRV)?
LRV is a measurement of how much light a color reflects. LRV ranges from 0 (black) to 100 (white). The lower the LRV, the darker the color. Benjamin Moore provides LRV information for each of their paint colors. This makes it easy to compare the relative lightness or darkness of their different greens.
LRV is useful for selecting paint colors because it provides an objective numeric value for how dark or light a color will look. Higher LRVs create brighter, more reflective spaces, while lower LRVs absorb more light for a moodier, cozier effect.
Benjamin Moore’s Green Paint Colors by LRV
Here is a table of some of Benjamin Moore’s most popular green paint colors, organized from highest (lightest) to lowest (darkest) LRV:
| Benjamin Moore Color | LRV |
|---|---|
| Glidden Green (1463) | 67.86 |
| Reed Green (2022-10) | 49.26 |
| Nature Green (668) | 47.58 |
| Laurel Green (556) | 45.45 |
| Forest Green (2062-10) | 22.17 |
| Black Forest Green (2067-10) | 7.23 |
| Gentleman’s Forest (2062-10) | 4.75 |
As you can see, Gentleman’s Forest has the lowest LRV of these Benjamin Moore green colors at just 4.75. This makes it their darkest green paint color.
Benjamin Moore Gentleman’s Forest (2062-10)
Gentleman’s Forest is a rich, intense forest green from Benjamin Moore’s Historical Color Collection. As a very dark green with a subtle depth, it creates a sophisticated, moody look.
With an LRV of only 4.75, Gentleman’s Forest absorbs up to 95% of visible light in a room. This gives it a nearly-black appearance in some lighting. It has a bold, enveloping effect that contrasts beautifully with lighter woods, metals, and accent colors.
While very dark, Gentleman’s Forest retains its identifiable green tone. It is darker than traditional forest greens like Sherwood Green or Nature Green from Benjamin Moore. The color is reminiscent of the deepest, darkest greens found in secluded woodlands and thick forests.
Gentleman’s Forest is a green so dark that it could almost be mistaken for black in some lighting. It gives off a sense of quiet mystery and intimate sophistication. The rich color has an elevating effect when used in interiors.
Using Gentleman’s Forest in Your Home
Due to its enveloping darkness, Gentleman’s Forest is often best used as an accent in homes. It can quickly overwhelm a space if not balanced with sufficient lighter colors and textures.
This deep green makes a dramatic statement on accent walls, doors, built-ins, and other architectural elements. It establishes an intimate, refined mood in a dining room, office, or bedroom. Gentleman’s Forest also pairs beautifully with brass fixtures and accents for a glamorous look.
Since the color has such a slim margin of error, test Gentleman’s Forest on a wall board or large sample before committing. View it in both natural and artificial light at different times of day to ensure it reads as intended.
Gentleman’s Forest can be used in nearly any room of the home, but may be too overpowering for very small spaces. It works best when offset by lighter neutrals like soft whites, warm taupes, and light blues.
Coordating Colors for Gentleman’s Forest
Due to its darkness, Gentleman’s Forest is extremely versatile for pairing with other colors. Here are some top paint colors that coordinate beautifully with this deep green:
- White and off-white – Provides clean contrast and prevents the space from feeling too dark
- Warm neutrals like tan, beige, taupe – Ground the green and add coziness
- Light and medium blues – Complements the green in a fresh, soothing way
- Brass metallics and golds – Adds glamour and sophistication
- Vibrant jewel tones like ruby red and sapphire blue – Creates a bold, luxe look
Gentleman’s Forest can appear richer when paired with warm undertones, and cooler with complementary blues and grays. The key is providing enough contrast between the dark green and the surrounding colors so that it remains a focal point.
Alternatives to Gentleman’s Forest
While Gentleman’s Forest is Benjamin Moore’s darkest green paint color, there are a few alternate options if you find it too dark for your needs:
Black Forest Green (2067-10)
With an LRV of 7.23, Black Forest Green is slightly lighter and brighter than Gentleman’s Forest. It has more distinct green undertones. The rich color provides similar sophistication.
Amazon Moss (645)
Amazon Moss is a deep rainforest green with an LRV of 6.05. It has subtle blue undertones. More versatile than Gentleman’s Forest, it reads lighter in natural light.
Night Watch (2095-10)
Night Watch is Benjamin Moore’s darkest blue-green. With an LRV of 5.57, it appears a touch lighter than Gentleman’s Forest with more green influence.
Custom Color Mixing
Work with your paint retailer to custom mix a Benjamin Moore green at your preferred darkness. Tinting their neutral black with green bases allows infinite possibilities.
Conclusion
When sorted by light reflectance value, Gentleman’s Forest is Benjamin Moore’s darkest green paint color. At an LRV of only 4.75, this sophisticated forest green absorbs up to 95% of visible light for a nearly-black appearance. Dramatic and bold, Gentleman’s Forest should be used selectively as an accent to prevent spaces from feeling too dark. With careful coordination, it establishes a refined, intimate ambiance. For a slightly lighter alternative, consider Benjamin Moore’s Black Forest Green.
