Sherwin-Williams offers a wide variety of green paint colors, ranging from light, bright greens to very deep, dark forest greens. Determining the “darkest green” Sherwin-Williams color can be subjective, but based on light reflectance values (LRV) – a measure of how much light a color reflects – SW 6258 Tricorn Black is considered their darkest green. With an LRV of only 3, Tricorn Black absorbs 97% of visible light, making it appear almost black. Other deep Sherwin-Williams greens with low LRV include SW 6216 Rising Sun, SW 6235 Evergreens, and SW 6243 Naval. When choosing a dark green, consider the mood you want to create and how the color will be impacted by different lighting conditions. Deep greens can feel sophisticated, moody, or classic depending on the specific shade.
Understanding Light Reflectance Value
The light reflectance value (LRV) of a paint color indicates how much light it reflects. LRV is measured on a scale of 0-100:
| LRV Range | Light Reflectance |
|---|---|
| 0-10 | Absorbs 90-100% of light |
| 10-30 | Absorbs 70-90% of light |
| 30-60 | Absorbs 40-70% of light |
| 60-90 | Absorbs 10-40% of light |
| 90-100 | Absorbs 0-10% of light |
The lower the LRV, the darker the color will appear. Blacks have an LRV around 0-5, while whites are near 100. Medium to darker greens usually fall in the 10-40 LRV range.
Tricorn Black – The Darkest Sherwin-Williams Green
With an LRV of only 3, SW 6258 Tricorn Black is Sherwin-Williams’ darkest green paint color. Tricorn Black absorbs 97% of visible light, making it appear almost black with just a subtle deep green undertone. This rich, saturated green is versatile enough to be used on accent walls or as an exterior color.
On interior walls, Tricorn Black creates a cozy, enveloping effect. Its darkness makes small spaces feel more intimate. In larger rooms, it grounds the space and provides contrast when paired with lighter neutrals. For exterior home color schemes, Tricorn Black’s gloominess can add curb appeal and make architectural details stand out. Due to its depth, natural light will cause the green undertones to surface more noticeably.
Tricorn Black works well in traditional, modern, and contemporary spaces. Its classic, sophisticated look pairs nicely with various wood tones, black trims, and gold or brass accents. This dramatic green can feel formal, yet also has an earthy, subtle vitality. Use it strategically in spaces where you want an enveloping, cocooning effect.
Other Deep, Dark Greens by Sherwin-Williams
In addition to Tricorn Black, Sherwin-Williams offers several other rich, dark green paint colors that absorb high amounts of light:
SW 6216 Rising Sun
LRV: 8
Rising Sun is a blackened forest green with warm, golden undertones. This earthy green adds dramatic flair and a sense of exotic spice.
SW 6235 Evergreens
LRV: 7
A blackened arbor green, Evergreens is heavily saturated with a pine tree color. Its woodsy vibe works for organic spaces.
SW 6243 Naval
LRV: 5
With a classic, nautical feel, Naval is a very deep green with a blackish-blue tone. Its richness complements mahogany and brass.
SW 6994 Black Magic
LRV: 6
Black Magic mixes emerald and black for a mysterious, trendy green with elegance. Use in modern spaces.
SW 6992 Caviar
LRV: 4
Caviar is a lustrous black-green with subtle warmth. This dramatic hue pairs well with gold, cream, and dark wood tones.
Choosing the Best Deep Green Paint
When selecting a dark green paint color, consider:
– Lighting – Darker greens will read differently in bright natural light vs. dim artificial light. Test paint samples at various times of day.
– Room size – Deep greens may feel enveloping in small rooms but grounding in larger spaces.
– Mood – Does the space need a warm, welcoming green or sophisticated flair? Cooler greens feel more tranquil.
– Architectural style – Traditional homes often suit classic deep greens while modern spaces can handle dramatic hues.
– Furnishings – Pair deep greens with light woods, black or metal accents, brass, gold, and soft neutral tones.
– Personal preference – Sample paint colors to see which deep green most appeals to your aesthetic.
Dark green paints from Sherwin-Williams transform spaces in bold, enveloping ways. But their heavy pigmentation also absorbs light and can make rooms feel smaller or darker if not used strategically. Test samples on walls to ensure the color reads as anticipated. Then employ deep greens selectively to create an intimate, atmospheric interior design style.
Conclusion
With an LRV of just 3, SW 6258 Tricorn Black is considered Sherwin-Williams’ darkest green paint color. This rich, saturated forest green appears almost black, absorbing 97% of visible light. Used strategically, Tricorn Black and other deep Sherwin-Williams greens like SW 6216 Rising Sun, SW 6235 Evergreens, and SW 6243 Naval add dramatic flair and a cozy, enveloping effect to interior spaces and exteriors. When selecting a deep green, consider the room size, lighting, furnishings, mood you want to achieve, and test paint samples at different times of day. Dramatic dark greens should complement the architectural style and needs of the space. Paired thoughtfully, these moody, sophisticated greens create an intimate aesthetic and make architectural details pop.
