Ebony Slate 2118-30 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that exudes sophistication while still feeling approachable, Benjamin Moore’s Ebony Slate (2118-30) might just be your perfect match. This deep, moody gray with its subtle blue and purple undertones is one of those rare shades that manages to be both dramatic and versatile. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, industrial, or minimalist vibe, this color has the depth to anchor a room without overwhelming it. Let’s dive into what makes Ebony Slate so special and how you can make it work in your home.

First things first—Ebony Slate is a dark color, with an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 9.09%, meaning it absorbs light rather than reflecting it. That makes it a fantastic choice for creating cozy, intimate spaces, but it also means you’ll want to be thoughtful about where you use it. In a large living room with plenty of natural light, it’ll feel rich and inviting. In a smaller space, like a bedroom or home office, it can add a sense of depth and warmth, especially if you balance it with lighter furnishings and good lighting. If you’re worried about a small room feeling too closed in, consider using it on just one accent wall to add drama without shrinking the space.

One of the best things about Ebony Slate is how it shifts with the light. In daylight, those blue undertones come forward, giving it a crisp, modern edge. As the sun sets and artificial lighting takes over, it deepens into a more mysterious, almost velvety tone that’s perfect for unwinding. This adaptability makes it a great choice for rooms where you spend time at different hours of the day, like a living room or bedroom. Always test a sample in your space before committing—paint colors can look surprisingly different depending on the direction your windows face and the type of bulbs you use.

When it comes to application, Ebony Slate is beginner-friendly. It covers well in one to two coats, dries quickly, and has a smooth finish that works beautifully with a roller or brush. If you’re painting over a lighter color, a primer will help the richness of the shade really pop. And because it’s a darker hue, touch-ups can be a bit more noticeable, so take your time during application to avoid streaks or uneven patches. The good news? It’s wipeable and washable, so it holds up well in high-traffic areas. Plus, it’s low-VOC, which means fewer fumes and healthier air quality—always a win.

Now, let’s talk pairings. Ebony Slate plays well with a variety of colors and materials. For trim, classic whites like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove keep things crisp and clean. If you want warmth, brass fixtures or natural wood trim add a gorgeous contrast, playing up those subtle purple undertones. For accent colors, think about shades that complement its cool depth—soft creams, warm taupes, or even a bold burnt orange (its complementary hue) can make it sing. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with deep greens or navy blues for a moody, layered look.

Furniture and decor choices can really elevate this color. In a modern living room, sleek leather sofas and metallic accents lean into its industrial side. For a more relaxed feel, textured fabrics like linen or wool keep it cozy. And because Ebony Slate is so versatile, it works with both light and dark wood tones—just pay attention to the undertones in your flooring or furniture to make sure they harmonize.

So, is Ebony Slate right for your project? If you love rich, moody colors and want something that feels elegant without being stuffy, absolutely. It’s especially great for spaces where you want to create a sense of intimacy, like a bedroom or dining room. Just remember: lighting matters, balance is key, and a little sample pot can save you a lot of second-guessing. At the end of the day, the best paint color is the one that makes you feel at home—and Ebony Slate has a way of doing just that.

Real Room Photo of Ebony Slate 2118-30

Undertones of  Ebony Slate ?

The undertones of Ebony Slate are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Blue and Purple. These subtle underlying hues are what give the color its depth and complexity. For example, a gray with a blue undertone will feel cooler and more modern, while one with a brown undertone will feel warmer and more traditional. It’s essential to test this paint in your home and observe it next to your existing furniture, flooring, and decor to see how these undertones interact and reveal themselves throughout the day.

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HEX value: #4A4A53

RGB code: 74, 74, 83

Is  Ebony Slate Cool or Warm?

Ebony Slate straddles the line between warm and cool, making it a balanced choice for various environments. It can adapt to different lighting conditions, appearing more cool-toned in daylight and slightly warmer in the evening, which adds to its versatility.

Understanding Color Properties and Interior Design Tips

Hue refers to a specific position on the color wheel, measured in degrees from 0 to 360. Each degree represents a different pure color:

• 0° represents red
• 120° represents green
• 240° represents blue

Saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color and is expressed as a percentage:

• At 0%, the color appears completely desaturated—essentially a shade of gray
• At 100%, the color is at its most vivid and vibrant

Lightness indicates how light or dark a color is, also expressed as a percentage:

• 0% lightness results in black
• 100% lightness results in white

Using Warm Colors in Interior Design

Warm hues—such as reds, oranges, yellows, warm beiges, and greiges—are excellent choices for creating inviting and energetic spaces. These colors are particularly well-suited for:

• Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where warmth enhances comfort and sociability
• Large rooms, where warm tones can help reduce the sense of emptiness and make the space feel more intimate

For example:

• Warm beige shades provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
• Warm greige (a mix of beige and gray) offers the warmth of beige with the modern appeal of gray, making it a versatile backdrop for dining areas, bedrooms, and living spaces.

However, be mindful when using warm light tones in rooms with limited natural light. These shades may appear muted or even take on an unpleasant yellowish tint. To avoid a dull or flat appearance:

• Add depth by incorporating richer tones like deep greens, charcoal, or chocolate brown
• Use textured elements such as curtains, rugs, or cushions to bring dimension to the space

Pro Tip: Achieving Harmony with Warm and Cool Color Balance

To create a well-balanced and visually interesting interior, mix warm and cool tones strategically. This contrast adds depth and harmony to your design.

• If your walls feature warm hues, introduce cool-colored accents such as blue or green furniture, artwork, or accessories to create contrast.
• For a polished look, consider using a complementary color scheme, which pairs colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red with green, orange with blue).

This thoughtful mix not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive.

Light Temperature Affects on Ebony Slate

Natural Light

Natural daylight changes in color temperature as the sun moves across the sky. At sunrise and sunset, the light tends to have a warm, golden tone with a color temperature around 2000 Kelvin (K). As the day progresses and the sun rises higher, the light becomes cooler and more neutral. Around midday, especially when the sky is clear, natural light typically reaches its peak brightness and shifts to a cooler tone, ranging from 5500 to 6500 Kelvin. This midday light is close to what we perceive as pure white or daylight-balanced light.

These shifts in natural light can significantly influence how colors appear in a space, which is why designers often consider both the time of day and the orientation of windows when planning interior color schemes.

Artificial Light

When choosing artificial lighting, pay close attention to the color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). This determines how warm or cool the light will appear. Lower temperatures, around 2700K, give off a warm, yellow glow often used in living rooms or bedrooms. Higher temperatures, above 5000K, create a cool, bluish light similar to daylight, commonly used in kitchens, offices, or task areas.

Use the slider to see how lighting temperature can affect the appearance of a surface or color throughout a space.

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LRV of Ebony Slate

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Ebony Slate is 9.09%, which places it in the Dark colors category. This means it does not reflect light. Understanding a paint’s LRV is crucial for predicting how it will look in your space. A higher LRV indicates a lighter color that reflects more light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. A lower LRV signifies a darker color that absorbs more light, creating a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. Always consider the natural and artificial lighting in your room when selecting a paint color based on its LRV.

Detailed Review of  Ebony Slate

Ebony Slate is a stunning choice for those looking to introduce a bold yet refined color into their home. When applied, it offers a soft, velvety finish that enriches walls and creates an inviting atmosphere. The color works well in both natural and artificial light, shifting slightly throughout the day to reveal its dynamic undertones. It’s particularly effective in large open spaces or as an accent wall, drawing the eye and adding sophistication without overwhelming the decor. For best results, a good-quality primer can enhance the richness of the color, ensuring complete coverage and vibrancy. Overall, Ebony Slate is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to make a statement while maintaining a chic, modern feel.

Pros & Cons of  2118-30 Ebony Slate

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Ebony Slate

FAQ on 2118-30 Ebony Slate

Can Ebony Slate be used in small rooms?

Yes, while Ebony Slate is a darker color that can make small rooms feel more enclosed, it can also create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. To prevent a room from feeling too cramped, consider using it as an accent wall or pairing it with lighter colors and ample lighting to balance the depth.

How does Ebony Slate perform in different lighting?

Ebony Slate adapts beautifully to various lighting conditions. In natural light, it showcases its blue-gray undertones, providing a fresh, open feel. In lower light, it takes on a deeper, more intimate tone, making it perfect for creating cozy spaces. Always test samples in your specific lighting to see how it interacts with your room.

Comparisons Ebony Slate with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Ebony Slate 2118-30