Toucan Black 2118-20 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that exudes sophistication and depth, Benjamin Moore’s Toucan Black (2118-20) might just be your perfect match. This isn’t your typical flat black—it’s a deep, moody shade with subtle blue and purple undertones that add a layer of complexity to any space. Whether you’re aiming for a dramatic accent wall or a cozy, intimate bedroom, this color brings elegance and versatility to the table. Let’s dive into what makes Toucan Black so special and how you can make it work in your home.

First, let’s talk about its undertones. Toucan Black leans cool, thanks to those hints of blue and purple lurking beneath the surface. This makes it a fantastic choice for modern, industrial, or minimalist spaces where you want a crisp, contemporary feel. But don’t let the “cool” label fool you—this color has a warmth to it that keeps it from feeling sterile. In natural light, the gray undertones soften the black, giving it a more approachable vibe. Under artificial lighting, though, it deepens into a rich, almost velvety shade that adds instant drama.

One of the biggest perks of Toucan Black is its high hide coverage. You’ll likely only need one or two coats to achieve a flawless finish, which saves both time and money. It’s also self-priming, so you can skip that extra step if you’re painting over a similarly dark or neutral wall. That said, because it’s such a deep color, professional application is recommended—especially if you’re going for a smooth, streak-free look. The finish you choose matters, too. A matte or eggshell finish will give you that sleek, modern aesthetic, while a satin or semi-gloss can up the durability in high-traffic areas like kitchens or hallways.

Where does Toucan Black shine brightest? Think living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices. In a living room, it can anchor a space as an accent wall behind a sleek media console or a gallery of framed art. Pair it with crisp white trim (like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove) for a striking contrast that feels polished and intentional. In a bedroom, it creates a cocoon-like atmosphere—especially when layered with textured linens, metallic accents, or warm wood tones. For a home office, it sets a serious, focused mood, especially when balanced with plenty of task lighting and lighter furniture.

Small or low-light rooms can be tricky with dark colors, but Toucan Black can work if you’re strategic. If your space lacks natural light, lean into the moodiness and embrace the cozy vibe. Add mirrors to bounce light around, and keep other elements in the room light and airy to prevent it from feeling too closed in. In larger rooms with plenty of windows, the color will feel bold but balanced, especially if you break it up with lighter furnishings or artwork.

Wondering what colors play well with Toucan Black? Its complementary hue is orange, so think burnt sienna, terracotta, or even soft peach for a unexpected pop. For a more subdued palette, pair it with cool grays, crisp whites, or even soft blues. Metallic accents in gold, brass, or chrome add a touch of glam, while natural materials like wood and linen keep it grounded. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it on ceilings or doors for a high-impact detail that doesn’t overwhelm.

A few things to keep in mind: Toucan Black has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 6.10%, meaning it absorbs almost all light. This makes it perfect for creating intimacy but less ideal if you’re trying to brighten a space. Always test it in your home before committing—paint a large swatch and observe it at different times of day to see how the light changes its appearance. And while it’s technically washable and stain-resistant, darker colors can show wear more easily, so touch-ups might be needed in high-traffic areas.

So, is Toucan Black right for you? If you love depth, drama, and a touch of modern sophistication, absolutely. It’s a color that demands attention but doesn’t overpower, making it a favorite among designers and homeowners alike. Whether you’re going for a full-room transformation or just a few bold accents, this shade delivers. Just remember: dark colors require confidence, so own it. Your space will thank you.

Real Room Photo of Toucan Black 2118-20

Undertones of  Toucan Black ?

The undertones of Toucan Black 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: #3C3B40

RGB code: 60, 59, 64

Is  Toucan Black Cool or Warm?

Toucan Black is primarily a cool-toned color due to its gray undertone. This coolness makes it an excellent choice for creating a calm and modern atmosphere. It works particularly well in spaces with abundant natural light, where it can provide a crisp, clean contrast. However, it can also add a touch of drama and sophistication in dimly lit areas, making it a highly versatile option for various settings.

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 Toucan Black

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 Toucan Black

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Toucan Black is 6.10%, 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  Toucan Black

Toucan Black is more than just a standard black paint; it’s a sophisticated choice for those looking to add depth and character to their interiors. The HEX code #3C3B40 represents a deep black with a hint of gray, offering a soft edge that makes it adaptable to various lighting conditions. This paint is perfect for creating a dramatic effect on accent walls or adding a touch of elegance to furniture pieces. Its high hide coverage means fewer coats are needed, saving you both time and effort. Toucan Black’s versatility is further enhanced by its compatibility with different finishes, allowing you to tailor the sheen to suit your preferences and room requirements. Ideal for modern and industrial decor styles, it pairs beautifully with metallic accents and crisp whites, allowing for creative flexibility in design.

Pros & Cons of  2118-20 Toucan Black

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Toucan Black

FAQ on 2118-20 Toucan Black

What finish should I choose for Toucan Black?

Choosing the right finish for Toucan Black largely depends on the room you’re painting and the desired effect. For walls, a matte or eggshell finish can provide a sophisticated, contemporary look without too much shine. These finishes are great for living rooms, bedrooms, and home offices where you want a smooth, refined appearance. For areas like kitchens or bathrooms where durability and easy cleaning are priorities, consider a satin or semi-gloss finish. These finishes offer more washability and are better suited to handle moisture and stains. Always consider the lighting and function of the space when selecting your finish.

Is Toucan Black suitable for exterior use?

While Toucan Black can technically be used for exterior applications, it’s crucial to consider the environmental factors of your location. Exterior paints need to withstand various weather conditions, including UV rays, rain, and temperature fluctuations. If you plan to use Toucan Black outside, ensure it’s formulated for exterior use, offering durability and resistance to fading and weathering. Pairing it with complementary colors and finishes can create a striking visual impact on your home’s exterior, but it’s always wise to consult with a professional to ensure the best results in terms of longevity and appearance.

Comparisons Toucan Black with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Toucan Black 2118-20