Black Satin 2131-10 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that instantly elevates a room with sophistication and depth, Benjamin Moore’s Black Satin (2131-10) might just be your perfect match. This isn’t your typical flat black—it’s a deep, moody shade with a subtle blue undertone that adds complexity and richness to any space. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, industrial, or even a cozy traditional look, Black Satin delivers with its versatility and understated elegance.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Black Satin is how it plays with light. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 4.58%, this color absorbs light rather than reflecting it, creating an intimate, enveloping atmosphere. That makes it ideal for rooms where you want to cultivate warmth and depth, like a bedroom or a home office. But don’t let the darkness intimidate you—when balanced with the right decor, it can actually make a space feel more inviting rather than closed-in.

The blue undertone is what sets Black Satin apart from other deep blacks and charcoals. It keeps the color feeling modern and cool, but not stark. Pair it with warm wood tones, brass fixtures, or creamy whites like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove, and you’ll create a striking contrast that keeps the room from feeling too cold. This balance is key, especially if you’re working with an open-concept space where you want the color to flow seamlessly from one area to another.

Application is a breeze with Black Satin. It’s roller-ready, brushes on smoothly, and dries fast—plus, you’ll likely only need one or two coats for full coverage. The finish options (satin or semi-gloss) give you flexibility depending on the look you’re going for. Satin offers a soft sheen that’s perfect for walls, while semi-gloss works beautifully on trim or furniture, adding just enough shine to catch the light without being overly glossy.

Maintenance is another win. This paint is highly washable, so it’s a great choice for high-traffic areas like living rooms or entryways where fingerprints or scuffs might be a concern. And because it’s available in low-VOC formulas, you won’t have to worry about strong fumes lingering after painting.

Now, let’s talk about where to use it. Black Satin shines in living rooms as an accent wall behind a sleek media console or a gallery of artwork. In a bedroom, it creates a cocoon-like effect, especially when paired with plush textiles and warm lighting. Dining rooms feel instantly more dramatic with this hue, especially if you have a statement light fixture or a large mirror to bounce light around. Even home offices benefit from its grounding effect, helping to create a focused, sophisticated workspace.

If you’re hesitant about using such a dark color in a small room, don’t be. The trick is to balance it with lighter elements—think a pale area rug, white trim, or plenty of natural light. Mirrors are your best friend here, as they’ll amplify whatever light you have and keep the space from feeling too heavy. And if you’re not ready to commit to all four walls, try painting just one as an accent or using it on built-in shelves or cabinetry for a bold yet contained look.

When it comes to decor styles, Black Satin is a chameleon. It fits right into a minimalist scheme, where its depth adds interest without clutter. In an industrial space, it complements exposed brick and metal finishes perfectly. And in a modern farmhouse setting, it grounds the room while letting lighter, rustic elements pop.

As for pairings, this color loves company. Complimentary shades like soft taupes, warm grays, or even a muted red can create a dynamic yet harmonious palette. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with deep greens or navy for a moody, monochromatic look. And don’t forget metallics—brass, gold, or even matte black hardware can elevate the whole vibe.

So, is Black Satin right for your project? If you’re after a color that’s bold but not overwhelming, sophisticated but still welcoming, then yes. It’s the kind of shade that makes a room feel intentional and polished, like you’ve put thought into every detail. Test it out in your space first—paint a large swatch and observe how it changes throughout the day. You might be surprised at how versatile and transformative it can be.

At the end of the day, Black Satin isn’t just a paint color. It’s a design tool that helps you create a mood, define a space, and make a statement. Whether you’re going for drama, coziness, or modern edge, this shade delivers. So grab a brush, trust your instincts, and get ready to fall in love with the depth and sophistication it brings to your home.

Real Room Photo of Black Satin 2131-10

Undertones of  Black Satin ?

The undertones of Black Satin are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Blue. 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: #313435

RGB code: 49, 52, 53

Is  Black Satin Cool or Warm?

This shade leans towards the cool side of the spectrum. It pairs beautifully with warm tones, creating a balanced look that feels inviting without being too stark or harsh.

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 Black Satin

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 Black Satin

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Black Satin is 4.58%, 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  Black Satin

Black Satin is more than just a color; it’s a statement. Its deep hue provides a stunning backdrop for vibrant artwork or decorative accents. The finish has a subtle sheen, which helps reflect light without being overpowering, making it ideal for spaces where you want to create a warm atmosphere. When applied, it offers excellent coverage, typically needing just one to two coats for a flawless finish. Plus, it’s easy to clean, making it practical for high-traffic areas. This paint not only enhances your decor but also elevates the overall aesthetic of your home. Whether you’re using it on walls, furniture, or trim, Black Satin will leave a lasting impression.

Pros & Cons of  2131-10 Black Satin

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Black Satin

FAQ on 2131-10 Black Satin

Can I use Black Satin in a small room?

Absolutely! While Black Satin can make a small room feel more intimate, it’s essential to balance it with lighter accents or decor. Consider using mirrors or light-colored furnishings to create contrast and keep the space feeling open.

Is Black Satin suitable for exterior use?

While Black Satin is primarily designed for interior spaces, it can be used on exterior surfaces if properly sealed. However, it’s important to choose a paint specifically formulated for exteriors to ensure durability against the elements.

Comparisons Black Satin with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Black Satin 2131-10