Blacktop 2135-10 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that exudes sophistication while still feeling inviting, Benjamin Moore’s Blacktop (2135-10) might just be your perfect match. This deep, moody gray with subtle green undertones is a designer favorite for a reason—it’s versatile, striking, and effortlessly elevates any space. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, industrial, or minimalist vibe, Blacktop delivers a bold yet refined look that’s hard to resist.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Blacktop is its richness. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 5.94%, it’s a dark color that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere. That makes it ideal for rooms where you want to cultivate a sense of drama and depth, like a living room, bedroom, or home office. But don’t let the darkness intimidate you—when paired with the right elements, Blacktop can make even small spaces feel intentional and stylish. The key is balance. Lighter furniture, metallic accents, or plenty of natural light can keep the room from feeling too heavy.

Application is a breeze with Blacktop. It’s beginner-friendly, roller-ready, and dries quickly, so you won’t be waiting around forever to see the final result. Coverage is excellent—you’ll likely only need one or two coats to achieve that velvety, saturated finish. And because it’s low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about harsh fumes lingering in your home. Once it’s up, maintenance is easy too. The paint is washable, scrubbable, and stain-resistant, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets.

Now, let’s talk undertones. Blacktop leans slightly green, which gives it a unique depth compared to other dark grays. This subtle hue means it can shift depending on the lighting and surrounding colors. In bright, natural light, you might catch those green notes peeking through, adding warmth and complexity. In dimmer settings, it takes on a more neutral, almost charcoal-like appearance. That adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for open-concept spaces where lighting conditions change throughout the day.

Wondering how to style it? Blacktop plays well with a variety of decor styles. For a modern farmhouse look, pair it with crisp white trim (like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove) and rustic wood accents. In a contemporary setting, brass fixtures and sleek furniture will highlight its elegance. If you’re going for an industrial vibe, exposed brick or concrete floors will complement its cool, edgy undertones. And don’t shy away from using it on an accent wall—it creates a stunning focal point without overwhelming the room.

Of course, no color is perfect for every situation. Blacktop’s darkness means it can make small rooms feel smaller if you’re not careful. If you’re working with limited square footage, consider using it on just one wall or incorporating plenty of mirrors and light sources to keep the space feeling open. Another thing to note is that while it covers well, a second coat is often recommended to get that flawless, deep finish. But those minor considerations are far outweighed by the impact this color delivers.

So, is Blacktop right for your home? If you’re drawn to bold, moody hues and want a color that brings instant sophistication, the answer is probably yes. It’s a shade that feels both timeless and on-trend, adaptable enough to work in almost any room but distinctive enough to make a statement. Test it out in your space—paint a swatch, observe it at different times of day, and see how it interacts with your decor. You might just fall in love with the depth and character it brings to your walls.

At the end of the day, paint is one of the easiest ways to transform a room, and Blacktop does that transformation with style. Whether you’re refreshing a single wall or giving an entire room a moody makeover, this color is a reliable choice that won’t disappoint. So grab a brush, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to see your space in a whole new light—or, in this case, a beautifully dark one.

Real Room Photo of Blacktop 2135-10

Undertones of  Blacktop ?

The undertones of Blacktop are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Green. 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: #393D3C

RGB code: 57, 61, 60

Is  Blacktop Cool or Warm?

While primarily a cool-toned paint, Blacktop’s undertones can give it a warming effect in certain lights, making it adaptable for both modern and cozy atmospheres. This balance allows it to harmonize with a variety of decor styles.

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 Blacktop

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 Blacktop

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Blacktop is 5.94%, 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  Blacktop

Blacktop is a stunning choice for anyone wanting to infuse their space with depth and character. Upon application, it reveals a luxurious finish that enhances both light and shadow, creating a dynamic visual effect. It works incredibly well in rooms with ample natural light, where it can appear almost velvety. However, in dimly lit areas, it may absorb light, giving a more moody ambiance. The paint goes on smoothly and evenly, with minimal splatter, making it a delight to work with. Just remember, for the best results, a second coat is often recommended to achieve that perfect depth of color!

Pros & Cons of  2135-10 Blacktop

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Blacktop

FAQ on 2135-10 Blacktop

Can Blacktop be used in small rooms?

Absolutely! While Blacktop is a dark color, it can bring a cozy elegance to small spaces. To prevent the room from feeling too closed in, consider pairing it with lighter furniture or decor. Natural light can also help balance the darkness, so make sure to maximize it with mirrors or light fixtures.

Is Blacktop suitable for exterior use?

While Blacktop is primarily designed for interior applications, it can be used on exterior surfaces if you’re looking for a dramatic look. However, ensure it’s applied with an appropriate exterior primer and topcoat to withstand weather conditions. This can help maintain its rich finish over time.

Comparisons Blacktop with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Blacktop 2135-10