Wenge AF-180 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that exudes warmth, sophistication, and a touch of earthy elegance, Benjamin Moore’s Wenge (AF-180) might just be your perfect match. This deep, rich brown with its subtle red undertones is more than just a color—it’s a mood. It wraps a room in coziness while adding a layer of refined style that works effortlessly in modern, rustic, or industrial spaces. Whether you’re painting an accent wall, refreshing your living room, or giving your bedroom a luxurious makeover, Wenge has the versatility to deliver stunning results.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Wenge is its depth. With a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of just 4.79%, this is a color that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, creating an intimate, grounded atmosphere. That makes it ideal for rooms where you want to foster relaxation—think bedrooms, home offices, or dining rooms where you want to encourage conversation and connection. But don’t let its darkness intimidate you. In well-lit spaces, Wenge can appear slightly lighter, revealing its warm, woody richness. If your room lacks natural light, pairing it with lighter trim or decor will keep it from feeling too heavy.

The undertones here are key. Wenge leans into red, giving it that extra warmth that sets it apart from cooler browns or grays. This makes it incredibly inviting, especially when paired with natural materials like wood, leather, or woven textiles. If you’re worried about it feeling too dark, consider using it on a single accent wall or even on furniture—a bookshelf or cabinet painted in Wenge can add just the right amount of drama without overwhelming the space. And because it’s a Benjamin Moore color, you know the coverage is excellent. One or two coats should do the trick, and it’s touch-up friendly, so DIYers won’t struggle with streaks or uneven patches.

When it comes to finishes, you’ve got options. A satin finish is a great middle ground—durable enough for high-traffic areas like living rooms or hallways, with just enough sheen to highlight Wenge’s richness. If you’re going for bold, a semi-gloss finish can make a statement, especially in spaces like dining rooms or kitchens where you want a bit of glam. Prefer something softer? A matte finish will give you that elegant, velvety look perfect for bedrooms or cozy reading nooks. Just keep in mind that in higher-traffic areas, a matte finish might show more fingerprints or dust, so plan accordingly.

Now, let’s talk pairings. Wenge plays well with a lot of colors, but it truly shines alongside crisp whites like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove or Pure White for trim. These light, clean tones create a beautiful contrast that keeps the space feeling balanced. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with deep greens or muted blues for a moody, sophisticated palette. And don’t forget metallics—brass or gold fixtures add a luxe touch that complements Wenge’s warmth beautifully.

Is Wenge right for small spaces? Absolutely, but with a few caveats. If your room is on the smaller side, you’ll want to balance Wenge with plenty of light—both natural and artificial. Lighter furniture, mirrors, and reflective surfaces can help keep the space feeling open. Or, use it strategically—painting just the lower half of the walls (with a chair rail) or a single focal wall can give you that rich, cozy vibe without closing in the room.

What’s the vibe you’re going for? Wenge is inherently warm and grounding, making it perfect for creating a retreat-like feel in a bedroom or a welcoming atmosphere in an entryway. It’s also a fantastic choice for modern farmhouse styles, where its earthy depth pairs perfectly with rustic wood beams and neutral textiles. And because it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, you can feel good about using it in your home.

So, should you choose Wenge? If you love colors that make a statement while still feeling timeless, if you want a hue that’s as versatile as it is beautiful, and if you’re ready to embrace the warmth and sophistication it brings—then yes, Wenge is absolutely worth considering. Test it out in your space, see how it changes with the light throughout the day, and imagine the possibilities. This isn’t just paint; it’s a transformation waiting to happen.

Real Room Photo of Wenge AF-180

Undertones of  Wenge ?

The undertones of Wenge are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Red. 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: #3C2D2B

RGB code: 60, 45, 43

Is  Wenge Cool or Warm?

Wenge leans towards a warm tone, which contributes to its inviting nature. This warmth makes it an excellent choice for creating cozy spaces, especially in areas where relaxation is key, such as bedrooms or living rooms.

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 Wenge

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 Wenge

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Wenge is 4.79%, 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  Wenge

Wenge is a captivating hue that brings depth to your living spaces. Its dark, woody tone can anchor a room, making it feel inviting and grounded. When applied, Wenge offers a smooth finish that enhances its luxurious appearance. It’s versatile enough to pair with lighter colors for contrast or to create a monochromatic palette with other dark shades. Whether you’re going for a contemporary look or a rustic vibe, Wenge fits effortlessly into various decor themes. Remember to consider your lighting; in brighter spaces, it can appear slightly lighter, while dimmer areas will showcase its richness. Overall, Wenge is a fantastic choice for those looking to add warmth and elegance to their home.

Pros & Cons of  AF-180 Wenge

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Wenge

FAQ on AF-180 Wenge

Can Wenge be used in small spaces?

Wenge can be used in small spaces, but it’s crucial to balance it with lighter colors or ample lighting. Its dark tone can make a room feel cozy, but without enough light, it might appear cramped. Pairing it with lighter trim or decor can help maintain an open feel while still enjoying its richness.

What finish works best with Wenge?

The best finish for Wenge depends on the desired effect. A satin finish can enhance its warmth while providing durability, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. For a more dramatic look, consider a semi-gloss finish, particularly in kitchens or bathrooms, where washability is essential. Matte finishes can create an elegant, soft look, perfect for private spaces like bedrooms.

Comparisons Wenge with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Wenge AF-180