Dragons Blood CW-320 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that brings warmth, depth, and a touch of drama to your home, Benjamin Moore’s Dragons Blood (CW-320) might just be your perfect match. This rich, earthy red-brown is like a warm embrace for your walls—a hue that feels both timeless and bold. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy living room, a sophisticated dining space, or a bedroom that exudes romance, this color has the versatility to transform your space into something truly special.

Dragons Blood isn’t just another red—it’s a carefully balanced blend of red and brown undertones that gives it a grounded, earthy feel. The name alone hints at its mythical allure, but in reality, it’s far more approachable than it sounds. Picture the deep, burnished tones of aged leather or the warmth of a terracotta pot under the sun. It’s a color that feels lived-in and inviting, perfect for creating spaces where people naturally want to gather and linger.

One of the standout qualities of Dragons Blood is its ability to adapt to different decor styles. If you love rustic or traditional interiors, this color will harmonize beautifully with wood beams, stone fireplaces, and vintage furnishings. For a modern farmhouse vibe, pair it with crisp white trim and sleek black accents. Even in contemporary spaces, it can hold its own when balanced with clean lines and metallic finishes. The key is to let it anchor the room while lighter or contrasting elements keep the look fresh.

Lighting plays a huge role in how this color performs. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 13.39%, Dragons Blood absorbs a lot of light, which means it can make a room feel cozier and more intimate. In spaces with ample natural light, the red undertones come alive, giving the walls a vibrant, almost glowing quality. In dimmer or artificially lit rooms, it leans into its deeper, moodier side—perfect for creating a snug, enveloping atmosphere. If you’re working with a smaller room, consider using it on an accent wall or balancing it with plenty of light-reflecting surfaces to avoid feeling closed in.

Application is a breeze with this paint. It’s roller-ready, brushes on smoothly, and dries fast, so you won’t be waiting around forever to see the final result. The high coverage means you’ll likely only need one or two coats, and since it’s self-priming, you can skip an extra step if you’re painting over a similar shade. Plus, it’s low-VOC and odor-free, making it a great choice if you’re sensitive to fumes or want a more eco-friendly option.

When it comes to durability, Dragons Blood holds up well in high-traffic areas. It’s washable, scrubbable, and stain-resistant, so it’s practical for spaces like dining rooms or entryways where walls might take a beating. The finish options—eggshell, satin, or semi-gloss—give you flexibility depending on the look and functionality you need. Eggshell offers a soft sheen that’s great for most walls, while satin and semi-gloss are ideal for trim or doors where a bit more shine and durability are welcome.

Pairing this color with the right accents is where the magic really happens. For a classic look, try it with crisp white trim like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove—the contrast keeps the richness of Dragons Blood from feeling too heavy. If you want to lean into its warmth, brass or gold fixtures add a luxe touch. Natural wood tones, especially mid-tone or dark woods, complement its earthy vibe beautifully. And if you’re feeling adventurous, its complementary green hues (think sage or olive) can create a stunning, balanced palette.

Now, let’s talk about the rooms where Dragons Blood shines brightest. In a living room, it creates an inviting backdrop for gatherings, especially when paired with plush textiles and layered lighting. A dining room wrapped in this hue feels intimate and elegant—imagine it with a rustic wooden table and candlelight. Bedrooms benefit from its cozy, romantic energy, especially when balanced with soft linens and ambient lighting. Even a home office or entryway can feel more intentional and polished with this color setting the tone.

Of course, no color is without its considerations. Dragons Blood is undeniably bold, so if you’re hesitant about committing to it on all four walls, start with an accent wall or a piece of furniture. Test it in your space at different times of day to see how the light changes its appearance. And remember, the right decor and lighting can make all the difference in ensuring it feels inviting rather than overwhelming.

At the end of the day, Dragons Blood is a color for those who want their home to feel warm, lived-in, and full of character. It’s not just paint—it’s a mood, a statement, a way to infuse your space with depth and personality. Whether you’re going for rustic charm, modern farmhouse elegance, or something in between, this hue has the versatility and richness to deliver. So if you’re ready to take the plunge, grab a sample, brush it on, and see how it transforms your space. You might just fall in love with the way it makes your home feel.

Real Room Photo of Dragons Blood CW-320

Undertones of  Dragons Blood ?

The undertones of Dragons Blood 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.

R

G

B

HEX

HEX value: #AB4830

RGB code: 171, 72, 48

Is  Dragons Blood Cool or Warm?

Dragons Blood is a warm color. Its red-brown hue radiates warmth and coziness, making it an ideal choice for creating inviting spaces. The warm undertones make it perfect for rooms where you want to foster a sense of comfort and relaxation, such as living rooms or bedrooms.

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 Dragons Blood

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.

4800K

2000K

3000K

4000K

5000K

6000K

7000K

LRV of Dragons Blood

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Dragons Blood is 13.39%, which places it in the Medium Dark category. This means it reflects very little 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  Dragons Blood

Dragons Blood is a color that truly stands out with its deep, earthy tone. It’s a perfect choice if you’re looking to add a sense of warmth and coziness to a room. The rich red-brown hue can transform an ordinary space into a sophisticated sanctuary. It’s particularly effective in areas where you want to create a dramatic and inviting atmosphere, such as living rooms or dining areas. This color pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood and stone, making it a great option for rustic or traditional decor styles. Its versatility also allows it to complement modern farmhouse interiors. When selecting Dragons Blood, consider the lighting in your space, as it can appear more intense in brighter light. Overall, this shade is a bold yet elegant choice that can elevate the aesthetic of any room.

Pros & Cons of  CW-320 Dragons Blood

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Dragons Blood

FAQ on CW-320 Dragons Blood

Can Dragons Blood be used in small rooms?

While Dragons Blood is a rich and inviting color, its depth and warmth can sometimes make smaller rooms feel more enclosed. If you’re considering using this shade in a smaller space, it’s important to balance it with lighter accents or plenty of natural light to avoid making the room feel cramped. Pairing it with light or neutral trim can help counteract the darkening effect. Another option is to use it as an accent wall, allowing you to enjoy the color’s richness without overwhelming the space. Ultimately, it’s all about achieving the right balance to suit your personal taste and the room’s characteristics.

What decor styles work best with Dragons Blood?

Dragons Blood is a versatile color that fits beautifully with several decor styles. Its warm, earthy tones make it a natural fit for rustic and traditional interiors, where it can complement wood and stone elements. It’s also a fantastic choice for modern farmhouse designs, where its rich hue adds depth and character. For a more contemporary look, you could pair it with sleek, modern furnishings and metallic accents. The key is to use Dragons Blood as a grounding element, allowing it to enhance the richness and warmth of your chosen decor style. With the right complementary colors and materials, Dragons Blood can be a stunning addition to any decor.

Comparisons Dragons Blood with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Dragons Blood CW-320