Mopboard Black CW-680 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that exudes sophistication and modern elegance, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Mopboard Black (CW-680). This isn’t just any black—it’s a deep, moody hue with a subtle blue undertone that adds depth and character to any space. Whether you’re aiming for a dramatic accent wall or a full-room transformation, this color has the versatility to work in a variety of settings. And trust me, as someone who’s worked with countless shades over the years, Mopboard Black is one of those rare colors that feels both bold and timeless.

First, let’s talk about its undertones. The blue hue lurking beneath the surface gives Mopboard Black a cooler, more contemporary feel compared to warmer blacks with brown or red undertones. This makes it an excellent choice for modern, industrial, or minimalist spaces where you want a crisp, clean look. But don’t let the “cool” label fool you—it’s surprisingly adaptable. Pair it with warm wood tones or brass fixtures, and suddenly, the space feels balanced and inviting. The key is testing it in your home’s lighting to see how those undertones play out. Natural light softens it, while low light brings out its moody, dramatic side.

One of the biggest questions I get about dark paints is whether they’ll make a room feel smaller. The short answer? It depends. Mopboard Black has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 6.16%, meaning it absorbs almost all light rather than reflecting it. In a small room, that can create a cozy, cocoon-like effect—perfect for a bedroom or home office where you want intimacy. But if you’re worried about it feeling too closed in, try using it on an accent wall or pairing it with lighter trim, like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove. The contrast will keep the space feeling dynamic and intentional.

Application is a breeze, even if you’re a DIY beginner. Mopboard Black has excellent coverage, usually requiring just one or two coats for a rich, even finish. It’s roller-ready, brush-smooth, and dries quickly, so you won’t be waiting around forever to see the final result. That said, dark colors like this can highlight imperfections in your walls, so take the time to prep properly. Fill any holes, sand uneven areas, and use a good primer if you’re covering a lighter color. The extra effort will pay off when you’re left with a flawless, velvety finish.

Now, let’s talk durability. This isn’t a high-maintenance color. It’s highly washable, fade-resistant, and touch-up friendly, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas like living rooms or dining rooms. Just keep in mind that darker paints tend to show dust and fingerprints more easily, so if you’re using it on trim or doors, a satin finish might be a smarter pick than matte for easier cleaning.

As for styling, Mopboard Black is a designer’s dream. It works beautifully in modern farmhouse settings, industrial lofts, or even traditional spaces that need a touch of edge. Try it on built-in bookshelves or cabinetry for a sleek, custom look. Or go bold with an all-black home office—pair it with a sleek walnut desk and brass lighting for a space that’s both professional and deeply personal. If you’re not ready to commit to walls, test it out on furniture. A black accent table or headboard can anchor a room without overwhelming it.

Lighting matters, too. Soft, warm bulbs will complement its cool undertones, while harsh fluorescents might make it feel a bit sterile. If your room lacks natural light, layer in plenty of lamps or sconces to keep it from feeling like a cave. And don’t shy away from texture—think linen curtains, a chunky knit throw, or a vintage rug to add dimension and keep the space from feeling flat.

If you love Mopboard Black but want something a tad lighter or darker, Benjamin Moore offers a range of similar shades. For a softer approach, try one of its lighter cousins like 2124-10 or 2132-20. If you want to go even deeper, 2129-10 amps up the drama. And if you’re playing with complementary colors, lean into its blue undertone with cool grays or warm it up with earthy oranges and taupes.

At the end of the day, Mopboard Black is more than just a paint color—it’s a design tool. It can ground a room, highlight architectural details, or create a striking backdrop for your favorite art and furniture. It’s bold without being overwhelming, sophisticated without feeling stuffy. So if you’re on the fence about going dark, take the leap. With the right prep and styling, this color might just become your new secret weapon for creating spaces that feel curated, intentional, and utterly unforgettable.

Still unsure? Grab a sample pot, paint a large swatch, and live with it for a few days. Watch how it changes with the light, how it plays with your decor, and how it makes you feel. Because the best colors aren’t just seen—they’re experienced. And Mopboard Black is one of those shades that truly transforms a house into a home.

Real Room Photo of Mopboard Black CW-680

Undertones of  Mopboard Black ?

The undertones of Mopboard Black 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.

R

G

B

HEX

HEX value: #373839

RGB code: 55, 56, 57

Is  Mopboard Black Cool or Warm?

This paint leans towards the cool spectrum, providing a crisp contrast against warmer hues. It’s perfect for creating a balanced look in spaces that incorporate a mix of tones.

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 Mopboard 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.

4800K

2000K

3000K

4000K

5000K

6000K

7000K

LRV of Mopboard Black

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Mopboard Black is 6.16%, 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  Mopboard Black

Mopboard Black stands out as a bold choice for anyone looking to make a statement. Its richness allows it to absorb light rather than reflect it, creating an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for cozy spaces. It’s particularly effective in larger rooms or areas where you want to establish a sense of grounding. When applied, the finish offers a smooth application that results in an even, stunning look. With a few coats, you can achieve a beautifully uniform appearance that enhances the paint’s inherent depth. Just keep in mind that darker colors can sometimes show imperfections, so surface preparation is key. Overall, it’s a dramatic yet sophisticated shade that can redefine your spaces.

Pros & Cons of  CW-680 Mopboard Black

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Mopboard Black

FAQ on CW-680 Mopboard Black

Can Mopboard Black be used in small rooms?

Absolutely! While Mopboard Black is a dark color, it can actually add a cozy feel to smaller rooms. To make the space feel more open, consider using lighter accents or pairing it with bright trim. This contrast can create a dynamic look that enhances the room’s overall appeal.

What are the best lighting options for this color?

Mopboard Black works beautifully under natural light, which helps to soften its intensity. For artificial lighting, softer, warm light bulbs can complement its cool undertones. Avoid harsh, bright lights that may wash out its depth. Always test the color in your space at different times of day to see how it interacts with your lighting.

Comparisons Mopboard Black with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Mopboard Black CW-680