Black Forest Green HC-187 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that brings depth, sophistication, and a touch of nature into your home, Benjamin Moore’s Black Forest Green (HC-187) might just be your perfect match. This rich, dark green hue is like stepping into a serene forest—grounding, elegant, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re painting an accent wall, refreshing your living room, or giving your home office a moody makeover, this color has the versatility to transform your space into something truly special.

Black Forest Green is more than just a dark green—it’s a chameleon. Its undertones lean slightly blue, giving it a cool, modern edge while still feeling warm and inviting. That balance makes it incredibly adaptable. Pair it with crisp white trim for a classic look, or let it shine alongside natural wood tones for a rustic vibe. Metallic accents like brass or gold? They pop beautifully against this deep backdrop. And if you’re going for something more dramatic, black fixtures or furniture create a striking contrast that feels bold yet refined.

One of the biggest questions homeowners have about dark colors is whether they’ll work in smaller rooms. The answer? Absolutely. Black Forest Green can actually make a small space feel cozy and intentional rather than cramped. The key is balance. If you’re worried about it feeling too dark, use it on just one wall as an accent and keep the others lighter. Mirrors, plenty of lighting (both natural and artificial), and lighter-colored decor will keep the room feeling open and airy. In larger rooms, this color truly shines, creating an intimate, enveloping atmosphere that’s perfect for lounging, dining, or even working.

Lighting plays a huge role in how this color behaves. In daylight, Black Forest Green reveals its true depth—moody and serene, like the shadowy corners of a dense forest. Under artificial light, those cool blue undertones come forward a bit more, adding an extra layer of sophistication. That’s why it’s always a good idea to test a swatch in your space before committing. Paint a small section and observe it at different times of day to see how it shifts. You might be surprised by how dynamic it is.

When it comes to application, this color is beginner-friendly. It covers well in one to two coats, and touch-ups are a breeze. The finish options—matte, eggshell, or satin—give you flexibility depending on the look and durability you need. Matte finishes are great for hiding imperfections and creating a velvety, luxurious feel, while eggshell and satin offer a bit more sheen and are easier to clean. And since it’s low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about harsh fumes during or after painting.

Now, let’s talk decor styles. Black Forest Green is a designer favorite for a reason—it works with just about everything. In a modern space, it adds depth without feeling heavy. In a rustic or Scandinavian-inspired room, it brings in that earthy, natural element. Industrial spaces benefit from its moody contrast against exposed brick or metal finishes. And if you love a bit of vintage charm, this green pairs beautifully with antique furniture and rich textiles.

As for furniture, don’t be afraid to go bold. A deep green sofa or a painted dresser in Black Forest Green can become the focal point of a room. If you’re not ready to commit to walls, try it on cabinetry or even a front door for a high-impact look. And if you’re renting? This color is so timeless that it’s worth the effort—just check with your landlord first.

Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind. Dark colors like this one can show dust and fingerprints more easily, so if you have kids or pets, you might want to stick with a wipeable finish like eggshell or satin. And while it’s a stunning choice, it’s not for every space. Rooms with very little natural light might feel a bit cave-like unless you balance it with plenty of lamps and lighter decor.

If you love Black Forest Green but aren’t sure about going all-in, consider its lighter siblings like Benjamin Moore’s HC-134 or 714. These shades offer a similar vibe but with a bit more brightness. And if you’re looking for complementary colors, try pairing it with soft neutrals, warm woods, or even a pop of red (its complementary hue) for a bold contrast.

At the end of the day, Black Forest Green is a color that invites you to slow down and savor your space. It’s grounding without being heavy, elegant without being stuffy, and versatile enough to grow with your style. Whether you’re creating a cozy bedroom retreat, a sophisticated dining room, or a home office that inspires focus, this shade delivers. So grab a sample, test it out, and see how it transforms your home. You might just fall in love with the depth and character it brings to your walls.

Real Room Photo of Black Forest Green HC-187

Undertones of  Black Forest Green ?

The undertones of Black Forest Green are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Green and 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: #242E2C

RGB code: 36, 46, 44

Is  Black Forest Green Cool or Warm?

This shade leans more toward the cool side of the spectrum, but its dark nature allows it to feel balanced and inviting. It won’t clash with warm decor but rather enhances the overall aesthetic.

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 Forest Green

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 Forest Green

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Black Forest Green is 4.85%, 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 Forest Green

Black Forest Green is a versatile shade that stands out for its depth and richness. When applied, it brings a warm and inviting feel to your space, allowing it to shine in both natural and artificial light. The color works exceptionally well in larger rooms, creating a cozy ambiance without overwhelming the senses. It’s perfect for accent walls or as a primary color in spaces where you want to foster relaxation and comfort. Users appreciate how it complements wood tones and metallic accents, making it a designer favorite. However, it’s essential to consider your room’s lighting, as it may appear darker than expected in low-light conditions. Overall, Black Forest Green is a smart choice for those looking to add sophistication and a touch of nature indoors.

Pros & Cons of  HC-187 Black Forest Green

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green

FAQ on HC-187 Black Forest Green

Can Black Forest Green be used in smaller rooms?

Absolutely! While Black Forest Green is a dark color, it can work in smaller rooms if balanced with adequate lighting. Use lighter decor and accessories to create contrast, and consider using it as an accent on one wall to avoid overwhelming the space. Mirrors can also help reflect light and make the room feel larger.

What trim colors pair best with Black Forest Green?

Black Forest Green pairs beautifully with a variety of trim colors. For a classic look, consider pairing it with crisp white trim, such as White Dove or Pure White. If you want to add warmth, natural wood trim works well too. For a more dramatic effect, black windows or fixtures can create a striking contrast.

Comparisons Black Forest Green with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Black Forest Green HC-187