Greenblack: A Timeless Choice for Modern Homes
Looking for a bold, moody color that’s not just plain black?
Sherwin Williams Greenblack might be the perfect pick—it’s deep, dramatic, and has just a touch of green that makes it stand out
This rich shade has helped transform countless spaces—from moody accent walls to show-stopping kitchen cabinets.
My clients have seen stunning results when using this color, particularly when paired with thoughtful white trims and metal accents.
Let’s look at what makes Greenblack special, how it compares to other dark colors, and the best ways to use it in your home.
I’ll share real examples and practical tips to help you decide if this distinctive shade suits you.
Let’s get started.
What is Greenblack, and why should you choose it?
Sherwin Williams Greenblack is a sophisticated paint color that blends black with subtle green undertones. This unique shade offers depth and character without overwhelming a space.
With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 4, it sits among the darkest options in the Sherwin-Williams lineup, just a shade lighter than Tricorn Black.
The color appears almost pure black in many lighting conditions, but the green undertones become more noticeable when sunlight hits it directly. This gives the color a softer, more nuanced appearance than standard black paint options.
Greenback offers a classic yet modern look that fits multiple design styles. Its subtle green undertone provides warmth and depth that pure blacks often lack. This makes it more versatile and easier to incorporate into various color schemes.
The Appearance Factor
Greenblack creates a strong impression while maintaining visual interest. Its slight green tint might be noticeable in bright spaces, while it reads as a rich, deep black in dimmer areas.
This dual nature makes it particularly useful for creating varied looks throughout the day as natural light changes.
The color works exceptionally well in both interior and exterior applications. Many homeowners find it less harsh than pure black, making it more livable and approachable for everyday spaces.
Style Versatility
From farmhouse charm to industrial edge, Greenblack adapts to numerous design approaches. In a farmhouse setting, it adds contrast against white elements.
Industrial designs create clean lines and strong statements in modern spaces. They perfectly complement metal fixtures and raw materials.
The color pairs beautifully with various materials. It enhances the grain in wood, makes metal fixtures pop, contrasts with light-colored stone, and grounds brick elements. This adaptability makes it useful throughout a home.
Room-by-Room Application of greenblack
Greenblack offers endless possibilities for interior spaces. Its depth and subtle complexity make it a favorite among homeowners looking to add character and style to their homes without going too bold with color.
1. Living Room & Accent Walls
An accent wall in Greenblack creates a stunning focal point in any living space. The dark tone draws immediate attention and provides a perfect backdrop for artwork, mirrors, or wall-mounted TVs.
In larger living rooms, the dark color can make the space feel more intimate and cozy.
Light-colored sofas and chairs stand out against a Greenblack wall for furniture pairings.
The contrast makes both the wall and the furniture pop. Natural wood tones, particularly in mid to light finishes, also work wonderfully with Greenblack, creating a balanced, warm atmosphere.
2. Bedrooms
In bedrooms, Greenblack creates a cocoon-like atmosphere that’s perfect for rest. A Greenblack feature wall behind the bed makes a stunning statement while keeping the room from feeling too dark if the other walls remain light.
Pairing Greenblack with soft textures and warm bedding creates balance in the space. Light linens, warm-toned throws, and natural wood nightstands complement the deep color beautifully.
3. Kitchens & Cabinetry
Greenblack has gained popularity in kitchen design, especially for lower cabinets paired with white or light upper cabinets. This two-tone approach adds visual interest while keeping the kitchen open and bright.
The finish you choose matters significantly with Greenblack cabinetry. A satin finish offers practical durability while showing off the subtle undertones. Matte finishes create a soft, velvety look that feels very current and hides fingerprints well.
Hardware choices become especially important with Greenblack cabinets. Brass or copper pulls and knobs create a striking contrast that feels both classic and modern.
4. Bathrooms
Greenblack offers a luxurious bathroom feel, especially when paired with white fixtures and marble countertops. The contrast feels spa-like and sophisticated.
Greenblack can create a jewel-box effect that guests will remember in powder rooms, which often lack natural light.
Adding good lighting is key in bathrooms with Greenblack walls. Sconces at eye level or a well-lit mirror can prevent the space from feeling too dark for daily tasks like applying makeup or shaving.
Comparing Greenblack with Other Dark Paints
Understanding how Greenblack compares to other popular dark shades can help you make the right choice when selecting the perfect dark paint.
Each dark paint offers its unique character and works differently in various lighting conditions and spaces.
Greenblack vs. Iron Ore
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore (SW 7069) is a deep charcoal with an LRV of 6, slightly lighter than Greenblack’s LRV of 4.
While Greenblack has noticeable green undertones, Iron Ore presents a softer, more neutral charcoal appearance with subtle brown undertones.
Iron Ore creates a gentler look that some find less stark than Greenblack.
Iron Ore can appear more forgiving and less intense in rooms with limited light. Greenblack, meanwhile, brings more drama and depth to spaces where you want a stronger statement.
Both colors work well for exterior applications, but Iron Ore shows more variation in different lighting conditions, while Greenblack maintains a more consistent appearance throughout the day.
Greenblack vs. Tricorn Black
Tricorn Black (SW 6258) is Sherwin Williams’ truest black, with an LRV of 3. It is marginally darker than Greenblack.
The key difference lies in their undertones: Tricorn Black has no discernible undertones, while Greenblack has its signature green hint.
In practical terms, Tricorn Black creates a more traditional, crisp black look that works well for modern, minimalist designs. Greenblack offers more visual interest and depth, making it ideal for spaces where you want a dark color with subtle complexity.
On cabinetry, Tricorn Black delivers a cleaner, more contemporary appearance, while Greenblack adds a touch of sophistication and natural influence that many find appealing in kitchen and bathroom spaces.
Greenblack vs. Jasper & Inkwell
Jasper (SW 6216) sits firmly in the green family, unlike Greenblack, which is primarily black with green undertones. With more color saturation, Jasper appears more obviously green in most lighting conditions.
Meanwhile, Inkwell (SW 6992) contains cool blue undertones rather than green.
This gives Inkwell a slightly more contemporary feel compared to the natural, earthy quality of Greenblack.
All three colors work beautifully as accent colors, but their different undertones create distinct moods. Jasper connects more with natural, organic design schemes. Inkwell tends toward modern, cool interiors. Greenblack strikes a balance, offering versatility across multiple design styles.
Conclusion
Sherwin Williams Greenblack offers something special that pure blacks can’t match. Its subtle green undertones create depth and character while maintaining the bold impact of a dark color.
Whether you’re looking to add drama to an accent wall, create contrast with cabinetry, or make a statement on your home’s exterior, Greenback is a versatile choice that works across numerous design styles.
Remember to test a sample in your space before committing. How light interacts with this unique color varies greatly depending on your room’s exposure and existing elements.
Are you ready to try Greenblack in your home?
Start small with an accent piece or a powder room wall, and see how this distinctive color can transform your space into something truly special.
