Picking a dark paint color can be a real headache, right? Sherwin Williams Black Fox SW 7020 might just be the answer if you want depth without the harsh vibe of true black.
Black Fox is a deep, sophisticated charcoal gray with strong brown undertones and an LRV of 7. That warmth turns it into a cozy neutral that brings a touch of elegance to any room.
This color works great on kitchen cabinets, exterior siding, or just about anywhere you want a moody, refined look. It manages to feel inviting, not cold.
What’s cool about Black Fox is how it shifts all day depending on your lighting. In cool north light, it leans gray. In southern exposure, the brown undertones take center stage.
Thinking about an accent wall, a kitchen island, or maybe a whole room? Understanding these undertones and knowing what colors play nicely with Black Fox will help you nail your design.
This guide covers everything—from the nitty-gritty technical details to how Black Fox actually looks in different rooms. I’ll show you which trim colors really make it pop, compare it to other dark neutrals, and share real-life examples of how this color performs all over the house.
Key Takeaways
- Black Fox SW 7020 is a warm, dark charcoal gray with brown undertones and an LRV of 7
- The color shifts: more gray in cool light, more brown in warm light
- This flexible neutral pairs well with lighter shades like Alabaster and works in kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and even outside
What Color Is Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020?
Black Fox is a deep charcoal with brown undertones, giving you a rich neutral that doesn’t feel severe. With an LRV of 7, it sits in the black color family but doesn’t scream “black.”
Color Family
Black Fox technically belongs to the black color family, but honestly, it’s not your average black. It shows up as a soft, dark charcoal gray with brown undertones adding that needed warmth.
Some folks say Black Fox sits right between warm espresso and cool slate. Those brown undertones make it feel a lot more welcoming than a cold, flat black.
Homeowners sometimes call this one charcoal gray instead of black. The warmth makes it way easier to live with than a standard black paint.
So, if you want the drama of black without the harshness, Black Fox is a solid choice. Try it on accent walls, cabinets, or exteriors—anywhere you want a bold but classy look.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Black Fox comes with specific color codes so you can match it across different surfaces. The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is 7, which means it soaks up most of the light and gives your space a grounded, enveloping vibe.
This low LRV makes Black Fox perfect for modern or rustic designs. It adds depth and warmth but still keeps that sophisticated neutral feel.
The hex and RGB values help you keep the color consistent if you’re working with several contractors or switching up materials. You’ll get that same rich, desaturated charcoal everywhere you use it.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 Undertones
Black Fox stands out because of its rich brown undertones. Sometimes people see it as a blend of gray and brown, not just black.
The brown really warms up this dark color, so it feels softer—never stark like true black.
How the undertones show up:
- Warm lighting: Brown tones jump out
- Cool lighting: Gray takes over
- Bright sunlight: The brown warmth is obvious
Watch how it changes as the day goes on. Morning light can make it read grayer, while afternoon sun brings out those chocolatey brown notes.
Iron Ore, by comparison, has almost no undertones and feels more neutral. Black Magic skips the brown entirely and reads as pure black.
Your lighting situation will totally affect what you see. South-facing rooms with warm light show off the brown best, while north-facing spaces with cool light make the gray stand out.
The brown undertones are what keep Black Fox from feeling harsh or cold. They’re the reason it’s sometimes called a “soft black.”
That warmth plays well with wood and cream colors, and it mixes nicely with other warm neutrals too.
How Does Lighting Affect Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020?
Black Fox changes a lot depending on your lighting. Natural sunlight or artificial lighting can make those brown undertones show up—or disappear.
Natural Lighting
The direction your room faces really matters. North-facing rooms get cool, blue light, so Black Fox looks darker and grayer. The brown undertones almost vanish.
South-facing rooms are ideal. Warm yellow light lets those brown undertones shine, making the color feel inviting. This is where Black Fox looks its best.
East-facing rooms are a bit of a chameleon. In the morning, the yellow light makes it look warm and brown. By afternoon, cooler light makes it lean gray.
West-facing rooms do the opposite. You’ll see a deep gray in the morning that warms up by evening, with the brown really coming through as the sun sets.
Artificial Lighting
Your light bulbs can totally change Black Fox’s vibe. Warm bulbs (think old-school incandescent or warm LEDs) can make it look almost too brown.
Cool white bulbs balance things out, so it doesn’t get overly brown, but too much cool light can wash out the warmth that makes Black Fox interesting.
Honestly, you’ll want plenty of light with this color. With an LRV of just 7, Black Fox eats up light. More lamps and brighter bulbs will help you see its real character and keep your room from feeling like a cave.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 LRV 7 (Light Reflectance Value)
Black Fox has an LRV of 7, so it’s seriously dark and barely reflects any light back. This makes a big difference in how it looks, depending on your room and lighting.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value—basically, how much light a paint color bounces back into a space.
The scale runs from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white).
Colors with low LRV (0-30) absorb more light, making rooms feel smaller and moodier.
High LRV colors (70-100) bounce back more light, so spaces feel bigger and brighter.
You’ll usually see LRV listed on color cards. It’s handy for picking colors that play well together.
Keep LRV in mind for lighting, too. Dark colors like Black Fox need more artificial light to keep things comfortable.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 LRV Range
With an LRV of 7, Black Fox falls into the super dark territory.
It absorbs almost all the light—only 7% bounces back. That’s even darker than a lot of other popular paint colors:
- Agreeable Gray: LRV 60
- Repose Gray: LRV 58
- Iron Ore: LRV 6
- Urbane Bronze: LRV 8
If you go with Black Fox, you’ll need more lamps and overhead lights. Otherwise, things might get a bit gloomy.
Rooms with lots of natural light—especially south-facing ones—handle Black Fox much better than those with less sun.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 Coordinating Colors
Black Fox looks amazing with warm whites and earthy neutrals that highlight its brown undertones. These combos create spaces that feel both modern and genuinely welcoming.
Eider White SW 7014
Eider White is a great match for Black Fox’s depth. This soft off-white brings in warmth but never feels too stark or chilly.
The pairing works especially well in bedrooms and living rooms. Try Black Fox on an accent wall and Eider White on the rest—it adds depth without making things too dark.
Best uses:
- Trim and wall combos
- Kitchen cabinets with a contrasting island
- Bedroom accent walls
Both colors have warm undertones, so they naturally go together. Eider White’s creamy vibe fits right in with Black Fox’s brown hints.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White brings a crisp, clean contrast when you pair it with Black Fox. It’s a true white, so the combo feels modern and sharp.
Use Extra White for trim, ceilings, or built-ins if you’ve got Black Fox on your main walls. The high contrast makes every detail stand out, especially moldings and door frames.
Popular spots:
- Exterior siding and trim
- Kitchen cabinets and walls
- Bathroom vanities with white countertops
This pairing works best in rooms with decent natural light. In darker spaces, the contrast can get a bit too intense.
Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay is another winner. It adds warmth and an earthy feel that pairs beautifully with Black Fox.
Use Cavern Clay as an accent with Black Fox as your main neutral. The two work well in dining rooms, bedrooms, and living rooms.
They share similar warm undertones—think brown and earthy—so the combo feels harmonious.
Design ideas:
- Black Fox cabinets with Cavern Clay walls
- Cavern Clay accent wall alongside Black Fox furniture
- Mix both colors in a room palette
This pairing is especially nice in southwestern or modern farmhouse spaces. The colors really bring out each other’s warmth.
Trim Colors for Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020
Black Fox works best with crisp white trim that pops against its deep charcoal. The top three white trim choices all offer different degrees of warmth and brightness to match this bold neutral.
Pure White SW 7005
Pairing Pure White with Black Fox walls gives you a clean, modern vibe. The subtle warm undertones in this white keep it from feeling too stark against that deep charcoal.
These two colors really shine in contemporary spaces. You get bold contrast, but it’s not as harsh as what you’d see with cooler whites.
Pure White by Sherwin Williams SW 7005 brings just enough warmth to balance out Black Fox’s brown undertones. That little bit of coziness makes a room feel inviting, not cold.
This combo looks especially good in living rooms and bedrooms. The contrast pops, and it really helps highlight architectural details like crown molding and baseboards.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White gives you the crispest contrast with Black Fox walls. It’s Sherwin Williams’ brightest white—seriously, there are hardly any undertones here.
When you use these together, you get a bold, dramatic look. Black Fox looks even richer and deeper next to this bright white trim.
This pairing really works best in rooms flooded with natural light. In a darker space, the contrast can feel a bit much.
Extra White makes every bit of trim stand out—doorframes, window casings, moldings, you name it. The details just pop against those dark walls.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster is the warmest white option for Black Fox trim. It’s creamy, with soft beige undertones that play well with the brown in Black Fox.
The result feels softer and a bit more traditional. You get contrast, but not the stark, modern edge of brighter whites.
This combo’s great in family rooms and dining areas. The warm undertones in both shades create a welcoming, lived-in feel.
Alabaster can nudge Black Fox toward a warm brown, rather than a cool gray. That shift makes spaces feel comfortable and inviting, not dramatic or cold.
Real World Examples of Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 in Different Spaces
Black Fox pairs beautifully with a handful of complementary colors. These combos really bring out its rich brown undertones and can totally transform a room. Seeing these pairings in action helps you picture Black Fox in different lighting and decor styles.
Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams makes a perfect earth-tone match for Black Fox. They both have those brown undertones, so they feel like they belong together.
Try Black Fox on an accent wall and Urbane Bronze on the other walls. You get depth without overwhelming the room.
In dining rooms, Black Fox works well as wainscoting, with Urbane Bronze above. The effect is warm and inviting for family meals.
Kitchen Applications:
- Black Fox on lower cabinets
- Urbane Bronze on uppers
- Gives you a rich, layered look
Bedrooms feel cozy with this pairing, too. Use Black Fox for the headboard wall and Urbane Bronze on the sides—it just works.
Black Magic SW 6991
Black Magic takes things deeper and more intense than Black Fox. If you want dramatic contrast, this is the way to go.
Paint your main walls Black Fox, then use Black Magic for trim and doors. The subtle difference keeps it interesting, but not jarring.
Living rooms look especially sophisticated with Black Fox on three walls and Black Magic as an accent behind the sofa. That wall becomes a real focal point.
Recommended Uses:
- Home offices for that professional vibe
- Media rooms where you want less glare
- Powder rooms if you want to make a bold statement
Bathrooms feel spa-like with Black Fox on the walls and a Black Magic vanity. It’s moody in the best way.
Caviar SW 6990
Caviar is the darkest shade in this family. Pair it with Black Fox when you want just a hint of variation in your dark tones.
Your entryway makes a serious impression with Black Fox on the walls and Caviar on the front door. It’s sophisticated and welcoming at the same time.
In the master bedroom, try Black Fox on the main wall and Caviar for accent pieces. It creates a restful, sleep-friendly environment.
Best Room Applications:
- Libraries or reading nooks
- Wine cellars
- Formal dining rooms
Stairwells look great with this combo. Black Fox on the walls and Caviar on the handrails tie the space together between floors.
Iron Ore SW 7069
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams brings cooler undertones, which play off Black Fox’s warmth in an interesting way. The contrast adds some visual tension—it’s not boring, that’s for sure.
Try Iron Ore on exterior trim and Black Fox on the siding. From the curb, it looks sharp and modern.
Inside, Black Fox works for feature walls, while Iron Ore can go on adjacent walls. That balance keeps things from feeling too warm or too cool.
Popular Combinations:
- Black Fox fireplace with Iron Ore built-ins
- Iron Ore kitchen island, Black Fox walls
- Mix up cabinet colors in big kitchens
Bathrooms with Iron Ore vanities and Black Fox walls have a lot of depth. The temperature difference makes the design pop.
Sealskin SW 7675
Sealskin is a lighter option that still complements Black Fox nicely. If you want to lighten the mood but keep things sophisticated, this pairing’s a good bet.
Try Black Fox on the lower half of the wall, with Sealskin above the chair rail. It’s a classic look for formal dining rooms or hallways.
Home offices feel focused with Sealskin on the main walls and Black Fox behind the desk. You get a sense of purpose without too much darkness.
Ideal Applications:
- Guest bedrooms for a welcoming touch
- Breakfast nooks
- Mudrooms and utility spaces
Living rooms feel balanced with Sealskin on three walls and Black Fox on the fireplace wall. There’s warmth, but it’s not heavy.
Peppercorn SW 7674
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams is a true gray that balances out Black Fox’s brown warmth. It’s versatile—works for both modern and traditional spaces.
Your kitchen instantly looks current with Black Fox on the lowers and Peppercorn on the uppers. That two-tone style keeps things visually interesting but still classy.
In bedrooms, Peppercorn on the main walls with Black Fox as a headboard accent creates a strong focal point without overwhelming the space.
Successful Pairings:
- Open floor plans for smooth color flow
- Bathrooms with a mix of materials
- Home gyms or workout spaces
Living areas benefit from Peppercorn walls and Black Fox built-ins. Architectural features stand out, but the look stays balanced.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams is perfect if you want a light contrast to Black Fox’s depth. The high-contrast pairing delivers drama and a touch of sophistication.
Use Black Fox on accent walls and Alabaster everywhere else. That way, smaller rooms don’t feel overwhelmed by dark colors, but you still get impact.
The kitchen looks amazing with a Black Fox island and Alabaster perimeter cabinets. That combo really defines the space.
Classic Applications:
- Formal living rooms
- Master bedroom suites
- Powder rooms where you want maximum impact
Bathrooms shine with Black Fox on the vanity wall and Alabaster on the rest. Fixtures and mirrors really stand out with this contrast.
Trim in Alabaster against Black Fox walls gives you crisp, clean lines. This combo fits in both modern and traditional homes.
Comparing Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 to Similar Colors
Black Fox stands out among dark neutrals thanks to its warm brown undertones and medium depth. Comparing it with similar colors helps you see how lighting, undertones, and room size can change your experience with these paints.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 vs Naval SW 6244
Naval is a deep navy blue that can look almost black in low light. Instead of Black Fox’s warm brown base, Naval has cool blue undertones.
Black Fox feels cozier in most rooms. Naval, on the other hand, brings a formal, sophisticated look—especially in dining rooms or home offices.
Light Response:
- Black Fox stays pretty consistent in different lighting
- Naval shifts from blue to nearly black depending on the light
- Both are deep, but their undertones make them feel very different
Naval pairs best with whites and creams, while Black Fox looks great with warm beiges and soft grays. The amount of natural light in your room will probably help you decide which one to go for.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 vs Redend Point SW 9081
Redend Point is deeper and darker than Black Fox, with stronger gray undertones and less brown warmth.
This makes Redend Point feel more modern and sleek, while Black Fox is a bit more approachable and lived-in.
Key Differences:
- Depth: Redend Point is noticeably darker
- Undertones: Redend Point leans gray, Black Fox leans brown
- Mood: Redend Point is dramatic, Black Fox is cozy
Redend Point works best in big rooms with lots of light. Black Fox doesn’t feel as heavy, so it’s better for smaller spaces. Both make great accent walls, but Redend Point is bolder.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 vs Stardew SW 9138
Stardew is a blue-gray that can change a lot depending on the light. It’s lighter than Black Fox and always has cool undertones.
Black Fox is more predictable throughout the day. Stardew might look blue in the morning and gray by evening.
Flexibility Comparison:
- Black Fox works with both warm and neutral decor
- Stardew needs cool-toned furnishings to really work
- Black Fox is probably easier for beginners
Stardew gives a room an airy, open vibe, even though it’s not a super light color. Black Fox brings in warmth and intimacy. If you like a color that shifts with the light, Stardew’s your pick. If you want something reliably warm, go with Black Fox.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 vs Retreat SW 6207
Retreat is a soft blue-gray that’s much lighter than Black Fox. It creates a calming, spa-like feel in any room.
These two colors serve different purposes. Retreat opens up small spaces and feels peaceful, while Black Fox adds drama and coziness.
Best Uses:
- Retreat: Bedrooms, bathrooms, open floor plans
- Black Fox: Dining rooms, accent walls, cozy spots
Retreat reflects more light, making rooms feel bigger. Black Fox absorbs light, so spaces feel more intimate. You can even use them together: Retreat on most walls, Black Fox as an accent.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 vs Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray stands out as a light gray with a touch of warmth. It’s definitely much lighter than Black Fox, but they both have a bit of cozy undertone.
You can use these two together in the same room without much fuss. Repose Gray works great as the main wall color, and Black Fox makes a striking accent.
Practical Pairing:
- Paint three walls in Repose Gray
- Use Black Fox for one accent wall
- Both shades have warm undertones, so they really blend together easily
Repose Gray brightens up any space and fits with almost any decor. Black Fox steps in to add depth and a bit of drama, but it won’t overpower the room.
You get a nice mix of light and dark, keeping things balanced and interesting.
Complementary Colors to Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020
Black Fox works with both warm and cool tones, so you can pull off some pretty balanced color combos. These five complementary shades each give a different vibe, depending on what you’re after.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 with Naval SW 6244
Black Fox and Naval together? That’s a bold, sophisticated duo. Naval by Sherwin Williams SW 6244 brings in deep navy richness that really plays off Black Fox’s brownish undertones.
This combo fits right in whether your space is modern or more classic. Try Black Fox on an accent wall and Naval on the rest for extra depth.
Color Temperature Balance:
- Black Fox: Warm charcoal, a little brown in there
- Naval: Cool, deep navy blue
- Result: You get contrast, but nothing feels jarring
This pairing really shines in dining rooms and home offices. Naval’s blue keeps things from getting too heavy next to Black Fox.
If you want to mix it up, use Black Fox for trim and Naval for the walls. It flips the usual script and gives a modern, gutsy look.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 with Redend Point SW 9081
Redend Point brings warmth that offsets Black Fox’s cooler side. This earthy red-brown feels cozy and grounded—almost like a hug from the room.
Together, they look natural and organic. Black Fox gives you depth, Redend Point brings heat, and neither one fights for attention.
Best Applications:
- Living rooms with lots of wood
- Rustic kitchens
- Cozy bedrooms
- Home libraries
Try Black Fox on built-ins or cabinets, then go with Redend Point for the walls. The contrast makes architectural details pop, but everything still feels warm.
Natural materials like wood floors, stone, and leather just fit right in with these colors. The overall vibe is a bit cabin-like, but not in a kitschy way—just comfortable and stylish.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 with Stardew SW 9138
Stardew brings a soft blue-green that chills out Black Fox’s moody presence. It’s a gentle color, and it lightens things up without making the space feel cold.
The combo gives off spa-like energy. Black Fox keeps you grounded, while Stardew refreshes the space.
Perfect Room Combinations:
- Master bedrooms
- Bathrooms
- Meditation spaces
- Reading nooks
In a kitchen, try Black Fox on the lower cabinets and Stardew up top. It’s visually interesting and still feels cohesive.
White trim and natural textures—think linen or raw wood—pair beautifully with these shades. Stardew’s muted vibe keeps things from feeling too bold, so you get drama and calm all at once.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 with Retreat SW 6207
Black Fox and Retreat together just feel like a walk in the woods—modern, but timeless. Retreat by Sherwin Williams SW 6207 brings in cool green tones that balance out Black Fox’s warmth.
This combo brings the outdoors inside. Retreat’s blue-gray undertones sit comfortably next to Black Fox’s brown notes.
Design Applications:
- Feature walls in living rooms
- Kitchen islands and cabinets
- Bedroom accent walls
- Home office spaces
Try Black Fox for lower details like wainscoting, with Retreat above. It grounds the room but keeps everything airy.
Brass hardware and natural stone work especially well with these colors, tying everything together.
Retreat softens Black Fox’s intensity, so you end up with a sophisticated space that doesn’t feel too dark or heavy.
Black Fox by Sherwin Williams SW 7020 with Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray brings a neutral calm that balances Black Fox’s bold vibe. This warm gray gives your space some breathing room but keeps things looking sharp.
The combo just works—no fuss, no trend-chasing. Repose Gray lets Black Fox take center stage without overpowering the room.
Ideal Color Distribution:
- Black Fox: 20-30% (accent walls, trim, furniture)
- Repose Gray: 60-70% (main walls, larger surfaces)
- White: 10% (ceiling, bright accents)
You can pull this pairing into any style, really. Whether you lean farmhouse or go for a more modern look, both colors hold their own.
Stick with Black Fox as an accent and let Repose Gray cover most of the walls. That way, your space feels open and you still get that contrast.
Honestly, it goes with just about any accent color—warm or cool. You can swap out throw pillows or art with the seasons and skip the hassle of repainting.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.