Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams works in all sorts of rooms and styles. This deep shade mixes blue and gray, so you get a color that’s calm but still bold.
Charcoal Blue SW 2739 is a dark navy blue with gray undertones and an LRV of 6. It’s a rich color that soaks up most light and adds real depth to any space.
The color changes a bit depending on your lighting. Artificial light brings out its richness, while daylight makes it feel more subtle. Try it on accent walls, cabinets, or even all four walls if you want a modern but timeless vibe.
This paint pairs nicely with soft whites and warm neutrals for a balanced look. You can go bolder by mixing it with darker colors or add contrast with warmer tones. Whether you’re after a cozy bedroom or a chic living room, Charcoal Blue brings plenty of depth and character.
Key Takeaways
- Charcoal Blue is a deep navy with gray undertones, LRV 6, and absorbs most light
- The color shifts in different lighting and suits both modern and traditional spaces
- It pairs well with soft whites, warm neutrals, and both cool and warm accents
What Color Is Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739?
Charcoal Blue is a deep blue-gray paint, mixing rich blue with a touch of gray. It sits right between navy and slate, so it feels bold but still calm.
Color Family
This color belongs to the blue family, but it’s not your basic blue. Sherwin Williams blended deep blue with charcoal gray, giving it a more grounded, muted look. It definitely leans cool.
The blue undertones define it, but the gray keeps things from getting too bright. When sunlight hits, you’ll probably see more blue. In dimmer rooms, the gray stands out.
If you want something darker than regular blue but not as heavy as navy, this is a solid choice. It adds depth without being too much.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Here’s the technical stuff if you need to match Charcoal Blue exactly. The HEX code is #3D4450—handy for digital design. RGB values are 61, 68, 80 (red, green, blue).
The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is 6%, which lands it firmly in the dark category. It’ll absorb most light, so your room feels cozy and intimate. Good lighting is a must with this shade.
| Color Code | Value |
|---|---|
| HEX | #3D4450 |
| RGB | 61, 68, 80 |
| LRV | 6% |
Real World Examples of Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 in Different Spaces
Charcoal Blue fits in so many rooms because it balances boldness with calm. This deep blue-gray shade brings character to bathrooms, bedrooms, front doors, home offices, whole houses, kitchen cabinets, and living rooms.
Bathrooms
Charcoal Blue turns bathrooms into spa-like retreats. Try it on all four walls in a powder room for a bold look, especially with brass or gold fixtures.
It looks great with white subway tile or marble counters. Or just paint the vanity cabinets for a touch of luxury.
In small bathrooms, use it on one accent wall behind the mirror. That way, it won’t feel too dark or boxed in.
White towels and accessories really pop against these walls. Since the color absorbs light, you’ll want to add extra lighting.
Bedrooms
Paint the wall behind your headboard in Charcoal Blue and your bedroom instantly feels more peaceful. It’s dramatic, but not overwhelming.
White bedding and neutral furniture look crisp against it. Wood nightstands or brass lamps add warmth.
If your bedroom gets lots of sunlight, go ahead and paint all the walls. It creates a cozy, sleep-friendly vibe.
Gray or white blackout curtains work well here. Stick to lighter rugs and art for balance.
Front Doors
Charcoal Blue makes a front door stand out right away. It looks good with brick, beige siding, white exteriors, and even gray stone.
The blue undertones pop more on exterior doors, thanks to natural light. Sunlight really brings out the richness.
Pair it with brass or nickel hardware for polish. White trim adds a crisp frame.
This color suits everything from Victorian to Modern Farmhouse and Craftsman homes. Your front door becomes a real focal point.
Home Offices
Charcoal Blue helps you focus in a home office without making it feel cold. It’s professional but not stiff.
Try painting three walls blue and leaving one white for a lighter touch. It keeps things interesting without making the room too dark for work.
White or light wood shelves look sharp against this color. Your books and supplies will stand out.
Add warm task lighting to your desk. Since the color’s LRV is low, you’ll need extra light—think floor lamps or pendants.
Houses
Some people use Charcoal Blue throughout their whole house to tie rooms together. Try it on all interior doors for flow.
It works in hallways too, especially with white baseboards and crown molding. Those spaces suddenly feel more interesting.
Beachside villas and ocean-view homes use Charcoal Blue for a touch of coastal elegance. It connects interiors with the water outside.
On exterior siding, the color appears a bit lighter and warmer. White window frames and trim help your home’s details stand out.
Kitchen Cabinets
Charcoal Blue cabinets bring a modern, upscale look to kitchens. It’s a great way to upgrade builder-grade spaces.
Pair them with white marble or quartz counters. Brass, rose gold, or chrome hardware all work for pulls and handles.
Try white uppers and Charcoal Blue lowers for a two-tone effect. This keeps things open but adds depth.
A white subway tile backsplash balances out the dark cabinets. Make sure your kitchen lighting is solid—overhead and under-cabinet lights help.
Living Rooms
Charcoal Blue adds sophistication to living rooms. It’s especially good in double-height spaces or rooms with big windows, so things don’t feel cramped.
Use it on one accent wall behind your sofa or fireplace for drama. White brick or black marble around a fireplace looks fantastic with it.
Pair the walls with cream or beige furniture. Gold light fixtures and frames add warmth to the cool blue.
Warm-toned hardwood floors look amazing with Charcoal Blue. Layer in white, gray, or cream rugs to soften things up.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 Undertones
Charcoal Blue has gray undertones that keep it grounded and muted. This stops the color from looking too bright or harsh like some navies.
The gray makes it feel more neutral and easier to use. You’ll notice how the blue stays calm and sophisticated, not too loud.
Key Undertone Characteristics:
- Primary undertone: Gray
- Secondary notes: Cool blue
- Effect: Blue-gray appearance
Depending on your lighting, the color can shift a bit. Daylight brings out the gray, while artificial light at night makes the blue richer.
This mix of undertones lets Charcoal Blue fit into both modern and traditional rooms. The gray keeps things from feeling nautical, and the blue stops it from going flat.
No red or brown undertones here—this paint color stays cool, so it pairs well with other cool neutrals and blues.
How Does Lighting Affect Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739?
Lighting can really change Charcoal Blue. Sometimes it looks richer and more blue, other times it’s softer and grayer—depends on your light source. Since it’s deep and absorbs light, your lighting choices matter a lot.
Natural Lighting
In rooms with plenty of natural light, Charcoal Blue shows off its gray undertones and feels more subdued. During bright midday, it looks lighter and less intense.
North-facing rooms make it cooler and grayer because of the blue cast. South-facing rooms help it feel a bit warmer and not quite as dark.
Time of day matters too. Morning light softens the color, while afternoon and evening light can warm it up a touch.
If your room lacks natural light, this color’s low LRV makes it look very dark and can shrink the space.
Artificial Lighting
Warm bulbs (incandescent or warm LEDs) bring out the blue and make Charcoal Blue look richer. This gives the room a cozy feel.
Cool bulbs (daylight or fluorescent) emphasize the gray, so the walls look more charcoal than blue.
The bulb’s brightness matters too. Dimmer lights make the color more dramatic, while bright bulbs help it feel less heavy.
Using several light sources creates a balanced look and keeps the color from falling flat.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 LRV 6 (Light Reflectance Value)
Charcoal Blue has an LRV of 6, so it’s a dark color that absorbs most light. This makes walls feel closer and gives your space a cozy vibe.
What Is LRV?
LRV means Light Reflectance Value. It tells you how much light a paint color reflects or absorbs, from 0 (black) to 100 (white).
Paints usually fall somewhere in between. Below 10 is very dark; above 50 is light and bright.
Knowing LRV helps you figure out how a color will impact your room’s brightness and which colors will play nicely together.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 LRV Range
Charcoal Blue lands deep in the dark range of paint colors, with an LRV of just 6. Your walls will absorb about 94% of the light that hits them, so only 6% bounces back into the room.
If you go with Charcoal Blue, you’ll want to have solid lighting. Natural light from windows helps, but you’ll probably need extra lamps or overhead lights to avoid a cave-like vibe.
This color really shines as an accent wall. Painting all four walls in Charcoal Blue will shrink the space and make it feel more closed in. Pair it with lighter colors like white or beige for a balanced look.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 Coordinating Colors
Charcoal Blue plays best with soft neutrals that can handle its richness. Warm whites and gentle grays brighten things up while letting this moody blue-gray stay the star of the show.
Creamy SW 7012
Creamy is a warm, soft white that just works with Charcoal Blue. Its subtle yellow undertones bring warmth, so it doesn’t look too stark or cold.
When you put Creamy next to Charcoal Blue, the contrast really pops. Creamy’s warmth softens Charcoal Blue’s cool, deep vibe, making the room feel cozy and welcoming.
You might paint most walls in Creamy and use Charcoal Blue for an accent wall or cabinets. Or try Creamy on trim and ceilings to lift up a Charcoal Blue space. Bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens—it fits just about anywhere.
Creamy’s LRV is 55, so it reflects a fair amount of light and helps counterbalance Charcoal Blue’s darkness.
Gossamer Veil SW 9165
Gossamer Veil is a super light, cool gray with just a touch of blue. It makes a smooth transition when you pair it with Charcoal Blue.
That hint of blue in Gossamer Veil connects with Charcoal Blue, so the combo feels intentional and pulled together.
This pair works in both modern and traditional spaces. Try Gossamer Veil on the main walls and Charcoal Blue on a feature wall or built-ins. Or use them in adjacent rooms to keep things flowing.
With an LRV of 72, Gossamer Veil is light and airy. It keeps rooms open when you bring in darker Charcoal Blue accents.
Moonlit Orchid SW 9153
Moonlit Orchid is a quiet, muted purple-gray that brings a little surprise when you match it with Charcoal Blue. Its cool undertones play nicely with the blue-gray side of Charcoal Blue.
Pairing Moonlit Orchid with Charcoal Blue sets a calming, layered mood. The purple adds depth but doesn’t steal the spotlight. It feels a bit creative and definitely sophisticated.
Try Moonlit Orchid in bedrooms or bathrooms with Charcoal Blue accents, or flip it—Moonlit Orchid on the walls, Charcoal Blue in the furniture or accessories. This combo just feels peaceful and relaxed.
Moonlit Orchid’s LRV is 63, so it lands between light and medium. It helps bridge the gap between Charcoal Blue and lighter accents.
Trim Colors for Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739
White trim really pops against Charcoal Blue’s deep blue-gray. Picking the right white helps balance the dark walls and keeps the room from feeling boxed in. Clean contrast, anyone?
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White is a soft, warm white that won’t make your trim look too harsh next to Charcoal Blue. Its warm undertones keep things cozy, not clinical. The two colors just get along.
Your trim stands out, but not in a jarring way. This combo works in bedrooms and living rooms where you want a snug feel. Pure White’s LRV is 84, so it bounces a lot of light around and keeps the space from feeling gloomy.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White is brighter and crisper than Pure White, with cool undertones for a modern look. If you want sharp contrast and a fresh vibe, this is your trim color.
The bright white makes Charcoal Blue walls look even richer. Extra White’s LRV is 86, so it’s one of the brightest whites Sherwin Williams offers. It’s great for kitchens, bathrooms, or home offices where you want everything to feel clean and current.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster is a soft off-white with gentle warm undertones. It’s not as bright as Pure White or Extra White, so you get a softer transition from Charcoal Blue walls.
With an LRV of 82, Alabaster still reflects plenty of light but keeps the mood warm. The undertones help balance out Charcoal Blue’s coolness. This pairing feels calm and easygoing.
Comparing Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 to Similar Colors
Charcoal Blue sits somewhere between deep navy and gray-blue. Knowing how it stacks up against similar shades can help you pick the right tone.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 vs Naval SW 6244
Naval is darker and bolder than Charcoal Blue. Its LRV is 4, while Charcoal Blue’s is 6, so Naval soaks up even more light and gives you a deeper, moodier effect.
Charcoal Blue has more gray, making it feel softer and a bit more neutral. Naval is a true navy, with less gray muddling things up.
Naval looks classic and intense, perfect for a traditional navy vibe. Charcoal Blue is more modern and subtle, reading as blue-gray instead of straight blue.
Both work with white trim and warm metals. But Naval needs careful lighting or it can swallow a small room.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 vs Indigo Batik SW 7602
Indigo Batik leans more purple and jewel-toned, so it feels richer and more saturated than Charcoal Blue’s muted style.
Both have an LRV around 6, but Indigo Batik’s indigo undertones make it a totally different beast. Charcoal Blue is restrained and sophisticated; Indigo Batik is bold and a bit artsy.
Charcoal Blue keeps things cool and neutral. Indigo Batik can shift between blue and purple, depending on your lighting. It’s more dynamic, for sure.
If you want something versatile, go Charcoal Blue. If you want a statement, Indigo Batik is your color.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 vs Peppercorn SW 7674
Peppercorn is a warm charcoal gray without the blue you get in Charcoal Blue. Its LRV is 10, so it reflects more light and looks lighter on your walls.
Charcoal Blue reads as blue-gray, while Peppercorn sticks with gray. Peppercorn’s warm brown undertones make it feel earthy and grounded.
Peppercorn is more forgiving in low-light spaces. It holds its own without getting too dark. Charcoal Blue can get moody and closed-in in the same conditions.
Peppercorn plays nicely with both warm and cool colors. Charcoal Blue’s blue undertones mean you’ll need to coordinate a bit more carefully.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 vs Blue Chip SW 6959
Blue Chip is a lighter, brighter blue-gray with an LRV around 20, which is much higher than Charcoal Blue. It’s great if you want a space to feel open and airy.
Charcoal Blue brings drama and depth, while Blue Chip is all about freshness. Blue Chip’s blue is obvious, where Charcoal Blue’s is subtle and muted.
You can use Blue Chip in small rooms without worrying about them feeling tight. Charcoal Blue needs more space and light to really work.
Blue Chip fits casual spaces like bathrooms or bedrooms. Charcoal Blue feels more formal and polished, perfect for living rooms or home offices.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 vs Iron Ore SW 7069
Iron Ore is a dark gray with an LRV of 6, just like Charcoal Blue. But Iron Ore is almost black-gray, with barely any color undertones.
Charcoal Blue’s blue-gray makes it softer. Iron Ore stays neutral and works with just about any palette since it doesn’t lean blue or warm.
Natural light brings out the blue in Charcoal Blue. Iron Ore stays dark and neutral no matter what.
Iron Ore’s perfect if you want a dark wall without committing to a color. Charcoal Blue is for those who want blue, but not in a bright or traditional way.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 vs Black Fox SW 7020
Black Fox is a warm gray-black with brown undertones and an LRV of 8. It’s a bit lighter than Charcoal Blue, and definitely warmer.
Charcoal Blue keeps its cool blue-gray vibe all day. Black Fox shifts toward brown-gray, especially under warm lights, making things feel cozy.
Black Fox feels grounded and earthy. Charcoal Blue stays crisp and modern, which fits contemporary spaces better.
Black Fox looks great with warm woods and earthy colors. Charcoal Blue pairs best with cool grays, whites, and metallics for a sleeker look.
Complementary Colors to Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739
Charcoal Blue looks amazing when you pair it with warm corals, fresh greens, or other blues. These combos either contrast its cool depth or play up its sophisticated side, adding personality and balance.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 with Coral Clay SW 9005
Coral Clay brings a warm, earthy orange that really pops against Charcoal Blue. The warmth of Coral Clay balances the coolness of Charcoal Blue, so the space feels both lively and grounded.
Try Charcoal Blue on your main walls and add Coral Clay with throw pillows, art, or maybe just one accent wall. Coral warms things up without overpowering the blue’s sophistication.
This pairing works especially well where you want some visual punch, like living rooms or bedrooms. The contrast keeps things interesting and adds depth. It feels modern, but not trendy in a way that’ll get old fast.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 with Rejuvenate SW 6620
Rejuvenate is a soft, muted green that brings out Charcoal Blue’s cool undertones and adds a fresh, natural vibe. The combo feels calming—almost spa-like—and a bit refined.
Rejuvenate doesn’t fight with Charcoal Blue; it just enhances the depth. Use Rejuvenate on nearby walls, in fabrics, or through plants and art. It’s especially nice in bathrooms or bedrooms.
Since both colors share similar undertones, they blend without any harsh contrasts. The space looks cohesive and thoughtfully put together. If you prefer subtle, nature-inspired palettes over bold ones, this duo’s for you.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 with Ripe Olive SW 6209
Ripe Olive brings in a deeper, more saturated green that stands out next to Charcoal Blue. Together, they create a layered look that feels both traditional and a bit modern.
You’ll see how Ripe Olive’s warm undertones pop against Charcoal Blue’s cooler base. The result? A dynamic pairing that isn’t too much. Try Ripe Olive on cabinetry, built-in shelves, or as an accent wall with Charcoal Blue elsewhere.
This duo really shines in home offices, dining rooms, or kitchens. The look feels grounded and sophisticated—just right for spaces where you want to make a bit of a statement.
Since both colors have similar depth, you’ll notice a nice visual balance in the room.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 with Rainwashed SW 6211
Rainwashed offers a light, airy blue-green that softens Charcoal Blue’s intensity. Pairing them gives your space a calm, layered effect.
The subtle green in Rainwashed works with the blue in Charcoal Blue, lightening the vibe. Use Rainwashed on ceilings, trim, or in nearby rooms if you want a sense of flow.
This combo is handy if you love Charcoal Blue but worry about darkness. Rainwashed bounces light around and makes things feel more open.
Your space gets a nice balance between drama and serenity—pretty ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms where you want a peaceful mood.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 with Waterscape SW 6470
Waterscape is a medium blue-green that plays well with Charcoal Blue’s cool undertones. These two create an easy, natural color flow.
Waterscape lets you add tonal variation without harsh contrast. Since it’s lighter, it brightens spots where Charcoal Blue could feel too heavy.
Try Charcoal Blue in a den or reading nook, then use Waterscape in a nearby hallway. They define separate areas but still feel connected.
This pairing brings a bit of a coastal or nature-inspired vibe—great for a relaxing space at home.
Charcoal Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 2739 with Indigo Batik SW 7602
Indigo Batik gives you a deeper, more saturated blue. It creates a dramatic monochromatic vibe when you pair it with Charcoal Blue.
If you want to go bold and moody without throwing in contrasting colors, this combo totally fits the bill.
The two blues bring out slightly different undertones. Indigo Batik leans a bit more purple, which adds a quiet complexity and keeps things interesting.
You can layer these shades with paint, textiles, or even accessories. The result? A rich, enveloping effect that feels pretty luxe without trying too hard.
This pairing shines on accent walls or feature spaces. It’s also great for rooms where you want maximum drama.
Both colors have enough depth to create an intimate, cocoon-like atmosphere. Your space ends up feeling intentional and sophisticated—especially if you balance things out with lighter neutrals in your furniture or decor.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.