RAL 8022 Black Brown — Hex, RGB, LRV, and Best US Paint Matches
RAL 8022 Black Brown hex #212121 · LRV 3. Closest matches at Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar.
Color spec
| Hex | #212121 |
| RGB | 33, 33, 33 |
| LRV | ~3 |
| RAL Classic | RAL 8022 |
Also known as / near matches
RAL 8022, known as Black Brown, is a profoundly deep hue that expertly bridges the gap between a true, stark black and a rich, earthy brown. It’s often conceptually close to a very dark espresso or a muted charcoal with a warm heart, distinguishing itself from cooler, bluer blacks or grayer tones. While not explicitly a Pantone match, it aligns with the sensory experience of a deeply saturated, warm-toned black, making it a sophisticated choice for those seeking depth without harshness.
What it looks like in real life
This color sits as a quiet, enveloping anchor, never a stark presence. In north-facing light, it reveals its brown undertone with a gentle softness, preventing it from feeling oppressive or cold. It reads as a deeply muted charcoal with a comforting warmth, absorbing light rather than reflecting it, creating a sense of intimate enclosure. The low LRV of 3 demands intentional lighting, as it will otherwise recede into a shadowy void.
Closest matches at US paint brands
Closest matches at US paint brands
| Color | Brand | Name | SKU | LRV | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valspar | Vintage Black | 4011-3 | 3 | — | |
| Dunn-Edwards | Black | DEA187 | 3 | — | |
| Behr | Black | PPU18-20 | 3 | — | |
| Benjamin Moore | Black | 2132-10 | 3 | — | |
| PPG / Glidden | Glidden Onyx Black | GLN-1 | 3 | — | |
| Kompozit | Silent Sea | 0515 | 2 | — | |
| Sherwin-Williams | Caviar | SW 6990 | 3 | — | |
| Magnolia Home | Coal | JG-040 | 3 | — | |
| Pratt & Lambert | Black Lacquer | 32-2 | 3 | — | |
| Clare | Headspace | Clare 18 | 3 | — | |
| Backdrop | Hocus Pocus | BD-HP | 3 | — | |
| Farrow & Ball | Pitch Black | No. 256 | 5 | — |
In south-facing rooms or under bright artificial light, RAL 8022 Black Brown achieves its full, profound depth, appearing as a truly rich, almost-black brown that can drape a room in sophistication. During late afternoon, as the light softens, its inherent warmth is coaxed out, allowing the brown notes to quietly emerge and offer a subtle, grounded elegance. It is a demanding color due to its low LRV, requiring careful consideration of how light interacts with its deep pigment to truly sing.
When to use this color
Great for:
- This color shines on an accent wall in a brightly lit study, creating an enveloping, sophisticated atmosphere.
- It works beautifully for kitchen cabinetry or built-ins, providing a grounded, luxurious foundation.
- Consider it for exterior window sashes or a front door, offering a deep, contrasting elegance against lighter facades.
Tricky in:
- Avoid using this color on all walls in a small room with minimal natural light, as it can feel too heavy and shrink the space.
- It can be unforgiving on highly textured walls or poorly prepared surfaces, where its low LRV will highlight every imperfection under raking light.
Pairs well with
Pairs well with
Painting tips
- Primer: For this deep color with an LRV of 3, a gray-tinted primer is essential to ensure true color development and optimal coverage.
- Sheen: A matte or flat sheen will best showcase the sophisticated depth of this color on walls, while a satin is ideal for cabinetry or trim to offer durability and a soft luster.
- Coats: Expect to apply three coats over a properly tinted primer to achieve full, uniform depth and opacity for this rich color.
- Application: For the smoothest finish on this deep hue, spraying is recommended; brush or roller marks will be noticeably evident under raking light.