When selecting a deep, dark gray paint color, two top choices from Benjamin Moore are Graphite 1603 and Wrought Iron 2124-10. At first glance, these two charcoal grays can seem quite similar. But looking closer, there are noticeable differences between them that impact their aesthetics.
In this article, we’ll compare Benjamin Moore Graphite vs Wrought Iron in-depth. We’ll examine undertones, LRV, real-world photos, and best room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how these deep grays differ and which Benjamin Moore charcoal color is the ideal choice for your space.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Graphite and Wrought Iron
Before diving into all the details, here is a brief overview of how Graphite and Wrought Iron differ:
- Undertones: Graphite is a green-black, Wrought Iron is a blue-black.
- LRV: Graphite has a slightly higher LRV of 7.59, Wrought Iron is 8.17 LRV.
- Use: Graphite and Wrought Iron work well accenting focal walls.
- Rooms: Graphite excels in living rooms, Wrought Iron shines in bathrooms.
Now let’s explore Graphite vs Wrought Iron more closely!
Benjamin Moore Graphite 1603
Graphite 1603 is a gorgeous deep dark green-black paint color with subtle warmth. Its richness has broad appeal.
Here are some details about Graphite:
- LRV: 7.59
- Undertones: Green-black
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs With: Greens, browns, tans
Graphite is an intensely dark gray with the subtlest hints of deep green. This forest green influence gives it slightly more warmth than a pure black.
With an LRV of only 7.59, Graphite reflects very little light. This allows it to create serious drama and contrast wherever it’s applied. The faint greenness keeps it uplifting.
This deep charcoal gray complements earthy color schemes. Pleasing combinations include:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Benjamin Moore October Mist
- Benjamin Moore Simply White
While versatile, this dramatic green-black excels when used judiciously as an accent color in living areas, bedrooms, offices, and dining rooms.
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron 2124-10
Wrought Iron 2124-10 is a gorgeous deep dark blue-black paint color with subtle coolness. Its sleek richness has widespread appeal.
Here are some key details about Wrought Iron:
- LRV: 8.17
- Undertones: Blue-black
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, accent walls
- Pairs With: Whites, grays, blues
Wrought Iron is an intensely dark gray with the faintest hints of navy blue. This blue influence gives it a crisp, cool personality.
With an LRV of only 8.17, Wrought Iron reflects very minimal light. This allows it to make a bold dramatic statement wherever applied. The faint blueness keeps it feeling sharp.
This gorgeous blue-black complements crisp, cool color schemes. Pleasing combinations include:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Benjamin Moore Silver Gray
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
- Benjamin Moore Oxford White
While adaptable, this dramatic blue-black excels when used strategically to accent bathrooms, kitchens, and as a focal wall color.
Comparing Graphite vs Wrought Iron
Now that we’ve explored Graphite and Wrought Iron individually, let’s directly compare the two deep charcoal grays:
Light Reflectance
With LRVs of 7.59 and 8.17 respectively, Graphite and Wrought Iron reflect very little light. However, Graphite reflects slightly more than Wrought Iron.
Undertones
Here is the main difference. Graphite is a green-black while Wrought Iron is a blue-black.
Graphite has subtle warmth from faint green undertones. Wrought Iron has a crisp coolness from barely detectable navy.
Rooms
Graphite’s slight warmth pairs nicely with living rooms and bedrooms. Wrought Iron’s subtle coolness excels in bathrooms and kitchens.
Paint Finishes
Graphite and Wrought Iron come in any finish from matte to high-gloss. They provide deep, dark sophistication.
Graphite vs Wrought Iron Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of their major differences:
| Paint Color | Graphite 1603 | Wrought Iron 2124-10 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 7.59 | 8.17 |
| Undertones | Green-black | Blue-black |
| Use | Accent walls | Accent walls |
| Sheens | All finishes | All finishes |
Real Rooms Painted in Graphite and Wrought Iron
To better envision Graphite vs Wrought Iron, let’s look at real rooms painted in these deep charcoal grays:
Graphite 1603
Wrought Iron 2124-10
The images demonstrate the subtle warmth of Graphite vs the cool crispness of Wrought Iron. But their darkness can make them appear similar in some lighting.
Should You Choose Graphite or Wrought Iron?
So which deep charcoal gray paint color is the better choice for your space – rich Graphite or sleek Wrought Iron? Here are some tips for deciding:
Pick Graphite 1603 if you want:
- A deep dark gray with subtle green undertones
- A bold accent with a hint of warmth
- To add drama to living rooms and bedrooms
- A charcoal with slightly more light reflectance
Choose Wrought Iron 2124-10 if you want:
- A deep dark gray with faint cool blue undertones
- Crisp, sleek contrast for baths and kitchens
- More light absorption for maximum drama
- A blue-black bolder than basic black
If still uncertain between the two dark grays, get samples and paint large swatches on your walls. View throughout different lighting at various times before deciding.
Either Benjamin Moore charcoal you choose will provide striking elegance and contrast. But their minor differences mean one likely better suits your particular space and style goals.
Ideal Room Applications
Here are some rooms that tend to suit Graphite and Wrought Iron best:
Graphite 1603
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices/Libraries
- Entryways/Foyers
Wrought Iron 2124-10
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Dining Rooms
- Offices/Libraries
- Entryways/Foyers
Both colors work well to create drama wherever applied. But the above applications maximize their individual strengths.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Graphite and Wrought Iron make bold statements. Complement them with lighter colors for gorgeous contrast:
Graphite Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (trim/ceilings)
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter (walls)
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (furniture)
- Wood furnishings
Wrought Iron Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Oxford White (trim/cabinets)
- Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray (walls)
- Benjamin Moore White Dove (furniture)
- Brushed nickel fixtures
Graphite vs Wrought Iron – Which is Best for You?
When choosing between Graphite and Wrought Iron, consider your goals and style:
Pick Graphite 1603 if you want:
- A deep green-black charcoal for living rooms
- Subtle warmth from faint green undertones
- Slightly more light reflectance than true black
- A rich backdrop for artwork and displays
Choose Wrought Iron 2124-10 if you want:
- A deep blue-black charcoal for baths and kitchens
- Crisp coolness from barely detectable navy
- More light absorption for maximum drama
- A sleek, sharp accent color
While quite similar, the subtle undertone contrasts mean one likely better suits your space. Get samples before deciding between warm Graphite and cool Wrought Iron black.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between Graphite vs Wrought Iron? Here are answers to some common questions:
Does Graphite work well in small spaces?
Yes, Graphite can work beautifully in small spaces like powder rooms when used strategically on an accent wall. The dark color makes the space feel intimate yet elegant.
What colors complement Wrought Iron?
Wrought Iron looks gorgeous paired with clean whites, light grays, navy blues and other dark shades like black and charcoal. Crisp whites provide perfect contrast.
Which charcoal gray has a higher LRV?
With an LRV of 7.59, Graphite reflects slightly more light than the 8.17 LRV of Wrought Iron. However, both absorb a tremendous amount of light.
Can you use Wrought Iron in a bedroom?
Definitely! Using Wrought Iron strategically as an accent wall or on a headboard provides crisp, sophisticated contrast against light, airy bedroom walls and linens.
Is Graphite suitable for dining rooms?
Yes, Graphite makes a gorgeous dining room accent wall! Paired with light walls, wood dining sets, and brass accents, it creates an elegant, dramatic space for entertaining.
Conclusion
When comparing Benjamin Moore’s Graphite vs Wrought Iron paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:
- Graphite is a green-black that excels as a living room accent, providing subtle warmth.
- Wrought Iron is a blue-black ideal for kitchen and bath focal walls with its sleek coolness.
While quite similar in depth, their minor undertone variations help one suit certain spaces better. Consider your goals when choosing between rich Graphite and sleek Wrought Iron. Samples will ensure you pick the perfect deep charcoal paint color for your needs!
