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Looking for a bold, dramatic green that’s both timeless and luxurious? Benjamin Moore’s Essex Green might just be your perfect match.
This deep, moody green is one of those rare colors that feels classic and modern at the same time. With its rich tone and near-black depth, Essex Green adds instant elegance and sophistication—whether you’re painting cabinetry, a library wall, or even your home’s exterior.
In this post, I’ll break down the undertones, light reflectance value (LRV), where this color shines, what it pairs well with, and how it compares to other dark greens.
What Color is Essex Green?
Ben Moore Essex Green (HC-188) is a deep, dramatic forest green with a strong black base. It’s part of Benjamin Moore’s Historical Collection and has long been a favorite for both interiors and exteriors.
Despite its intensity, Essex Green doesn’t feel cold or stark. Instead, it brings a sense of richness and depth that makes it feel luxurious—especially when paired with natural textures like wood, leather, or brass.
LRV: 6.39
That means this is a very dark color—only a few notches above pure black. It will read very bold on a wall but can also act as a neutral backdrop when used strategically.
Where to Use Benjamin Moore Essex Green
Because of its richness, Essex Green excels in spaces where you want depth, mood, and drama. It’s especially gorgeous in rooms with good lighting, where you can really see the nuance in the color.
- Best in: Libraries, powder rooms, dining rooms, exteriors
- LRV: 6.39
- Pairs well with: Antique brass, dark walnut, crisp white trim
- Great for: Accent walls, built-ins, front doors, cabinetry
- Bonus tip: Essex Green comes alive when layered with texture. Try velvet, leather, aged brass, or wood to create a luxurious and inviting space.
Looking for more bold green shades? Check out my Best Green Paint Colors roundup.
Coordinating Colors for Essex Green
Pairing Essex Green thoughtfully can help you make the most of its depth. Here are a few combinations that work beautifully:
- Trim colors:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White (clean and bright)
- Benjamin Moore White Dove (soft and warm)
- Neutral companions:
- Benjamin Moore Pale Oak (light warm greige)
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter (classic mid-tone greige)
- BM Edgecomb Gray (light warm greige)
- Accent pairings:
- BM Amherst Gray for deep contrast
- Soft brass or antique gold metals
Need help with a whole color color scheme? Here’s some suggestions:
- Essex Green: kitchen cabinets
- BM White Dove: Doors, trim and kitchen walls
- BM Pale Oak: Living room walls
- BM Revere Pewter: Cabinets, vanities
- BM Overcast: Optional neutral
- BM Vale Mist: Optional neutral, bathroom walls or vanity color
- BM Edgecomb Gray: Optional neutral
- BM Amherst Gray: Secondary accent color, powder room walls, moody office walls.
Don’t Forget…
Don’t forget – no matter what you’ve read or photos you’ve seen online, it’s really important to sample paint colors in your home before committing!
Samplize provides real paint samples that are easy to move around your home, and cheaper than buying a gazillion paint pots! It’s the only way I buy paint samples.
Real Room Inspiration
While Essex Green is bold, it’s incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for where to use it:
- Dining Rooms: For a sophisticated dinner party backdrop—think brass chandeliers and white wainscoting.
- Libraries or Studies: Essex Green wraps a room in depth and character, especially with built-ins or paneled walls.
- Cabinetry: Perfect for kitchens or mudrooms that can handle a rich pop of color.
- Exteriors: Gorgeous with crisp white trim and historic architecture.
Essex Green vs. Other Dark Green Paint Colors
Wondering how it compares to other rich greens? Here’s how Essex Green stacks up:
BM Salamander
Salamander is even darker and has more blue-black undertones. It leans more mysterious, while Essex Green leans classic.
BM Chimichurri
Chimichurri is a slightly earthier, more mid-tone green. It has a less intense look overall, especially in low light.
SW Pewter Green
Pewter Green is lighter, softer, and more muted. It has more visible gray undertones.
Final Thoughts
Benjamin Moore Essex Green is one of those rare shades that feels rooted in tradition but still looks stunning in modern homes. It’s bold, grounding, and versatile—perfect for anyone looking to add depth and richness without veering too colorful.
It’s not for the faint of heart, but when used thoughtfully, Essex Green is pure magic.
My best advice? Always sample. Try it on multiple walls and look at it in different light throughout the day. What looks black at night might glow green in the afternoon sun.
