Charcoal, represented by the RGB values (81,77,78), belongs to the RAL Effect color collection and is designated as RAL 870-4. This deep, muted hue captures the essence of subtle sophistication, often used in design to evoke a sense of modern elegance and timelessness. Its balanced blend of dark tones makes it a versatile choice for projects seeking to convey understated luxury or refined simplicity.
Color Description
RAL 870-4 is a dark, warm grey color. It has a rich, muted tone that can be described as a deep, cool grey with a slight reddish undertone.
Undertones
The undertone of RAL 870-4 is accurately described as a red hue. This red undertone is evident when the pure hue is isolated and any tints, tones, and shades are eliminated.
Color Values
- HEX: #514D4E or #575558 (depending on the source)
- RGB: 81, 77, 78 or 87, 85, 88 (depending on the source)
- CMYK: 0, 17, 10, 90
- HSL: 280deg, 3%, 35%
Usage
- Interior Design: It is suitable for painting walls, trims, kitchen cabinets, and bedroom accent walls. It creates a sophisticated and elegant look in living spaces.
- Fashion: This color can be used in clothing to create a stylish and elegant appearance, particularly in women's fashion. It pairs well with other muted and earthy tones.
- General Design: It can be used in graphic design, packaging, and other visual communication to convey a sense of professionalism and sophistication.
Atmosphere
The color RAL 870-4 evokes a sense of elegance and sophistication. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, despite being a dark grey, due to its red undertones. This color is ideal for settings where a professional, yet cozy, ambiance is desired.
RAL Effect RAL 870-4 Color Alternative
RAL Effect RAL 870-4 finds its modern alternatives in the striking shades of Tikkurila Lair X502, Farrow and Ball Tar CC1, and Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze SW 7048. Each color offers a unique character and appeal while maintaining a cohesive modern aesthetic that complements diverse design schemes. These alternatives provide designers and architects with robust options that preserve the visual impact of RAL Effect RAL 870-4 in contemporary projects.
Bathroom
For a bathroom, RAL Effect RAL 870-4 is an excellent sophisticated choice that works well on walls to create a dramatic and elegant atmosphere when paired with lighter fixtures and accessories. It enhances the appeal of painted walls and lends a refined touch to bathroom cabinets, vanities, or shelving.
Applying this color to trim, door frames, or baseboards can help develop a cohesive and stylish look, although it is important to consider the lighting conditions in the space. Various surfaces such as tile, wood, or painted areas may display the color differently, making it essential to reference a sample before finalizing your decision.
Bedroom
For a bedroom color scheme, RAL Effect RAL 870-4 creates a sophisticated and calming atmosphere. Pairing this rich tone with lighter shades such as soft pastels or creamy whites for walls and furniture helps maintain a balanced look without overwhelming the space.
Incorporate warm hues like beige or light wood accents to enhance the room's coziness, and introduce contrast with deeper colors through bedding, curtains, or decorative items. Metallic finishes in gold or brass on lighting fixtures or hardware add elegance, while ample natural light and textured elements like rugs and throw blankets contribute depth and visual interest.
Kitchen
For a kitchen color scheme, RAL Effect RAL 870-4 is an elegant choice that enhances various design elements. It works well with cabinets, walls, and trim, while complementing lighter shades for countertops and backsplashes to create an inviting, bright atmosphere.
This color also pairs beautifully with metallic finishes such as stainless steel or chrome, adding a modern touch to the space. Additionally, when combined with earthy tones like wood accents, it achieves a harmonious blend of contemporary design and traditional warmth.
Living Room
In a living room, the color RAL Effect RAL 870-4 creates a cozy atmosphere when applied to walls and trims. Its deep, dark tone is characterized by a low light reflectance value that enriches the space with intimacy, while its look may shift depending on whether it appears on a textured surface or smooth finishes.
Because the final appearance of this hue can vary with different materials, it is important to see the color in person using a physical RAL color fan. This approach ensures an accurate perception of the shade rather than relying solely on digital screen representations.
Outdoor
RAL Effect RAL 870-4 is an attractive home outdoor color option noted for its durability and engineered performance in various exterior applications. It is offered in multiple formats such as aerosol cans, tins, and touch-up pots, with specific formulations available that include an integrated hardener to boost protection in demanding settings.
Crafted with high-quality components, this paint delivers long-lasting resilience even on high-traffic surfaces. It comes in a spectrum of finishes from muted matt to striking gloss, and can be further tailored with additives such as UV shielding and odor control. Application is enhanced by a specialized nozzle design that minimizes overspray, so testing the paint with a physical color guide is recommended for optimal accuracy.
