In partnership withBenjamin Moore

5 Dramatic Paint Colors That’ll Bring Your Home to Life

Nicole Lund
Nicole Lund
Nicole is a contributing writer who started her career at Apartment Therapy nearly 8 years ago as the assistant to founder and CEO Maxwell Ryan. She ultimately joined the shopping team as Apartment Therapy's commerce editor, before moving on to MyDomaine's commerce team. She was…read more
published Jun 24, 2025
Cozy bedroom featuring a wooden bed with striped bedding, colorful pillows, and a decorative red throw.
Credit: Benjamin Moore
Left wall: Etiquette AF–50, Ben® Interior Paint, Matte
Walls: Wenge AF–180, Ben® Interior Paint, Matte

Light neutrals have been tried and true interior paint colors for decades, and it’s tempting to stick with them when you paint your home. While using a bolder color can feel like a big leap of faith, let us assure you: The perfect deep, dramatic paint color can be highly rewarding. It creates an air of sophistication and can make your space distinctive and memorable.

Selecting a paint color can be challenging, but choosing one that’s bold is even tougher. That’s why we rounded up our favorite dark and moody Benjamin Moore® paint colors that make a statement.

Credit: Benjamin Moore

1. Velvet Cloak CSP–480

Purple has long been associated with royalty, and this deep violet hue is guaranteed to make your space feel more regal. Use Velvet Cloak CSP–480 to bring library vibes to a living room or den, or turn your bedroom into a cozy, stylish sanctuary.

Credit: Benjamin Moore

2. Soot 2129–20

Black walls might seem intimidating, but Soot 2129–20 has notes of blue to give it a bit of depth and make it more approachable. Combine it with colorful accent pieces for added contrast, or lean in and go all dark in a media room, bedroom, or bathroom.

Credit: Benjamin Moore

3. Dinner Party AF–300

This muted red hue is nothing if not dynamic. In natural light, Dinner Party AF–300 is an energizing choice for kitchens and dining rooms; at night, it creates a warm, intimate vibe that’s a perfect backdrop for stimulating conversation.

Credit: Benjamin Moore

4. Wenge AF–180

Brown is a classic neutral for a reason, but why not elevate it by going a bit darker? Wenge AF–180 is a gorgeous chocolatey hue with undertones of black and violet, creating a vibe that’s much more glamorous and unexpected.

Credit: Benjamin Moore

5. Salamander 2050–10

Calm, cool, and surprisingly versatile, this dark teal hue adds instant character to any space. In a bedroom, Salamander 2050–10 creates serene vibes for peaceful slumbers; in a living room, it’s an elegant canvas for a variety of decor schemes.

Once you find the perfect shade, seal the deal by choosing the right Benjamin Moore paint formula for your space and needs. You can’t go wrong with Regal® Select Interior, a premium line trusted by generations of painters. It offers top-notch scuff- and stain-resistance that’s perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms.