Tricorn Black

Overview

Tricorn Black (SW 6258) by Sherwin-Williams is a rich, sophisticated black with a polished, timeless appearance. Its hex value is #2F2F30, reflecting its deep charcoal-black character. Unlike softer charcoal colors, Tricorn Black delivers a strong visual statement while remaining versatile enough for traditional, modern, farmhouse, and contemporary homes.

This is not a faded or washed-out black. It reads as a confidently dark color, making it especially effective for creating contrast, emphasizing architectural details, or giving a room a more dramatic sense of depth. Because it absorbs significant light, thoughtful preparation and proper lighting are important when using it indoors.

Undertones

Tricorn Black is widely regarded as one of Sherwin-Williams’ most neutral black paint colors. It does not strongly lean toward brown, green, or blue, which helps it coordinate with a broad range of finishes and color palettes. However, surrounding colors and lighting can influence how it appears.

In a room with cool daylight, Tricorn Black may feel slightly cooler and more graphic. Under warm lighting, it can appear softer and more inviting. Always review a large sample in the actual space before painting, since black shades can look noticeably different throughout the day.

Best Rooms

Tricorn Black can work beautifully in dining rooms, offices, bedrooms, entryways, and powder rooms. In a dining room or study, it creates an intimate, tailored atmosphere. In a bedroom, it can provide a dramatic backdrop for lighter bedding, natural wood, brass, or soft textiles.

For smaller rooms, use it selectively on one accent wall, built-ins, or architectural features if you want contrast without making the space feel too enclosed. In larger, well-lit rooms, painting all four walls can create a sophisticated, enveloping effect.

Cabinets

Tricorn Black is an excellent cabinet color for kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and home bars. Black cabinetry adds definition and pairs especially well with marble, quartz, butcher block, light tile, and warm wood flooring. It can also give older cabinets a modern, updated appearance when the surfaces are properly repaired, cleaned, primed, and finished.

For the most durable result, use a professional-grade cabinet coating and an appropriate sheen. A satin or semi-gloss finish is often practical because it provides a balance of cleanability and understated elegance.

Exterior Use

On exteriors, Tricorn Black is a popular choice for front doors, shutters, garage doors, trim, and modern siding accents. It creates strong curb appeal and pairs well with brick, stone, white siding, warm wood, and natural landscaping.

Because dark paint colors absorb more heat and sunlight, surface condition and product selection matter. Exterior substrates should be properly prepared, and the paint system should be chosen for the specific material and exposure. On full exterior walls, consider how much direct sunlight the home receives and test the color at different times of day.

Trim Pairings

For crisp contrast, pair Tricorn Black with bright whites such as Pure White (SW 7005) or Extra White (SW 7006). Alabaster (SW 7008) creates a softer, warmer combination. Light greiges and warm neutrals can provide a more relaxed transition while still allowing the black to stand out.

Coordinating Colors

Tricorn Black coordinates well with Agreeable Gray (SW 7029), Repose Gray (SW 7015), Accessible Beige (SW 7036), and Shoji White (SW 7042). Natural greens, muted blues, terracotta, brass, matte black, and warm wood tones also complement its neutral depth.

Call to Action

Ready to use Tricorn Black in your home? STRIPES PAINTING CO. can help with color planning, surface preparation, and a professional finish. Contact us today to schedule your free estimate.