Black grey vs Downing Earth
Where Black grey belongs to RAL Classic's range, Downing Earth is a Sherwin-Williams color. Black grey reads as blue-grey, while Downing Earth reads as greige-grey — two distinct hue families, not close cousins. Downing Earth (LRV 20) reflects noticeably more light than Black grey (LRV 6), a difference of 14 points that becomes especially apparent in rooms with limited natural light. With a ΔE of 34.9, the contrast is hard to miss. These aren't variations on a theme — they're two different answers to the same question. Below, 5 simulated room previews show how each color reads at scale — real-room photos will be added as they become available.
Color Details
Black grey vs Downing Earth Simulated Comparison
5 simulated room previews — drag the slider on each to see Black grey on one side and Downing Earth on the other.
Digital color is approximate. These simulations are generated from the manufacturer's hex values and overlaid on grayscale room photos — your screen's calibration, brightness, and viewing angle all affect how they render. Before committing to either color, test physical samples in your own space under the light you actually live with.
More Black grey comparisons
See how Black grey stacks up against other well-photographed colors across different brands and tones.
