Benjamin Moore Dark Olive (2140-30) is a rich, nature-inspired green that brings depth, character, and sophistication to a space. As homeowners continue to embrace earthy colors and organic design, Dark Olive has become a popular choice for creating interiors that feel grounded and timeless.
Whether used as an accent color or throughout an entire room, Dark Olive delivers a bold look without feeling overly trendy.
What Color is Benjamin Moore Dark Olive?
Dark Olive is a deep green with strong earthy influences.
Unlike bright greens that can feel energetic or playful, Dark Olive has a muted quality that makes it feel mature and refined. Its natural appearance allows it to pair beautifully with wood finishes, stone, leather, and other organic materials.
Paint Color Details:
- Color Name: Dark Olive
- Color Code: 2140-30
- Color Family: Green
- LRV: 12.55
With an LRV of 12.55, Dark Olive absorbs a significant amount of light, making it a darker color that adds depth and drama to a space.
What Are Dark Olive’s Undertones?
Dark Olive features warm green undertones balanced by subtle brown and earthy influences.
Depending on the lighting, you may notice:
- Olive green undertones
- Soft brown undertones
- Slight mossy influences
- Natural earthy depth
These undertones help the color feel grounded and sophisticated rather than overly saturated.
Is Dark Olive Warm or Cool?
Dark Olive is generally considered a warm green. While green colors can sometimes lean cool, the brown and olive undertones in this shade create warmth and make it easier to pair with traditional materials and finishes.
This warmth is one reason Dark Olive works so well in both classic and modern interiors.
Where Does Dark Olive Work Best?
- Dining Rooms: Dark Olive can create a rich and intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for dining spaces.
- Home Offices: Its depth and sophistication help create a focused and comfortable work environment.
- Accent Walls: For homeowners who love color but don’t want to commit to an entire room, Dark Olive makes a striking accent wall.
- Cabinets & Built-Ins: Dark Olive has become increasingly popular on cabinetry, bookshelves, and custom millwork, adding character without feeling overpowering.
What Colors Pair Well With Dark Olive?
Dark Olive pairs beautifully with a variety of warm and natural colors.
Warm Whites. For contrast and balance, consider:
- Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
- Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee OC-45
- Benjamin Moore Cloud White OC-130
Soft Beiges & Greiges. For a warm, layered palette:
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172
- Benjamin Moore Pale Oak OC-20
- Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173
Muted Blues. For a sophisticated color combination:
- Benjamin Moore Van Courtland Blue HC-145
- Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray HC-165
- Benjamin Moore Santorini Blue 1634
Rich Earth Tones. For a natural, organic look:
- Benjamin Moore Smokey Taupe 983
- Benjamin Moore Shaker Beige HC-45
- Benjamin Moore Grizzly Bear Brown 2111-20
What Style Homes Work Well With Dark Olive?
Dark Olive is surprisingly versatile and complements many architectural styles. It works especially well in:
- Traditional homes
- Colonial homes
- Craftsman homes
- Farmhouse interiors
- Transitional designs
You’ll often see similar green tones used in historic homes throughout neighborhoods in Queens, Brooklyn, and areas with mature landscaping where earthy colors feel especially at home.
Can Dark Olive Be Used on Exteriors?
Yes. Dark Olive can be an excellent exterior color when paired with the right trim and architectural details.
It works particularly well on:
- Front doors
- Shutters
- Exterior accents
- Garden-facing elevations
- Cottage and Craftsman-style homes
Pairing it with a warm white trim can help highlight its richness while maintaining curb appeal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering Dark Olive for your next project, stop by one of our paint shops to view color samples, speak with our paint experts, and find the right Benjamin Moore products for your home.