Benjamin Moore Nicolson Green (CW-500) is a deep green that delivers elegance and unmistakable character. As part of the Williamsburg Paint Color Collection, this historic color was inspired by the palettes found throughout Colonial Williamsburg, making it an excellent choice for both classic and updated homes.
Benjamin Moore describes Nicolson Green as “a deep green that suggests wisdom and maturity” with “velvety richness.” Its muted depth gives it a refined appearance that feels luxurious without being flashy.
What Color Is Benjamin Moore Nicolson Green?
Benjamin Moore Nicolson Green is a dark, earthy green with muted undertones that give it a rich, velvety appearance. Unlike brighter forest greens, Nicolson Green has a restrained quality that allows it to work beautifully in both traditional and modern interiors.
Color Details:
- Color Name: Nicolson Green
- Color Code: CW-500
- Color Family: Green
- Collection: Williamsburg Paint Color Collection
- LRV (light reflectance value): 21.68
With an LRV of 21.68, Nicolson Green absorbs considerably more light than it reflects, creating a cozy, dramatic atmosphere while still revealing its rich green character.
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What Are Nicolson Green’s Undertones?
Nicolson Green is known for its muted, earthy undertones. Depending on the lighting, you may notice:
- Deep green undertones
- Soft gray influences
- Earthy olive notes
- A velvety richness
In bright natural light, the green becomes more pronounced and vibrant. In the evening or in rooms with limited natural light, its darker, earthier qualities take center stage, creating a warm and intimate feeling.
Is Nicolson Green Warm or Cool?
Benjamin Moore Nicolson Green is generally considered a warm-leaning green. Although it has subtle gray influences, its earthy foundation keeps it feeling grounded and inviting rather than cool or stark.
It pairs beautifully with warm white trim, walnut furniture, antique brass hardware, natural stone, and rich wood flooring.
Where Does Nicolson Green Work Best?
Dining Rooms: Nicolson Green creates a dining room that feels elegant and inviting. Its depth helps create an intimate setting that’s perfect for entertaining. It works beautifully with:
- Dark wood furniture
- Brass lighting
- White millwork
- Traditional décor
Home Offices: For home offices and libraries, Nicolson Green brings a distinguished, timeless feel. The result is a workspace that feels comfortable, focused, and sophisticated. It pairs especially well with:
- Built-in bookshelves
- Leather furniture
- Antique accessories
- Warm wood desks
Kitchen Cabinets: Nicolson Green has become a popular cabinet color for homeowners looking to introduce richness without choosing black or navy. The contrast creates a timeless, high-end kitchen. It complements:
- White quartz countertops
- Marble backsplashes
- Brass hardware
- Natural oak flooring
Accent Walls: If painting an entire room feels like too much, Nicolson Green makes a stunning accent wall. Its velvety finish creates depth while serving as an elegant focal point. Consider using it in:
- Living rooms
- Bedrooms
- Entryways
- Reading nooks
What Colors Pair Well With Nicolson Green?
Nicolson Green coordinates beautifully with warm whites, soft neutrals, and classic accent colors.
Warm Whites for trim, ceilings, and cabinetry:
- Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee OC-45
- Benjamin Moore White Dove OC-17
- Benjamin Moore Mascarpone AF-20
Soft Neutrals for a balanced, timeless palette:
- Benjamin Moore Wind’s Breath OC-24
- Benjamin Moore Baby Fawn OC-15
- Benjamin Moore Natural Cream OC-14
Deep Blues for sophisticated contrast:
- Benjamin Moore Hale Navy HC-154
- Benjamin Moore Newburyport Blue HC-155
- Benjamin Moore Van Courtland Blue HC-145
Complementary Greens for layered color throughout the home:
- Benjamin Moore Misted Green 2138-50
- Benjamin Moore Sage Wisdom CSP-775
- Benjamin Moore October Mist 1495
What Style Homes Work Well With Nicolson Green?
Nicolson Green feels at home in a variety of architectural styles. It complements: colonial homes, georgian homes, craftsman homes, traditional interiors, english cottage designs, and transitional spaces.
Its historic roots make it especially fitting for homes with classic architectural details, while its rich green color also works beautifully in modern interiors.
Can Nicolson Green Be Used on Exteriors?
Yes. Nicolson Green is an excellent exterior color for homeowners looking for a rich, timeless green. It works well on: Front doors, Shutters, Exterior siding, Garden structures, Accent trim.
Its deep color pairs beautifully with natural stone, red brick, cedar, and crisp white trim.
Final Thoughts
Considering Benjamin Moore Nicolson Green? Visit a local Benjamin Moore paint store near you to view color samples, speak with our paint experts, and find the right Benjamin Moore products for