RAL 8014 Sepia Brown — Hex, RGB, LRV, and Best US Paint Matches
RAL 8014 Sepia Brown hex #382C1E · LRV 4. Closest matches at Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar.
Color spec
| Hex | #382C1E |
| RGB | 56, 44, 30 |
| LRV | ~4 |
| RAL Classic | RAL 8014 |
Also known as / near matches
RAL 8014, known as Sepia Brown, is a deep, resonant brown that evokes the rich tones of antique photographs. While not directly synonymous with other RAL colors, its depth might lead to comparisons with very dark chocolate browns or even off-black shades like RAL 9005 Jet Black if perceived in low light. There isn’t a direct Pantone equivalent widely known, but one might seek a very deep, warm brown in the Pantone system for a similar effect. Its name itself, “Sepia,” precisely describes its unique, reddish-brown character, distinguishing it from flatter, cooler dark browns.
What it looks like in real life
This is a color that quietly absorbs the light, reading as an incredibly rich, grounded brown with a subtle warmth that prevents it from ever feeling stark. In north-facing light, it retains its depth, pulling in just enough cool gray to feel sophisticated and anchored, without ever losing its inherent brown character. Here, it sits against architectural elements with a certain gravitas, creating an enveloping, intimate atmosphere. When bathed in the warmer glow of south-facing or late afternoon light, Sepia Brown truly comes alive, revealing its rich, reddish-ochre undertones. It drapes a room in a luxurious, cocooning embrace, making walls feel soft and inviting. With an LRV of 4, it is a demanding color, requiring careful consideration of natural and artificial light sources, as it will drink in illumination rather than reflect it, creating deeply shadowed corners if not thoughtfully lit.
Closest matches at US paint brands
Closest matches at US paint brands
| Color | Brand | Name | SKU | LRV | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Behr | Espresso Beans | PPU5-19 | 5 | — | |
| Dunn-Edwards | Tortoise Shell | DET656 | 5 | — | |
| Magnolia Home | Coffee Bean | JG-025 | 4 | — | |
| Sherwin-Williams | Black Fox | SW 7020 | 6 | — | |
| Kompozit | Film Noir | 0144 | 5 | — | |
| Farrow & Ball | Pitch Black | No. 256 | 5 | — | |
| Benjamin Moore | Historical Black | AF-680 | 5 | — | |
| Valspar | Cracked Pepper | 4011-1 | 5 | — | |
| Pratt & Lambert | Cocoa | 23-11 | 7 | — | |
| Backdrop | It's a Date | BD-IT | 7 | — | |
| PPG / Glidden | Knight's Armor | PPG1011-7 | 6 | — | |
| Clare | Headspace | Clare 18 | 3 | — |
Behr Espresso Beans and Dunn-Edwards Tortoise Shell are the closest matches by ΔE, sharing an LRV of 5, slightly lighter but very similar in hue. Magnolia Home Coffee Bean matches the LRV exactly at 4, offering a comparable depth. The spread of matches highlights a range from warmer, true browns to cooler, more charcoal-infused off-blacks like Clare Headspace or PPG Knight’s Armor, which present the most distinct undertone differences within the group.
When to use this color
Great for:
- It creates a dramatic, enveloping backdrop for a cozy library or study with natural wood accents.
- This color works beautifully on an accent wall in a brightly lit living room, providing a deep visual anchor.
- Consider it for a powder room or bedroom where a moody, intimate atmosphere is desired.
Tricky in:
- Avoid using Sepia Brown in small rooms with minimal natural light, where it can feel heavy and oppressive.
- It can emphasize imperfections on walls with uneven texture or poor prep work, especially under raking light.
Pairs well with
Pairs well with
Painting tips
- Primer: Given its deep hue and an LRV of 4, a dark gray-tinted primer is essential to ensure true color development and reduce the number of finish coats.
- Sheen: For walls, a flat or matte sheen will allow its deep pigment to quietly drape the space, while a satin or semi-gloss finish is ideal for trim, cabinetry, or doors to provide durability and a subtle luster.
- Coats: Expect to apply at least three coats over a properly tinted primer to achieve full opacity and the true richness of this deep color.
- Application: Due to its low LRV, spray application is recommended for the smoothest finish, as brush or roller marks can become noticeable under critical or raking light.