Swatchd
Sign inGet started
IndustrialSouth-Facing

Dark Denim

Behr · S510-7

The Analysis

Dark Denim is a saturated, moody blue with a very low Light Reflectance Value (LRV 7.91). Because it absorbs most light rather than reflecting it, the room will feel tighter, more intimate, and significantly darker.

Due to its intensity, it works best as a bold accent wall, a cabinet finish, or a wrap-around color for a dedicated study or theater room. It is too heavy to use as a primary wall color for standard living spaces unless you specifically want a dramatic, 'enveloping' effect.

LRV 8

History & Origin

While dark blues are a staple of historic libraries and studies, this specific shade feels modern and refined. It avoids the 'nautical' look of brighter blues, leaning into a contemporary urban aesthetic.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the coldness of the blue. For hardware, aged brass or unlacquered copper provides a sharp, high-contrast pop, while matte black hardware keeps the look sleek and monochromatic.

The Mood

This color provides a grounding, restful effect that feels stable and serious. It isn't energizing; instead, it creates a quiet atmosphere perfect for decompressing at the end of the day.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Secret Society

    Behr · MQ5-10

  • Night Flight

    Behr · S520-7

  • Rogue Blue

    Valspar · 5009-2

  • Mussel

    Colourtrend

  • Hale Navy

    Benjamin Moore · HC-154

  • Knighthood

    Behr · S550-7

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K