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Dolphin Blue

Behr · S470-4

The Analysis

Dolphin Blue is a mid-toned, muted blue with significant grey undertones. Because it has an LRV of 31.34, it absorbs a fair amount of light, which creates a cozy, enclosed feeling rather than making a room feel larger or airier.

It functions best as a dedicated wall color for bedrooms, libraries, or home offices. Because it is quite pigmented, it acts as a strong backdrop rather than a neutral, so use it on main walls to anchor the room's design.

LRV 31

History & Origin

This is a contemporary, transitional color. It lacks the starkness of modern minimalism and the kitschy brightness of mid-century palettes, fitting instead into current, sophisticated residential design trends.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or white oak to balance the coolness of the blue. For hardware, matte black provides a clean, modern contrast, while unlacquered brass adds a classic, warm touch.

The Mood

This shade leans heavily into restfulness. It is grounded and stable, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to minimize visual stimulation and encourage calm.

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.

  • Blue Nuthatch

    Valspar · V106-4

  • Winter Teal 2

    Dulux

  • Nostalgia

    Valspar · 4007-6A

  • Cable Knit Sweater

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-650

  • Labrador Blue

    Benjamin Moore · CC-740

  • Franklin Lakes

    Benjamin Moore · 1643

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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