ScandinavianUniversal

English Hollyhock

Behr · HDC-CT-16A

The Analysis

English Hollyhock is a mid-toned, desaturated blue-grey that acts as a neutral base rather than a vibrant pop of color. Its LRV of 56.3 means it reflects a moderate amount of light, helping to keep a room feeling open without the harsh glare of stark white.

This is a versatile main wall color that works exceptionally well as a backdrop for both artwork and furniture. It is subtle enough to flow across open-concept spaces without feeling overwhelming or overly thematic.

LRV 56

History & Origin

This shade leans into a contemporary aesthetic, though its muted quality draws inspiration from classic, understated palettes found in historical coastal architecture. It avoids the 'stuffy' feel of period colors, opting instead for a modern, tailored look.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

It performs best in bedrooms, home offices, or bathrooms where a serene atmosphere is a priority. Pair it with warm, natural wood tones like walnut or oak to balance the coolness of the blue, and use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable and calm, as the grey undertones prevent it from becoming overly stimulating. It provides a clean, collected backdrop that stays restful throughout the day, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you want to avoid visual clutter.

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.

  • Take Five

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6513

  • Pebble Drift 4

    Dulux

  • Quintessential Blue

    Dulux

  • Denim Light

    Behr · PPU14-15

  • Sleepy Hollow

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9145

  • Opal Waters

    Behr · MQ5-50

Lighting

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

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