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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Explorer Blue

Behr · M470-5

The Analysis

Explorer Blue is a mid-tone cyan that sits right between blue and green. With an LRV of 31.47, it absorbs a fair amount of light, which will make a space feel more intimate and grounded rather than airy or expansive.

It works best as a primary feature wall or a full-room statement in smaller spaces like dens or home offices. Because it is quite punchy, it can act as a bold accent to break up neutral rooms.

LRV 31

History & Origin

This is a distinctly modern, fresh shade that leans into contemporary design trends rather than traditional period-specific palettes. It fits perfectly in updated homes that favor vibrant, saturated color schemes.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

This shade shines in rooms with ample lighting and pairs exceptionally well with warm wood tones like walnut or oak to balance the coolness. Use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast, or brushed brass to lean into a more luxury feel.

The Mood

This color provides a balanced, steady atmosphere that feels approachable and clean. It’s an energizing choice for active spaces, offering enough saturation to stay interesting without becoming visually overwhelming.

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.

  • Spa Day

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-635

  • Hawaiian Blue 5

    Dulux

  • Ash Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2057-40

  • Blue Chiffon

    Valspar · V068-4

  • Turquoise

    Behr · BIC-53

  • Teal Façade

    Dulux

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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