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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Jay Bird

Behr · S490-5

The Analysis

Jay Bird is a mid-tone blue with a noticeable grey base that prevents it from feeling too electric. With an LRV of 20.95, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which tends to make a room feel cozier and more intimate rather than bright or expansive.

It works best as a primary wall color in smaller, dedicated spaces like a study or a bedroom where you want a moody atmosphere. It is also an excellent candidate for cabinetry or built-in shelving if you want to create a high-contrast focal point.

LRV 21

History & Origin

This shade aligns with modern, contemporary design trends that favor saturated, non-neutral colors. It lacks the chalky or vintage quality of historical palettes, making it feel fresh and relevant for today’s homes.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this color with warm wood tones like walnut or white oak to balance the coolness of the blue. Matte black hardware creates a sharp, modern look, while aged brass adds a bit of necessary warmth to the space.

The Mood

This color provides a grounded, stable, and restful environment. Because it leans toward a slate-blue, it avoids the sterile feel of brighter paints, making it a reliable choice for areas where you want to unwind.

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.

  • Secure Blue

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6508

  • Blue Daisy

    Benjamin Moore · 2062-40

  • Honest Blue

    Behr · BIC-38

  • Hemisphere

    Behr · M500-4

  • Tivoli®

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Blue Chaise

    Behr · 550D-6

Lighting

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

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