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Oarsman Blue

Behr · S450-5

The Analysis

Oarsman Blue is a mid-tone, desaturated teal that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 23.93. It will make a room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than expansive or bright.

It functions best as a saturated backdrop for libraries or studies, or as a bold accent wall in a living room. If used on all four walls, it creates a moody, monochromatic look that works best in well-lit areas.

LRV 24

History & Origin

This is a modern take on classic nautical or maritime palettes. It moves away from period-specific Victorian jewel tones by leaning into a grayer, contemporary aesthetic.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with warm, natural wood tones or unlacquered brass to balance its cool undertones. Stick to matte or eggshell finishes to prevent the color from looking too reflective or plasticky.

The Mood

This color provides a grounded, stable, and restful atmosphere. Because it isn't overly vibrant, it remains calm and professional rather than over-stimulating for daily living.

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.

  • Mountain Stream

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7612

  • Flood Tide

    Valspar · 5001-6A

  • Bayside

    Behr · 510F-5

  • Teal & Tonic

    Valspar · V100-2

  • Secret Cove

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9058

  • Jewelled Creek 2

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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