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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Ocean Abyss

Behr · MQ6-1

The Analysis

Ocean Abyss is a very deep, dark teal-toned blue that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 7.9. It will make a room feel much smaller and more intimate, acting more like a feature or a dramatic statement than a space-expander.

This is best used as a bold accent wall, a cabinet finish, or for 'drenching' a small room in color to embrace its darkness. It is too heavy for use as a primary neutral across an entire open-concept home.

LRV 8

History & Origin

This shade leans into a modern, high-contrast aesthetic that feels current and contemporary. While deep blues have been used in interior design for centuries, this particular clean-toned teal is distinctly a product of modern residential design trends.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to balance the cool temperature of the paint. Use brushed brass or matte black hardware to add depth, as these finishes stand out sharply against the dark backdrop.

The Mood

This color provides a grounded, stable, and highly restful environment that works well for relaxation. It is a sophisticated, moody choice that feels calming rather than energizing, making it excellent for areas where you want to wind down.

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.

  • Deep Sea Green

    Benjamin Moore · 735

  • Petro Blue

    Behr · QE-47

  • Blue Period 0690

    Colourtrend

  • Dark Teal

    Benjamin Moore · 2053-20

  • Moonlit Pool

    Behr · S-H-510

  • Oasis Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2049-20

Lighting

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

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