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Superior Blue

Behr · S490-7

The Analysis

Superior Blue is a deep, saturated shade that absorbs a significant amount of light, making it feel cozy and contained. Because of its low Light Reflectance Value (LRV 10.14), it will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright and airy.

It works best as a bold accent wall or a total-room wrap in spaces like a library or powder room. Using it on all four walls creates a seamless, immersive environment rather than a subtle backdrop.

LRV 10

History & Origin

This tone is a modern take on the dramatic, dark-painted rooms popular in the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. It updates that classic, moody intensity for contemporary interiors.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut wood tones or crisp white trim to create high-contrast definition. For hardware, matte black provides a sleek, monochromatic look, while brushed brass adds a sharp, sophisticated pop of warmth.

The Mood

This is a grounding, restful colour that promotes focus and calm. It feels stable and anchored, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to minimize visual noise.

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.

  • Shasta Lake

    Behr · M490-7

  • Summer Nights

    Benjamin Moore · 777

  • Endless Sea

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9150

  • Quiet Storm

    Behr · S-H-540

  • Deep Twilight Blue

    Valspar · 4007-6C

  • Blue Spell

    Behr · 550F-7

Lighting

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

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