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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Ash Blue

Benjamin Moore · 2057-40

The Analysis

Ash Blue has a mid-range LRV of 28.41, meaning it absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it. This creates a cozy, contained feeling that will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright and expansive.

This is a versatile color that functions best as a main wall color in bedrooms or studies. It is not an accent color; it has enough presence to anchor a room and serve as a solid backdrop for art and furniture.

LRV 28

History & Origin

This shade aligns with the muted, nature-inspired palettes common in mid-century design. It moves away from the starkness of modern minimalism and leans toward a grounded, established look.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

It works best in rooms with plenty of natural light, as it can look muddy in a dark, cave-like space. Pair it with warm wood tones like walnut or teak and matte black hardware to sharpen the contrast.

The Mood

Because it is a muted, balanced blue-green, it feels restful and stable. It is a reliable, low-stimulation color that works well in spaces where you want to wind down without the room feeling cold or clinical.

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.

  • Old School Blue

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Explorer Blue

    Behr · M470-5

  • Blue Toile

    Benjamin Moore · 748

  • Blue Lagoon

    Benjamin Moore · 2054-40

  • Blue Chiffon

    Valspar · V068-4

  • Spa Day

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-635

Lighting

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

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