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Basic Blue

Benjamin Moore · CC-968

The Analysis

Basic Blue is a deep, saturated navy that absorbs significant light due to its very low LRV of 6.79. Because it reflects so little light, it will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright or airy.

It is best used as a bold accent or a moody, high-impact backdrop. Avoid using this on all four walls in small rooms with no windows, as it can feel cavernous; instead, try it on an office wall or a dining room to create drama.

LRV 7

History & Origin

This is a classic, timeless navy that mirrors traditional library or study aesthetics. It bridges the gap between historical formality and modern, high-contrast interior design.

Undertonecool-purple
FamilyPurple

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to prevent the room from feeling too cold. Brushed brass hardware pops beautifully against this deep blue, while matte black fixtures will create a seamless, modern look.

The Mood

This shade provides a restful and grounding environment, making it excellent for spaces where you want to signal the brain to settle down. It feels stable and composed, avoiding the visual agitation of lighter or brighter colors.

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.

  • Frozen Blue 0606

    Colourtrend

  • Starry Night Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2067-20

  • Jazzy Blue

    Valspar · 4010-9

  • Boudoir Blue

    Behr · MQ5-48

  • GARDA BLÅ

    Jotun · 4081

  • Merlin's Robes

    Valspar · 8001-47G

Lighting

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

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