Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Blue Macaw

Benjamin Moore · 784

The Analysis

Blue Macaw is a deep, saturated teal-blue that pulls in significant light rather than reflecting it back. Because of its low LRV of 15.51, it will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, which works effectively to add depth to large, sparse spaces.

Due to its intensity, this is best used as a high-impact accent color rather than a whole-house wall paint. It works perfectly for library built-ins, a feature wall behind a bed, or a moody powder room.

LRV 16

History & Origin

This is a distinctly modern choice that deviates from traditional, muted historical palettes. It aligns best with contemporary design trends that favor saturated, bold pigments over subtle neutrals.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to balance the cool blue, and use unlacquered brass hardware for a high-contrast, professional look. It performs best in spaces with good natural light, as it can turn slightly muddy or 'flat' in rooms that are already naturally dark.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and provides a strong, confident presence in a home. While it’s bold, it feels grounded and stable, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to feel active rather than sleepy.

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.

  • Danube

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6803

  • Blue Lobster

    Valspar · V033-3

  • Blue Ocean

    Behr · 550B-7

  • Seaport Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2060-30

  • Venetian Crystal 3

    Dulux

  • Laguna Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2059-30

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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