Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Brazilian Blue

Benjamin Moore · 817

The Analysis

Brazilian Blue has an LRV of 28.85, meaning it absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it. Because it is a mid-to-dark saturated blue, it will make walls feel like they are receding, which can give a smaller room a sense of depth while creating a moody, enclosed atmosphere.

Due to its depth, this colour works best as a primary wall colour in rooms where you want a bold, saturated look. It is often too intense for a subtle backdrop, so use it as a dedicated statement piece in a study, library, or bedroom.

LRV 29

History & Origin

This is a modern, clean take on blue. It avoids the dusty, chalky look of historical pigments, leaning instead toward a crisp, contemporary aesthetic that feels fresh and purposeful.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

This shade pairs exceptionally well with warm wood tones like walnut to balance the coolness, and matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast. It performs best in spaces where you want to embrace a darker, cozier aesthetic rather than trying to mimic bright, airy daylight.

The Mood

This shade is fundamentally restful and stable. It provides a calm, grounded environment that helps reduce visual clutter, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you want to switch off and relax.

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.

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  • Mystic Mauve 2

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Lighting

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

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