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HeritageSouth-Facing

Chicago Blues

Benjamin Moore · 804

The Analysis

Chicago Blues is a deep, saturated mid-tone blue that absorbs more light than it reflects, given its low LRV of 15.52. This creates a cozy, enclosed feeling that makes large rooms feel more intimate rather than bright or airy.

Due to its intensity, it is best utilized as a dramatic accent wall or for high-impact spaces like a library, home office, or powder room. Using it on every wall in a small room will make the space feel significantly smaller and cave-like.

LRV 16

History & Origin

This is a classic, timeless blue that fits well into traditional or transitional homes. It avoids the 'trendy' look of modern pastels and carries a weight that feels rooted in heritage design.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut wood tones or bright brass hardware to provide contrast against the cool blue. In rooms with limited natural light, ensure you have strong overhead or task lighting to prevent the colour from looking muddy.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, stable, and restful environment, making it excellent for unwinding. Because it lacks harsh neon undertones, it feels professional and reliable rather than overly stimulating.

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.

  • Winter's Eve

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  • National Anthem

    Behr · M520-6

  • Nile Blue

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  • Lupine

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  • Sapphire Springs 4

    Dulux

  • Zenith 0647

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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