Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Costa Rica Blue

Benjamin Moore · 2064-50

The Analysis

Costa Rica Blue is a mid-tone cyan that actively pushes walls outward, making smaller rooms feel significantly more open. With an LRV of 44.37, it is dark enough to carry weight but light enough to reflect substantial energy, preventing the room from feeling cramped or cave-like.

This is a bold, saturated hue that works best as a primary feature wall or a full-room statement in spaces like home offices or mudrooms. It is too dominant for a subtle background, so use it where you want to draw the eye rather than fade into the decor.

LRV 44

History & Origin

This is a distinctly modern choice that lacks traditional period ties, often associated with the vibrant, fresh aesthetics of mid-century modern or contemporary tropical design. It moves away from classic neutrals to provide a clean, high-saturation look.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this blue with light oak or blonde wood tones to soften the edge, or use matte black hardware for a high-contrast, sharp look. It performs best in rooms where you want to simulate a bright, clear day, such as a laundry room or a creative workspace.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels crisp, functional, and inherently clean. It provides a steady, energizing backdrop that keeps a room feeling alert and productive rather than sleepy or overly relaxed.

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.

  • Life Force

    Behr · P500-4

  • Costa Rica Blue

    Behr · 550B-4

  • Sea to Shining Sea

    Benjamin Moore · 789

  • Blue Wave

    Benjamin Moore · 2065-50

  • BFF Blue

    Valspar · 8001-42D

  • Tribute

    Valspar · V071-3

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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