Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Dragonfly

Benjamin Moore · AF-510

The Analysis

Dragonfly is a deep, saturated teal-green that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 10.35. It will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, acting as a 'soaking' color that blurs the corners of a space.

Because it is so dark, this shade functions best as a bold accent wall, a moody library, or for millwork and cabinetry. It is likely too heavy for a main wall color in a small or windowless room unless you intentionally want a 'jewel box' effect.

LRV 10

History & Origin

This tone is a modern evolution of late-Victorian or Edwardian dark palettes, often seen in formal parlors or studies. It feels sophisticated and updated, moving away from period-specific patterns into a cleaner, contemporary application.

Undertonecool
FamilyGreen

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to prevent the room from feeling too cold. For metals, stick to unlacquered brass for a classic look or matte black for a sharper, high-contrast modern finish.

The Mood

This color provides a grounding, restful atmosphere that feels steady and quiet rather than stimulating. It is an excellent choice for rooms where you want to signal to your brain that it is time to relax or focus.

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.

  • Goblin

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Grand Prix

    Valspar · 8003-38F

  • Riverbend

    Valspar · V102-6

  • TREE LEAF

    Jotun · 6262

  • Green Mallard

    Behr · BXC-15

  • Pine Green

    Benjamin Moore · 2051-20

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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