Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Hamilton Blue

Benjamin Moore · PM-6

The Analysis

Hamilton Blue is a deep, muted slate-blue that absorbs significant light, making a room feel more intimate and grounded rather than bright. Because of its low LRV of 16.92, it will cause walls to recede, which can make a small room feel cozy and enveloped instead of expansive.

This shade works best as a moody backdrop or a high-impact accent wall. It is heavy enough that using it on all four walls requires good natural lighting or a deliberate intention to create a dark, atmospheric den.

LRV 17

History & Origin

This is a classic 'Heritage' color, reminiscent of historic American trim and exterior palettes. It brings a grounded, traditional weight that feels established rather than trendy.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

It pairs beautifully with warm wood tones like walnut or oak to balance the coolness of the blue. For metals, stick to unlacquered brass for a high-contrast look or matte black for a clean, modern edge.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels remarkably restful and stable. It is a serious, sophisticated shade that avoids being over-stimulating, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to wind down.

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.

  • Heron

    Behr · 530F-6

  • Risk-Reward

    Valspar · 1-877

  • Thousand Oceans

    Benjamin Moore · 1645

  • Smokey Blue

    Behr · 540F-5

  • Labradorite

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7619

  • Hampton Surf

    Behr · MQ5-26

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K