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San Francisco Bay

Benjamin Moore · 802

The Analysis

San Francisco Bay is a mid-tone blue that provides enough depth to anchor a room without making it feel claustrophobic. With an LRV of 35.73, it absorbs some light rather than reflecting it, which helps define boundaries in large, airy spaces.

Because it acts as a strong mid-tone, it works best as an accent wall or for built-in cabinetry rather than a whole-room wrap. It provides a sharp, sophisticated contrast against white trim or neutral furniture.

LRV 36

History & Origin

This is a modern, versatile blue that avoids the dusty, muted quality of traditional heritage colors. It fits best in contemporary renovations looking for a crisp, intentional pop of color.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Use this in home offices or laundry rooms where you want a focused environment. Pair it with warm, natural wood tones or matte black hardware to prevent the blue from feeling too cold.

The Mood

This color is inherently restful and grounded, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to signal a transition into relaxation. It feels clean and stable, avoiding the 'frenetic' energy of brighter, saturated primary colors.

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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  • Soft Jazz

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    Benjamin Moore · CW-610

  • John's Blue 0617

    Colourtrend

  • Sky View

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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