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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Santa Monica Blue

Benjamin Moore · 776

The Analysis

Santa Monica Blue is a deep, moody teal-blue that absorbs significant light due to its low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 13.94. It will make a room feel more enclosed and intimate rather than spacious or bright.

It works best as a bold, saturated accent wall or for full-room immersion in studies and media rooms. Using it on all four walls creates a 'jewel box' effect that provides a sophisticated, high-contrast look.

LRV 14

History & Origin

This is a versatile, modern classic that leans away from traditional Victorian or period-specific palettes. Its deep, complex undertone feels updated and current rather than historical.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut wood tones or antique brass hardware to offset the coolness of the blue. It is best suited for rooms where you want to minimize glare, such as bedrooms, dens, or powder rooms.

The Mood

This shade promotes a grounded, calm atmosphere, making it excellent for areas where you want to signal the end of the workday. It feels stable and composed, offering a reliable, restful backdrop that doesn't feel 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.

  • Abstract Art®

    Crown Paints

  • Sojourn Blue

    Behr · M500-5

  • Living Stream

    Behr · M490-6

  • Bellbottom Blues

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-655

  • Down Pour

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6516

  • Cottage by the Sea

    Valspar · V069-5

Lighting

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

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