Swatchd
Sign inGet started
CoastalUniversal

Slate Blue

Benjamin Moore · 1648

The Analysis

Slate Blue is a balanced mid-tone that avoids being too dark or too pastel. Because of its LRV of 42, it absorbs a moderate amount of light, which helps define the boundaries of a room without making it feel cramped or boxed in.

It functions best as a main wall colour in living areas or bedrooms rather than an accent. It provides enough personality to stand on its own without needing heavy decoration to make the room feel 'finished.'

LRV 42

History & Origin

This is a timeless, classic choice that fits well in both traditional homes and modern renovations. It mimics the weathered look of historical architectural palettes without feeling dated.

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 finishes, go with matte black hardware for a modern edge or unlacquered brass if you want a more refined, warm contrast.

The Mood

This colour is inherently restful and grounding. It provides a stable, predictable backdrop that feels clean and orderly, making it a great choice for spaces where you want to reduce visual clutter.

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.

  • Early Morning

    Benjamin Moore · CC-818

  • Winter Teal 3

    Dulux

  • Cat's Meow

    Valspar · 8004-38C

  • Rainy Sidewalk

    Behr · HDC-CT-24

  • Dockside Blue

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7601

  • Faded Flaxflower

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9146

Lighting

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

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