Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Stillwater

Benjamin Moore · 1650

The Analysis

Stillwater is a deep, muted blue-grey that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low 17.72 LRV. It tends to make rooms feel more enclosed and intimate rather than open and airy, making it ideal for creating a cozy, grounded atmosphere.

It acts as a sophisticated alternative to charcoal or navy. It is best used as a bold accent wall, on cabinetry, or in small, dedicated spaces like a study or a bedroom where a cocoon-like effect is desired.

LRV 18

History & Origin

This color leans toward a modern, transitional aesthetic. It lacks the starkness of historical 'period' colors, functioning instead as a contemporary neutral that bridges the gap between classic design and current trends.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this color with warm wood tones like walnut or light oak to balance the coolness of the blue. Matte black hardware creates a sharp, modern edge, while unlacquered brass adds a necessary warmth that keeps the room from feeling too clinical.

The Mood

This shade promotes a sense of focus and calm, making it excellent for environments where you want to reduce visual noise. It feels restorative and stable, rather than high-energy or 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.

  • Philipsburg Blue

    Benjamin Moore · HC-159

  • Thousand Oceans

    Benjamin Moore · 1645

  • Runaway®

    Crown Paints

  • Windsor Haze

    Behr · 560F-6

  • Catalina Coast

    Behr · PPU13-3

  • Hypnotic

    Behr · MQ5-19

Lighting

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

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