Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Stratford Blue

Benjamin Moore · CC-830

The Analysis

Stratford Blue is a mid-toned, dusty slate that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, thanks to its lower LRV of 23.2. It will make a room feel cozy and enclosed rather than airy, which works best for creating a grounded, intimate atmosphere.

This colour acts as a sophisticated neutral that functions best as a main wall colour in smaller rooms or as a dramatic, moody backdrop. It’s too heavy for a subtle accent, so use it on all four walls to fully commit to the look.

LRV 23

History & Origin

This is a quintessential Heritage colour, reminiscent of traditional colonial aesthetics and classic wood-paneled libraries. It provides a timeless, established look that avoids feeling like a fleeting trend.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

It excels in studies, dens, or bedrooms where you want to minimize glare. Pair it with warm walnut wood tones to soften the blue, or use matte black hardware to emphasize its sharp, architectural edge.

The Mood

Living with this shade is a restful experience because it lacks harsh saturation. It feels stable and calm, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to wind down without the walls feeling 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.

  • Peep

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Brisk Blue

    Behr · S530-5

  • Lead Cast

    Behr · MQ5-52

  • Searching Blue

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6536

  • Velvet Curtain

    Behr · S540-5

  • Romanesque

    Behr · 620D-5

Lighting

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

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