Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Yosemite Blue

Benjamin Moore · 2059-40

The Analysis

Yosemite Blue is a saturated, mid-tone blue with a medium LRV of 29.84, meaning it absorbs a fair amount of light rather than reflecting it. It creates a bold, enclosed feel that pulls walls inward, making large rooms feel more intimate rather than expanding the space.

Because of its intensity, it works best as a bold accent wall, a dramatic powder room choice, or for cabinetry in a kitchen. It is too powerful for a primary, whole-home wall color unless you are aiming for a high-contrast, modern aesthetic.

LRV 30

History & Origin

This is a decidedly modern, fresh shade that lacks the dusty or muted undertones found in traditional period paint palettes. It leans into contemporary design trends that favor saturated, high-pigment color statements.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut to ground the blue, or use matte black hardware to lean into a sharp, graphic look. It excels in rooms that get plenty of natural light, which prevents the color from appearing flat or muddy.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating due to its high chroma and vibrancy. Living with it daily provides a crisp, punchy environment that feels fresh rather than restful or subdued.

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.

  • Yucatan

    Behr · P490-5

  • Major Blue

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6795

  • Tropical Holiday

    Behr · 530B-6

  • Azure Fusion 5

    Dulux

  • Dream I Can Fly

    Benjamin Moore · 769

  • Toronto Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2060-40

Lighting

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

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