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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

TRUE BLUE

Jotun · 4947

The Analysis

True Blue is a deep, saturated shade that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 12.72. Because it doesn't reflect much light, it will make a room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than spacious or bright.

It acts best as a bold, intentional statement rather than a neutral backdrop. Use it on an accent wall, in a powder room, or for cabinetry to add significant visual weight to a space.

LRV 13

History & Origin

This tone is a modern take on classic blue-grey palettes used in industrial and mid-century design. It bridges the gap between traditional heritage blues and contemporary, high-contrast interiors.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

This colour pairs perfectly with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the intensity of the blue. For metals, go with matte black for a modern edge or unlacquered brass to create a sharp, sophisticated contrast.

The Mood

This is a highly grounding and restful colour that encourages focus and calm. It feels stable and reliable, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you want to signal to your brain that it is time to unwind.

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

  • Lucerne

    Benjamin Moore · AF-530

  • Sojourn Blue

    Behr · M500-5

  • Woad

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Ocean Storm

    Behr · MQ5-61

  • Revel Blue

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6530

Lighting

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

  • Natural