CoastalSouth-Facing

Cay

Sherwin-Williams · SW6772

The Analysis

Cay is a mid-toned aqua that introduces significant color without overwhelming a space. With an LRV of 58.07, it reflects a moderate amount of light, which helps smaller rooms feel more open while preventing that washed-out, clinical look often found in pure whites.

This color functions best as a purposeful backdrop. It is saturated enough to define a room on its own, making it an excellent choice for a main wall color in bathrooms, kitchens, or breakfast nooks.

LRV 58

History & Origin

This is a distinctly modern and fresh choice rather than a period-specific shade. It leans into contemporary design trends that prioritize personality and saturation over traditional neutrals.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak wood tones to soften the blue-green base, or use matte black hardware to add a sharp, industrial contrast. It is particularly effective in bathrooms where it can be paired with crisp white tiling to create a balanced, functional aesthetic.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels calm and refreshing rather than overly stimulating. It provides a clean, steady presence that works well in high-traffic areas where you want to avoid feeling boxed in.

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.

  • Indigo

    Benjamin Moore · 744

  • Velvet Touch 3

    Dulux

  • Spring Rain

    Benjamin Moore · 723

  • Midwinter Mist

    Behr · M470-3

  • Rapture Blue

    Behr · 520C-3

  • Balboa

    Behr · MQ4-55

Lighting

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

  • Natural