Dahlia
Sherwin-Williams · SW6816
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The Analysis
Dahlia is a mid-toned periwinkle blue that leans heavily into violet undertones. With an LRV of 31.93, it is not a bright or light-reflecting shade; it will absorb more light than it reflects, which helps to ground a room and make large spaces feel more intimate.
This shade acts as a saturated mid-tone that holds its own as a main wall color without overwhelming the space. It is a solid choice for a dramatic backdrop in a study or a bedroom where you want depth without the harshness of a true navy.
LRV 32History & Origin
This color fits well within a Mid-Century Modern or transitional design language. It moves away from traditional neutral palettes, offering a curated, purposeful look that feels deliberate rather than dated.
How to Use It
Use this in bedrooms or media rooms to emphasize its moody character. Pair it with warm wood tones like walnut to balance the coolness of the blue, and use matte black hardware to keep the aesthetic sharp and modern.
The Mood
Living with this color feels stable and grounded rather than energizing. It provides a calm, introspective atmosphere that works well for areas where you want to signal to your brain that it is time to relax or focus.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural