CoastalSouth-Facing

Dockside Blue

Sherwin-Williams · SW7601

The Analysis

Dockside Blue is a mid-tone slate blue that acts as a neutral grounding element rather than a bright pop of color. Because of its LRV of 43.34, it absorbs a fair amount of light, which helps reduce glare in bright spaces but can make smaller rooms feel cozier and more defined rather than spacious.

It works best as a primary wall color in rooms where you want to create a sophisticated atmosphere, such as a home office or bedroom. It is sturdy enough to hold its own against white trim without needing to be treated as a mere accent.

LRV 43

History & Origin

This is a contemporary color choice that aligns with modern, updated classic homes. It feels fresh and relevant, moving away from the dated primary blues of the past in favor of a muted, gray-leaning profile.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak wood tones to soften the blue or matte black hardware for a sharp, high-contrast look. It excels in rooms with ample natural light, which prevents the gray undertones from looking too heavy or muddy.

The Mood

This color promotes a sense of stability and calm, making it a very restful choice for living areas. It avoids the 'cold' feeling of traditional light blues, instead providing a steady, professional backdrop that feels clean and composed.

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.

  • Cat's Meow

    Valspar · 8004-38C

  • Ovation

    Behr · MQ5-59

  • Hibernate

    Valspar · 8004-41C

  • Slate Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 1648

  • Early Morning

    Benjamin Moore · CC-818

  • Santorini Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 1634

Lighting

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

  • Natural