IndustrialSouth-Facing

Mediterranean

Sherwin-Williams · SW7617

The Analysis

Mediterranean is a deep, muted blue-gray that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, making a room feel more intimate and enclosed. Because of its low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 17.64, it will make a space feel smaller and more grounded, rather than open or airy.

This shade works best as a bold accent wall or in smaller, cozy rooms like a study or a bedroom. It is too dark to serve as a standard backdrop for an entire open-concept home, as it can overwhelm the space if used on all four walls without significant natural light.

LRV 18

History & Origin

This is a modern, sophisticated take on blue, leaning away from traditional vibrant coastal hues toward a more contemporary, monochromatic aesthetic. It fits current design trends that prioritize depth and complexity over stark, plain surfaces.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this color with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the cool blue, or use matte black hardware for a clean, sharp look. It performs best in rooms with plenty of natural light, as it prevents the color from feeling too cold or gloomy.

The Mood

This color promotes a calm, serious, and stable atmosphere, making it a great choice for spaces where you want to focus or relax. It is not an energizing color, but rather a restful, moody tone that feels consistent and steady throughout the day.

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.

  • Crater Lake

    Behr · BXC-81

  • Blue Thunder

    Valspar · V139-5

  • Source

    Colourtrend

  • BONDEBLÅ

    Jotun · 0263

  • Refuge

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6228

  • Providence Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 1636

Lighting

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

  • Natural