Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Surf Green

Sherwin-Williams · SW6473

The Analysis

Surf Green is a mid-tone color with an LRV of 21.52, meaning it absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it. This creates a grounded, cozy atmosphere that makes large rooms feel more intimate, though it may make smaller, windowless spaces feel slightly enclosed.

Because of its depth, this color works best as a primary wall color in a room with adequate natural light or as a bold, sophisticated accent in a library or dining room. It provides enough saturation to stand on its own without needing a gallery of art to keep it interesting.

LRV 22

History & Origin

This shade leans into a mid-century modern aesthetic, reminiscent of the popular muted palettes used in 1950s interior design. It feels rooted in heritage but remains versatile enough to fit into contemporary, clean-lined spaces.

Undertonecool
FamilyGreen

How to Use It

Pair this color with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to highlight its organic side, or use matte black hardware for a sharper, modern contrast. It excels in bedrooms or studies where you want a sense of focus and quiet.

The Mood

Living with this shade is inherently restful due to its muted, earth-toned green qualities. It provides a steady, calm backdrop that avoids the high-energy spikes of brighter colors, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to decompress.

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.

  • Garland

    Behr · 470F-5

  • Mountain Meadow 0703

    Colourtrend

  • CERULEAN

    Jotun · 0576

  • Trellis Vine

    Behr · M440-6

  • Shenandoah

    Benjamin Moore · 684

  • Waterbury Green

    Benjamin Moore · HC-136

Lighting

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

  • Natural