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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Surfin'

Sherwin-Williams · SW9048

The Analysis

Surfin' is a mid-tone blue-aqua that effectively bridges the gap between light and dark. With an LRV of 46, it reflects a moderate amount of light, meaning it adds personality without making the room feel like a cave or overwhelming the space.

This color is best used as a bold accent wall or a feature element rather than a whole-room envelope. Because it is a saturated tone, it excels at highlighting cabinetry, built-in shelving, or a bathroom vanity.

LRV 46

History & Origin

This is a distinctly modern color choice that feels fresh rather than traditional. It avoids the heavy, muted tones found in period-specific palettes, making it better suited for contemporary or updated mid-century homes.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut to ground the blue, or use matte black hardware for a high-contrast, modern look. It works particularly well in bathrooms or breakfast nooks where you want to introduce a punch of saturated color.

The Mood

This shade leans toward the energizing side of the spectrum, providing a crisp, clean presence that feels intentional rather than sleepy. It’s an ideal choice for rooms where you want to feel active and mentally sharp, such as a home office or a kitchen.

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.

  • Graceful Sea

    Benjamin Moore · 767

  • Water Flow

    Behr · 520B-4

  • Ocean Horizon

    Valspar · 8002-40D

  • Fiesta Blue

    Valspar · 5003-10A

  • Madison Avenue

    Benjamin Moore · 759

  • Nautilus

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6780

Lighting

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

  • Natural