MinimalistSouth-Facing

Cry Me a River

Valspar · 8003-46D

The Analysis

Cry Me a River is a mid-toned blue-grey that anchors a room by absorbing a fair amount of light due to its 30 LRV. Because it is relatively dark, it tends to make walls feel closer, which can create a cozy, enclosed feeling rather than an airy, expansive one.

This colour works best as a moody, sophisticated wall colour in bedrooms or studies, or as a punchy accent for cabinetry. It is not a neutral 'white alternative,' so use it when you want the wall colour to be a primary feature of the room's design.

LRV 30

History & Origin

This is a decidedly modern, contemporary blue that leans away from traditional period palettes. It fits perfectly into updated homes that favor clean lines and structured, monochromatic color schemes.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak or walnut wood tones to provide necessary warmth against the cool blue base. For hardware, matte black provides a sharp, industrial contrast, while unlacquered brass adds a classic, high-end metallic finish.

The Mood

This shade is inherently restful and grounding, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to reduce visual noise. It feels stable and calm, providing a clean, non-stimulating backdrop for daily routines.

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.

  • Jet Set

    Behr · S530-4

  • Morning Jewel 3

    Dulux

  • Versatile Blue

    Valspar · V136-6

  • Mystery

    Behr · MQ5-51

  • Blueberry Buckle

    Behr · 600F-5

  • Blue Marble

    Valspar · V110-5

Lighting

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

  • Natural