Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Deep Water

Valspar · 8002-38G

The Analysis

Deep Water is a saturated, dark teal that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 6. Because it pulls light into the surface rather than reflecting it, this color will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, effectively blurring the wall edges.

Due to its high pigment density, this is best used as a bold accent wall, a dramatic powder room wrap, or for cabinetry. It is too heavy for use as a primary wall color in small or windowless rooms, as it can make the space feel cave-like.

LRV 6

History & Origin

This color leans modern but pulls inspiration from the moody, library-focused palettes of the late Victorian era. It updates those traditional deep tones with a cleaner, more contemporary teal undertone.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the intensity, and use matte black or unlacquered brass hardware for a high-contrast finish. Ensure you have high-quality, layered artificial lighting, as this color will vanish into darkness without dedicated spotlights or lamps.

The Mood

This shade promotes a restful, grounding atmosphere perfect for disconnecting. It feels steady and serious rather than energizing, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you want to signal that it is time to slow down.

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.

  • Bankson Lake

    Valspar · V067-6

  • Fish Tale

    Valspar · V066-6

  • Deep Sea Dive

    Valspar · V067-1

  • Beau Green

    Benjamin Moore · 2054-20

  • Tropical Skies

    Behr · S-H-530

  • Galápagos Turquoise

    Benjamin Moore · 2057-20

Lighting

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

  • Natural