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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Encore

Valspar · 8002-45G

The Analysis

Encore is a deep, saturated navy that absorbs most light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 6, it will make a space feel smaller, more intimate, and grounded, rather than bright or airy.

This is best used as a bold accent or for dramatic, high-impact spaces like a library, powder room, or a feature wall behind a bed. Avoid using it as a main wall colour in small, windowless rooms unless you want to lean fully into a moody, enclosed aesthetic.

LRV 6

History & Origin

This shade is a modern staple that draws from classic library or study aesthetics found in traditional design. It bridges the gap between heritage-inspired formality and contemporary, high-contrast interiors.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Pair this with warm brass or gold hardware to cut through the depth of the blue, or use matte black for a seamless, monochromatic look. It works beautifully alongside light oak or walnut wood tones, which keep the room from feeling too cold.

The Mood

This shade provides a restful and stable atmosphere, perfect for spaces where you want to wind down. It feels serious and sophisticated, creating a calm cocoon that avoids the over-stimulation of brighter primary colours.

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.

  • Oxford Blue (Weathershield)

    Dulux

  • Dignity Blue

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6804

  • Indigo

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6531

  • Commodore

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6524

  • Downpour Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2063-20

  • Atlantic Surf 1

    Dulux

Lighting

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

  • Natural