Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Flattering Blue

Valspar · 1-877

The Analysis

Flattering Blue has an LRV of 16.876, meaning it absorbs most light rather than reflecting it. This creates a cozy, contained atmosphere that makes large rooms feel more intimate but can make smaller, windowless spaces feel enclosed.

It functions best as a dramatic backdrop or a bold accent wall. While it can work on four walls in a library or media room, it is often too heavy for main living areas unless you have ample natural light.

LRV 17

History & Origin

This is a versatile, modern blue that leans away from traditional period colors. Its depth aligns well with contemporary design trends that favor moody, high-contrast interiors.

Undertonecool
FamilyBlue

How to Use It

Use this in bedrooms or home offices paired with warm brass hardware to pop against the cool tone. It also pairs exceptionally well with walnut wood furniture or crisp white trim to break up the visual weight.

The Mood

This shade provides a restful and stable environment, perfect for areas where you want to wind down. Because it is a deeper, saturated tone, it feels sophisticated and grounding rather than energizing.

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.

  • Wild Water 2

    Dulux

  • Glass Sapphire

    Behr · PPU14-2

  • Goddess of the Nile

    Valspar · V109-5

  • Blue 05

    Lick · Blue 05

  • Sailors Bay

    Behr · M510-5

  • Bedford Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 1679

Lighting

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

  • Natural