Northbound
Valspar · V138-1
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The Analysis
Northbound is a crisp, off-white with distinct blue-grey undertones that creates a clean, open feel. With an LRV of nearly 77, it reflects a high amount of light, which helps smaller rooms feel significantly more spacious and airy.
This is a reliable choice for a main wall color, especially in rooms where you want a neutral palette that isn't a flat, true white. It works perfectly as a backdrop for artwork or furniture because it recedes visually rather than competing for attention.
LRV 77History & Origin
This shade leans toward a modern, contemporary aesthetic rather than a traditional period look. It fits perfectly into updated homes that prioritize clean lines and a streamlined, uncluttered appearance.
How to Use It
It excels in bathrooms or kitchens where you want a sanitary, bright look, and pairs exceptionally well with cool-toned marbles, matte black hardware, or light-to-medium oak wood tones. Avoid pairing it with yellow-toned woods, as the blue undertones may make them look slightly dingy.
The Mood
Living with this color feels calm and organized rather than stark or clinical. It provides a restful, neutral background that minimizes visual clutter and keeps your space feeling fresh throughout the day.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural