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Ocean Reef

Valspar · V067-5

The Analysis

Ocean Reef is a deep, saturated teal-blue that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 17.5. It will make a room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than expansive, making it ideal for creating a cozy, moody atmosphere.

Because it is so dark, this color functions best as a dramatic accent wall or as an all-over paint choice in smaller rooms like dens, powder baths, or studies. It is too heavy to act as a neutral backdrop for a whole-house color scheme.

LRV 18

History & Origin

This is a modern, punchy take on traditional jewel-toned palettes. It lacks the vintage, dusty quality of classic Victorian paint, positioning it firmly as a contemporary, bold design choice.

Undertonecool
FamilyTeal

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak wood tones to soften the contrast or matte black hardware for a sharp, modern edge. It performs best in rooms with high ceilings or intentional task lighting to prevent the space from feeling like a cave.

The Mood

This shade feels grounding and steady, providing a sense of focus without being overly stimulating. It works well for spaces where you want a calm, intentional environment rather than a bright, airy backdrop.

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.

  • Caribe

    Behr · PPU13-1

  • Surf Blue

    Benjamin Moore · 2056-30

  • Bay Teal

    Valspar · 5004-10C

  • Briny

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6775

  • Beach Towel

    Behr · S-G-510

  • The Real Teal

    Behr · P470-7

Lighting

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

  • Natural