Athens Blue 797 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication and serenity, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Athens Blue (797). This mid-tone blue is like a breath of fresh air—calming yet vibrant, subtle yet striking. It’s the kind of color that transforms a room without overpowering it, making it a fantastic choice for everything from a cozy bedroom to a stylish home office. Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or a first-time painter, Athens Blue is a shade worth considering, and I’m here to break down exactly why it might be the perfect fit for your next project.

Athens Blue has a depth that feels both timeless and modern. Its RGB values (61, 116, 172) and hex code (#3D74AC) place it squarely in that sweet spot of blue—not too light, not too dark, but rich enough to make a statement. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 18.70%, it sits in the medium-dark range, meaning it absorbs more light than it reflects. This gives it a cozy, intimate feel, perfect for spaces where you want to unwind. But don’t let that fool you—it’s far from gloomy. In well-lit rooms, Athens Blue takes on an almost ethereal quality, like the sky on a clear summer afternoon.

One of the things I love most about this color is its versatility. It plays well with a variety of decor styles, from coastal and Scandinavian to modern and traditional. Imagine it in a living room with crisp white trim (Benjamin Moore’s White Dove is a perfect pairing) and warm wood accents. Or picture it in a nursery, where its tranquil vibe creates a soothing environment for little ones. It even works in kitchens, especially when paired with brass fixtures or natural stone countertops. The cool undertones keep it feeling fresh, while the richness of the hue adds just enough warmth to keep it inviting.

When it comes to application, Athens Blue is a dream. It’s beginner-friendly, with good coverage that often only requires one or two coats. The paint is self-priming, dries quickly, and is touch-up friendly, so you won’t have to stress over minor mistakes. It’s available in matte, eggshell, and satin finishes, each offering a slightly different effect. For a modern look, I’d lean toward satin—it adds a subtle sheen that enhances the color’s depth. Eggshell is another great option, offering a soft glow that’s easy to clean. If you prefer a more muted, traditional feel, matte will give you that velvety finish.

Now, let’s talk about lighting. Because Athens Blue has a lower LRV, it’s important to consider how it will behave in your space. In rooms with plenty of natural light, it’ll appear brighter and more dynamic. In darker or north-facing rooms, it can feel deeper and moodier—which isn’t a bad thing if you’re going for a cozy vibe. If you’re worried about it feeling too dark, balance it out with lighter furniture, sheer curtains, or plenty of ambient lighting. And don’t forget to test it on your walls first. Paint a large swatch and observe it at different times of day to see how the color shifts.

Maintenance is a breeze with Athens Blue. It’s wipeable and washable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms or kitchens. The low VOC formula means it’s better for your indoor air quality, too. Plus, it’s fade-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it losing its luster over time.

If you’re thinking about using Athens Blue as an accent, it’s a fantastic choice for a feature wall or even painted furniture. Try it on built-in bookshelves or a statement dresser for a pop of color that doesn’t overwhelm. And when it comes to trim, white is a classic pairing, but don’t shy away from wood tones or even black for a more dramatic contrast.

As for complementary colors, Athens Blue shines alongside warm neutrals and soft whites. Benjamin Moore’s HC-175 (Edgecomb Gray) or AF-685 (Pale Oak) would make gorgeous pairings for a balanced look. If you want to add a bit of contrast, consider touches of orange or coral—its complementary hue—through throw pillows, artwork, or decor.

So, is Athens Blue right for your home? If you’re looking for a color that’s equal parts calming and chic, the answer is probably yes. It’s a shade that adapts to your style, whether you’re going for breezy coastal vibes or sleek modern elegance. It’s easy to work with, easy to live with, and—most importantly—it’s a color you won’t tire of. Paint is one of the most transformative tools in design, and Athens Blue is a prime example of how the right hue can elevate a space from ordinary to extraordinary.

Still on the fence? Grab a sample and see for yourself. Sometimes, the best way to fall in love with a color is to live with it for a little while. And who knows? Athens Blue might just be the missing piece in your home’s story.

Real Room Photo of Athens Blue 797

Undertones of  Athens Blue ?

The undertones of Athens Blue are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Blue. These subtle underlying hues are what give the color its depth and complexity. For example, a gray with a blue undertone will feel cooler and more modern, while one with a brown undertone will feel warmer and more traditional. It’s essential to test this paint in your home and observe it next to your existing furniture, flooring, and decor to see how these undertones interact and reveal themselves throughout the day.

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HEX value: #3D74AC

RGB code: 61, 116, 172

Is  Athens Blue Cool or Warm?

Athens Blue is a cool-toned hue, offering a refreshing vibe that feels crisp and clean. Its cool characteristics make it an ideal choice for spaces where you want to promote relaxation and calmness.

Understanding Color Properties and Interior Design Tips

Hue refers to a specific position on the color wheel, measured in degrees from 0 to 360. Each degree represents a different pure color:

• 0° represents red
• 120° represents green
• 240° represents blue

Saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color and is expressed as a percentage:

• At 0%, the color appears completely desaturated—essentially a shade of gray
• At 100%, the color is at its most vivid and vibrant

Lightness indicates how light or dark a color is, also expressed as a percentage:

• 0% lightness results in black
• 100% lightness results in white

Using Warm Colors in Interior Design

Warm hues—such as reds, oranges, yellows, warm beiges, and greiges—are excellent choices for creating inviting and energetic spaces. These colors are particularly well-suited for:

• Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where warmth enhances comfort and sociability
• Large rooms, where warm tones can help reduce the sense of emptiness and make the space feel more intimate

For example:

• Warm beige shades provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
• Warm greige (a mix of beige and gray) offers the warmth of beige with the modern appeal of gray, making it a versatile backdrop for dining areas, bedrooms, and living spaces.

However, be mindful when using warm light tones in rooms with limited natural light. These shades may appear muted or even take on an unpleasant yellowish tint. To avoid a dull or flat appearance:

• Add depth by incorporating richer tones like deep greens, charcoal, or chocolate brown
• Use textured elements such as curtains, rugs, or cushions to bring dimension to the space

Pro Tip: Achieving Harmony with Warm and Cool Color Balance

To create a well-balanced and visually interesting interior, mix warm and cool tones strategically. This contrast adds depth and harmony to your design.

• If your walls feature warm hues, introduce cool-colored accents such as blue or green furniture, artwork, or accessories to create contrast.
• For a polished look, consider using a complementary color scheme, which pairs colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red with green, orange with blue).

This thoughtful mix not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive.

Light Temperature Affects on Athens Blue

Natural Light

Natural daylight changes in color temperature as the sun moves across the sky. At sunrise and sunset, the light tends to have a warm, golden tone with a color temperature around 2000 Kelvin (K). As the day progresses and the sun rises higher, the light becomes cooler and more neutral. Around midday, especially when the sky is clear, natural light typically reaches its peak brightness and shifts to a cooler tone, ranging from 5500 to 6500 Kelvin. This midday light is close to what we perceive as pure white or daylight-balanced light.

These shifts in natural light can significantly influence how colors appear in a space, which is why designers often consider both the time of day and the orientation of windows when planning interior color schemes.

Artificial Light

When choosing artificial lighting, pay close attention to the color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). This determines how warm or cool the light will appear. Lower temperatures, around 2700K, give off a warm, yellow glow often used in living rooms or bedrooms. Higher temperatures, above 5000K, create a cool, bluish light similar to daylight, commonly used in kitchens, offices, or task areas.

Use the slider to see how lighting temperature can affect the appearance of a surface or color throughout a space.

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LRV of Athens Blue

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Athens Blue is 18.70%, which places it in the Medium Dark category. This means it reflects very little light. Understanding a paint’s LRV is crucial for predicting how it will look in your space. A higher LRV indicates a lighter color that reflects more light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. A lower LRV signifies a darker color that absorbs more light, creating a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. Always consider the natural and artificial lighting in your room when selecting a paint color based on its LRV.

Detailed Review of  Athens Blue

Athens Blue is truly a standout color, perfect for anyone looking to refresh their space with a touch of serenity. The balance between its vibrancy and calmness makes it an ideal choice for various rooms in your home. Whether you’re painting an accent wall or refreshing an entire room, this shade works beautifully to create a soothing environment. It pairs well with both light and dark furnishings, making it versatile for different decor styles. The paint applies smoothly, and its finish resists fading over time, ensuring your walls remain stunning for years to come. Overall, it’s a color that invites you to unwind and relax.

Pros & Cons of  797 Athens Blue

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Athens Blue

FAQ on 797 Athens Blue

Can Athens Blue be used in a small room?

Absolutely! Athens Blue can work wonders in small rooms. Its mid-tone hue adds depth without overwhelming the space. To maximize its impact, pair it with lighter furnishings and decor to keep the room feeling open and airy. Plus, it can create a cozy atmosphere that makes small spaces feel warm and inviting.

What finishes are best for Athens Blue?

Athens Blue looks fantastic in various finishes, but for a modern touch, consider using a satin or eggshell finish. These options provide a slight sheen, enhancing the color while making it easier to clean. If you’re aiming for a more traditional look, a matte finish can give you that soft, cozy vibe. Ultimately, the finish you choose can highlight different aspects of this beautiful blue.

Comparisons Athens Blue with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Athens Blue 797