Kensington Blue 840 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with tranquility, let me introduce you to Kensington Blue by Benjamin Moore. This isn’t just another blue—it’s a mood, a statement, and a design tool all in one. With its muted, medium-dark hue and a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 11.97%, it’s the kind of color that adds depth without overwhelming a space. Whether you’re painting a cozy bedroom, a serene home office, or an elegant living room, Kensington Blue has the versatility to make it work.

One of the first things you’ll notice about this color is its understated elegance. It’s not loud or flashy, but it commands attention in the most refined way. The blue undertones give it a cool, calming presence, yet it’s muted enough to avoid feeling icy or stark. That’s what makes it so adaptable—it plays well with warm woods, crisp whites, and even bold accents like brass fixtures. Imagine it on your walls with trim in Pure White or Simply White for a classic look, or paired with rich wood tones for a more organic feel. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with black or deep gray trim for a modern, high-contrast vibe.

Lighting plays a huge role in how Kensington Blue shows up in your space. In natural light, it feels fresh and vibrant, almost like a soft denim. Under artificial light, it takes on a deeper, more subdued tone, perfect for creating an intimate atmosphere in the evenings. Because it reflects very little light (thanks to its low LRV), it’s ideal for rooms where you want to foster calm and focus. That said, if you’re using it in a smaller space, just be mindful that it can feel cooler—balance it out with warm textiles, wood furniture, or creamy neutrals to keep the room inviting.

Application is a breeze with this paint. It’s beginner-friendly, roller-ready, and dries quickly, so you won’t be waiting around forever to see the final result. Most projects will only need one to two coats for full coverage, and it’s touch-up friendly, which is a lifesaver if you’re a perfectionist. The finish options—matte, eggshell, or satin—give you flexibility depending on the room’s function. Eggshell is great for living areas where you want a slight sheen, while matte works beautifully in bedrooms for a softer look. And because it’s washable and scrubbable, it’s practical for high-traffic spaces like hallways or dining rooms.

Now, let’s talk pairings. Kensington Blue is a team player. It harmonizes with a wide range of colors, but some combinations truly make it sing. For a timeless look, pair it with warm whites like White Dove or creamy off-whites. If you want to add a pop of contrast, introduce accents in its complementary hue—orange. Think burnt orange throw pillows, terracotta pots, or even a rust-colored sofa for a bold yet balanced look. For a coastal vibe, mix it with sandy beiges and crisp whites. In a modern farmhouse setting, let it shine alongside reclaimed wood and black metal fixtures. The possibilities are endless.

If you’re worried about commitment, don’t be. This color is surprisingly forgiving. Its versatility means it can adapt to different decor styles—transitional, traditional, coastal, even farmhouse. And if you ever want to switch things up, it’s easy to layer in new accessories or furniture without clashing. That’s the beauty of a well-chosen neutral-with-personality like Kensington Blue.

A few pro tips before you dive in: Always test the color in your space first. Paint a large swatch on the wall and observe it at different times of day. Notice how it interacts with your flooring, furniture, and lighting. If you’re using it in a room with limited natural light, consider pairing it with plenty of warm-toned decor to keep it from feeling too cool. And if you’re painting an accent wall, think about the sightlines—where will your eye naturally travel? Make sure it’s a focal point worth highlighting.

At the end of the day, Kensington Blue is more than just a paint color—it’s a design decision that can transform your home into a sanctuary. It’s calm without being boring, sophisticated without being pretentious, and versatile enough to grow with your style. Whether you’re refreshing a single room or reimagining your entire home, this color has the depth and character to make it feel intentional and inviting. So grab a brush, trust your instincts, and let Kensington Blue work its magic. You won’t regret it.

Real Room Photo of Kensington Blue 840

Undertones of  Kensington Blue ?

The undertones of Kensington 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: #4C5B72

RGB code: 76, 91, 114

Is  Kensington Blue Cool or Warm?

Kensington Blue leans more towards the cool side of the color spectrum. However, its muted nature allows it to blend harmoniously with warm tones, making it a flexible choice for a variety of color palettes. This balance between warm and cool undertones ensures that the color feels inviting without being too stark.

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 Kensington 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 Kensington Blue

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Kensington Blue is 11.97%, 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  Kensington Blue

Kensington Blue stands out for its refined aesthetic. This paint strikes a balance between being bold yet understated, making it a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. It works beautifully in both large and small spaces, bringing a touch of elegance without overwhelming the senses. The color reflects light in a way that adds dimension to walls, making it ideal for spaces where you want to promote calmness and focus. Additionally, its versatility allows it to pair well with warm woods and crisp whites, enhancing its appeal in various design schemes. Whether you’re going for a cozy nook or a more expansive area, Kensington Blue provides just the right touch of sophistication.

Pros & Cons of  840 Kensington Blue

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Kensington Blue

FAQ on 840 Kensington Blue

How many coats of Kensington Blue will I need?

Most homeowners find that one to two coats of Kensington Blue provides excellent coverage. Depending on the surface and color underneath, a second coat may enhance the depth and richness of the hue. Always test a small area first to confirm the best results for your specific project.

What trim colors pair well with Kensington Blue?

Kensington Blue pairs beautifully with a range of trim colors. For a classic look, white trims like Pure White or Simply White work well. If you’re looking for something warmer, consider wood trims that can enhance the blue’s elegance. Additionally, modern spaces might benefit from contrasting with black or deep gray trims for a bolder statement.

Comparisons Kensington Blue with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Kensington Blue 840