Dragonfly AF-510 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with serenity, Benjamin Moore’s Dragonfly (AF-510) might just be your perfect match. This deep teal with subtle gray undertones is like a breath of fresh air—calming yet full of character, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to infuse their home with a touch of nature-inspired elegance. Whether you’re revamping a living room, bedroom, or home office, Dragonfly has the versatility to adapt to your vision while creating a space that feels both grounded and inviting.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Dragonfly is its rich, moody depth. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 12.07%, it sits firmly in the medium-dark range, meaning it absorbs more light than it reflects. This makes it ideal for rooms where you want to cultivate a cozy, intimate atmosphere. But don’t let its depth intimidate you—Dragonfly has a way of feeling expansive rather than oppressive, especially when paired with the right lighting and decor. Natural light brings out its vibrant teal notes, while evening lighting softens it into a more subdued, almost misty green. It’s a chameleon in the best way, shifting gracefully with the time of day.

The blue undertones in Dragonfly give it a cool, refreshing quality, making it an excellent choice for spaces meant to inspire relaxation. Imagine walking into a bedroom painted in this hue—it’s like stepping into a quiet forest glade, where the stresses of the day just melt away. That’s the magic of this color. It’s earthy without feeling heavy, deep without feeling dark, and cool without feeling sterile. If you’re someone who loves nature but doesn’t want to commit to a bold forest green, Dragonfly strikes the perfect balance.

Now, let’s talk application. One of the biggest perks of this paint is how beginner-friendly it is. The coverage is impressive—most surfaces will only need one or two coats, and the finish is smooth and even. Whether you opt for matte, eggshell, or satin, Dragonfly applies like a dream, drying quickly and leaving behind a durable, wipeable surface. That’s a big win for busy households or anyone who wants a low-maintenance yet high-impact color. And because it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, you can breathe easy knowing you’re making a healthier choice for your home.

Of course, no color is without its considerations. Dragonfly’s depth means it can make smaller rooms feel a bit more enclosed if used on all four walls. But here’s a pro tip: if you love the color but have a compact space, try using it on an accent wall instead. Pair it with lighter neutrals like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove or a crisp pure white trim to keep the room feeling open and airy. Another thing to keep in mind is that lighting will dramatically affect how this color looks. In north-facing rooms, it might lean more into its blue undertones, while in south-facing spaces, the green will shine through. Always test a swatch in your actual space before committing.

When it comes to decor pairings, Dragonfly is surprisingly versatile. Its cool, earthy tone plays well with modern, bohemian, coastal, and even rustic styles. For a sleek, contemporary look, pair it with black accents and metallic finishes. If you’re going for a boho vibe, layer in warm woods, textured textiles, and plenty of greenery to enhance its organic feel. And if coastal is more your speed, combine it with crisp whites, rattan furniture, and sandy neutrals for a serene, beachy retreat. Complimentary shades like soft blush pinks (think Benjamin Moore’s AF-625) or warm taupes (like 1265) can add just the right contrast without overwhelming the space.

Furniture and accessories in natural materials—think linen, jute, and reclaimed wood—will amplify Dragonfly’s earthy charm. Metallic accents in brass or gold can add a touch of luxury, while matte black fixtures will keep things modern and grounded. And don’t shy away from artwork with bold pops of color. Because Dragonfly is such a rich neutral, it can handle vibrant accents without competing for attention.

So, is Dragonfly the right color for your next project? If you’re drawn to colors that feel both timeless and a little unexpected, if you want a space that’s calming but never boring, and if you appreciate a hue that adapts to your lifestyle rather than dictating it, then the answer is probably yes. This is a color for those who crave depth and dimension in their homes, who want their walls to tell a story rather than just fade into the background. It’s a color that invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.

At the end of the day, paint is more than just pigment on a wall—it’s the backdrop to your life. And with Dragonfly, that backdrop is one of tranquility, sophistication, and effortless style. Whether you’re painting a single piece of furniture or an entire room, this shade has the power to transform not just your space, but how you feel in it. So grab a brush, trust your instincts, and let Dragonfly work its magic. You won’t regret it.

Real Room Photo of Dragonfly AF-510

Undertones of  Dragonfly ?

The undertones of Dragonfly 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: #3D615E

RGB code: 61, 97, 94

Is  Dragonfly Cool or Warm?

This color leans more toward the cool side of the spectrum, thanks to its blue and green hues, which can create a refreshing environment. It’s perfect for spaces where you want to promote relaxation and clarity.

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 Dragonfly

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 Dragonfly

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Dragonfly is 12.07%, 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  Dragonfly

Applying Dragonfly is a delight, as it effortlessly glides on surfaces, providing excellent coverage with minimal effort. The color transforms beautifully under different lighting conditions, shifting from a deep, rich teal to a softer, more muted tone, making it versatile for various settings. Whether you’re painting a feature wall or an entire room, the application process is smooth and satisfying. You may find yourself connecting with nature as this hue inspires a tranquil ambiance, drawing the eye and inviting conversation. Plus, its durability means you won’t be touching it up constantly, allowing you to enjoy your space without worry.

Pros & Cons of  AF-510 Dragonfly

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Dragonfly

FAQ on AF-510 Dragonfly

Can Dragonfly be used in small rooms?

Absolutely! While Dragonfly is a deeper color, it can work beautifully in small rooms when paired with the right lighting and decor. To avoid making the space feel too enclosed, consider using it on an accent wall or in conjunction with lighter tones to balance the overall look. Its calming nature can actually enhance the coziness of a small room.

What finishes work best with Dragonfly?

Dragonfly is versatile and can be used in various finishes depending on the look you’re after. For a modern, sleek appearance, consider a satin or eggshell finish. If you want a more matte look that absorbs light, go for a flat finish. Each finish will highlight the color differently, so choose based on your personal style and the room’s purpose.

Comparisons Dragonfly with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Dragonfly AF-510