Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re looking for a paint color that brings depth, sophistication, and a touch of intrigue to your home, let’s talk about Benjamin Moore’s *Mysterious* (AF-565). This isn’t just another dark blue-gray—it’s a chameleon of a shade that shifts between muted teal and deep charcoal depending on the light. Whether you’re aiming for a moody bedroom, a dramatic living room, or a sleek home office, this color has the versatility to deliver.

First, let’s break down what makes *Mysterious* so special. With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of just 8.76%, it’s undeniably dark—meaning it absorbs light rather than reflecting it. That might sound intimidating, but it’s exactly what gives this color its cozy, enveloping quality. In a well-lit room, the blue undertones come alive, adding a modern edge. In lower light, it leans into its moodier side, creating an intimate atmosphere that feels both elegant and inviting.

One of the biggest strengths of *Mysterious* is its adaptability. It plays well with a range of decor styles—think modern farmhouse, industrial loft, or even Scandinavian minimalism. Pair it with crisp white trim (like Benjamin Moore’s *White Dove*) for a classic contrast, or let it shine alongside warm brass fixtures for a touch of luxury. If you’re worried about it feeling too heavy in a small space, try using it on an accent wall or even on furniture like a bookshelf or cabinetry. The key is balance: offset its depth with lighter textiles, plenty of lighting, or even a few strategically placed mirrors to bounce light around.

When it comes to application, *Mysterious* is beginner-friendly. It rolls on smoothly, and thanks to its high coverage, you’ll likely only need one or two coats. The finish options matter, too. A matte finish leans into the color’s richness, giving walls a velvety look, while eggshell adds a subtle sheen that can help brighten the space slightly. And because it’s highly washable, it’s a practical choice for high-traffic areas like hallways or dining rooms—no need to stress over scuffs or fingerprints.

Now, let’s talk undertones. *Mysterious* has a cool blue base, which keeps it feeling fresh and modern. But here’s the thing: undertones can shift depending on your lighting and surroundings. If your room gets a lot of natural light, the blue might peek through more. In artificial or dim lighting, it can read as a softer, almost neutral gray. That’s why it’s always a good idea to test a swatch in your space before committing. Paint a large poster board and move it around the room at different times of day—you’ll get a much better sense of how the color behaves in your specific environment.

If you love *Mysterious* but aren’t ready to go all-in, consider using it in smaller doses. A front door painted in this shade makes a bold first impression. Or try it on built-ins or a fireplace surround to add depth without overwhelming the room. And don’t forget about complementary colors. Warm, earthy tones like terracotta or mustard yellow can balance its coolness, while soft blush pinks or sage greens create a more serene, harmonious vibe.

Of course, no color is perfect for every situation. *Mysterious* can make a small, poorly lit room feel a bit cave-like if you’re not careful. But with the right lighting—think layered sources like floor lamps, sconces, and even candles—you can keep it from feeling too heavy. And if you’re worried about it being *too* dark, remember that paint is just one layer of your design. Lighter furniture, airy curtains, and reflective surfaces (like metallic accents or glass) can all help lighten the overall feel.

At the end of the day, *Mysterious* is for those who aren’t afraid of a little drama. It’s a color that demands attention but does so with quiet confidence. Whether you’re going for a cozy reading nook, a sleek home office, or a dining room that feels like a high-end restaurant, this shade delivers. So grab a sample, trust your instincts, and get ready to fall in love with one of Benjamin Moore’s most captivating hues. After all, the best interiors are the ones that feel uniquely *you*—and *Mysterious* might just be the perfect starting point.

Real Room Photo of Mysterious AF-565

Undertones of  Mysterious ?

The undertones of Mysterious 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: #454B54

RGB code: 69, 75, 84

Is  Mysterious Cool or Warm?

This color leans cool, with its gray and teal mix creating a serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for spaces where you want to promote calmness while still feeling inviting.

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 Mysterious

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 Mysterious

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Mysterious is 8.76%, which places it in the Dark colors category. This means it does not reflect 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  Mysterious

When it comes to Mysterious, you’re looking at a paint that exudes sophistication. The color can transform any room into a cozy retreat or a dramatic statement space. It pairs beautifully with lighter shades, offering a delightful contrast that adds depth to your decor. Whether you’re looking to create a moody bedroom or a stylish living area, Mysterious has the versatility to shine. Its application is smooth, and the finish dries evenly, allowing for a professional look even if you’re a DIY enthusiast. Just be mindful of lighting — in dim spaces, it can appear darker than expected, but in well-lit areas, it reveals its stunning undertones.

Pros & Cons of  AF-565 Mysterious

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Mysterious

FAQ on AF-565 Mysterious

Can Mysterious be used in small rooms?

Yes, while Mysterious can darken small spaces, it can also create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. To prevent it from feeling too heavy, pair it with lighter accents and ensure good lighting. Consider using it on an accent wall to add depth without overwhelming the entire room.

What finishes work best with Mysterious?

Mysterious looks stunning in a matte or eggshell finish, providing a smooth appearance that complements its rich color. Matte finishes enhance the depth of the paint, while eggshell adds a subtle sheen that can brighten the space without losing the dramatic effect.

Comparisons Mysterious with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Mysterious AF-565