Van Deusen Blue HC-156 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly blends sophistication with versatility, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Van Deusen Blue (HC-156). This isn’t just another blue—it’s a muted, gray-infused shade that brings depth and elegance to any room. Whether you’re refreshing your living room, creating a tranquil bedroom, or designing a home office that inspires focus, this color has a way of making spaces feel both polished and inviting.

Van Deusen Blue sits firmly in the dark blue category, with an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 11.97%, meaning it reflects very little light. That makes it a fantastic choice for rooms where you want to create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. But don’t let the “dark” label scare you—this shade has a chameleon-like quality. In natural light, its subtle gray undertones come forward, giving it a soft, almost weathered look. Under artificial lighting, it can lean deeper, almost like a stormy sky. The key to making it work? Lighting. If your room lacks natural light, consider pairing it with warm-toned fixtures or lighter furnishings to keep it from feeling too heavy.

One of the standout features of Van Deusen Blue is its versatility. It plays well with a range of decor styles, from traditional to contemporary, coastal to modern farmhouse. Imagine it in a dining room with crisp white trim and a rustic wood table—instant elegance. Or picture it in a bedroom with linen bedding and brass accents for a serene retreat. It’s also a designer favorite for cabinetry, especially in kitchens or built-ins where you want to add a touch of drama without overwhelming the space.

Application is a breeze, even if you’re a DIY beginner. The coverage is excellent—you’ll likely only need one or two coats—and it’s touch-up friendly, so small mistakes won’t turn into big headaches. The finish options (matte, satin, or semi-gloss) let you tailor the look to your needs. Prefer a velvety, modern feel? Go matte. Want a bit more sheen for easier cleaning in high-traffic areas? Satin’s your best bet. And because it’s low-VOC, you won’t have to worry about strong fumes during or after painting.

Now, let’s talk pairings. Van Deusen Blue is cool-toned, so it naturally complements warm accents. Think creamy whites like White Dove for trim, or even wood finishes for a touch of warmth. If you’re feeling bold, throw in some orange-hued accessories—a throw pillow, a piece of art, or a terracotta pot—to create a striking contrast. For a more subdued look, pair it with soft grays or other muted blues. And if you’re not ready to commit to all four walls, try it as an accent wall behind a bed or sofa. The color’s depth will make the space feel intentional and curated.

A common question I hear is whether this color works in small rooms. The answer? Absolutely. Yes, it’s dark, but that doesn’t mean it’ll shrink your space. The trick is balance. Use lighter furniture, mirrors to reflect light, and maybe even a satin finish to add a subtle glow. I’ve seen it in tiny home offices and cozy reading nooks, and it always feels inviting rather than cramped.

As for maintenance, Van Deusen Blue is highly washable, so it’s a practical choice for busy households. Kids’ fingerprints, pet smudges, or the occasional coffee splash? No problem. A quick wipe-down will keep it looking fresh. And because it’s fade-resistant, you won’t have to worry about it losing its richness over time, even in sun-drenched rooms.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s my advice: grab a sample. Paint a large swatch on your wall and live with it for a few days. Watch how it changes with the light, how it plays with your furniture, and how it makes you feel. That’s the magic of a great paint color—it doesn’t just cover walls; it sets the mood. And Van Deusen Blue? It sets a mood of calm, sophistication, and understated beauty. Whether you’re going for a bold statement or a quiet backdrop, this color delivers.

So, is Van Deusen Blue right for your project? If you love depth, versatility, and a color that feels timeless yet fresh, the answer is probably yes. It’s one of those shades that looks expensive, applies easily, and adapts to your style—not the other way around. And in the world of paint, that’s pretty much perfection.

Real Room Photo of Van Deusen Blue HC-156

Undertones of  Van Deusen Blue ?

The undertones of Van Deusen 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: #485B6E

RGB code: 72, 91, 110

Is  Van Deusen Blue Cool or Warm?

Van Deusen Blue is predominantly cool, making it an excellent choice for creating a serene atmosphere. It pairs well with warm accents, providing a beautiful contrast that can enhance the overall aesthetic of your space.

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 Van Deusen 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 Van Deusen Blue

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Van Deusen 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  Van Deusen Blue

Van Deusen Blue is a color that exudes sophistication and style. Its rich yet understated hue makes it a perfect backdrop for both bold and subtle decor choices. When applied to walls, it transforms spaces into inviting havens, whether you’re aiming for a modern or classic look. The paint glides on smoothly, offering excellent coverage, and the finish options enhance its versatility. In different lighting, it can appear more muted or vibrant, giving you flexibility in how you want to style your room. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to make a statement without overwhelming the senses.

Pros & Cons of  HC-156 Van Deusen Blue

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Van Deusen Blue

FAQ on HC-156 Van Deusen Blue

Can Van Deusen Blue be used in small rooms?

Absolutely! While Van Deusen Blue is a deeper color, it can work beautifully in small spaces if paired with the right lighting and decor. To keep the room feeling open, consider using lighter furnishings or accent pieces to balance the rich hue. Additionally, using a satin or semi-gloss finish can help reflect light, making the space feel more expansive.

What types of trim work best with Van Deusen Blue?

Van Deusen Blue pairs wonderfully with a variety of trim colors, but it looks particularly striking with crisp white trims like White Dove or Simply White. This contrast helps to highlight the depth of the blue while keeping the overall look fresh and modern. For a more rustic feel, wood trims can also complement this color beautifully, adding warmth and character to your space.

Comparisons Van Deusen Blue with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Van Deusen Blue HC-156