Ref. #455D66 · PPU13-19
Observatory
10%LRV Value
Cool (Blue)Undertone
Observatory Technical Profile
What color is Observatory? It's a dark cool neutral with the hex code #455D66. Colors similar to Observatory include Benjamin Moore Newburg Green, Benjamin Moore New Providence Navy, PPG Oceania. Observatory has a cool (blue) undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. With an LRV of 10, Observatory creates a dramatic, enveloping mood — best on accent walls, dining rooms, and intimate spaces where atmosphere matters more than reflected light. As a cool neutral, Observatory pairs with cool whites for trim, gray-toned or rift-cut oak floors, and brushed nickel or polished chrome hardware. Black accents and natural greenery add contrast. Cool neutrals hold their crisp quality under 4000K+ daylight bulbs. Under 2700K warm light they soften considerably — particularly true for any blue or green undertone.
Colors Similar to Observatory
Closest digital match based on color values. Always verify with physical samples.
Recommended Pairings
Colors That Work With Observatory
Timeless pairing with clean white trim and a tonal accent wall
Side Walls
Observatory
#455D66
Accent Wall
Tonal Shift
A warm shift that adds depth without clashing.
#596385
Trim & Molding
Pure White
Crisp white trim for a clean, traditional look.
#FFFFFF
Color Palettes for Observatory
Color harmonies based on color theory — each swatch links to the closest matching paint.
Opposite on the color wheel — creates vibrant contrast
Observatory Room Palettes
Color schemes built around this color — each swatch links to the closest matching paint.
Warm & Inviting
Warm tones with cozy appeal — welcoming and comfortable
Cool & Calm
Cool hues with soft contrast — serene and restful
Bold Contrast
Complementary hues with punch — dynamic and striking
Similar Behr Colors
Other Behr colors close to Observatory.
More neutral colors from other brands
Cross-brand colors in the neutral family — useful when you want a similar look from a different brand.
Observatory — Frequently Asked Questions
What undertone does Observatory have?
Observatory by Behr has a cool (blue) undertone and belongs to the neutral color family.
What colors match Observatory from other brands?
The closest matches are Newburg Green by Benjamin Moore (#455A63), New Providence Navy by Benjamin Moore (#455A63), Oceania by PPG (#425A65). Always verify with physical samples.
What is the LRV of Observatory?
Observatory has an LRV of 10.1, where 0 is pure black and 100 is pure white.
Explore More with Observatory
Related Reading
How to Match Paint Colors Across Brands
The science behind Delta E and CIEDE2000 — find a Behr equivalent of any Sherwin-Williams shade, or a Benjamin Moore alternative when your store is out of stock.
Understanding Paint Color Undertones
Why Observatory's cool (blue) undertone matters more than its surface color — and how to read undertones in any paint chip.