Dark Blue Paint Colors I'm Loving As A Designer

The moodiest, coziest, and eathiest dark blue paint colors to be obsessed with. Oh, and how to use them.

By Marybeth Burns

As a designer, few shades feel as effortlessly elegant as a rich, moody blue. Lately, I’ve been leaning heavily on deep blues that add sophistication without feeling cold. These tones work beautifully in Charlotte homes, especially paired with natural wood, warm metals, and cozy textures — and they’re incredibly versatile across cabinetry, accent walls, dining rooms, and even ceilings.

Here are my current favorite dark blue paint colors, plus where I love to use them.

1. Benjamin Moore Blue Note

Dark blue-gray with a hint of warmth

Blue Note brings a bookish, refined mood — like the wall color equivalent of a great jazz bar. It pairs perfectly with vintage furniture and brass reading lamps. If you're into layered, cozy spaces with a little mystery, this one's for you.

Where to use it: Libraries, built-ins, music rooms

Benjamin Moore Blue Note

2. Sherwin-Williams Indigo Batik

Deep navy with subtle purple hints

This one feels traditional but with a twist. It reminds me of the timeless interiors created by Kendall Wilkinson Interiors — but for a Charlotte version, think House of Nomad flair: globally inspired but grounded.

Where to use it: Dining rooms, cabinets, offices

Sherwin Williams Indigo Batik

3. Sherwin-Williams Smoky Azurite

Vivid blue with cool undertones

Playful and unexpected, this is one of those colors that can take a room from basic to editorial. If your space is feeling too safe, Smoky Azurite is your fix. If you're looking for art to go with this vivid blue, check out Shain Gallery.

Where to use it: Kids’ rooms, creative studios, lockers

Sherwin Williams Smoky Azurite

4. Sherwin-Williams Scanda

Bright cobalt — flat and clean

This one screams gallery wall. It’s energetic and sharp, perfect for anyone who likes design with a pop.

Where to use it: Entryways, modern kitchens, home bars

Sherwin Williams Scanda

5. Sherwin-Williams Distance

Cool, smoky blue with depth

This shade reminds me of the soft blue hour light that hits just before dusk. Calm, gentle, and layered — perfect for creating restful spaces.

Where to use it: Bedrooms, dens, media rooms

Sherwin Williams Distance

6. Sherwin-Williams Charcoal Blue

Charcoal-toned blue with navy influence

One of the best “almost black” shades. It feels like a high-end suit — tailored and sharp. Amazing for cabinetry and kitchen islands.

Where to use it: Kitchens, vanities, statement ceilings

Sherwin Williams Charcoal Blue

7. Benjamin Moore Hale Navy

Classic, timeless navy

You’ve seen it. You’ve loved it. Hale Navy is the little black dress of dark blues — it works on anything and never goes out of style. New Old Custom Homes often uses this on custom builds across Charlotte.

Where to use it: Exteriors, front doors, stair railings

Benjamin Moore Hale Navy

8. Sherwin-Williams Cyberspace

Almost-black navy with charcoal tones

This is for those bold enough to go dark. Cyberspace is cozy and dramatic — I especially love it in homes with high ceilings or oversized art.

Where to use it: Powder rooms, mudrooms, moody bedrooms

Sherwin Williams Cyberspace

9. Sherwin-Williams Storm Cloud

Steely deep blue with gray influence

Modern and sleek. This one feels like rainy day energy in the best way — a natural fit for hygge-inspired interiors.

Where to use it: Bedrooms, kitchens with white oak

Sherwin Williams Storm Cloud

10. Sherwin-Williams Blustery Sky

Warm, reddish-gray undertone

This color is a great option for transitional homes that need something soft but not boring. It brings a romantic, historic vibe to bathrooms or dressing rooms. If you've heard of Charlotte Moss, then you get the vibe of this paint color and what it can do to your interior.

Where to use it: Guest baths, primary bedrooms, nooks

Sherwin Williams Blustery Sky

Dark Blue Design Takeaway

When you're testing any of these colors, make sure you’re doing it in your own light — the blue in a sunroom hits differently than the same shade in a bathroom. We offer in-home consultations and color testing across Charlotte, and we’re happy to bring samples to you and talk through each shade’s mood.

Want more color talk or to follow along with real Charlotte projects? Find us on Instagram

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