Dark Blue Paint Colors I'm Loving As A Designer
The moodiest, coziest, and earthiest 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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