Choosing the perfect rich, deep blue paint color can be challenging. Popular options Blue Note 2129-30 and Hale Navy HC-154 from Benjamin Moore may seem very similar at first glance. But what really sets apart these two gorgeous navy blues?
In this guide, we’ll compare Blue Note vs Hale Navy in-depth to help determine the best blue paint color for your home. We’ll analyze undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Blue Note and Hale Navy
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Benjamin Moore’s Blue Note and Hale Navy:
- Undertones – Blue Note is a green-leaning navy, Hale Navy is a truer indigo
- Light Reflectance – Blue Note has an LRV of 9.02, Hale Navy has an LRV of 8.36
- Use – Blue Note suits traditional spaces, Hale Navy works across the board
- Rooms – Blue Note excels in studies, Hale Navy shines as an accent
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Blue Note and Hale Navy more thoroughly.
Benjamin Moore Blue Note 2129-30
With its classic navy blue appearance, Benjamin Moore Blue Note 2129-30 creates a refined backdrop well-suited for traditional styled spaces. This timeless color works across studies, libraries, dining rooms and more.
Here are some key details about Blue Note:
- LRV: 9.02
- Undertones: Navy blue with green
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Studies, dining rooms, bedrooms
- Pairs Well With: Warm woods, brass metals, creams
Blue Note is a saturated green-tinted navy that leans slightly teal in bright light. In dim lighting it appears as a true rich navy. The historic color has regal appeal.
The 9.02 light reflectance value gives this shade dramatic contrast without being overpowering. Blue Note strikes a stately balance perfect for accentuating design details.
This traditional navy blue complements classic color pairings:
- Benjamin Moore San Antonio Gray
- Benjamin Moore Henderson Beige
- Maple and oak wood tones
- Brass hardware and lighting
- Off-white trim and mouldings
While suitable anywhere in traditional homes, Blue Note excels most in these key spaces:
- Studies
- Dining Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Entryways
- Libraries
Blue Note’s refined tones help create an elegant, upscale setting. Use it to establish striking distinction in formal rooms.
Benjamin Moore Hale Navy HC-154
With its deep indigo appearance, Benjamin Moore Hale Navy HC-154 adds bold, dramatic contrast as an accent color. This versatile navy blue works across styles from modern to traditional.
Here are some key details about Hale Navy:
- LRV: 8.36
- Undertones: Navy blue
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Accent walls, small baths, kitchens
- Pairs Well With: Beiges, yellows, greys, woods
Hale Navy is a rich, saturated navy that maintains a consistent bold indigo look across lighting conditions. The timeless color makes a statement.
The 8.36 light reflectance value gives this shade intense depth as an accent. Hale Navy packs strong visual impact.
This flexible navy blue pairs nicely with lighter neutrals. Popular Hale Navy color combinations include:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Soft greys and tans
- White trim and natural woods
- Brass hardware
While bold for an all-over color, Hale Navy excels when used strategically in these spaces:
- Accent walls
- Small bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Dining rooms
- Entryways
Hale Navy’s dramatic saturation makes colors and textures pop. Use it deliberately to add striking contrast.
Comparing Blue Note vs Hale Navy
Now that we’ve examined Blue Note and Hale Navy separately, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Blue Note and Hale Navy have different LRVs of 9.02 and 8.36 respectively. Blue Note will read slightly lighter.
Undertones
Blue Note leans green-blue, while Hale Navy is a truer navy indigo. Their undertones distinguish them.
Use & Rooms
Blue Note suits traditional spaces like studies. Hale Navy works broadly as an accent.
Availability
Both Blue Note and Hale Navy come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Blue Note vs Hale Navy Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Blue Note 2129-30 | Hale Navy HC-154 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 9.02 | 8.36 |
| Undertones | Green navy | Indigo navy |
| Use | Formal rooms | Accents |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Traditional | Contemporary |
Real-Life Photos: Blue Note vs Hale Navy
Let’s look at real-life images to visualize the differences between Blue Note and Hale Navy:
Benjamin Moore Blue Note
Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
While both are navy blues, Blue Note reads slightly brighter and greener, while Hale Navy appears deeper and richer. Light affects their tones.
Should I Choose Blue Note or Hale Navy?
So how do you decide between Benjamin Moore’s Blue Note or Hale Navy for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Blue Note 2129-30 if you want:
- A green-tinted refined navy
- A stately backdrop for formal rooms
- A sophisticated, elegant statement
- A versatile navy across traditional spaces
Choose Hale Navy HC-154 if you want:
- A deep, dramatic indigo navy
- Striking contrast as an accent
- An intense bold splash of color
- Maximum visual impact
Get large samples of both paint colors. Paint swatches on walls viewing during day and night. This gives the best sense of their undertones and depth.
Also visualize them with decor you already have. The two blues suit different aesthetics despite their similarity.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms perfectly suited to Blue Note and Hale Navy paint colors:
Benjamin Moore Blue Note
- Studies
- Dining Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Entryways
- Libraries
Benjamin Moore Hale Navy
- Accent Walls
- Small Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
While both work throughout the home, the above spaces optimize each navy’s unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Blue Note and Hale Navy make bold statements. Complement them with considered colors and materials:
Blue Note 2129-30 Pairings
- Benjamin Moore San Antonio Gray
- Benjamin Moore Henderson Beige
- Maple and oak woods
- Brass hardware
- Off-white trim
Hale Navy HC-154 Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter
- Soft greys and tans
- White trim and natural wood
- Brass hardware
Blue Note vs Hale Navy – Which is Better?
Which deep blue paint color is the winner for your home – Blue Note or Hale Navy?
Consider Blue Note 2129-30 if you want:
- A green-tinted refined navy
- A stately backdrop for formal rooms
- A sophisticated, elegant statement
- A versatile navy across traditional spaces
Consider Hale Navy HC-154 if you want:
- A deep, dramatic indigo navy
- Striking contrast as an accent
- An intense bold splash of color
- Maximum visual impact
While comparable, Blue Note is more stately as an all-over color and Hale Navy bolder as an accent. Get samples before deciding. Either rich Benjamin Moore navy you choose will create a beautiful, moody look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still undecided between Blue Note or Hale Navy? Here are answers to common questions:
What are the main differences between Blue Note and Hale Navy?
The main differences are Blue Note’s green undertone and suitability for formal rooms vs. Hale Navy’s indigo tone and use as an accent.
What colors work well with Blue Note?
Blue Note looks gorgeous paired with creams, warm woods, brass metallics, and off-whites for an elegant traditional look.
Can you use Hale Navy in a bedroom?
Yes, Hale Navy would be striking on an accent wall in a bedroom paired with light neutrals for contrast.
Is Blue Note suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Blue Note has enough depth at 9.02 LRV to handle a south facing room. Add lighter blues and off-whites to balance it.
Does Hale Navy come in eggshell finish?
Yes, the intense Hale Navy is available in any sheen from flat matte to eggshell to high gloss semi-gloss.
