When Behr Paint announced its 2019 Color of the Year, it unveiled a rich, balanced, and sophisticated shade that quickly captured the hearts of homeowners, designers, and DIY enthusiasts—Behr Blueprint S470-5. This color offers a harmonious blend of blue with gray and green undertones, making it one of the most versatile and livable paint colors in recent years.
In this Behr Blueprint Color Review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this color stand out, how it performs in different spaces, where to use it, complementary color schemes, and much more. Whether you’re planning a full-room makeover or just an accent wall, this guide has everything you need to know.
What Color Is Behr Blueprint (S470-5)?
Behr Blueprint is a mid-tone blue with gray undertones that brings a calming yet confident energy into any space. It’s often described as a slate blue, leaning slightly toward the cooler side, but still warm enough to work well with a range of palettes.
- Hex Code: #5A7181
- RGB: 90, 113, 129
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 27
The lower LRV means Behr Blueprint absorbs more light than it reflects, making it a cozy and grounding color—perfect for feature walls or even full-room coverage in the right setting.
Why Choose Behr Blueprint?
1. Versatility Across Styles
From modern farmhouses to industrial lofts and coastal retreats, Behr Blueprint adapts easily. It works with wood, metal, stone, and neutral décor elements.
2. Emotional Impact
Blues are known for creating a sense of tranquility, trust, and stability. Blueprint takes that a step further by adding depth and richness, making it a perfect choice for bedrooms, home offices, and entryways.
3. Timeless Appeal
Unlike trend-heavy shades that may feel outdated after a few seasons, Blueprint remains classic and enduring. It sits comfortably between vibrant navy and muted gray-blue.
Best Rooms for Behr Blueprint
🛏️ Bedroom
Blueprint is ideal for bedrooms where you want a soothing and serene atmosphere. Use it on all four walls or as a feature wall behind the headboard.
🍽️ Dining Room
Adds a refined elegance to formal or casual dining areas. Pair it with a wood table and gold or brass fixtures for a stunning result.
🛋️ Living Room
Use Blueprint to add personality without overwhelming the space. It pairs beautifully with tan leathers, neutral textiles, and black frames.
🚪 Front Door or Accent Walls
Looking to increase curb appeal? Behr Blueprint is a show-stopping front door color. Inside, it can be used as an accent wall or even on cabinetry for a modern touch.
Paint Finishes That Work Well
Depending on the application, choose the right finish to maximize Blueprint’s appeal:
- Matte or Eggshell: Best for walls in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
- Satin: Great for bathrooms and kitchens—easy to clean and slightly reflective.
- Semi-Gloss: Ideal for trim, cabinets, and doors for durability and sheen.
Color Pairing Suggestions
Choosing the right complementary colors is essential to highlight Blueprint’s depth and richness.
Neutral Companions
- Behr White Moderne DC-001
- Behr Dolphin Fin 790C-3
- Behr Swiss Coffee 12
Bold Accents
- Behr Graphic Charcoal N500-6 – for contrast
- Behr Gold Hearted M280-7 – for a warm, rich pairing
- Behr Raging Sea S490-7 – to create a layered blue palette
Nature-Inspired Colors
- Behr Garden Spot S360-6 – green tones for an earthy balance
- Behr Clay Pot PPU3-15 – terracotta for warmth and contrast
Lighting Considerations
Lighting plays a critical role in how Behr Blueprint is perceived. Here’s how it may look under different lighting conditions:
- Natural Light (North-Facing): May appear cooler and more muted.
- Natural Light (South-Facing): Warmer, with more richness and vibrancy.
- Artificial Light (Warm Bulbs): Blueprint may pull slightly toward gray.
- Artificial Light (Cool Bulbs): Appears truer blue with subtle steel tones.
Always sample the color on your wall before committing—paint a large swatch and observe it throughout the day.
Design Tips: Using Behr Blueprint Like a Pro
- Use it as a grounding base: Especially in large open spaces—Blueprint helps anchor lighter tones.
- Pair with natural textures: Wood, jute, leather, and linen really shine next to this shade.
- Add contrast with light trim: Use bright white or off-white to frame Blueprint walls and make them pop.
- Consider hardware and fixtures: Gold, black, and brushed nickel all pair beautifully with Blueprint.
DIY Project Ideas with Behr Blueprint
1. Kitchen Island Makeover
Transform a bland kitchen island with a coat of Blueprint in semi-gloss finish and pair it with brass handles for a designer look.
2. Bookshelf Backdrop
Paint the back wall of open shelving or a built-in bookcase to add depth and draw attention to displayed items.
3. Bedroom Headboard Wall
Create a focal point by painting the wall behind the bed in Blueprint and adding white or beige bedding.
How to Get the Look: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to apply Behr Blueprint for the best results:
- Prep the surface – clean, sand, and prime as needed.
- Choose the right tools – a high-quality roller for large areas and an angled brush for edges.
- Apply two coats – for even color coverage and true hue.
- Allow proper drying time – typically 2 hours between coats.
- Finish with trim – in a crisp white or soft beige to enhance the contrast.
Final Thoughts on Behr Blueprint Color Review
Behr Blueprint is more than just a color—it’s a statement. It’s rich without being overwhelming, bold yet balanced. Whether you’re revamping a single room or updating your home’s entire palette, Blueprint is a reliable, timeless option that delivers both style and comfort.
From the walls of cozy bedrooms to standout front doors, Blueprint’s versatility and charm make it one of Behr’s most celebrated colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Behr Blueprint warm or cool?
It’s a balanced blue that leans slightly cool due to its gray undertones, but it’s warm enough to feel cozy and inviting.
What trim color works best with Behr Blueprint?
Crisp whites like Behr Ultra Pure White or warm off-whites like Behr Swiss Coffee pair beautifully.
Can I use Blueprint in a small room?
Yes, but pair it with light trim and ample lighting to avoid making the space feel smaller.
Does Behr Blueprint go out of style?
No. Its classic slate blue tone makes it a timeless choice that fits well with both traditional and modern aesthetics.
Jen Moser is a skilled kitchen and bath designer at Wisconsin Building Supply in Appleton, WI, and the author behind the expert remodeling and design content on Vivyro.com. With years of hands-on experience in residential cabinetry, layout planning, and functional aesthetics, she shares practical tips, innovative ideas, and inspiring transformations to help homeowners create beautiful, efficient kitchens and bathrooms that suit their lifestyle and budget.
As the creative voice of Vivyro.com, Jen draws from her professional expertise to offer step-by-step guidance, trend insights, and real-world solutions for remodeling projects. Her approachable, detail-oriented style empowers DIY enthusiasts and homeowners alike to achieve professional-quality results in their own spaces.
