When I stumbled across AF-565 Mysterious by Benjamin Moore, it immediately stood out as uniquely refined. Intrigued by its depth, I decided to learn more about what makes this color so special. AF-565 Mysterious is a part of Benjamin Moore’s Affinity Color Collection, which is designed to simplify color matching and encourage a harmonious color flow from room to room.
This shade, in particular, offers a rich blend of blue and grey, providing a neutral base that is both adaptable and dramatic. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to any area without making it feel too dark.
Whether you are looking to paint a bedroom to enhance relaxation or give a dining area a more formal atmosphere, Mysterious offers a balance that is hard to find in other paints.
What’s more, its compatibility with a wide range of décor styles, from modern to traditional, makes it a go-to choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professional designers.

What Color Is Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore?
The color Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a deep, rich blue that carries a subtle hint of navy. This shade balances a classic appeal with a modern twist, making it a flexible choice for various interior styles. In particular, it works well in contemporary areas, as well as in traditional and coastal-themed rooms, injecting a sense of depth and focus.
This color pairs excellently with natural materials such as wood, adding warmth to the coolness of the blue. It also looks stunning when combined with metallic finishes like brass or copper, which introduce an element of luxury without overpowering the room. For a crisp and clean look, contrasting Mysterious with white trim or moldings can create a striking visual effect.
In terms of textures, Mysterious complements plush fabrics such as velvet or wool, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of an area. It is also beautiful with glass accents, which can lighten the look and feel of darker rooms. Whether applied as an accent wall, on kitchen cabinets, or throughout a smaller area like a bathroom, Mysterious AF-565 provides depth and character to any interior design project.
This color invites a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, making any room feel more inviting and cozy.

Is Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore Warm or Cool color?
Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a deep, rich shade of blue that adds a bold touch to any room. This color is adaptable, making it great for living areas or bedrooms where a strong but calming atmosphere is desired.
Since it’s a darker shade, it works well on accent walls to create a striking contrast with lighter colors such as whites or soft grays. This helps in balancing the overall ambiance of a room without making it feel too intense. In homes with lots of natural light, Mysterious AF-565 can look regal and helps in making the area look more polished and well put together.
In darker rooms, it sets a cozy, comforting tone that’s perfect for relaxing. Pairing it with the right lighting and decor can enhance its effect, making areas feel more welcoming and stylish. It’s also a good choice for furniture pieces, like a cabinet or a bookshelf, if you’re not ready to commit to painting a whole wall.
Undertones of Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore
Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a flexible paint color that includes a complex blend of undertones. These undertones are navy, dark green, dark turquoise, brown, purple, olive, and grey. Undertones are subtle colors that are not immediately noticeable but play a significant role in how a primary color appears under different lighting conditions. They can make a color look cooler or warmer and influence the mood of a room.
In the case of Mysterious AF-565, the variety of undertones makes this color quite dynamic. In a room with a lot of natural light, you might notice the navy or purple undertones, giving the walls a cooler feel. However, in artificial lighting or during the evening, the brown or olive tones may come forward, warming up the room. This makes Mysterious AF-565 a great choice for areas where you want flexibility and depth.
Additionally, dark turquoise and green undertones bring a subtle natural feel to the area, which can make a room feel more welcoming. Grey undertones help balance all the other colors, ensuring that Mysterious AF-565 remains a grounded, adaptable hue.
On interior walls, this complexity allows the color to interact excitingly with different types of furniture and décor, appealing across various styles. Whether you’re looking for a backdrop that can adjust to various decorations or aiming to set a particular mood, this color’s mixture of undertones offers multiple design possibilities.

What is the Masstone of the Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore?
Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a dark grey color, similar to the shade of charcoal. Its masstone is #2B2B2B, which makes it a very deep and strong hue of grey. This particular shade can have a big impact when used in home decorating because of its boldness and depth.
In rooms with plenty of natural light, this dark grey can help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere without making the area feel too cramped or small. It’s also adaptable, working well in a variety of settings, from modern to traditional.
When paired with lighter colors like whites or pastels, it can help these brighter shades pop and give the room some contrast. Meanwhile, alongside other dark tones, it helps to establish an elegant, cohesive look. Whether used on walls, in furniture, or for accent pieces, Mysterious AF-565 is a practical choice that adds character and depth to home interiors.

How Does Lighting Affect Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore?
Lighting plays a crucial role in how we perceive colors. The type and quality of light can change the appearance of a color in significant ways. For example, the color Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore might look different under various lighting conditions.
In artificial light, specifically warm incandescent bulbs, Mysterious AF-565 will likely appear warmer and richer. This warmer glow helps deepen the hue, making it feel cozy and inviting. On the other hand, if this color is placed under cooler LED lights, it might lean slightly towards a cooler, greyish tone, which can make the area feel more modern and less cozy.
In natural light, the appearance of Mysterious AF-565 changes throughout the day and depends on the direction the room faces.
- North-facing rooms: North-facing rooms receive less direct sunlight, which can make any color look slightly darker and cooler. Here, Mysterious AF-565 might appear as a deep, true grey, providing a steady and subtle backdrop throughout the day that could make the area feel calm but a bit chilly.
- South-facing rooms: These rooms enjoy abundant sunlight that can brighten the color. Mysterious AF-565 in a south-facing room would look lighter and more vibrant, shedding some of its depth for a more lively gray tone that can make the area feel airy and bright.
- East-facing rooms: In east-facing rooms, the morning light can make Mysterious AF-565 look soft and warm, very inviting in the morning. As the day progresses, it might lose some of its warmth and return to a neutral gray as the natural light decreases.
- West-facing rooms: West-facing rooms get the evening light, which means Mysterious AF-565 might feel cooler in the morning and then glow warmer and richer towards the evening. This dynamic change can make the area feel more welcoming as the day ends.
Overall, the color Mysterious AF-565 is adaptable and reacts dynamically to different lighting conditions, making it suitable for various settings depending on the mood and function of each room.
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What is the LRV of Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value, which is a measure of the percentage of light a paint color reflects back into a room. This value helps you understand how light or dark a color will look once it’s on your walls.
A higher LRV means the color will reflect more light, making a room feel brighter and more open. Conversely, a lower LRV means the color will absorb more light, making an area feel cozier but potentially darker. With an LRV of 8.76, Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a dark color that won’t reflect much light.
This means it can make an area feel more intimate and enclosed. When used in a small area or a room with limited natural light, this color could make the setting appear even smaller or dimmer. However, in a larger or well-lit area, using this color can add a layer of depth and drama, creating a striking impact without making the area feel too cramped.

Coordinating Colors of Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore
Coordinating colors are selected shades that harmonize well with a main color to create a beautiful and cohesive color scheme. They are often chosen to enhance the main color by providing contrast, balance, or depth, making any area feel more complete and appealing.
For instance, when decorating with a color like Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore, choosing the right coordinating colors is essential to achieve a coherent look that ties all elements together seamlessly. The coordinating color AF-15, known as Steam, is a very soft, almost imperceptible gray which can make an area feel more open and airy, acting as a gentle backdrop that allows deeper colors to stand out.
Similarly, AF-490, labeled Calm Breeze, is a subtle, muted blue with a hint of gray, offering a calming effect in areas needing a touch of coolness without overpowering the senses. The color 1604, referred to as Silvery Moon, carries a hint of a silvery-gray tone providing a neutral but light-reflective surface that works well in dimmer areas to catch and distribute light.
Lastly, OC-54 or White Wisp is a crisp and clean off-white, perfect for creating a sense of freshness and cleanliness. Together, these colors form an adaptable palette that complements a bold color like Mysterious AF-565, enhancing the overall aesthetic of any interior design project.
You can see recommended paint colors below:
- AF-15 Steam
- AF-490 Tranquillity
- 1604 Silvery Moon
- OC-54 White Wisp

What are the Trim colors of Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore?
Trim colors are specific shades used to accentuate or define the edges and transitions between different surfaces in a room, such as around doors, windows, and along baseboards. They are essential in interior design because they highlight architectural features and can also help to create a more finished and cohesive appearance.
When paired with a main wall color, like Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore, choosing the right trim color can significantly influence the overall aesthetic and feel of a room. For the color OC-22, known as Calm by Benjamin Moore, you get a soft and neutral off-white that brings a subtle contrast against deeper hues like Mysterious AF-565.
It’s a gentle color that helps in softening the overall look while ensuring that the darker tones stand out. OC-17, or White Dove, is another excellent trim color option; it’s a crisp, clean white that offers a sharper contrast, making it a great choice if you aim to really define the areas between your walls and your trim. Both colors, Calm and White Dove, provide their unique touches that can enhance and complement an area painted with Benjamin Moore’s Mysterious AF-565.
You can see recommended paint colors below:

Colors Similar to Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore
In interior design, utilizing similar colors can create a harmonious and calming environment. Colors that share hue, saturation, or brightness are typically categorized as similar and can be combined to achieve a cohesive look. For example, colors like HC-154 – Hale Navy and 2129-30 – Blue Note, both by Benjamin Moore, work well together because they are variations of deep blue tones that complement each other effectively.
These shades can offer a subtle contrast while still maintaining an overall unity. Using similar colors allows for a smooth visual transition between areas and elements within a room. Mysterious AF-565, a unique shade by Benjamin Moore, pairs beautifully with similar colors such as 2119-30 – Baby Seal Black and 2127-30 – Gravel Gray.
Baby Seal Black is a rich, deep black that adds depth to the palette, while Gravel Gray offers a softer, lighter contrast that still aligns with the cooler undertones of Mysterious AF-565. By selecting shades that share common color characteristics, you can achieve a cohesive yet varied aesthetic in your decorating projects.
You can see recommended paint colors below:
- HC-154 Hale Navy
- 2119-30 Baby Seal Black
- 2129-30 Blue Note
- 2127-30 Gravel Gray

Colors that Go With Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore
Colors that pair well with Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore are crucial in enhancing the main hue’s drama and depth while keeping the atmosphere cohesive and pleasant. These colors help in creating a balance by offering contrasts or complements that enrich the visual experience.
For example, Gray Shower 2125-30 provides a lighter gray that brightens up areas while still maintaining a harmonious look with Mysterious AF-565. Similarly, Pewter 2121-30 is a deeper, richer gray that adds a gentle yet firm grounding effect, which makes the pairing with the bold Mysterious AF-565 appear seamless.
Pigeon Gray 2133-50 is slightly lighter with a hint of blue, offering a cool calmness that contrasts nicely with warmer tones. Englewood Cliffs 1607 provides a creamy off-white that offers a soft relief to the eyes, working wonderfully as a background or trim color. Anchor Gray 2126-30, being one of the darkest in this palette, similar to Pewter, provides a solid match to bring out the vibrancy of Mysterious AF-565 without overpowering it.
Lastly, Silver Lining 2119-60 is almost white with a touch of gray, perfect for creating a subtle distinction against darker shades, ensuring the area doesn’t become too heavy. Together, these colors create a visually appealing palette that enhances and supports the beauty of Mysterious AF-565, allowing it to shine in various settings.
You can see recommended paint colors below:
- 2125-30 Gray Shower
- 2121-30 Pewter
- 2133-50 Pigeon Gray
- 1607 Englewood Cliffs
- 2126-30 Anchor Gray
- 2119-60 Silver Lining

How to Use Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore In Your Home?
Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a deep, rich blue color that can instantly add a sense of depth and focus to any room. Because it’s an adaptable shade, it pairs well with a variety of decorating styles and other colors.
In a bedroom, using Mysterious on a feature wall behind the bed can create a cozy, calming feeling, making it easier to relax and fall asleep. In a living room, this color can be used on all walls to give the area a more intimate atmosphere, inviting people to sit down and stay awhile.
In homes with open layouts, painting columns or accent walls with Mysterious can help define different zones without putting up barriers. This shade works especially well in well-lit areas or rooms with large windows, as natural light brightens the deep blue, keeping it from feeling too heavy. Pair it with light neutrals like whites or grays for a beautiful contrast that keeps the area airy and open.
Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore vs Gravel Gray 2127-30 by Benjamin Moore
“Mysterious AF-565” and “Gravel Gray 2127-30,” both by Benjamin Moore, offer distinct vibes. “Mysterious” is a deep blue with a subtle hint of purple, making it feel cozy yet bold. It’s a great choice for areas where you want some drama and depth, like a bedroom or a cozy reading nook.
On the other hand, “Gravel Gray” is a true dark gray that has a strong, grounding effect. It doesn’t have the blue undertone of “Mysterious,” which makes it more neutral and adaptable. “Gravel Gray” is perfect for areas that need a strong, steady look without the added color depth, such as modern living rooms or an accent wall that pairs well with various decor styles.
Both colors are great for adding character to an area, but your choice depends on the mood you’re aiming for—whether it’s the intriguing depth of blue or the solid foundation of gray.
You can see recommended paint color below:
- 2127-30 Gravel Gray

Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore vs Blue Note 2129-30 by Benjamin Moore
Mysterious AF-565 and Blue Note 2129-30 by Benjamin Moore are both dark, rich colors but with different tones. Mysterious AF-565 is a deep gray with a hint of blue. This color is subtle and can make an area feel cozy and grounded. It’s adaptable and works well in many settings, particularly in areas where you want a hint of color without it being overpowering.
On the other hand, Blue Note 2129-30 is a much darker blue, almost navy. It gives off a strong presence and is ideal for creating a bold statement in an area. This color is perfect for accent walls or furniture pieces that you really want to stand out.
Both colors can make an area feel more intimate and are excellent choices for creating a focal point in your decor. The darker shade of Blue Note makes it a bit more dramatic compared to the softer, more muted tone of Mysterious.
You can see recommended paint color below:

Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore vs Hale Navy HC-154 by Benjamin Moore
Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore is a deep, rich charcoal hue with an underlying slate blue that gives it a unique, moody vibe. This color is adaptable enough for use in various areas, bringing depth and emphasis to walls, cabinetry, or accent zones. It’s darker and can make smaller rooms feel a bit more enclosed but cozy.
On the other hand, Hale Navy HC-154, also by Benjamin Moore, is a classic navy blue. It’s less intense than Mysterious AF-565 and leans towards a true navy with a balanced blend of blue and slight green undertones. This color presents a crisp, clean look and is often used to create a strong, nautical or coastal feel in areas.
Both colors are bold and can be used effectively to create a statement. However, Mysterious tends to add a dramatic flair with its darker, more complex base, while Hale Navy offers a more traditional, maritime feel that is often easier to incorporate into various decor styles.
You can see recommended paint color below:

Mysterious AF-565 by Benjamin Moore vs Baby Seal Black 2119-30 by Benjamin Moore
“Mysterious AF-565” and “Baby Seal Black 2119-30,” both by Benjamin Moore, offer distinct vibes for interior areas. Mysterious is a deep blue with subtle gray undertones that give it a unique, calming feel, making it a good choice for creating a relaxed and collected atmosphere in rooms. It’s adaptable enough to look inviting in a living room or cozy in a bedroom.
On the other hand, Baby Seal Black is a true deep black that provides a bold, striking effect. Ideal for making dramatic statements, this color works well as an accent wall or when used to highlight decorative elements. It gives areas a modern, clean look but needs careful lighting to prevent it from feeling too heavy.
When deciding between the two, consider the mood you want to set. Mysterious is softer and more understated, while Baby Seal Black is sharp and definitive.
You can see recommended paint color below:
- 2119-30 Baby Seal Black

Throughout my journey with AF-565 Mysterious by Benjamin Moore, I’ve learned so much about this unique paint color. This shade isn’t just a simple gray; it’s much more interesting and has a hint of depth that can make any room look special. What really stands out about Mysterious is how it changes mood depending on the light in the room – it can look almost like a stormy sky or a soft, shadowy corner, all depending on how the sunlight or lamps shine on it.
I tested Mysterious in different areas to see how well it works. In the living area, it added a cool, calm feel, making it a nice place to relax and watch TV or read. In the bedroom, it created a cozy vibe, perfect for resting. Even in the bathroom, Mysterious made the area feel more modern and sleek. It’s definitely not just any color; it has the power to shift an area’s atmosphere completely.
In conclusion, AF-565 Mysterious by Benjamin Moore isn’t your everyday paint color. It’s unique and has the ability to make a place look and feel different, whether it’s a bedroom, living area, or even a small bathroom. If you’re thinking about a change and want something that isn’t plain and simple, Mysterious might be the right choice.
This color has shown me how a simple change like paint can make a big difference in my home.

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