If there is a 'safe' bold color in exterior design, it is Benjamin Moore's Hale Navy (HC-154). It is a deeply saturated, maritime blue with a heavy dose of charcoal gray that prevents it from looking like a primary color.
For homeowners who want to move away from white, beige, and light gray, but aren't ready to commit to a black or green exterior, Hale Navy is the perfect bridge. It feels historical and grounded, yet incredibly fresh.
The Masonry Matchmaker
One of the reasons Hale Navy is so highly requested is how well it pairs with existing masonry. If a home has orange-toned brick or warm stone accents, the cool undertones of Hale Navy complement them perfectly on the color wheel. It neutralizes the dated look of 90s orange brick better than almost any other color.
When visualizing Hale Navy for a client, pay attention to the trim. Crisp white trim (like BM White Dove) creates a classic, nautical look that screams 'New England coastal.' If you want a moodier, more modern aesthetic, pair it with a dark gray or greige trim.
Lighting is Critical
Hale Navy has an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 8.36, making it very dark. On the north-facing side of a house surrounded by trees, it will read almost black. Make sure to render the home under different lighting conditions before the homeowner finalizes the decision.