Van Deusen Blue and Blue Note: the documented difference
Van Deusen Blue has an LRV of 11.97; Benjamin Moore Blue Note 2129-30 is 9.02. The difference is 2.95 points, with Van Deusen Blue returning more light under the reference measurement. Choose by the material relationship as well as the number. Van Deusen Blue has more reflectance than Hale Navy, making a modestly lighter deep-blue direction a concrete reason to compare them. Blue Note is a deep navy tempered by dark gray.
| Color | Brand / code | LRV |
|---|---|---|
| Van Deusen Blue | Benjamin Moore HC-156 | 11.97 |
| Blue Note | Benjamin Moore 2129-30 | 9.02 |
The choice beside white millwork and walnut
White millwork can preserve a strong outline while walnut introduces a darker neighboring surface that needs a separate evening check.
Set up both candidates with white millwork and walnut. Use equal-sized boards with the intended finishes and place them in the same orientation. Do not put one directly beside a window and leave the other in shadow. A difference that follows the position rather than the board is a lighting observation, not evidence that the formula changed.
What the comparison can—and cannot—settle
The alternative Hale Navy has an LRV of 8.36. The undertones and neighboring colors covers that related choice.
Check it next to Hale Navy in the same shade before deciding how much blue presence the room needs. Assess Van Deusen Blue and Blue Note alone as well as side by side. The unchosen board will not remain in the finished room, and a preference created only by that neighbor may not survive its removal. Before ordering samples, compare room-planning features in the paint color visualizer roundup.
Sources & notes
Color specifications: Benjamin Moore Van Deusen Blue HC-156. The recorded LRV is 11.97. Named comparison values come from the respective manufacturers; material schemes are editorial suggestions.
This guide reviews published color information and proposes practical sample checks. It does not claim first-hand paint testing or customer-review scores. Benjamin Moore does not sponsor or endorse this site. Product names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. Confirm the color in a physical sample and select the coating for the actual surface and finish.