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HeritageSouth-Facing

Bolero

Behr · PPU1-12

The Analysis

Bolero is a deep, saturated berry-red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 10.11. Because it is so dark, it will make a room feel physically smaller and more enclosed, creating a cozy, cave-like atmosphere rather than an airy one.

This is a statement colour best suited for bold accents, such as a feature wall, built-in cabinetry, or a dedicated home office. It is generally too dark and dramatic to serve as a main wall color throughout an entire home.

LRV 10

History & Origin

This hue leans toward a traditional, heritage aesthetic, often seen in formal dining rooms or libraries of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It provides a classic, sophisticated depth that feels rooted in history rather than modern minimalism.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm brass or gold hardware to complement the red undertones, or use matte black to push it toward a sharper, modern edge. It pairs best with medium-to-dark wood tones like walnut, which prevent the room from feeling washed out.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding and intense rather than energizing. It creates a cocooning effect that is ideal for spaces where you want to wind down, though it may feel too heavy for rooms where you perform high-energy tasks.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Cordova Burgundy 0116

    Colourtrend

  • Muted Red

    Valspar · 1008-5A

  • Forbidden Red

    Behr · PPU1-10

  • Red Red Wine

    Behr · S-H-130

  • Pottery Red

    Benjamin Moore · 2085-20

  • Eating Room Red

    Farrow & Ball · 43

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K