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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Chicory Root

Behr · BXC-21

The Analysis

Chicory Root is a very dark, grounding brown with deep red undertones. Because its LRV is only 6.69, it absorbs almost all light, which will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright or airy.

This color acts best as a bold, moody accent or as a full-room treatment for smaller spaces like a powder room or study. Avoid using it as a main wall color in tiny, windowless rooms unless you intend to lean into a 'jewel box' aesthetic.

LRV 7

History & Origin

This shade aligns with mid-century modern interiors, specifically the era’s preference for rich, organic wood tones and leather. It creates a classic, sophisticated look that feels grounded rather than trendy.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak or walnut wood tones to highlight the color's richness. Use matte black metal hardware for a seamless look, or polished brass if you want a sharper, high-contrast pop.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable and restful, much like the interior of a library or a private den. It lacks the starkness of black, providing a warmer, more approachable sensation that promotes focus and relaxation.

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.

  • 2365 CHOCOLATE - interior

    Jotun · 2365

  • Death By Chocolate

    Behr · MQ1-54

  • El Cajon Clay

    Benjamin Moore · 1260

  • Townsend Harbor Brown

    Benjamin Moore · HC-64

  • Piano Brown

    Valspar · 1004-9A

  • Pine Cone Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 2113-20

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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