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HeritageSouth-Facing

Chimayo Red

Behr · QE-04

The Analysis

Chimayo Red is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 18.93, it will make a room feel more enclosed and intimate, effectively shrinking the scale of large, cavernous spaces.

Due to its high pigment density, this is best used as a bold accent wall or in smaller, deliberate spaces like a powder room or study. It is too heavy for use on all four walls in a typical living area unless you are aiming for a high-drama, moody interior.

LRV 19

History & Origin

This colour leans into a Heritage aesthetic, drawing heavy inspiration from Southwestern adobe architecture and mid-century desert modernism. It feels rooted in traditional earth-pigment palettes rather than contemporary or minimalist trends.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with medium-to-dark walnut wood tones to enhance the warmth, and use matte black hardware to modernize the look. It works exceptionally well in dining rooms or dens where you want to promote conversation through a saturated, enclosed environment.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, stable energy that feels warm and established. It is stimulating without being frantic, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want a cozy, enveloped atmosphere.

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.

  • Ceramic Kiln®

    Crown Paints

  • Colonial Brick

    Benjamin Moore · 2093-30

  • Preserved Petals

    Behr · HDC-WR15-7

  • Sedona Clay

    Benjamin Moore · 2174-30

  • Poppy Prose 0065

    Colourtrend

  • Baked Terra Cotta

    Benjamin Moore · 1202

Lighting

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

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