Swatchd
Sign inGet started
Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Clockworks

Behr · MQ2-9

The Analysis

Clockworks is a deep, earthy brown that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, thanks to its low LRV of 10.73. Because it is so dark, it will make a room feel more enclosed and intimate, effectively shrinking the visual footprint of a space.

Due to its intensity, this works best as a bold accent wall or a dramatic choice for a small powder room or study. Avoid using it on all four walls in a small room unless you intentionally want a dark, moody 'jewel box' effect.

LRV 11

History & Origin

Clockworks draws from the rich, saturated palettes found in mid-century dens and libraries. It avoids the 'period' feel of Victorian decor, favoring a modern, sophisticated, and earthy aesthetic.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak or walnut wood tones to highlight its brown undertones, and use matte black or brushed brass hardware for a sharp, clean contrast. It looks best in rooms where you want to emphasize texture, such as a media room or a home office.

The Mood

This color provides a grounding, restful atmosphere that feels stable and serious. It isn’t energizing, but rather creates a calm, cocoon-like environment perfect for relaxation or focus.

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.

  • Leather & Lace

    Valspar · V088-6

  • Ancient Root

    Behr · PPU4-20

  • Rich Praline 2

    Dulux

  • Wooden Cabin

    Behr · 290F-7

  • Coconut Husk

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6111

  • Umber

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6146

Lighting

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

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