ScandinavianUniversal

Curio

Behr · MQ3-22

The Analysis

Curio is a balanced, light-grey green that acts as a neutral base rather than a bold feature. With an LRV of 67.61, it reflects a significant amount of light, which helps smaller rooms feel more open and airy without the harshness of a stark white.

This is an ideal 'whole-house' color that works best as a primary wall choice. It is subtle enough to flow between rooms while providing just enough pigment to distinguish walls from white trim and ceilings.

LRV 68

History & Origin

This shade leans toward modern and fresh aesthetics rather than period-specific decor. It mirrors current trends in biophilic design, which prioritize bringing muted, outdoor-inspired tones into the home.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyNeutral

How to Use It

It performs best in living rooms or bedrooms where you want a relaxed atmosphere. Pair it with light-to-medium oak wood tones and matte black hardware to ground the space; avoid highly polished chrome, which can make the color look chilly.

The Mood

Living with Curio is calming and predictable. Because it leans toward natural, muted earth tones, it creates a restful environment that reduces visual clutter and provides a clean, steady backdrop for your daily routine.

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.

  • Wickham Gray

    Benjamin Moore · HC-171

  • Oystershell

    Benjamin Moore · 864

  • Pensive Sky

    Behr · 710E-2

  • Ice Cap

    Benjamin Moore · 1576

  • Alaskan Husky

    Benjamin Moore · 1479

  • Willow Breeze®

    Crown Paints

Lighting

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

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