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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Double Espresso

Behr · BNC-21

The Analysis

Double Espresso is a very dark, grounded brown that absorbs significant light due to its low 6.13 LRV. It will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, which is useful for creating a cozy, cave-like atmosphere rather than an airy one.

This shade is best used as a bold accent or a dramatic 'drenched' wall colour where you want to eliminate shadows. It is too heavy to function as a neutral backdrop for an entire home unless you are aiming for a moody, high-contrast aesthetic.

LRV 6

History & Origin

This deep, earthy brown is a staple in mid-century modern design and 1970s interior palettes. It feels sophisticated and intentional rather than strictly period-specific.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Use it in studies, libraries, or media rooms to minimize glare on screens. Pair it with warm brass hardware for a luxe contrast, or keep wood tones light and blonde to prevent the room from feeling too monotone.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding and stable, offering a restful retreat from high-energy spaces. It is not an energizing colour, but rather one that encourages 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.

  • Film Noir 0144

    Colourtrend

  • Mystic Taupe

    Valspar · 1002-9A

  • Mississippi Mud

    Benjamin Moore · 2114-20

  • COFFEE

    Jotun · 2149

  • Espresso Bark

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-390

  • Cordovan Leather

    Behr · BXC-78

Lighting

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

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