HeritageSouth-Facing

Dried Leaf

Behr · S-H-710

The Analysis

Dried Leaf is a deep, saturated brown that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, making a room feel significantly more intimate and enclosed. Because of its low LRV of 8.42, it will shrink the perceived size of a space, making it an excellent choice for creating a cozy, 'wrapped' feeling.

It functions best as a high-impact accent wall, a moody foundation for a study or library, or as a full-room treatment in spaces like powder rooms. It works as a sophisticated alternative to black or charcoal, providing warmth that cooler dark tones lack.

LRV 8

History & Origin

This shade leans into classic, heritage-inspired palettes often found in traditional libraries or gentleman's studies. It feels established and permanent, avoiding the fleeting trends of contemporary greys or high-contrast whites.

Undertonewarm
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

Pair this color with warm-toned woods like walnut or teak and matte black metal hardware for a clean, sharp look. If you want to brighten the space, use cognac leather accents or cream textiles to provide a necessary visual contrast against the dark walls.

The Mood

This color provides a deeply restful and grounding atmosphere, perfect for spaces where you want to retreat or disconnect. It lacks the starkness of bright colors, offering a stable, calm environment that feels professional and quiet.

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.

  • Char Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 2137-20

  • Volcanic Island

    Behr · S-H-720

  • Eagle Rock

    Behr · S-H-730

  • Cacao Nibs

    Dulux

  • Muddled Basil

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7745

  • Terra Pin 0571

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

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