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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Earth Fired Red

Behr · S200-7

The Analysis

Earth Fired Red is a deep, saturated terracotta with a low LRV of 10.4, meaning it absorbs most light rather than reflecting it. This creates a dense, cocoon-like atmosphere that will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright or airy.

This is a heavy-hitting pigment that acts as a bold statement piece rather than a neutral backdrop. It works best as an accent wall, a moody library, or a dining room where its richness can define the space.

LRV 10

History & Origin

This shade draws heavily from mid-century modern palettes and traditional southwestern architecture. It mimics the look of fired clay and ancient masonry, grounding it in a heritage aesthetic rather than a modern, sterile one.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural, light wood grains or warm walnut to emphasize its organic roots. Use matte black metal hardware for contrast, or aged brass if you want to lean into a warmer, vintage character.

The Mood

Living with this color provides a grounded, stable feeling that avoids the harsh intensity of a true fire-engine red. It leans toward a warm, earthy resonance that feels restorative and purposeful, perfect for spaces where you want to settle down rather than energize.

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.

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  • Toasted Pecan

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  • Cupcake

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Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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