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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Falling Leaves

Behr · S-H-240

The Analysis

Falling Leaves is a deep, saturated terracotta that absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 15.63, it will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, which is perfect for creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

This is a high-impact choice, making it best suited as a bold accent wall or for covering a smaller space like a powder room or study. Avoid using it as a main wall color in tiny rooms unless you want them to feel like a windowless den.

LRV 16

History & Origin

This tone is a staple of mid-century modern design and 1970s interior styling. It moves away from the stark, clinical whites of modern trends, leaning into a more vintage, earth-toned aesthetic.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with medium-to-dark walnut wood tones to enhance the organic feel, or use matte black fixtures for a sharp, modern contrast. It performs best in spaces where you want to lean into moodiness, such as a home library or a dining room.

The Mood

This color is grounding and energizing, providing a sense of warmth that feels stable rather than chaotic. It is a bold, active choice that makes a room feel lived-in and comfortable.

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.

  • Pennywise

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6349

  • Bear Claw

    Valspar · 2004-5A

  • Ground Nutmeg

    Behr · S-H-230

  • Summer Heat

    Behr · S-H-220

  • Earthen Jug

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7703

  • Colorful Leaves

    Behr · M190-7

Lighting

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

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