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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Fire Coral

Behr · BIC-31

The Analysis

Fire Coral is a deep, saturated terracotta-orange that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 19.03. Because it is a dark, warm tone, it will make a room feel cozier and more enclosed rather than bright or spacious.

This is a statement color best used as a bold accent or for an immersive, moody effect in small spaces like a powder room or den. It is too intense for a primary wall color in a large, open-concept living area unless you are aiming for a high-drama aesthetic.

LRV 19

History & Origin

This shade leans into a mid-century modern sensibility, reminiscent of the warm, earthy palettes popular in 1970s interior design. It avoids the formal feel of heritage colors, favoring a punchy, retro-inspired vibe instead.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut or dark oak wood tones to highlight its earthiness, and use matte black hardware to modernize the look. It works exceptionally well in rooms with limited natural light where you want to lean into a 'jewel box' or cocooning effect.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it better suited for activity-focused areas than quiet zones like bedrooms. It creates a bold, warm presence that feels grounded and earthy rather than clean or clinical.

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.

  • Koi

    Behr · UL120-18

  • Tropical Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2170-20

  • Glowing Firelight

    Behr · S-G-200

  • Charlotte's Locks

    Farrow & Ball · 268

  • Fire Dance

    Benjamin Moore · 2171-20

  • Fireball Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2170-10

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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