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HeritageSouth-Facing

Fire Cracker

Behr · PPU2-16

The Analysis

Fire Cracker is a deep, saturated red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 11.44. Because it pulls light into the walls rather than reflecting it, it will make a room feel cozier and more intimate, though potentially smaller.

This is a high-impact, bold accent color that works best on a focal wall, in a powder room, or on cabinetry. It is too intense for a main wall color in most standard-sized homes, as it can quickly overwhelm a space.

LRV 11

History & Origin

Deep, earthy reds like this have strong roots in heritage and traditional design, often appearing in Victorian libraries or formal dining rooms. It feels both classic and grounded, rather than trendy or modern.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or aged brass hardware to play up its richness. If you want a sharper look, matte black fixtures create a clean, contemporary contrast against the warmth of the red.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it ideal for spaces where you want to spark conversation or appetite. It is not a restful color, so it is best avoided in rooms intended for quiet relaxation or sleep.

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.

  • King's Red

    Benjamin Moore · CW-335

  • Romantic Night 1138

    Colourtrend

  • Wild Rose 0066

    Colourtrend

  • Chinese Red

    Sherwin-Williams · SW0057

  • Red Ochre

    Valspar · 2011-4

  • Bijou Red

    Behr · UL110-16

Lighting

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

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