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HeritageSouth-Facing

Formal Maroon

Behr · PPU1-14

The Analysis

Formal Maroon is a deeply saturated, dark shade that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 8.46. It will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, effectively pulling the walls in to create a cozy, enclosed atmosphere.

Because it is so dark, this shade functions best as a bold accent wall or as a dramatic, full-room envelopment in studies or dining rooms. It is too heavy for a main wall in a small, poorly lit space where you want to maintain a sense of openness.

LRV 8

History & Origin

This color leans heavily into a Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the saturated, moody palettes found in Victorian-era libraries or formal parlors. It feels traditional and established rather than modern or minimalist.

Undertonewarm-red
FamilyRed

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or mahogany to lean into the richness, and use unlacquered brass hardware for a classic contrast. Avoid bright white trim; opt for a muted cream or a matching dark tone on the trim to prevent a stark, choppy look.

The Mood

This color is grounding and restful, making it ideal for spaces where you want to wind down rather than stay active. It feels sophisticated and stable, offering a sense of gravity that can help a room feel less chaotic.

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.

  • Preference Red

    Farrow & Ball · 297

  • New London Burgundy

    Benjamin Moore · HC-61

  • Kung Fu 0109

    Colourtrend

  • Ruby Dusk

    Benjamin Moore · 1267

  • Twinberry

    Behr · MQ1-14

  • Red 06

    Lick · Red 06

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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  • 5500K