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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Grounded

Behr · 240D-5

The Analysis

Grounded is a warm, earthy terracotta that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its mid-range LRV of 33.2. Because it isn’t a bright, reflective shade, it will make large rooms feel cozy and enclosed rather than expansive.

This shade works best as a bold statement wall or a saturated wrap-around color for smaller rooms like a study or dining nook. It is too heavy for use as a whole-home neutral, but it excels at adding depth to a specific zone.

LRV 33

History & Origin

It draws heavily from 1970s interior trends, feeling like a modern update to retro sunset tones. It lacks the starkness of historical Victorian palettes, favoring a fresh, warm-modern approach instead.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with medium-to-dark walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to lean into the earthy aesthetic. It looks particularly sharp in rooms with plenty of natural light, which prevents the color from feeling muddy.

The Mood

This color provides a stable, earthy energy that feels more intentional than a neutral beige. It creates a grounded atmosphere, making it a reliable choice for spaces where you want to feel relaxed and focused.

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.

  • Laredo

    Valspar · 2004-5C

  • Pinch of Clove

    Valspar · V045-1

  • Autumnal

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6361

  • Ciao

    Valspar · V045-4

  • Rio Rancho Clay

    Benjamin Moore · 111

  • BELLA

    Jotun · 2489

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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