Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Hawaiian Cinder

Behr · S-G-710

The Analysis

Hawaiian Cinder is a deep, saturated brownish-red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low 8.03 LRV. Because it reflects so little light, it will make a room feel physically smaller and more enclosed, effectively 'pulling' the walls inward to create a dense, intimate atmosphere.

This is a heavy-hitting pigment that acts as a bold statement piece rather than a neutral backdrop. It works best as an accent wall, a dramatic powder room choice, or in a library-style den where the goal is a moody, wrapped-in-a-blanket feel.

LRV 8

History & Origin

This shade leans into a mid-century modern sensibility, reminiscent of the earthy, saturated tones popular in 1970s interior design. It avoids the 'period' feel of Victorian homes, opting instead for a retro, warm, and intentional aesthetic.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with light, natural wood tones or creamy off-whites to prevent the room from feeling like a cave. Brass or brushed gold hardware will pop beautifully against the warmth of this color, while matte black fixtures will enhance its dark, industrial edge.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding and stable, offering a sense of permanent shelter. It is less energizing than a bright red and more restful, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to retreat rather than perform high-energy tasks.

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.

  • Carriage Door

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7594

  • Dressed To Impress

    Behr · MQ1-19

  • Oxford

    Behr · QE-08

  • Burnished Mahogany

    Behr · 160F-7

  • Cherry Cola

    Behr · S130-7

  • Earthly Pleasure 0102

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K