Hickory Stick
Behr · 120F-5
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The Analysis
Hickory Stick is a mid-toned, dusty mauve-brown that absorbs significant light, making a room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than airy. Because it has a lower Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 21.18, it will make large rooms feel cozy and grounded, though it may shrink the perceived size of a small, windowless space.
This color functions best as an accent wall, a moody foundation for a library or den, or as a sophisticated choice for cabinetry. It is too heavy for a whole-house neutral but provides excellent depth in rooms where you want to retreat.
LRV 21History & Origin
It leans into a modern interpretation of Victorian-era earth tones, updating traditional dusty pigments with a cleaner, contemporary finish. It fits well in homes looking for a 'modern heritage' aesthetic that feels established rather than trendy.
How to Use It
Pair this with warm white trim to prevent it from looking muddy, and utilize brass or aged gold hardware to complement its reddish undertones. It works beautifully with walnut or mid-tone wood furniture, but avoid very dark espresso woods which may compete with the wall color.
The Mood
Living with this color feels calm, grounded, and stable. It lacks the harsh intensity of a primary color, providing a restful backdrop that leans toward sophisticated comfort rather than high-energy stimulation.
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.
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
- 3500K
- 4000K
- 5500K