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HeritageSouth-Facing

Iron Oxide

Behr · QE-15

The Analysis

Iron Oxide is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs significant light, making a room feel intimate and enclosed rather than expansive. Because of its low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 12.45, it will make large spaces feel cozy and smaller rooms feel very moody.

This is a bold, high-impact shade that works best as a statement wall or an all-over color in small, secondary spaces like a den, powder room, or library. It is likely too heavy for a main, high-traffic living area unless you prefer a very dramatic, enclosed aesthetic.

LRV 12

History & Origin

It leans into a heritage and rustic aesthetic, reminiscent of traditional clay pigments used in historical architecture. It feels less like a modern 'fresh' paint job and more like a permanent, foundational element of a home.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural wood tones, such as walnut or white oak, to play up the organic feel. Use matte black metal hardware for a modern edge or unlacquered brass to bring out the warmth in the red-brown undertones.

The Mood

This color provides a grounding, stable presence that feels restful and warm. It avoids the clinical feel of cooler neutrals, offering a reliable sense of comfort after a long day.

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.

  • Abbey Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 1225

  • Grandfather Clock Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 2096-30

  • Arizona Canyon

    Benjamin Moore · 1211

  • Butternut Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 2095-30

  • English Brown

    Benjamin Moore · 2100-30

  • Espresso

    Benjamin Moore · 2099-30

Lighting

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

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