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FarmhouseUniversal

Lichen

Behr · MQ6-56

The Analysis

Lichen is a muted, earthy green that leans into yellow-gray undertones. With an LRV of 46.1, it reflects a moderate amount of light, meaning it provides depth without making a room feel cave-like or overly cramped.

This color acts best as a sophisticated neutral backdrop that bridges the gap between walls and furniture. It is versatile enough to cover four walls in a main living space without feeling overwhelming or overly decorative.

LRV 46

History & Origin

Lichen fits perfectly into a modern heritage or updated farmhouse aesthetic. It draws inspiration from 19th-century botanical palettes, but the desaturated finish keeps it feeling current rather than antique.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with warm white trim, medium-tone wood finishes like white oak, and matte black hardware. Use it in kitchens or offices where you want a clean, organized look that doesn't feel sterile.

The Mood

Living with this shade is calming and grounding, as it mimics natural outdoor tones. It avoids the clinical feel of bright whites or the intensity of dark primary colors, making it ideal for high-traffic areas where you want to maintain a sense of balance.

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.

  • Portland Stone - Deep

    Little Greene · 6154

  • LIGHT OLIVE

    Jotun · 8598

  • Bamboo Shoot

    Behr · MQ6-30

  • Rediscover 0408

    Colourtrend

  • Georgian Green

    Benjamin Moore · HC-115

  • Lewiville Green

    Benjamin Moore · 494

Lighting

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

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