Swatchd
Sign inGet started
Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Macaw

Behr · 320B-7

The Analysis

Macaw is a highly saturated, golden yellow that instantly increases the perceived brightness of a room. Because of its medium-high LRV of 57.79, it reflects a significant amount of light, making spaces feel expansive rather than enclosed.

Due to its intensity, this is best used as a bold accent wall, a focal point in a built-in shelving unit, or a statement color for cabinetry. Using it on all four walls can easily overwhelm a standard residential space.

LRV 58

History & Origin

This color is firmly rooted in Mid-Century Modern design, where bold, organic hues were used to create contrast against clean architectural lines. It reflects the vibrant color palettes popular in the 1950s and 60s.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with deep charcoal or matte black metals to ground the brightness, or use walnut wood tones to lean into the retro aesthetic. It works exceptionally well in kitchens or creative home offices where you need a boost of daily energy.

The Mood

This is an energizing, high-stimulation color that promotes alertness and sociability. It is not a restful shade, so it works best in rooms where you want to feel active rather than relaxed.

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.

  • Golden Treasure

    Valspar · 3004-1A

  • Sunflower Symphony 4

    Dulux

  • Laser Lemon

    Behr · P290-7

  • Golden Spell

    Valspar · 3004-1B

  • Palazzo

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Sunflower Symphony 5

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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