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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Madagascar

Behr · UL180-3

The Analysis

Madagascar is a mid-tone earthy gold that absorbs more light than it reflects, making a room feel cozy and grounded rather than bright. Because of its lower LRV of 24.36, it will make large rooms feel more intimate and slightly smaller.

This shade works best as a primary wall color in spaces where you want a moody, sophisticated atmosphere, such as a study or den. It is too heavy for a small, windowless bathroom but serves as an excellent backdrop for neutral artwork.

LRV 24

History & Origin

This color aligns with the warm, saturated palettes popular in mid-century design or traditional library interiors. It lacks the starkness of modern minimalism, opting instead for a classic, heavy-weight richness.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or oil-rubbed bronze hardware to emphasize its natural warmth. In bedrooms or living rooms, use crisp white trim to create a sharp, intentional contrast that keeps the color from feeling muddy.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable and grounded; it provides a consistent warmth that is neither overly stimulating nor sleepy. It is a reliable, steady presence that creates a sense of comfort throughout the 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.

  • Brassy

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6410

  • Mustard Olive

    Benjamin Moore · 2151-10

  • Wild Grass

    Behr · 380D-7

  • Brazen

    Benjamin Moore · 259

  • Grandiose

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6404

  • Burnished Bronze

    Behr · S-H-380

Lighting

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

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