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Malt

Behr · 720A-3

The Analysis

Malt is a balanced greige that keeps a room feeling stable and grounded rather than bright or stark. With an LRV of 55.67, it reflects a moderate amount of light, making it a reliable choice that won't make a space feel cramped or cavernous.

This is an ideal 'whole-home' neutral that works perfectly as a primary wall colour. It acts as a bridge between warm and cool decor, making it a safe, versatile backdrop for art or furniture.

LRV 56

History & Origin

Malt aligns with contemporary design trends, moving away from the cold 'builder’s grey' of the last decade toward a softer, more organic aesthetic. It feels modern and fresh without being trendy or fleeting.

Undertoneneutral
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

It pairs beautifully with warm wood tones like white oak or walnut and looks sophisticated with matte black hardware. Use it in living areas or bedrooms where you want a cohesive, pulled-together look.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels restful and composed because it lacks the sharp yellow or blue undertones that can cause eye fatigue. It is a neutral, low-maintenance shade that provides a consistent, calm background for your daily routine.

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.

  • Ash Rose

    Behr · N130-2

  • Josephine

    Behr · MQ3-1

  • Gobi Desert

    Benjamin Moore · 2110-50

  • Vintage Taupe

    Behr · 750A-3

  • Peignoir

    Farrow & Ball · 286

  • Angora

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6036

Lighting

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

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