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HeritageSouth-Facing

Mayan Red

Behr · 190F-7

The Analysis

Mayan Red is a deep, earthy brown-red that absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 8.49, it will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, effectively pulling the walls inward to create a sense of enclosure.

Due to its intensity, this color is best used as a bold accent or in a smaller, focused room like a library or powder room. If used as a primary wall color, it requires significant artificial lighting or bright white trim to prevent the space from feeling like a cave.

LRV 8

History & Origin

It leans into a Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the saturated, pigment-rich tones used in traditional studies or colonial-revival interiors. It feels timeless and heavy rather than light or modern.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut or oak wood tones to highlight its brown undertones. Use brushed brass hardware for a luxe contrast, or matte black for a sharper, more contemporary edge.

The Mood

This color creates a grounded, restful atmosphere. It feels sophisticated and warm, making it an excellent choice for spaces where you want to retreat and relax rather than spaces meant for high-energy activity.

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.

  • Fireside

    Behr · S-G-720

  • Brown Eyes

    Behr · S-G-740

  • Maximum Mocha

    Behr · BNC-32

  • Wild Manzanita

    Behr · 700B-7

  • Tawny Port

    Behr · S-G-730

  • Chocolate Sprinkle

    Behr · S-G-750

Lighting

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

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