Olivine
Behr · 420F-5
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The Analysis
Olivine is a mid-tone olive green that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its lower LRV of 28.94. Because it isn't highly reflective, it creates a cozy, contained feeling rather than expanding the visual boundaries of a room.
This colour works best as a primary wall choice in rooms where you want to lean into depth and comfort, such as a study or a bedroom. It is too dark to act as a neutral background for a bright, airy space, but it serves as an excellent anchor for a sophisticated palette.
LRV 29History & Origin
Olivine fits well within a heritage or transitional aesthetic, evoking the traditional earth tones found in 19th-century interiors. It feels updated and purposeful, avoiding the dated look of overly yellow-based olives.
How to Use It
This shade pairs beautifully with warm wood tones like walnut or oak and matte black hardware for a high-contrast, modern look. Use it in rooms with ample natural light or strong artificial task lighting to ensure the depth of the green remains visible rather than turning muddy.
The Mood
Living with this shade feels grounding and steady rather than energizing. It provides a restful, organic backdrop that feels stable and calm, making it a great choice for areas where you want to minimize visual noise.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
- 3500K
- 4000K
- 5500K