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HeritageSouth-Facing

Oxblood

Behr · PPU2-20

The Analysis

Oxblood is a deep, saturated brown-red that absorbs a significant amount of light, as evidenced by its low 10.83 LRV. Because it reflects so little light, it will make a room feel physically smaller and more enclosed, which works well if you want a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

This is a high-impact color best used as a statement piece. It is rarely a good choice for a main wall in a small room; instead, use it for accent walls, cabinetry, or in spaces like a den or library to define the room’s boundaries.

LRV 11

History & Origin

This is a classic 'Heritage' tone, often found in Victorian libraries or formal studies. It mimics the look of aged leather and wood, leaning into a traditional, established architectural style rather than a modern, airy aesthetic.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to play up the rich undertones. For hardware, choose unlacquered brass to add a metallic shine, or matte black if you want a more contemporary, moody edge.

The Mood

Living with this color feels grounding and stable rather than energizing. It creates a weighted, restful environment that feels substantial and permanent, making it excellent for rooms where you want to settle down at the end of 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.

  • Terrace Brown

    Behr · HDC-CL-12

  • Sequoia Dusk

    Behr · 700B-6

  • SOPHISTICATED RED

    Jotun · 2951

  • Rosy Sandstone

    Behr · MQ1-53

  • Brown Ridge

    Behr · 180F-6

  • Berry Brandy

    Valspar · 1005-9B

Lighting

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

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