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HeritageSouth-Facing

Oxford

Behr · QE-08

The Analysis

Oxford is a deep, brownish-red with a very low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 7.99, meaning it absorbs most light rather than reflecting it. This creates a cozy, enclosed atmosphere that makes large rooms feel intimate but can make small, windowless spaces feel quite dark.

Due to its intensity, this shade works best as a bold accent wall, a cabinet finish, or in a dedicated space like a library or study. It is too heavy for use as a primary wall color in every room of a home.

LRV 8

History & Origin

Oxford leans toward a traditional, heritage aesthetic reminiscent of classic wood-paneled libraries and early 20th-century interiors. It fits perfectly into a refined, historic, or academic design scheme.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut or oak wood tones to lean into the richness, or use brushed brass hardware to provide a sharp, elegant contrast. It performs best in rooms with generous natural light to prevent it from feeling like a black hole.

The Mood

This color provides a grounded, steady, and restful presence. Because it is saturated and warm, it feels sophisticated and stable rather than overly stimulating or energizing.

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.

  • Hawaiian Cinder

    Behr · S-G-710

  • Twinberry

    Behr · MQ1-14

  • Kung Fu 0109

    Colourtrend

  • New Pilgrim Red

    Benjamin Moore · ES-21

  • Tawny Port

    Behr · S-G-730

  • Fireside

    Behr · S-G-720

Lighting

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

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