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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Red Willow

Behr · PPU1-9

The Analysis

Red Willow is a deep, saturated terracotta-toned brown that absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 13.2, it will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, effectively 'shrinking' the walls to create a cozy, cave-like atmosphere.

This is a bold, high-impact colour best used as an accent wall or to create a moody, monochromatic look in a small room. It is too dark to serve as a neutral backdrop for a whole-house scheme, as it will dominate the visual space.

LRV 13

History & Origin

This shade leans heavily into the 1970s earth-tone trend, reflecting a Mid-Century Modern revival. It feels more vintage and storied than a modern, stark contemporary paint choice.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

It works best in intimate spaces like home offices, powder rooms, or media dens. Pair it with warm, natural wood tones like walnut and matte black hardware to lean into the moodiness, or add brushed brass for a touch of contrast.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels grounding and stable, offering a sense of warmth that feels secure rather than energizing. It is a restful, heavy shade that discourages over-stimulation, making it ideal for spaces where you want to wind down.

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.

  • Rust

    Behr · MQ1-20

  • Garrison Red

    Benjamin Moore · HC-66

  • Fading Twilight

    Benjamin Moore · 1258

  • Bold Brick

    Behr · 190F-6

  • Canyon Clay

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6054

  • Boston Brick

    Behr · 160F-6

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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