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HeritageSouth-Facing

Scarlet

Behr · BXC-03

The Analysis

Scarlet is a deep, saturated red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 11.53. Because it pulls light into the walls rather than reflecting it, the room will feel more intimate, contained, and noticeably smaller.

Due to its intensity, this is best used as a high-drama accent wall, a color for a dedicated library, or in a powder room. It is too visually heavy to serve as a neutral backdrop for an entire home.

LRV 12

History & Origin

This shade leans toward a classic, heritage aesthetic reminiscent of formal dining rooms found in traditional or Victorian-era architecture. It provides a grounded, sophisticated look that pairs well with period-style millwork.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black metal finishes to maintain a moody, high-end feel. If you want to brighten the space slightly, use bright white trim to create a crisp, high-contrast frame for the red walls.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it an intense choice for daily living. It creates a bold, high-impact environment that commands attention rather than fading into the background.

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.

  • Lyons Red

    Benjamin Moore · CC-68

  • Geranium

    Behr · UL100-7

  • Cape Red

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Ruby Fountain 3

    Dulux

  • Frosted Pomegranate

    Behr · 140B-7

  • California Poppy

    Behr · S-G-160

Lighting

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

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