Smoked Mulberry
Behr · MQ1-38
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The Analysis
Smoked Mulberry is a deep, muted plum that pulls a room inward, making spaces feel cozy and contained rather than expansive. Because of its low LRV of 12.84, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which prevents the room from feeling bright and can make a small space feel like a snug, intimate box.
This color is best used as a bold accent or for 'drenching' a room—painting walls, trim, and doors the same shade—to create a sophisticated, dramatic backdrop. It is generally too dark to function as a neutral main wall color unless you are aiming for a moody, high-impact interior.
LRV 13History & Origin
This tone leans toward a modern interpretation of Victorian-era dramatics, referencing the heavy, saturated palettes used in formal studies and sitting rooms. It provides a fresh, updated take on these traditional deep hues by replacing old-fashioned reds with a cooler, dustier plum base.
How to Use It
It pairs beautifully with warm brass hardware to pop against the dark pigment and rich walnut wood tones to enhance the organic, moody feel. Avoid using it in windowless rooms unless you plan to embrace the 'cave' aesthetic, as it will darken the space significantly.
The Mood
This shade promotes a grounded, restful atmosphere that is excellent for winding down in the evening. It lacks the over-stimulation of brighter colors, making it a stable and calming choice for spaces where you want to relax rather than be energized.
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.
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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
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- 5500K