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Soft Buttercup

Behr · P290-1

The Analysis

Soft Buttercup is a highly reflective yellow that acts like a constant light source in any room. Because of its high LRV of 85.55, it bounces significant light around the space, which effectively makes smaller or cramped rooms feel more open and airy.

This is best used as a main wall colour in spaces where you want to combat gloom, such as windowless hallways or kitchens. It serves as a bright, optimistic backdrop rather than a subtle neutral, so it works best if you enjoy a deliberate hit of colour.

LRV 86

History & Origin

This shade leans into a classic, timeless heritage palette often found in mid-century kitchen cabinetry or colonial-style interiors. It avoids the clinical look of modern white while maintaining a traditional, crisp finish.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with light oak wood tones to keep the room feeling natural, or use matte black hardware to add sharp contrast and prevent the space from looking too 'sugary.' It works exceptionally well in mudrooms or breakfast nooks where you want a welcoming energy.

The Mood

Living with this colour creates an upbeat, energizing atmosphere that mimics the feeling of perpetual sunshine. It is a clean, cheerful shade that avoids the heavy or muddy undertones found in deeper golds.

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.

  • French Stone

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Moonlit Yellow

    Behr · 380A-2

  • Meringue

    Behr · P300-2

  • Buttercup Cloud

    Dulux

  • Autumn Child 0909

    Colourtrend

  • Banana Dream 5

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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