Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Sweet Maple

Behr · 320D-5

The Analysis

Sweet Maple is a mid-tone golden tan that creates a sense of warmth without feeling overly dark. Because it has an LRV of 47.12, it absorbs some light rather than reflecting it, which makes large, open rooms feel more intimate and grounded.

It functions best as a main wall color in living areas or as a sophisticated, warm backdrop in a den. It is too saturated to be a neutral filler, so use it where you want the walls to actively contribute to the room's character.

LRV 47

History & Origin

This tone is a staple of mid-century design, reflecting the earthy palettes popular in 1950s and 60s interiors. It avoids the fussy Victorian aesthetic, leaning instead toward a functional, clean-lined look.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with rich walnut or white oak wood tones to lean into the organic feel. Use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast, or unlacquered brass to enhance the golden undertones of the paint.

The Mood

This color provides a cozy, stable atmosphere that feels welcoming and balanced. It avoids the clinical sterility of white, offering a reliable, low-stress environment that feels natural to live with daily.

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.

  • Eye of the Tiger

    Benjamin Moore · 188

  • Anjou Pear

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6381

  • Prairie

    Valspar · V092-3

  • Pyramid Gold

    Behr · PPU6-4

  • Mac N Cheese

    Behr · M260-5

  • Gamboge

    Benjamin Moore · CW-285

Lighting

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

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