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BohemianSouth-Facing

Tandoori

Behr · M170-7

The Analysis

Tandoori is a saturated, earthy terracotta that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 18.76. It will make a room feel cozier and more enclosed rather than bright or airy, effectively shrinking the visual scale of a large space.

It is far too dominant to serve as a main wall color for an entire home. Use it as a powerful accent wall, on cabinetry, or for built-in shelving to ground the room with a focal point.

LRV 19

History & Origin

While terracotta tones have roots in Mediterranean and Southwestern design, Tandoori feels distinctly modern when paired with sharp, clean lines. It bridges the gap between classic global aesthetics and contemporary color-drenching trends.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

This shade excels in kitchens or dining rooms where you can pair it with dark walnut wood tones or matte black hardware. Avoid cool-toned metals like chrome, as they will clash with the inherent warmth of this red-orange pigment.

The Mood

This color is deeply energizing and warm, creating a stimulating atmosphere perfect for active living areas. Because of its intensity, it is best suited for rooms where you want a high-impact, bold mood rather than a restful or neutral backdrop.

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.

  • Mexican Chile

    Behr · 200D-6

  • Red Jalapeno

    Behr · 190D-6

  • Mahogany Red

    Dulux

  • Rosy Peach

    Benjamin Moore · 2089-20

  • Quite Coral

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6614

  • RHYTHM

    Jotun · 2609

Lighting

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

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