HeritageSouth-Facing

Tilled Earth

Behr · HDC-SP14-6

The Analysis

Tilled Earth is a deep, saturated brown that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, making it an excellent choice for creating a cozy, intimate environment. Because of its low LRV of 13.88, it will make a large room feel more enclosed and grounded rather than spacious or bright.

This is a high-impact color best used as a moody accent wall, a dramatic backdrop in a study, or on cabinetry to create a custom, high-end look. Using it on every wall in a small room can feel overwhelming unless you are specifically aiming for a 'cocoon' effect.

LRV 14

History & Origin

It leans into a Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the dark, organic wood tones found in traditional libraries and craftsman-style homes. It bridges the gap between classic design and current trends that favor earthy, organic saturation.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

This shade works beautifully in dens or dining rooms paired with walnut wood tones and warm brass fixtures for a sophisticated contrast. If you want to keep it feeling modern, use matte black hardware to lean into a sharper, cleaner edge.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable and restful, offering a sense of protection and warmth. It is a grounding choice that avoids the visual stimulation of brighter colors, making it ideal for spaces where you want to wind down.

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.

  • Burnt Terra

    Behr · UL130-3

  • Rookwood Brown

    Sherwin-Williams · SW2806

  • Sassafras Tea

    Behr · HDC-CL-13

  • Joshua Tree

    Behr · N240-7

  • Expresso Delight 1

    Dulux

  • OLIVE BROWN

    Jotun · 1362

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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