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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

August Morning

Benjamin Moore · 2156-40

The Analysis

August Morning is a saturated golden-yellow that actively warms up a space by reflecting golden light. With an LRV of 51.18, it sits in the middle range, meaning it won't make a room feel cavernous, but it will bring the walls forward and make a large area feel more intimate.

This is a bold, high-personality choice that works best as a statement wall or in a dedicated hobby space. It is generally too intense for a whole-house neutral, but excellent for adding a punch of color to a kitchen, breakfast nook, or entry hall.

LRV 51

History & Origin

This shade leans toward a mid-century modern aesthetic, reminiscent of the warm, saturated palettes popular in the 1950s and 60s. It functions as a bold retro nod rather than a traditional or period-specific wall color.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black hardware to ground the intensity of the yellow. It works best in kitchens or social spaces; avoid it in small, windowless bathrooms where the reflection can become overwhelming.

The Mood

This color is intentionally energizing and optimistic, mimicking the feel of late summer sunshine. It creates a high-stimulation environment, so it is best used in areas where you want to feel active rather than in rooms intended for rest or sleep.

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.

  • Sunburst

    Behr · PPU6-3

  • Tropical Dream 0912

    Colourtrend

  • South Haven

    Valspar · V052-1

  • Sundrenched Saffron 3

    Dulux

  • Torchlight

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6374

  • Lamplit

    Behr · MQ4-11

Lighting

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

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