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HeritageSouth-Facing

Balsam

Benjamin Moore · 567

The Analysis

Balsam is a deep, saturated forest green that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 14.28. It will make a room feel smaller and more intimate, acting as a cocooning element rather than a way to brighten or expand a space.

This is a bold, high-impact colour that functions best as an accent wall, a moody library backdrop, or cabinetry paint. Because it is so dark, using it on all four walls can be overwhelming unless you are specifically aiming for a dramatic, library-like atmosphere.

LRV 14

History & Origin

Balsam pulls from traditional heritage palettes common in Victorian-era studies or dark, wood-paneled dens. It is a timeless, classic choice that avoids looking trendy or dated.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyGreen-Yellow

How to Use It

This colour pairs exceptionally well with warm walnut wood tones and unlacquered brass hardware for a high-end, vintage contrast. Use it in rooms where you want a moody atmosphere, like a home office or a secondary bedroom, and ensure you have layered lighting to prevent the space from feeling like a cave.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels grounding and restful, as it mimics the stability of a dense forest. It is a calming, serious colour that discourages overstimulation, 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.

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  • Cilantro

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  • Tuscan Glade 1

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  • Raleigh Green

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Lighting

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

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