Bonfire
Benjamin Moore · 2001-20
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The Analysis
Bonfire is a deep, saturated red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 17.44. Because it pushes walls forward visually, it will make a large room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than spacious or bright.
Due to its high intensity, this shade is best suited as a bold accent wall, a dramatic powder room choice, or for cabinetry. It is too powerful for a full-room application in most homes unless you are specifically aiming for a moody, high-contrast look.
LRV 17History & Origin
This red leans into traditional, heritage-style design, often seen in formal dining rooms or libraries. It mimics the classic, heavy pigments used in 18th and 19th-century interiors to add weight and status to a room.
How to Use It
Pair this with crisp white trim to ground the intensity, or use matte black hardware to lean into a modern, industrial edge. It complements walnut wood tones beautifully, as the warmth of the wood balances the fire-engine undertones of the paint.
The Mood
This is an intensely energizing and stimulating colour that demands attention. It is best used in spaces where you want high activity or warmth, as it can feel overwhelming in areas intended for relaxation 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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
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- 4000K
- 5500K