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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Brickyard Clay

Benjamin Moore · CW-235

The Analysis

Brickyard Clay is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Because of its low LRV of 18.03, it will make a space feel cozy and enclosed rather than airy, effectively shrinking the visual scale of a room.

Due to its high pigment density, this is best used as a bold accent wall or for high-impact spaces like a powder room or study. It is too intense for a whole-house neutral, but excellent for creating a deliberate focal point.

LRV 18

History & Origin

This tone is a staple of mid-century design and Mediterranean-inspired heritage architecture. It feels less like a historical period piece and more like a bridge between rustic earthiness and modern warmth.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to lean into its organic roots. Avoid cool-toned greys; instead, use cream or warm white trim to keep the space from feeling muddy.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounding, stable atmosphere that feels warm and restorative. It avoids the agitation of bright reds, instead offering a settled, mature energy that is perfect for relaxation.

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.

  • Sun Baked Earth

    Behr · HDC-CL-08

  • Pajarito Red

    Valspar · 2001-7B

  • Red 01

    Lick · Red 01

  • Foxmount

    Colourtrend

  • Colonial Brick

    Behr · PPU2-13

  • Scene Stealer

    Behr · MQ1-22

Lighting

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

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