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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Butterscotch

Benjamin Moore · 2157-30

The Analysis

Butterscotch is a deep, saturated gold that pulls significant warmth into a space. Because it has an LRV of 35.13, it absorbs a fair amount of light rather than reflecting it, which will make a room feel cozy and enclosed rather than expansive or airy.

This is best used as a bold accent wall or in small, focused spaces like a powder room or study. It is too intense for a whole-house palette and can easily overpower a room if applied to all four walls.

LRV 35

History & Origin

This tone is a hallmark of mid-century modern design and 1970s revival palettes. It leans into a retro aesthetic rather than a traditional or minimalist one.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut or teak wood tones to lean into the vintage vibe, or use matte black hardware to modernize the look. It works best in rooms where you want to create a moody, comfortable atmosphere.

The Mood

Living with this color provides a constant sense of warmth and energy. It is an active, stimulating shade that feels grounded and inviting, rather than clean or clinical.

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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  • Impulse 0989

    Colourtrend

  • Serape

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  • Pumpkin Spice

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Lighting

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

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