Cedar
Benjamin Moore · ES-40
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The Analysis
Cedar is a saturated, mid-tone orange-brown that brings significant warmth and visual weight to a space. With an LRV of 41.08, it absorbs more light than it reflects, which will make a room feel cozier and more intimate rather than expansive or airy.
Due to its high pigment load, this shade works best as an accent wall or for built-in cabinetry rather than an entire room. It acts as a strong focal point that demands attention and pulls the eye inward.
LRV 41History & Origin
Cedar leans into a classic, mid-century modern aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the organic materials and warm wood tones popular in 1950s and 60s design. It evokes a nostalgic, permanent feel that connects well with vintage furniture.
How to Use It
Use this in a library, den, or dining area to maximize its cozy factor. Pair it with dark walnut wood tones and matte black metal hardware to balance the warmth, or brushed brass if you want a more luxurious, high-contrast look.
The Mood
This is an energizing, high-activity color that promotes a sense of comfort and grounding. Because of its intensity, it creates a tactile, hearth-like environment that feels inviting rather than strictly clinical or neutral.
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
- 3500K
- 4000K
- 5500K