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HeritageSouth-Facing

China Red

Benjamin Moore · CW-310

The Analysis

China Red is a saturated, earthy red with deep terracotta undertones. Because it has a low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 17.27, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which creates a cozy, enclosed feel rather than making a room appear larger or brighter.

This is a bold, high-impact choice best suited for an accent wall, a dramatic powder room, or a formal dining space. It is too heavy for a main wall colour in small, cramped areas, but it excels as a focal point.

LRV 17

History & Origin

This shade leans into a classic heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of traditional lacquered furniture and historical dining rooms. It feels established and timeless rather than fleeting or overly modern.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this colour with warm-toned woods like walnut or cherry to enhance its richness. For fixtures, use matte black for a modern edge or unlacquered brass to bring out the red's warmth.

The Mood

Living with this colour is energizing and stimulating. It adds a sense of warmth and grounded intensity, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to foster conversation or active social energy.

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.

  • Tibetan Orange

    Behr · PPU2-14

  • Clay Red

    Behr · BIC-46

  • Egyptian Clay

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-1140

  • Spiced Pumpkin

    Benjamin Moore · 034

  • Rosy Peach

    Benjamin Moore · 2089-20

  • Carrot Cake 1054

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

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