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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Citrus Orange

Benjamin Moore · 2016-20

The Analysis

Citrus Orange is a high-energy, saturated tone that pulls a room inward, making spaces feel cozy rather than expansive. With an LRV of 36.68, it absorbs a significant amount of light, so it won’t make a dark room feel larger; instead, it defines the space with intense warmth.

This is a bold accent colour that can quickly overwhelm a space if used on all four walls. Use it for a feature wall, built-in shelving, or a front door to provide a sharp, intentional pop of personality against a neutral backdrop.

LRV 37

History & Origin

This shade is a hallmark of the mid-century modern era, evoking the bold, graphic design trends of the 1950s and 60s. It functions as a classic nod to retro aesthetics while remaining versatile enough for contemporary, high-contrast interior styling.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

It works best in mudrooms, kitchens, or home offices where you need an energy boost. Pair it with matte black hardware for a modern edge, or use light oak and warm walnut wood tones to soften the intensity of the orange.

The Mood

Living with this colour daily is highly stimulating and best reserved for rooms where you want to be alert rather than relaxed. It creates an active, social atmosphere that feels punchy and optimistic, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to avoid a stagnant mood.

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.

  • Mango Madness

    Behr · S-G-280

  • Marigold

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Summer Citrus

    Behr · S-G-270

  • Startling Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2016-10

  • Orange Burst

    Benjamin Moore · 2015-20

  • Moroccan Sands 1

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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