Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Claret

Benjamin Moore · CW-305

The Analysis

Claret is a saturated, mid-tone red with earthy undertones. With an LRV of 26.35, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which will make a room feel smaller, cozier, and more enclosed rather than airy or expansive.

Due to its intensity, Claret is best used as a bold statement piece rather than a whole-home neutral. It functions beautifully on a feature wall, as a dramatic cabinet colour, or in a powder room to create an immediate visual impact.

LRV 26

History & Origin

Claret aligns with a Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the saturated tones used in traditional libraries or dining rooms from the late 19th century. It offers a grounded, classic feel that avoids looking overly trendy or modern.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

This shade pairs exceptionally well with warm wood tones like walnut or oak and adds a sharp, sophisticated contrast against matte black hardware. Use it in rooms where you want to create a sense of intimacy, such as a study or a formal dining area.

The Mood

This is an energizing, high-impact colour that stimulates conversation and activity. Because it commands attention, it feels most natural in spaces where you want to gather, rather than areas intended for deep sleep or quiet focus.

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.

  • Coral Bronze

    Benjamin Moore · 1298

  • Desert Wind

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Sahara Sun

    Behr · 180D-5

  • Hearts Afire

    Valspar · V043-1

  • Pink Mix

    Benjamin Moore · 2089-30

  • Blood Orange

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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