Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Cochineal Red

Benjamin Moore · CW-330

The Analysis

Cochineal Red is a saturated, deep terracotta-red that absorbs a significant amount of light, as indicated by its low 11.05 LRV. Because it draws light into the walls rather than reflecting it, it will make a room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than airy or expansive.

This is a bold, high-impact choice meant to be used as a statement. It works best as an accent wall, on cabinetry, or in a powder room where you want to create a dramatic, high-end focal point.

LRV 11

History & Origin

This tone is deeply rooted in heritage aesthetics, reminiscent of classic library or dining room interiors from the 18th and 19th centuries. It provides a grounded, traditional weight that feels established and timeless rather than fleetingly trendy.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut woods or matte black hardware to emphasize its earthy, rich undertones. It thrives in dining rooms or studies, especially when contrasted with crisp white trim to break up the intensity.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to encourage conversation or activity. It is not a restful color for bedrooms, but it provides a sophisticated, punchy backdrop for social spaces.

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.

  • Chinese Red

    Sherwin-Williams · SW0057

  • Merlot Red

    Benjamin Moore · 2006-10

  • Sangria

    Benjamin Moore · 2006-20

  • Rave Red

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6608

  • Fire Cracker

    Behr · PPU2-16

  • Toasted Cranberry

    Valspar · 2001-5A

Lighting

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

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