Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Cork

Benjamin Moore · 2153-40

The Analysis

Cork acts as a balanced mid-tone, meaning it won't wash out a room or make it feel like a cave. With an LRV of 45.8, it absorbs more light than it reflects, which pulls walls inward to create a cozy, defined atmosphere rather than an expansive one.

It functions best as a saturated backdrop for a living area or a study where you want the walls to feel substantial. It is too heavy for a trim or ceiling, but it serves as an excellent foundational color for spaces filled with textiles and books.

LRV 46

History & Origin

This color aligns with the earthy, warm palettes of the 1970s, making it a natural fit for renovated retro spaces or homes aiming for a textured, vintage look. It bridges the gap between classic traditional warmth and modern organic design.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with rich, dark woods like walnut or cherry and matte black metal fixtures. Avoid cool-toned greys, as they will make the yellow undertones in the paint look muddy rather than warm.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, stable feeling that leans toward comfort rather than high-energy stimulation. It is a warm, organic color that promotes a sense of relaxation without being as sleepy as a neutral beige.

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.

  • Dried Chamomile

    Behr · M320-5

  • Sudbury Yellow

    Farrow & Ball · 51

  • Hathaway Gold

    Benjamin Moore · 194

  • Tarnished Trumpet

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9026

  • Egyptian Temple

    Behr · UL180-22

  • Citrine

    Benjamin Moore · AF-370

Lighting

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

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