HeritageSouth-Facing

Iron Ore Red

Benjamin Moore · 2089-10

The Analysis

Iron Ore Red is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 15.21. It will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed, which is perfect for creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere rather than an airy or expansive one.

This is a statement colour best suited for bold accents, such as a feature wall, built-in cabinetry, or a moody powder room. It is too heavy for use as a primary wall colour in small or windowless spaces unless you intentionally want a 'jewel box' effect.

LRV 15

History & Origin

This colour leans into heritage aesthetics, reminiscent of traditional clay pigments used in Arts and Crafts or early 20th-century home design. It carries a classic, established weight that feels timeless rather than trendy.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with medium-to-dark walnut wood tones to enhance its warmth, or use matte black hardware to keep the look sharp and modern. It works exceptionally well in libraries, dining rooms, or dens where you want to emphasize comfort.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels grounding and stable rather than energizing. It provides a warm, dense backdrop that feels sophisticated and settled, avoiding the high-octane agitation of brighter primary reds.

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.

  • Cherry Blink 1075

    Colourtrend

  • Tibetan Orange

    Behr · PPU2-14

  • Caliente

    Valspar · V044-1

  • Egyptian Clay

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-1140

  • Dark Marmalade 1040

    Colourtrend

  • Terra Cotta Tile

    Benjamin Moore · 2090-30

Lighting

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

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