Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Key Lime

Benjamin Moore · 2031-50

The Analysis

Key Lime is a high-energy, vibrant green that functions as a major light reflector. With an LRV of 74.33, it bounces significant light around a room, making smaller spaces feel open, airy, and notably more expansive.

Due to its high intensity, this is best used as a bold accent wall, in cabinetry, or in functional spaces like mudrooms. It is usually too dominant to be used as a whole-home neutral or a backdrop for subdued decor.

LRV 74

History & Origin

This colour is firmly modern and leans into the playful, punchy palettes popularized by Mid-Century Modern design. It avoids traditional, muted heritage tones in favor of a fresh, synthetic-feeling clarity.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyGreen-Yellow

How to Use It

It pairs best with crisp white trim to keep it sharp, or matte black hardware to ground the brightness. Pair it with light-toned woods like white oak to lean into a Scandinavian look, or walnut to emphasize the Mid-Century aesthetic.

The Mood

This shade is distinctly energizing and spirited, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to feel active rather than relaxed. It provides a clean, crisp, and stimulating environment that can easily wake up a space.

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.

  • Citron Cocktail

    Benjamin Moore · 410

  • Shimmering Lime

    Benjamin Moore · 2030-50

  • Key Lime

    Behr · 420A-3

  • Sounds of Nature

    Benjamin Moore · 556

  • Woodland Nymph 0770

    Colourtrend

  • Green Lime 0771

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

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