Mardi Gras
Benjamin Moore · 1342
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The Analysis
Mardi Gras is a deep, saturated berry-red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 18.5. Because it pulls light into the walls rather than reflecting it back, it will make a room feel cozy and intimate, effectively shrinking the perceived scale of very large spaces.
This is a statement color meant for drama, so it works best as a bold accent wall, in a powder room, or for cabinetry in a wet bar. Using it as a main wall color across an entire open-concept home would likely feel overwhelming, so use it to highlight specific architectural features instead.
LRV 19History & Origin
While it draws from the rich, jewel-toned palettes seen in Victorian or Edwardian parlor design, its high-chroma finish feels modern and vibrant. It avoids the 'stuffy' antique look by leaning into a crisp, clean saturation that pairs well with contemporary art.
How to Use It
Pair this color with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the intensity, and use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast. It also complements brass accents beautifully, which adds a layer of warmth to the berry undertones.
The Mood
This color is undeniably energizing and bold, creating a high-impact environment that feels lively rather than restful. It is best suited for rooms where you want to stimulate conversation or activity, as it can feel too intense for bedrooms or quiet home offices.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
- Overcast
- 2700K
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