Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Martini Olive

Benjamin Moore · CSP-890

The Analysis

Martini Olive is a mid-toned, yellow-based green with an LRV of 45.17, meaning it absorbs a fair amount of light rather than reflecting it. This creates a cozy, enclosed feeling that makes large rooms feel more intimate, though it may make very small spaces feel slightly compressed.

Because it acts as a complex neutral, it functions best as a primary wall color in dens or offices rather than a sharp accent. It provides enough depth to stand on its own without needing significant wall art to look finished.

LRV 45

History & Origin

This color leans heavily into a 1970s revival, evoking the natural, organic palettes common in Mid-Century Modern design. It feels established and intentional rather than following current 'stark white' trends.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

This shade pairs best with warm wood tones like walnut or teak and matte black hardware to prevent the room from feeling washed out. It performs best in rooms with controlled lighting, as its olive undertones can shift drastically in extreme natural light.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels grounded and earthy, similar to being outdoors in a wooded area. It is a restful, stable color that avoids the over-stimulation of brighter pigments, making it excellent for areas where you want to wind down.

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.

  • Parakeet

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6711

  • Motherland 0793

    Colourtrend

  • Split Pea

    Benjamin Moore · 2146-30

  • Go Go Lime

    Behr · P350-5

  • Spring Ahead

    Valspar · V058-1

  • Citrus Peel

    Behr · P360-5

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
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