Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

New Dawn

Benjamin Moore · 133

The Analysis

New Dawn is a punchy, saturated orange-toned terra cotta that actively warms up a room by reflecting heat-toned light. Because it has a moderate LRV of 41.73, it absorbs some light rather than bouncing it around, which makes large rooms feel more intimate and grounded.

Due to its intensity, this is best used as a bold accent wall, in a powder room, or for built-in cabinetry. Using it on every wall in a large space can quickly become overwhelming, so it serves better as a visual anchor than a subtle backdrop.

LRV 42

History & Origin

This color draws heavily from 1970s interior design and Mediterranean earth-toned palettes. It feels retro-modern rather than traditional or period-specific, making it a great choice for refreshing dated spaces.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black metal hardware to balance its warmth. It suits kitchens or entryways best, provided you use white trim to create a sharp, clean transition.

The Mood

This is an energizing, high-stimulation color that promotes social interaction and activity. It is not a restful or neutral shade, so it works best in areas where you want to feel active rather than quiet.

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.

  • Cocktail Hour 0976

    Colourtrend

  • Bird Of Paradise

    Behr · 260B-7

  • Boredom Buster 1032

    Colourtrend

  • Brushed Orange

    Valspar · 2007-3B

  • Fruity Cocktail

    Benjamin Moore · 147

  • Fruit Punch

    Benjamin Moore · 140

Lighting

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

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