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HeritageSouth-Facing

New Pilgrim Red

Benjamin Moore · ES-21

The Analysis

New Pilgrim Red is a deep, saturated shade that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 7.06. It will make a room feel enclosed and intimate, effectively shrinking large, airy spaces to make them feel more grounded and cozy.

This is a high-impact pigment that works best as a deliberate accent or in a dedicated moody room like a study or dining nook. Avoid using it on all four walls in small, windowless spaces, as it can feel heavy and overwhelming.

LRV 7

History & Origin

This shade leans into a classic heritage aesthetic, drawing inspiration from colonial-era interiors and traditional woodwork. It carries a sense of permanence and historical weight that feels established rather than trendy.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this red with light oak or walnut wood tones to soften the intensity, and use matte black hardware for a clean, modern edge. It performs best in spaces with ample natural light to prevent the color from appearing flat or muddy.

The Mood

This color is inherently energizing and bold, bringing a sense of warmth and vitality to the home. It is a stimulating choice that commands attention, making it better suited for areas where you want to feel active rather than restful.

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.

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    Colourtrend

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  • Merlot

    Valspar · V078-6

  • Ruby Dusk

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  • Oxford

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Lighting

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

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