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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Nugget

Benjamin Moore · AC-9

The Analysis

Nugget is a saturated, mid-tone brown with strong golden-tan undertones. Because its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is roughly 31%, it absorbs more light than it reflects, which will make a space feel cozy and intimate rather than large and airy.

It acts best as a sophisticated anchor rather than a neutral backdrop. Use it on accent walls, cabinetry, or in small spaces like powder rooms to create a high-impact, refined look.

LRV 31

History & Origin

This shade leans toward a mid-century modern aesthetic, echoing the warm wood tones and rich leathers popular in 1950s and 60s design. It provides a bridge between classic organic palettes and contemporary warm minimalism.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones and matte black hardware for a sharp, masculine edge. It also complements unlacquered brass if you want to highlight the gold in the pigment.

The Mood

This is a grounding, earthy colour that feels stable and reliable. It offers a restful atmosphere that avoids the clinical feeling of stark whites or the intensity of primary colours.

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.

  • Autumn Leaf

    Benjamin Moore · 1131

  • Windswept Leaves

    Behr · S280-5

  • Cuppa Tea

    Valspar · 8004-17E

  • Almond Roca

    Behr · S260-5

  • Millionaire®

    Crown Paints

  • Tan Hide 0261

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

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