Swatchd
Sign inGet started
HeritageSouth-Facing

Olivetone

Benjamin Moore · 252

The Analysis

Olivetone is a mid-tone olive with a significant LRV of 21.96, meaning it absorbs a fair amount of light rather than reflecting it. It creates a cozy, contained atmosphere and will make larger, well-lit spaces feel more intimate rather than expansive.

It functions best as a sophisticated, earthy backdrop or a moody feature wall. It is too dark to serve as a main neutral for the entire house, but excels in libraries, dens, or dining rooms where you want a sense of warmth.

LRV 22

History & Origin

This is a classic heritage-inspired hue that draws from traditional English manor palettes. It feels timeless rather than trendy, fitting perfectly into both historical restorations and updated traditional interiors.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with warm walnut wood tones or antique brass hardware to lean into its earthy character. It also looks crisp against matte black accents if you want to push it toward a more modern, tailored look.

The Mood

This color feels inherently grounding and steady, leaning toward a restful, organic quality. Because it isn’t overly bright or demanding, it provides a stable, low-stress background that works well for relaxation.

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.

  • Wool Tweed

    Behr · 320F-6

  • Raked Leaves

    Behr · 360F-6

  • Gold Ink

    Behr · S310-6

  • Salisbury Stones 1

    Dulux

  • Cattail Brown

    Behr · 350D-7

  • Stone-Dark-Warm

    Little Greene · 6154

Lighting

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

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