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Pinch of Spice

Benjamin Moore · 1449

The Analysis

Pinch of Spice is a deep, muted brownish-plum that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low 12.9 LRV. Because it pulls light out of the room rather than reflecting it, this color will make a space feel smaller, cozier, and more intimate.

This is best used as a bold accent wall, a moody foundation for a library, or for painting out trim and walls in a small room for a 'color-drenched' look. It is too heavy for use as a primary wall color in smaller, windowless spaces.

LRV 13

History & Origin

It leans into the rich, dramatic palettes found in late Victorian and Edwardian interiors, where deep, saturated tones were used to create status and depth. It feels distinctly classic rather than modern or minimalist.

Undertonewarm-red
FamilyRed

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or mid-tone oak to bridge the gap between the brown and purple undertones. Use brushed brass or gold hardware to provide a sharp contrast that makes the deep pigment look intentional and high-end.

The Mood

This shade feels grounding and restful rather than energizing. It creates a weighted, stable environment that feels sophisticated and calm, perfect for spaces where you want to retreat at the end of the day.

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.

  • Rose Bark

    Dulux

  • Maraschino Mocha 3

    Dulux

  • Tibetan Temple

    Behr · PPU1-3

  • Amazon Soil

    Benjamin Moore · 2115-30

  • Poetry Plum

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6019

  • Nordic Sails 1

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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