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Putnam Ivory

Benjamin Moore · HC-39

The Analysis

Putnam Ivory is a mid-tone yellow-beige that adds warmth without becoming overly golden. With an LRV of 59.62, it reflects a moderate amount of light, making a room feel cozy and grounded rather than bright or stark.

This is a perfect main wall colour for living rooms, kitchens, or hallways where you want a consistent, unified look. It acts as a versatile backdrop that lets your furniture and artwork take center stage.

LRV 60

History & Origin

This is a quintessential Heritage colour. It mimics the traditional, creamy paints found in historic homes and pairs exceptionally well with classic architectural details like crown molding and wainscoting.

Undertonewarm
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

It excels in rooms with warm-toned wood floors or dark cabinetry. Pair it with oil-rubbed bronze or unlacquered brass hardware to play up the traditional look, or use crisp white trim to keep the edges looking clean and sharp.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels stable and classic. It provides a reliable, neutral background that feels restful and predictable, avoiding the coldness of greys or the intensity of bright whites.

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.

  • Antique Parchment

    Benjamin Moore · 959

  • Dakota Trail

    Valspar · 6008-3B

  • Oakwood Manor

    Benjamin Moore · 1095

  • Regency Fawn

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Almond Butter

    Behr · MQ2-23

  • Monroe Bisque

    Benjamin Moore · HC-26

Lighting

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

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