HeritageSouth-Facing

Red Oxide

Benjamin Moore · 2088-10

The Analysis

Red Oxide is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 10.74. It creates a dense, cocoon-like atmosphere that will make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright or airy.

This is a bold, high-impact pigment that works best as a primary accent or a statement wall. It is generally too dark for all four walls of a standard-sized room unless you are intentionally aiming for a moody, enclosed library aesthetic.

LRV 11

History & Origin

Red Oxide is a classic heritage tone, reminiscent of traditional barn paints and historic masonry finishes. It bridges the gap between colonial-era architecture and modern industrial design.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with natural wood tones like walnut or oak and stark matte black metal hardware. Use it in a study, dining room, or mudroom to create a durable, sophisticated look that hides wear and tear.

The Mood

Living with this color provides a grounded, stable energy that feels warm and reliable. It is more stimulating than a neutral, making it better for spaces where you want to feel active and engaged rather than sleepy or passive.

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.

  • Grand Canyon Red

    Benjamin Moore · 2090-10

  • Rambutan

    Valspar · V044-1

  • Brick Paver

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7599

  • Country Lane

    Benjamin Moore · 2088-20

  • Rich Chestnut

    Benjamin Moore · 2090-20

  • Russet Red

    Valspar · 2011-7

Lighting

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

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