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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Sedona Clay

Benjamin Moore · 2174-30

The Analysis

Sedona Clay is a saturated, mid-tone terracotta that creates an intimate, enclosed feeling. With a low LRV of 17.58, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which will make a room feel smaller and more grounded rather than bright or airy.

This is a bold, high-impact choice that functions best as an accent wall, a feature fireplace surround, or a cocoon-like treatment for a study or den. It is generally too dark and heavy to serve as a neutral backdrop for a whole-house palette.

LRV 18

History & Origin

This colour leans into a mid-century modern aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the earthy, organic palettes popular in the 1970s. It feels nostalgic and grounded rather than formal or period-specific.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to highlight its earthy qualities. It works exceptionally well in rooms where you want to prioritize comfort, such as a cozy reading nook or a low-lit dining room.

The Mood

Living with this colour feels warm and stimulating. It is an energizing shade that adds a sense of physical comfort and stability to a space.

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.

  • Clay Red

    Behr · BIC-46

  • Cajun Red

    Behr · PPU2-15

  • Chimayo Red

    Behr · QE-04

  • Trolley Dash

    Valspar · V081-1

  • Roycroft Adobe

    Sherwin-Williams · SW0040

  • Crimson Fox®

    Crown Paints

Lighting

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

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