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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Sesame

Benjamin Moore · CC-638

The Analysis

Sesame is a mid-tone, warm yellow-beige that reflects light effectively due to its high LRV of 65.94. It prevents rooms from feeling sterile while making compact spaces feel open and illuminated rather than cramped.

Sesame works best as a primary wall colour because it serves as a flexible, neutral backdrop. It is subdued enough to anchor a room, allowing your furniture and artwork to stand out without competing for attention.

LRV 66

History & Origin

This colour leans into a timeless, traditional aesthetic found in mid-century interiors. It avoids the starkness of contemporary gray trends, favoring a more established, classic look that feels permanent and warm.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

This shade excels in kitchens or living areas where you want to highlight natural wood tones like walnut or oak. Pair it with matte black hardware for a modern edge or unlacquered brass if you prefer a classic, layered feel.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, steady energy that feels welcoming without being overwhelming. It is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas where you want a sense of comfort that remains bright and functional throughout 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.

  • Olive Oil

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Leaf Bud

    Valspar · 6005-5B

  • Origin 0791

    Colourtrend

  • Sunlit Leaf

    Valspar · V058-2

  • Fresh Willow

    Behr · HDC-CT-27A

  • Dried Palm

    Behr · 400C-3

Lighting

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

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