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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Sharp Cheddar

Benjamin Moore · 2017-20

The Analysis

Sharp Cheddar is a high-impact orange that acts as a visual anchor, drawing the eye immediately to whatever surface it covers. With an LRV of 41.66, it absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it, which can make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than airy or spacious.

Because of its intensity, this shade is best used as a bold accent rather than a primary wall color for a whole room. It works best on a focal wall, a piece of cabinetry, or a front door to add a deliberate pop of warmth to a neutral palette.

LRV 42

History & Origin

This color leans into the bold, optimistic palettes of the 1970s, making it a natural fit for retro-inspired or eclectic interiors. It avoids the muted tones of traditional heritage colors, favoring a modern, saturated look.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black metal fixtures to ground the brightness. It is best suited for kitchens, mudrooms, or creative workspaces where you want a high-energy environment.

The Mood

This is an inherently energizing, high-stimulation color that promotes conversation and movement. It is excellent for rooms meant for activity, though it can feel overwhelming if used in spaces where you are trying to wind down or sleep.

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.

  • Darling Clementine

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  • Monarch Wing

    Valspar · 2008-1A

  • Orange Juice

    Benjamin Moore · 2017-10

  • Rich Havana 4

    Dulux

  • Pencil Me In

    Valspar · V014-3

  • Goldfish

    Behr · 300B-7

Lighting

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

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