Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Spice Gold

Benjamin Moore · 1040

The Analysis

Spice Gold is a mid-tone, saturated ochre that adds immediate warmth to a room. With an LRV of 38.75, it absorbs more light than it reflects, which pulls walls inward to create a cozy, enclosed feeling rather than an airy one.

Due to its intensity, it works best as a bold accent wall or in small, intentional spaces like a study or powder room. Using it on every wall in a large room can be overwhelming, so treat it as a focal point to anchor your furniture.

LRV 39

History & Origin

This colour leans heavily into a vintage, heritage aesthetic. It is reminiscent of 1970s interior design and traditional colonial palettes, offering a classic look that feels established rather than trendy.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with walnut or dark oak wood tones to highlight its richness, or use matte black hardware to keep the look modern. It works exceptionally well in rooms with limited natural light, as it leans into the shadows rather than trying to fight them.

The Mood

This is an energizing, stimulating colour that mimics the warmth of a sunset. It feels grounded and robust, making it a great choice for spaces where you want to feel active rather than sleepy or overly relaxed.

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.

  • Bracken Salts 2

    Dulux

  • Sandy Shallows

    Dulux

  • Tarnished Treasure

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9118

  • MEMENTO

    Jotun · 1991

  • Rich Reward 0302

    Colourtrend

  • Modern History

    Behr · MQ2-28

Lighting

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

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