HeritageSouth-Facing

St. George Red

Benjamin Moore · CW-245

The Analysis

St. George Red is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, thanks to its low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 12.25. Because it pulls the walls inward, it will make a large room feel intimate and cozy rather than bright and airy.

Due to its intensity, this color is best utilized as a dramatic accent wall or for creating a 'jewel box' effect in small, windowless rooms like powder baths or libraries. It is too heavy to serve as a neutral backdrop for an entire home.

LRV 12

History & Origin

This color leans heavily into a Heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the saturated, pigment-rich tones found in 18th and 19th-century colonial or Victorian interiors. It fits perfectly in homes that feature architectural character like crown molding or built-in bookshelves.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural wood tones, such as walnut or white oak, to emphasize its organic undertones. Use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast, or unlacquered brass if you want to lean into a classic, historical look.

The Mood

This shade is deeply grounding and provides a sense of warmth and stability, making it excellent for spaces where you want to relax. It lacks the harsh, neon qualities of a primary red, so it won't overstimulate your senses in daily use.

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.

  • Moroccan Ruby

    Behr · S140-6

  • Onondaga Clay

    Benjamin Moore · 1204

  • Boxcar Red

    Benjamin Moore · CC-122

  • Pompeian Red

    Behr · PPU1-8

  • Burnt Russet

    Benjamin Moore · 042

  • Savanna 0121

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

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