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Starfish

Benjamin Moore · 110

The Analysis

Starfish is a mid-toned, earthy tan that adds instant warmth without overwhelming a room. Because its LRV (Light Reflectance Value) is 42.26, it absorbs some light rather than bouncing it around, which makes large spaces feel more intimate and grounded.

This is a versatile neutral that serves well as a main wall color in living areas or bedrooms. It provides enough depth to make white trim pop without feeling like a 'statement' wall that demands constant attention.

LRV 42

History & Origin

This shade leans into a warm, organic palette that gained popularity in late 20th-century design. It functions as a modern update to traditional beige, moving away from yellow-based 'builder' paint toward a cleaner, more clay-like tone.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut or light oak wood tones to emphasize the organic feel, or use matte black hardware to add a sharp, modern contrast. It performs best in rooms where you want a cozy, cohesive atmosphere rather than a bright, sterile lab look.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable and approachable. It lacks the harshness of pure white or the intensity of primary colors, making it a restful choice that feels reliable and calm 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.

  • Roasted Seeds

    Behr · M220-5

  • Wholemeal Honey 3

    Dulux

  • Caramel Sundae

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  • Spice Cookie 0996

    Colourtrend

  • Sweet 'n Sour

    Benjamin Moore · 103

  • Thai Ice Tea

    Behr · MQ4-36

Lighting

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

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