Swatchd
Sign inGet started
Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Startling Orange

Benjamin Moore · 2016-10

The Analysis

Startling Orange is a high-impact, saturated shade that absorbs a fair amount of light due to its mid-range LRV of 33.73. It makes a room feel more intimate and enclosed rather than airy, drawing the walls inward to create a bold, wrapped-in sensation.

This is far too dominant to be used as a neutral backdrop for an entire home. It functions best as a high-contrast accent wall, the interior of a built-in shelving unit, or for painting architectural details like window frames and door casings.

LRV 34

History & Origin

This shade leans heavily into the bold, experimental palettes of the 1970s. It lacks the muted, dusty quality of traditional heritage palettes, making it a modern, graphic choice for those looking to add a sharp, retro-inspired edge.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Use this in playrooms, mudrooms, or creative offices where you want to boost energy levels. Pair it with matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast, or use natural walnut wood tones to soften the intensity and lean into a warmer, organic look.

The Mood

This is an overtly energizing and stimulating colour that keeps your brain alert and active. It is not designed for rest; instead, it creates a vibrant, social atmosphere that feels punchy and intense 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.

  • Summer Citrus

    Behr · S-G-270

  • Citrus Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2016-20

  • Orange Burst

    Benjamin Moore · 2015-20

  • Orange You Happy? 0970

    Colourtrend

  • Electric Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2015-10

  • Marigold

    Little Greene · 6154

Lighting

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

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