Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Sunburst

Benjamin Moore · 2023-40

The Analysis

Sunburst is a high-energy, saturated yellow that significantly boosts the perceived brightness of a space. With an LRV of 76.77, it reflects a large amount of light, making rooms feel more expansive and awake.

Due to its high visibility, this works best as a bold accent wall or in smaller transitional areas like mudrooms and powder baths. It is likely too overwhelming as a whole-house neutral, but it excels as a focal point.

LRV 77

History & Origin

This color channels the mid-century modern aesthetic, reminiscent of the vibrant, optimistic palettes popularized in the 1950s. It feels fresh and retro rather than traditional or period-specific.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast, or use natural oak tones to lean into a warmer, organic feel. It works best in kitchens or breakfast nooks where you want to promote a lively, social atmosphere.

The Mood

Living with this shade is undeniably energizing and cheerful. It is a stimulating color that prevents a room from feeling stagnant, though it can be intense if used on every wall in a small space.

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.

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  • Banana Yellow

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Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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