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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Tandoori

Benjamin Moore · CSP-1105

The Analysis

Tandoori is a rich, saturated terracotta that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 14.65. Because it pulls light into the surface rather than reflecting it, it will make a room feel more enclosed, intimate, and physically smaller.

This is a high-impact color best reserved for bold accent walls, powder rooms, or statement cabinetry. It is likely too heavy for an entire main living area unless you are specifically aiming for a moody, enclosed study aesthetic.

LRV 15

History & Origin

Tandoori carries a grounded, earthy quality that aligns with both 1970s retro palettes and traditional terracotta-based heritage styles. It moves away from sterile modern trends to prioritize a weighted, architectural presence.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to lean into a sophisticated, earthy palette. Use it in rooms where you want to prioritize warmth over brightness, such as a dining nook or a library.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels warm, grounded, and undeniably energizing. It creates a cocoon-like effect that feels stable and cozy rather than clean or airy.

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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    Valspar · V046-6

  • Aztec Brick

    Benjamin Moore · 2175-10

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  • Ripe Peach

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  • Sumatran Melody 1

    Dulux

  • Caramelized Orange

    Behr · 250D-7

Lighting

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

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