Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Tangerine Dream

Benjamin Moore · 2012-30

The Analysis

Tangerine Dream is a high-energy orange that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, thanks to its lower LRV of 28.99. Because it is so saturated, it tends to make walls feel closer, which can make a large room feel more intimate or a small room feel slightly cramped.

This is a bold, high-impact accent color rather than a neutral backdrop. It works best on a single focal wall, in a powder room, or as a painted piece of furniture to provide a sharp pop of contrast against more muted surroundings.

LRV 29

History & Origin

This shade leans heavily into the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic, reminiscent of the vibrant, optimistic color palettes popularized in the 1950s and 60s. It fits perfectly in homes that celebrate retro design cues.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut wood tones and matte black metal fixtures to ground the intensity of the orange. It excels in kitchens or dining areas and works well when balanced by large amounts of white or off-white trim to prevent the space from feeling overwhelmed.

The Mood

This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to promote activity and conversation. It is not a restful color, so it is generally better suited for social spaces than bedrooms or areas where you plan to relax.

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.

  • Hot Spice

    Benjamin Moore · 2011-30

  • Starburst Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2010-30

  • Autumn Enchantment

    Valspar · 2001-1A

  • Orange Aurora

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Jeweled Peach

    Benjamin Moore · 2013-30

  • Pimento

    Behr · P180-6

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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