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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Tawny Day Lily

Benjamin Moore · 2012-10

The Analysis

Tawny Day Lily is a high-impact, saturated terracotta orange that pulls focus immediately. With an LRV of 19.9, it absorbs significant light, making large rooms feel more intimate and cozy rather than spacious or bright.

This is not a neutral backdrop; it is an assertive accent colour. It functions best on a single feature wall, a fireplace surround, or in a powder room to create a high-impact focal point.

LRV 20

History & Origin

This earthy, saturated red-orange draws from 1970s interior design trends. It offers a nostalgic, retro aesthetic that feels warm and grounded rather than clinical or modern.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black hardware to ground the intensity of the orange. It works best in kitchens or dining areas where you can lean into the warm, earthy undertones.

The Mood

This shade is undeniably energizing and stimulating, making it a bold choice for active spaces. Because of its intensity, it is best used in rooms where you want to feel active and engaged rather than relaxed or sleepy.

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

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Lighting

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

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