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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Teak

Benjamin Moore · ES-30

The Analysis

Teak is a mid-tone, saturated brown with strong golden-orange undertones. With an LRV of 25.86, it absorbs significant light, which will make a room feel more intimate and cozy rather than spacious or bright.

This is a statement color best suited for accent walls, built-in cabinetry, or small dens where you want to lean into a moody aesthetic. It is too heavy for a whole-house neutral, but excellent for creating a deliberate focal point.

LRV 26

History & Origin

It leans heavily into the 1970s revival, evoking the warmth of high-end wood paneling and vintage furniture. It feels less like a historical period piece and more like a bridge between retro styles and modern, organic design.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with matte black hardware for a high-contrast look or aged brass for a warmer, richer vibe. It works exceptionally well in libraries or home offices, especially when paired with walnut wood tones or cream-colored upholstery.

The Mood

Living with this color feels stable, grounded, and warm. It avoids the clinical feel of cooler neutrals, offering a reliable, steady presence that feels inviting after a long 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.

  • Dried Mustard

    Benjamin Moore · 2158-10

  • Amber Sienna

    Valspar · 3003-5A

  • Beeswax Candle 0991

    Colourtrend

  • Crispy Gingersnap

    Behr · 290D-7

  • Butterscotch

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6377

  • Amber

    Benjamin Moore · 168

Lighting

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

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