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HeritageSouth-Facing

Thyme

Benjamin Moore · 2148-20

The Analysis

Thyme is a mid-tone olive with a significant LRV of 25.11, meaning it absorbs a fair amount of light rather than reflecting it. This creates a cozy, enclosed atmosphere that makes large, cavernous rooms feel more intimate and grounded.

It works best as a primary wall color in rooms where you want a settled, established feel, such as a study, library, or formal dining room. Avoid using it in windowless hallways, as it can feel too heavy in confined spaces.

LRV 25

History & Origin

This color sits firmly in the Heritage category, reminiscent of the traditional muted palettes used in early 20th-century craftsmanship. It avoids the 'modern-fresh' trend, leaning instead toward a timeless, established look.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or oak to lean into the organic theme, and use unlacquered brass hardware for a classic contrast. If you want to modernize the look, matte black fixtures will provide a sharp, clean edge against the softness of the olive tone.

The Mood

This shade provides a restful and stable environment, as its organic, earthy base mimics natural surroundings. It avoids the clinical feel of sterile whites, offering a sense of calm that is neither overly stimulating nor depressing.

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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  • Lucky Bamboo

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  • Bristle Grass

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  • Raked Leaves

    Behr · 360F-6

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K