Swatchd
Sign inGet started
Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Tomato Red

Benjamin Moore · 2010-10

The Analysis

Tomato Red is a high-energy, saturated tone that pulls a room inward, making large spaces feel more intimate and cozy. With an LRV of 18.29, it absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it, which creates a deep, bold impact rather than a bright or airy feel.

This color is far too dominant to serve as a neutral backdrop. It works best as a deliberate accent wall, in a dedicated hobby room, or as a high-impact choice for cabinetry or entryways.

LRV 18

History & Origin

It draws heavily from Mid-Century Modern design, where bold, primary-leaning colors were frequently used to create stark contrast against clean lines. It avoids the muted, dusty quality of traditional Heritage palettes.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to soften the intensity. For metals, stick to matte black for a modern edge or unlacquered brass to lean into a sophisticated, saturated look.

The Mood

This is an inherently energizing color that stimulates conversation and appetite. Living with it daily provides a vibrant, active backdrop, though it is best used in areas where you want to feel alert rather than relaxed.

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.

  • Scarlet Sun

    Valspar · 1011-1

  • Redstone

    Benjamin Moore · 2009-10

  • Orange

    Benjamin Moore · 2011-10

  • Warm Comfort

    Benjamin Moore · 2010-20

  • Movie Star 1116

    Colourtrend

  • Tawny Day Lily

    Benjamin Moore · 2012-10

Lighting

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

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