FarmhouseNorth-Facing

Yellow Iris

Benjamin Moore · 373

The Analysis

Yellow Iris is a high-LRV (81.01) color, meaning it reflects a significant amount of light, making small or dim rooms feel instantly more spacious and airy. It acts as a neutral base that mimics sunlight, effectively brightening up spaces that lack natural illumination.

This is an excellent choice for a main wall color in spaces where you want a friendly, open feel. Because it sits on the softer side of yellow, it functions as a subtle backdrop that highlights furniture rather than competing with it.

LRV 81

History & Origin

This tone draws on the classic, traditional aesthetic of 19th-century cottage palettes. It feels timeless and fresh rather than strictly modern, working well in both older homes and contemporary updates.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

It pairs beautifully with warm wood tones like oak or pine and provides a sharp, sophisticated contrast when paired with matte black hardware. Use it in kitchens or breakfast nooks to capitalize on its naturally inviting quality.

The Mood

Living with this shade provides an energizing, cheerful atmosphere that feels clean without being clinical. It is a warm, optimistic color that keeps the home feeling welcoming during gloomy weather.

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.

  • Pineapple Cream

    Sherwin-Williams · SW1668

  • Royal Linen

    Benjamin Moore · 931

  • Lily

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6693

  • America's Heartland

    Benjamin Moore · 197

  • Pale Moon

    Benjamin Moore · OC-108

  • Melted Butter

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-905

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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