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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Impulse 0989

Colourtrend

The Analysis

Impulse 0989 is a rich, earthy terracotta that pulls a room inward, making large spaces feel more intimate and grounded. With an LRV of 36.22, it absorbs a significant amount of light, so it will darken a room rather than brighten it.

Due to its intensity, this works best as a statement wall or a deliberate accent in a room with high ceilings. If used on all four walls, it can become overwhelming, so use it to define specific areas or architectural features.

LRV 36

History & Origin

This shade leans into a warm, mid-century modern aesthetic, drawing on the 1970s revival of earth tones. It feels curated and intentional rather than like a traditional heritage or period-specific paint choice.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to lean into its organic, modern roots. It is excellent for dining rooms or cozy dens, but avoid it in narrow hallways where the dark tone might make the space feel cramped.

The Mood

This is an energizing and warm colour that feels active and social. It creates a bold, stimulating environment that is best suited for rooms where you want to feel engaged rather than trying to wind down for sleep.

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.

  • Butterscotch

    Benjamin Moore · 2157-30

  • Autumn Spice

    Valspar · 3003-5B

  • Toffee Cream

    Valspar · 3001-3B

  • Pumpkin Toast

    Behr · 270D-6

  • Jamaican Bronze 2

    Dulux

  • Apple Crisp

    Behr · 290D-5

Lighting

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

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