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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Auburn Flame

Dulux

The Analysis

Auburn Flame is a rich, saturated terracotta that pulls light into the room rather than reflecting it back. Because it has an LRV of 21.51, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which will make a space feel cozy and intimate rather than large or expansive.

Due to its intensity, this is best used as a bold accent wall or in smaller, enclosed rooms like a study or dining nook. Avoid using it on every wall in a small room unless you want to intentionally create a "jewel box" effect.

LRV 22

History & Origin

This tone is a staple of mid-century modern design and 1970s interior revivals. It bridges the gap between vintage warmth and contemporary, earthy color palettes.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut or dark oak wood tones to highlight its orange undertones. Use matte black metal hardware for a modern edge, or brushed brass to lean into a more classic, high-contrast look.

The Mood

This color provides an energizing, grounded warmth that keeps a space from feeling sterile. It feels inherently stable and inviting, making it a great choice for areas where you want to encourage conversation or relaxation.

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.

  • Montana Agate

    Benjamin Moore · 056

  • Flower Pot

    Benjamin Moore · CC-96

  • Before Winter

    Behr · M190-6

  • Rusty Gate

    Behr · M200-7

  • Florentine Clay

    Valspar · 2003-5B

  • Autumn Ivy

    Valspar · V044-5

Lighting

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

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