Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Buried Treasure

Dulux

The Analysis

Buried Treasure is a vibrant, golden-orange that significantly warms up a room by mimicking natural sunlight. Because it has a moderate LRV of 52.46, it reflects a healthy amount of light without being blinding, making spaces feel cozy rather than expansive.

This is a bold accent colour that can easily overwhelm a room if used on all four walls. It works best when applied to a feature wall, built-in cabinetry, or as a vibrant contrast in a transitional space like a hallway or entry.

LRV 52

History & Origin

This tone is a staple of Mid-Century Modern design, capturing the playful, optimistic colour palettes popular in the 1950s and 60s. It fits perfectly into retro-inspired aesthetics rather than formal, historic period homes.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black metal hardware to ground the intensity of the orange. It works exceptionally well in kitchens or mudrooms where you want a punch of personality against neutral tile or cabinetry.

The Mood

This shade is decidedly energizing and stimulating, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to feel active. It is not a restful or neutral tone, so expect it to bring a lively, optimistic mood to your daily routine.

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.

  • Polar Flame 1

    Dulux

  • Yellow Polka Dot

    Behr · HDC-SM14-11

  • Mango Madness 0968

    Colourtrend

  • Orange Toffee

    Valspar · 2007-1C

  • Yarrow

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6669

  • Golden Archway

    Benjamin Moore · 146

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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