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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Buttercup Fool 2

Dulux

The Analysis

Buttercup Fool 2 is a high-energy yellow that acts like an artificial light source. With an LRV of 68.55, it reflects a significant amount of light, which helps smaller, darker rooms feel more open and spacious.

Due to its intensity, this colour works best as a bold accent wall or in small transitional spaces like mudrooms and powder rooms. Using it as a primary wall colour for an entire open-plan space can be overwhelming, so use it strategically to draw the eye.

LRV 69

History & Origin

This yellow leans into the optimistic, vibrant colour palettes of the mid-20th century. It lacks the muted, muddy tones of traditional heritage paints, placing it firmly in a fresh, contemporary category.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with matte black hardware to ground the brightness or warm oak wood tones for a balanced, natural look. It is a fantastic choice for kitchens or breakfast nooks where you want to encourage a lively morning atmosphere.

The Mood

This shade is decidedly energizing and optimistic, making it an excellent choice for rooms where you want to feel alert and active. Because it is so saturated, it provides a constant, cheerful warmth that doesn't feel clinical or stark.

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.

  • Lemon Zest

    Dulux

  • Lemon Chiffon 2

    Dulux

  • American Cheese

    Benjamin Moore · 2019-40

  • Squash Blossom

    Behr · P290-5

  • Yellow Rain Coat

    Benjamin Moore · 2020-40

  • Citrus

    Behr · 360B-5

Lighting

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

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