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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Buttercup Fool 3

Dulux

The Analysis

Buttercup Fool 3 is a high-energy yellow that actively reflects light back into a space, making rooms feel more expansive and illuminated. Because of its high LRV of 71.91, it is excellent for counteracting shadows and brightening up naturally dim corners.

This is a bold, saturated choice best used for statement walls, kitchens, or creative home offices. I would avoid using it on all four walls in a bedroom, as it can feel too stimulating for rest.

LRV 72

History & Origin

This color aligns with the mid-century modern aesthetic, which frequently utilized sunny, saturated palettes to create optimism in residential design. It avoids the muted tones of traditional heritage palettes, opting instead for a fresh, post-war vitality.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with crisp white trim to keep it from looking dated, or lean into the warmth with natural oak or walnut wood tones. For hardware, matte black provides a sharp, contemporary contrast, while brass will enhance the color's inherent golden glow.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels consistently energizing and upbeat, as it mimics the presence of constant sunlight. It is an assertive, cheerful color that keeps a room feeling active and awake throughout the day.

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.

  • Crowne Hill Yellow

    Benjamin Moore · 312

  • Midday

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6695

  • Lemon Pound Cake

    Behr · 320B-4

  • Late Day Sun

    Valspar · 3006-4A

  • Sun Splashed 0932

    Colourtrend

  • Sweet Angelica 0806

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
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