HeritageSouth-Facing

Common Dormouse

Dulux

The Analysis

Common Dormouse is a mid-tone earthy neutral that anchors a room without feeling stark. With an LRV of 24.8, it absorbs more light than it reflects, which pulls the walls inward to create a cozy, enclosed atmosphere rather than an expansive one.

It works best as a primary wall colour in rooms where you want to promote relaxation, such as a bedroom or a snug. Because it is a muted, brownish-grey, it serves as a sophisticated neutral that makes colourful art or furniture stand out.

LRV 25

History & Origin

This colour leans into the Heritage aesthetic. Its earthy, organic tones mirror the natural pigments used in traditional craftsmanship, making it a natural fit for period properties or rustic restorations.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyBeige

How to Use It

Pair this with natural wood tones like oak or walnut to enhance the organic feel, or use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast. It performs best in spaces where you want to embrace a darker, moodier look rather than trying to force brightness.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, stable feeling that makes a space feel quiet and restful. It is neither energizing nor sterile, acting as a reliable backdrop that reduces visual clutter.

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.

  • Tavern Gray

    Benjamin Moore · CW-40

  • Witch Hazel

    Behr · 780D-6

  • Wildwood Crest

    Benjamin Moore · 1538

  • Copley Gray

    Benjamin Moore · HC-104

  • Hampshire Gray

    Benjamin Moore · HC-101

  • Mouse's Back

    Farrow & Ball · 40

Lighting

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

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