Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Earths Core

Dulux

The Analysis

Earths Core is a deep, saturated terracotta-red that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 15.31. Because it pulls light in rather than reflecting it, this colour will make large rooms feel more intimate and enclosed rather than expansive.

This is a high-impact pigment that works best as a bold accent wall or a full-room statement for a moody, high-drama look. It is too intense to serve as a neutral backdrop for most home designs.

LRV 15

History & Origin

This shade leans heavily into the earthy palettes seen in 1970s interior design and Mediterranean-inspired heritage homes. It is a timeless, classic tone that avoids looking like a passing fad.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with dark walnut wood tones and matte black metal fixtures for a modern edge, or polished brass if you want a warmer, traditional aesthetic. Use it in a study or dining room where artificial lighting can highlight its rich, baked-clay undertones.

The Mood

This is an energizing and grounded colour that promotes a sense of warmth and stimulation. It is a bold choice that feels active and social, making it best suited for spaces where you want to feel engaged rather than quiet or restful.

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.

  • Steelhead Redd

    Valspar · V007-3

  • Tomato Tango

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-1145

  • Chili Pepper

    Behr · 180B-7

  • Red Hot

    Behr · S-G-190

  • Top Tomato

    Behr · P180-7

  • Hot Paprika 4

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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