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ScandinavianNorth-Facing

Gardenia

Dulux

The Analysis

Gardenia is a high-LRV (81.17) shade, meaning it reflects a significant amount of light back into the room. It acts as a bright, crisp neutral that makes smaller rooms feel more spacious and less enclosed.

This is a perfect main wall colour for open-plan living areas or hallways where you need consistent, neutral coverage. It works best as a primary backdrop that lets your furniture and art take center stage.

LRV 81

History & Origin

Gardenia reflects a timeless, classic aesthetic often found in traditional architecture. It provides a cleaner, updated alternative to the yellow-heavy creams used in period-style homes.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyWhite

How to Use It

This shade pairs well with warm wood tones like oak or walnut and contrasts sharply with matte black hardware for a modern look. It is versatile enough for bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens alike.

The Mood

Living with this colour is a restful experience because it is neutral and lacks harsh undertones. It provides a clean, orderly backdrop that minimizes visual clutter and helps a room feel calm.

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.

  • Vanilla Mist 2

    Dulux

  • Polished Ivory

    Valspar · 7006-6

  • Franklin White

    Benjamin Moore · CW-200

  • IVORY

    Jotun · 0567

  • Cappuccino Froth

    Benjamin Moore · CSP-1055

  • Sandy Beaches

    Benjamin Moore · 946

Lighting

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

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