Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Nutmeg Cluster 3

Dulux

The Analysis

Nutmeg Cluster 3 is a mid-toned, earthy neutral that leans into warm taupe. With an LRV of 47.84, it absorbs a moderate amount of light, which creates a cozy, enclosed atmosphere rather than an expansive or bright one.

This is an excellent choice for a main wall colour in living areas or bedrooms where you want a sense of cohesion. It serves as a sophisticated neutral that bridges the gap between beige and grey without feeling sterile.

LRV 48

History & Origin

This colour fits well into a modern heritage or transitional aesthetic. It echoes the natural plaster and clay pigments often found in older homes, but translates perfectly into contemporary, pared-back interiors.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

It pairs beautifully with warm wood tones like walnut or oak and matte black hardware for a high-contrast, modern look. Use it in rooms where you want to emphasize comfort, such as a den or a primary suite, rather than high-traffic utility spaces.

The Mood

Living with this shade is inherently restful and grounding due to its organic, clay-like undertones. It creates a stable backdrop that feels calm and consistent throughout the day, avoiding the starkness of clinical whites.

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.

  • Vintage Charm

    Behr · N160-3

  • Cedar Ridge

    Benjamin Moore · 1233

  • Plymouth Notch

    Behr · 180E-3

  • Vintage Tea Rose

    Behr · HDC-CT-07A

  • Pink Parchment

    Dulux

  • Faded Bloom

    Dulux

Lighting

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

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