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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Polar Flame 1

Dulux

The Analysis

Polar Flame 1 is a warm, saturated apricot-orange that immediately boosts the perceived temperature of a room. With an LRV of 53.67, it reflects a moderate amount of light, making spaces feel cozy and contained rather than expansive or airy.

Due to its intensity, this is best used as a bold accent wall or in smaller spaces like a powder room or a dedicated study. It is too dominant to serve as a neutral backdrop for an entire home, as it tends to overwhelm larger open-plan living areas.

LRV 54

History & Origin

This shade leans toward a fresh, contemporary take on 1970s warm palettes, making it feel retro-inspired yet modern. It avoids the stuffy feel of traditional period colours, opting instead for a vibrant, punchy aesthetic.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with matte black hardware to ground the brightness or warm walnut wood tones to lean into the retro vibe. It works exceptionally well in kitchens or creative hobby rooms where you want a hit of personality without committing to a full-room paint job.

The Mood

This is an energizing, high-stimulation colour that promotes activity and conversation. Because of its warmth, it creates a cheerful, optimistic environment that feels particularly inviting during cooler months.

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.

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  • Yellow Polka Dot

    Behr · HDC-SM14-11

  • Orange Toffee

    Valspar · 2007-1C

  • Mango Madness 0968

    Colourtrend

  • Honeybell

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  • Golden Rambler 2

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Lighting

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

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