ScandinavianSouth-Facing

Smooth Maple

Dulux

The Analysis

Smooth Maple is a mid-tone tan with a neutral base that effectively balances light without being stark or cold. With an LRV of 45.99, it absorbs about half of the light hitting it, creating a cozy, grounded feel that makes large rooms feel more intimate rather than expanding them.

It works best as a main wall color for living areas or bedrooms where you want a cohesive, non-distracting backdrop. It’s too muted to act as a punchy accent, but it is excellent for creating a wrap-around, monochromatic look.

LRV 46

History & Origin

This is a timeless, functional neutral that bridges the gap between traditional heritage palettes and modern warm-minimalist trends. It leans away from specific period-piece styles, making it a versatile choice for any home age.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast or brushed brass for a softer, organic look. It complements medium-to-dark wood floors perfectly; avoid pairing it with orange-toned wood, as they may clash.

The Mood

This shade provides a restful and stable atmosphere because it sits firmly in the 'earthy neutral' category. It avoids the agitation of bright yellows or the clinical coldness of off-whites, making it a very easy color to live with daily.

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.

  • Summer Pecan 3

    Dulux

  • Treacle Tart 3

    Dulux

  • Sweet Tea

    Behr · S210-3

  • Maple Leaf

    Valspar · 2008-8B

  • Pottery Wheel

    Behr · N250-3

  • Pale Powder

    Valspar · 3001-8A

Lighting

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

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