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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Soft Maplewood 1

Dulux

The Analysis

Soft Maplewood 1 is a mid-tone earthy brown that absorbs a fair amount of light due to its low 21.1 LRV. Because it pulls light inward rather than reflecting it, it creates a cozy, contained feeling that makes large rooms feel more intimate.

This color acts best as a sophisticated, warm neutral rather than a bright accent. It works well on all walls in a study or media room, or as a grounding feature wall in a larger living space.

LRV 21

History & Origin

This is a versatile, grounded shade that leans toward a modern, organic look. It bridges the gap between classic wood-paneled traditionalism and the raw, earthy palettes popular in contemporary design.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with light-grained oaks for a subtle look, or matte black hardware to emphasize the modern edge. It works exceptionally well in rooms where you want to highlight textured textiles like cream wool or linen.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, stable backdrop that feels restful and quiet. It avoids the agitation of bright, high-energy colors, making it an excellent choice for areas where you want to settle down and relax.

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.

  • Haute Hickory

    Valspar · 8004-17F

  • Cardboard

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6124

  • Renwick Golden Oak

    Sherwin-Williams · SW2824

  • Hazel

    Behr · S280-6

  • Roasted Squash

    Behr · S280-7

  • Olympic Bronze

    Behr · PPU4-17

Lighting

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

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