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Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Afterglow

Sherwin-Williams · SW6667

The Analysis

Afterglow is a soft, saturated yellow that adds immediate warmth and bounce to a room. With an LRV of 65.21, it reflects a significant amount of light, helping to brighten dim spaces while making the room feel cozy rather than expansive.

This shade works best as a primary wall color in rooms where you want a welcoming atmosphere. It serves as a strong, cheerful backdrop that adds character without requiring the drama of a bold accent wall.

LRV 65

History & Origin

This is a nod to Mid-Century Modern design, where warm, sun-drenched palettes were used to create a cheerful, informal living environment. It leans away from formal period looks, feeling instead like a fresh, intentional update to a space.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Use this in kitchens or breakfast nooks to capitalize on its warmth. Pair it with walnut or light oak wood tones and matte black hardware to ground the yellow and prevent it from feeling too saccharine.

The Mood

Living with this color feels naturally energizing and optimistic without being overwhelming. It mimics the glow of late afternoon sun, which tends to make a space feel more approachable and less clinical than a stark white.

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.

  • Beacon Yellow

    Behr · HDC-CL-16

  • Moir Gold

    Benjamin Moore · CW-280

  • Moroccan Sands 4

    Dulux

  • Honey Burst

    Benjamin Moore · 144

  • Straw Colour

    Little Greene · 6154

  • PETALS

    Jotun · 1156

Lighting

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

  • Natural