Avocado
Sherwin-Williams · SW2861
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The Analysis
Avocado is a mid-tone earthy olive that absorbs a significant amount of light due to its low LRV of 20.19. Because it pulls light inward, it will make a room feel smaller and more enclosed rather than airy or expansive.
This is best used as a bold accent wall, on cabinetry, or in smaller rooms like a study or powder room. It is too heavy for a main wall color in most homes unless you are specifically aiming for a moody, saturated environment.
LRV 20History & Origin
Avocado is a quintessential Mid-Century Modern shade that captures the organic, earthy palette popular in the 1960s and 70s. It feels nostalgic and deliberate, rather than modern or minimalist.
How to Use It
Pair this with warm walnut wood tones and brushed brass hardware to lean into its vintage roots. If you want to modernize the look, use matte black fixtures and crisp, bright white trim to provide a sharp, clean contrast.
The Mood
This color provides a grounding, restful effect that feels stable and quiet. It is not an energizing color, making it an excellent choice for creating a cozy, retreat-like atmosphere where you want to wind down.
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.
Add harmony palette to a room
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Brand Matches
Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.
Lighting
See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.
- Natural