Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Green Onyx

Sherwin-Williams · SW9128

The Analysis

Green Onyx is a muted, mossy olive that absorbs more light than it reflects, given its 31.4 LRV. It creates a cocooning, grounded effect that makes large spaces feel intimate rather than expansive.

This color functions best as a main wall color in rooms where you want a sophisticated, matte finish. It is too heavy for a subtle backdrop but serves as an excellent foundation for layered textures.

LRV 31

History & Origin

This is a quintessential Mid-Century Modern tone, reminiscent of organic palettes popularized in the 1950s and 60s. It feels nostalgic and structured rather than strictly contemporary.

Undertonewarm-green
FamilyGreen-Yellow

How to Use It

Use this in studies or bedrooms paired with walnut wood tones and matte black hardware to lean into its earthy roots. Avoid cool-toned whites; instead, use warm, creamy off-whites for trim to keep the space from looking dingy.

The Mood

Living with this shade feels consistently restful and stable. It avoids the neon harshness of brighter greens, making it a reliable choice for long-term comfort without causing visual fatigue.

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.

  • Milkweed Pod

    Behr · S380-5

  • Homestead

    Benjamin Moore · CC-724

  • Mistletoe

    Benjamin Moore · 474

  • Louisburg Green

    Benjamin Moore · HC-113

  • Raintree Green

    Benjamin Moore · CC-560

  • Nettle Soup

    Colourtrend

Lighting

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

  • Natural