Quinoa
Sherwin-Williams · SW9102
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The Analysis
Quinoa is a balanced, mid-toned beige with subtle earthy undertones that prevent it from looking clinical. With an LRV of 48.55, it sits right in the middle of the light-reflectance scale, meaning it adds warmth without overwhelming the room or making it feel cave-like.
It works best as a main wall color for open-plan living areas or bedrooms where you want a cohesive look. It serves as a neutral backdrop that allows your furniture and art to take center stage without competing for attention.
LRV 49History & Origin
This is a versatile, modern neutral that leans away from the dated yellow-based tans of the early 2000s. It feels fresh and current, fitting well into modern homes that prioritize organic materials and clean lines.
How to Use It
Pair this with natural wood tones like walnut or white oak to lean into its organic roots. For hardware, matte black provides a sharp, modern contrast, while unlacquered brass adds a softer, more traditional warmth.
The Mood
This color provides a grounding, restful effect that feels stable and reliable. It is an excellent choice for daily living because it doesn't distract the eye, creating a calm environment that feels settled rather than stimulating.
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