HeritageSouth-Facing

Sun Dried Tomato

Sherwin-Williams · SW7585

The Analysis

Sun Dried Tomato is a deep, saturated red-brown that will significantly shrink the perceived size of a room. Because it has a very low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 4.91, it absorbs most light rather than reflecting it, creating a moody, enclosed atmosphere.

This is a high-impact accent color rather than a main wall color for a whole house. It works exceptionally well in smaller, distinct spaces like a library, a powder room, or behind open shelving to create depth.

LRV 5

History & Origin

It draws on classic 19th-century Victorian design, where deep, heavy tones were used to create status and warmth. It feels traditional and established rather than modern or minimalist.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this with natural walnut or dark oak wood tones to enhance the organic feel. Use unlacquered brass or matte black hardware to balance the richness of the red without looking too flashy.

The Mood

This color is intense and stimulating rather than restful, making it best for spaces where you want high energy or intimacy. It feels grounded and substantial, avoiding the 'cheap' look of bright primary reds by leaning into earthier, richer tones.

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.

  • Fire Cracker 1

    Dulux

  • Cottage Red

    Benjamin Moore · PM-15

  • Lovestruck

    Valspar · V080-1

  • Crabby Apple

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7592

  • Dinner Party

    Benjamin Moore · AF-300

  • Spanish Tile

    Valspar · 1010-5

Lighting

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

  • Natural