Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Tamarind

Sherwin-Williams · SW7538

The Analysis

Tamarind is a mid-tone tan with strong golden-brown undertones that effectively grounds a space. With an LRV of 39.89, it absorbs more light than it reflects, meaning it will make a room feel cozy and contained rather than expansive or airy.

It works best as a main wall color in rooms where you want to emphasize relaxation, such as a den or a bedroom. Because of its medium depth, it also functions well as a transitional neutral that bridges the gap between light trim and dark furniture.

LRV 40

History & Origin

This shade leans toward a heritage aesthetic, reminiscent of the warm, organic palettes found in mid-century interiors and traditional colonial homes. It offers a timeless, earthy quality rather than a trendy, high-contrast look.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with warm wood tones like walnut or teak to lean into its natural warmth, or use matte black hardware for a sharper, modern edge. It performs best in rooms with plenty of natural light, as it can appear muddy in spaces that are chronically dark.

The Mood

This color provides a stable, earthy presence that feels restorative and calm. It avoids the clinical sterility of bright whites, creating a grounded environment that feels lived-in and comfortable.

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.

  • Brookline Beige

    Benjamin Moore · HC-47

  • English Elm

    Dulux

  • Caramel Cream

    Dulux

  • Basketry

    Behr · PPU4-5

  • Farro

    Sherwin-Williams · SW9103

  • Oak Barrel

    Sherwin-Williams · SW7714

Lighting

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

  • Natural