Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Torchlight

Sherwin-Williams · SW6374

The Analysis

Torchlight acts as a high-visibility golden tone that adds significant warmth to a room. With an LRV of 47.99, it sits right in the middle of the light-reflectance scale, meaning it won't make a dark room feel cavernous, but it also isn't bright enough to replace a true white wall.

This is a bold, saturated choice that works best as a primary wall color if you want a statement room. It is quite strong for a backdrop, so it is often more effective when balanced with neutral furniture rather than competing patterns.

LRV 48

History & Origin

This hue leans heavily into the Mid-Century Modern aesthetic, reminiscent of the 1950s and 60s palettes that favored warm, earthy ochres and harvest golds. It avoids the muted look of colonial periods, opting instead for a punchy, mid-century vibe.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with matte black hardware for a high-contrast modern look or walnut wood tones to enhance the warmth. Use it in kitchens or entryways where you want to create a welcoming, high-energy impact.

The Mood

Living with this shade is undeniably energizing. It mimics the glow of late afternoon sun, which tends to make a space feel active and vibrant rather than restful or subdued.

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.

  • VIVID OCHRE

    Jotun · 11217

  • Montana Wheat Field

    Valspar · V051-3

  • Gamboge

    Benjamin Moore · CW-285

  • Mac N Cheese

    Behr · M260-5

  • Sunburst

    Behr · PPU6-3

  • Yellow 02

    Lick · Yellow 02

Lighting

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

  • Natural