Yam
Sherwin-Williams · SW6643
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The Analysis
Yam is a saturated, earthy orange that pulls heat into a space, making it feel grounded and cozy. With an LRV of 23.32, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which will likely make a room feel smaller and more intimate rather than bright and airy.
Because of its intensity, Yam works best as a statement wall, a cabinet color, or a bold accent in a powder room. Using it on every wall in a large space can be overwhelming, so it is usually most successful when paired with neutral, balancing tones.
LRV 23History & Origin
This shade leans into the warm, saturated palettes popular in the 1970s and the earthy tones found in 1920s Spanish Revival interiors. It offers a nostalgic, retro appeal that feels intentional and curated rather than purely modern.
How to Use It
Pair this with dark walnut wood tones or matte black hardware to lean into its earthy, industrial side, or use polished brass to highlight its warmth. It excels in dining rooms or entryways where you want to create a strong first impression.
The Mood
This color is highly energizing and stimulating, making it a bold choice for spaces where you want to spark conversation or creativity. It is less of a background color and more of a primary feature, so be prepared for a space that feels active rather than restful.
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