Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Brushed Orange

Valspar · 2007-3B

The Analysis

Brushed Orange is a mid-tone pigment that brings significant warmth into a space without overwhelming it. With an LRV of 42.42, it reflects a moderate amount of light, meaning it will pull the walls inward slightly and create a cozy, intimate atmosphere rather than an expansive, airy one.

Due to its intensity, this works best as a bold statement wall or a saturated accent. Covering an entire room in this shade can be aggressive, so it is better used to highlight architectural features or provide a punch of personality in smaller spaces.

LRV 42

History & Origin

This shade leans heavily into the Mid-Century Modern design movement. It mimics the saturated, earthy palettes popularized in the 1950s and 60s, moving away from rigid, neutral palettes toward more expressive, organic tones.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

It pairs exceptionally well with dark walnut wood tones and matte black hardware for a high-contrast, modern look. Use it in kitchens or dining rooms where you want to stimulate conversation, and avoid it in bedrooms if you require a strictly low-stimulus environment to sleep.

The Mood

This color is inherently energizing and social, making it excellent for high-activity areas. Because it sits in the warm spectrum, it creates a feeling of alertness and optimism rather than the calm, passive environment you would expect from a blue or grey.

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.

  • Toucan

    Behr · P230-6

  • Amber Queen 1

    Dulux

  • Crush

    Little Greene · 6154

  • Bird Of Paradise

    Behr · 260B-7

  • New Dawn

    Benjamin Moore · 133

  • Poppy Glow

    Behr · 250B-6

Lighting

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

  • Natural