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HeritageSouth-Facing

Muted Red

Valspar · 1008-5A

The Analysis

Muted Red is a dark, saturated tone with an LRV of 10.96, meaning it absorbs a significant amount of light rather than reflecting it. This creates a cozy, enclosed atmosphere that makes large rooms feel intimate but can make small, windowless spaces feel quite tight.

Due to its intensity, this colour works best as a bold accent wall, a dramatic trim detail, or an all-over paint choice in spaces meant for evening use. Avoid using it on every wall in a small, dim room unless you want to lean into a moody, enclosed aesthetic.

LRV 11

History & Origin

This tone draws heavily from heritage palettes, reminiscent of traditional libraries or formal dining rooms found in early 20th-century architecture. It feels substantial and classic rather than temporary or trendy.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this red with dark wood tones like walnut or deep oak to maintain the richness of the room. Brushed brass hardware adds a classic warmth, while matte black fixtures provide a sharper, more contemporary contrast.

The Mood

This shade provides a grounded, stable feeling. It is neither frantic nor overly energizing, making it a sophisticated choice for rooms where you want to feel settled rather than stimulated.

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.

  • Cordova Burgundy 0116

    Colourtrend

  • Haute Couture

    Behr · MQ1-9

  • Forbidden Red

    Behr · PPU1-10

  • Warm Earth

    Benjamin Moore · 1274

  • Bolero

    Behr · PPU1-12

  • Crantini

    Behr · PPU1-11

Lighting

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

  • Natural