Mid-Century ModernNorth-Facing

Pencil Me In

Valspar · V014-3

The Analysis

Pencil Me In is a vibrant, saturated marigold that anchors a room with warmth rather than reflecting light like a neutral. With an LRV of 37.57, it absorbs a significant amount of light, which will make a space feel cozy and intimate rather than large and airy.

Due to its intensity, this colour is best used as a bold accent wall, in a small powder room, or for cabinetry. It acts as a focal point, so avoid using it on all four walls unless you want the room to feel very enclosed and dramatic.

LRV 38

History & Origin

This shade leans into the bold, optimistic palettes of the 1970s and contemporary maximalist design. It is a modern, high-energy take on classic ochre tones rather than a traditional period-accurate shade.

Undertonewarm
FamilyYellow

How to Use It

Pair this with matte black hardware to modernize the look or aged brass for a retro feel. It works best with walnut or deep oak wood tones, which help ground the bright pigment.

The Mood

This is an inherently energizing, high-stimulation colour. It creates an optimistic and active atmosphere, making it a great choice for areas where you want to feel productive or social.

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.

  • Rich Havana 4

    Dulux

  • Yam

    Behr · 290B-7

  • Monarch Wing

    Valspar · 2008-1A

  • Darling Clementine

    Valspar · V012-3

  • Sharp Cheddar

    Benjamin Moore · 2017-20

  • Goldfish

    Behr · 300B-7

Lighting

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

  • Natural