Circus Red

Technical Profile

What color is Circus Red? It's a deep warm pink with the hex code #8B2B4E. Colors similar to Circus Red include MPC Raspberry Metallic, Vista Paint Dark Burgundy Wine, MPC Rose Magenta. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. Circus Red has a warm (pink) undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Understanding a color's undertone is key to avoiding combinations that clash — it often matters more than the surface color itself. Circus Red (#8B2B4E) by Behr is a deep pink paint color with a rich, saturated presence that draws the eye. It delivers a grounded richness that adds drama and sophistication. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. In its RGB breakdown, red is the dominant channel, which gives it a subtle rosy warmth even under different lighting conditions. At an LRV of 26 it absorbs more light than it reflects, creating a moody, enveloping atmosphere. Deep neutrals like this create contrast and gravitas on accent walls, exterior facades, and kitchen cabinetry, pairing well with lighter trim. Satin or semi-gloss finishes help deep colors reflect just enough light to show their full depth, especially on accent walls and trim. For color coordination, Circus Red pairs beautifully with teal tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring red and magenta hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its warm (pink) undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. If Behr is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from MPC, Vista Paint, Benjamin Moore and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Circus Red delivers a fireside richness that wraps the room in warmth and groundedness. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for a wide range of interior design styles. As part of the Behr palette, Circus Red benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. As with any paint color, Circus Red can shift noticeably between natural daylight, warm incandescent, and cool LED lighting — testing a sample swatch on your wall under different conditions is always recommended. Deep shades generally benefit from a quality primer and may require an extra coat for even, streak-free coverage. Deep tones pair beautifully with velvet upholstery, burnished metal fixtures, dark-stained wood, and textured wallcoverings on adjacent surfaces. You can order Circus Red (M140-6) directly from Behr or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.