Cinnamon Color: Hex Code, Meaning & Design Applications

Cinnamon color is a warm, medium-dark reddish-brown hue with hex code #D2691E, RGB values of 210, 105, 30, and CMYK values of 0%, 50%, 86%, 18%. It's named after the spice and sits between orange and brown on the color spectrum, offering a cozy yet sophisticated tone that works well in both interior design and fashion applications.

Understanding cinnamon colored tones requires examining both their technical specifications and practical applications. This versatile shade bridges the gap between earthy neutrals and warm accent colors, making it valuable across multiple design disciplines. Unlike basic browns, cinnamon contains noticeable red and orange undertones that give it depth and complexity.

The Science Behind Cinnamon Color

Cinnamon occupies a specific position in the color spectrum that explains its unique visual properties. The standard cinnamon color hex code #D2691E places it firmly in the warm color family, with a hue angle of approximately 25 degrees in the HSL color model. This places it between orange (20-30 degrees) and red-orange (15-25 degrees), explaining its distinctive warmth.

When working with cinnamon colored palettes, understanding its precise color values is essential:

Color Format	Value	Application
Hex Code	#D2691E	Web design, digital projects
RGB	210, 105, 30	Digital displays, screen design
CMYK	0%, 50%, 86%, 18%	Print design, physical products
HSL	25°, 75%, 47%	Color theory applications

These precise measurements help designers maintain consistency when implementing cinnamon colored elements across different mediums. The relatively high saturation (75% in HSL) gives cinnamon its distinctive richness compared to more muted browns.

Cinnamon Color Psychology and Meaning

The psychological impact of cinnamon colored tones makes them particularly valuable in design. This warm hue naturally evokes feelings of comfort, stability, and approachability. Unlike cooler browns that can feel sterile, cinnamon's red-orange undertones create an inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and social interaction.

Culturally, cinnamon carries associations with:

• Autumn and harvest seasons
• Spice markets and global trade history
• Comfort foods and baking traditions
• Natural materials like wood and leather

These associations make cinnamon colored elements particularly effective in spaces designed for comfort and connection. Designers frequently select cinnamon for living rooms, dining areas, and hospitality environments where creating a welcoming atmosphere is paramount.

Practical Applications Across Design Disciplines

Cinnamon's versatility shines when applied across different design contexts. Understanding how to implement this warm tone effectively requires considering both its strengths and limitations in various applications.

Interior Design Uses

In home decor, cinnamon colored walls or accents create warmth without overwhelming a space. This shade works particularly well in north-facing rooms that lack natural sunlight, as its warm undertones counteract cool lighting. When selecting cinnamon paint colors, consider these implementation tips:

• Use as an accent wall in living spaces for depth without darkness
• Pair with cream or beige for a sophisticated neutral palette
• Combine with deep greens for an earthy, natural feel
• Avoid using in small, poorly lit rooms where it may feel oppressive

Fashion Applications

Cinnamon colored clothing offers a sophisticated alternative to basic neutrals. This warm brown shade complements a wide range of skin tones, particularly those with warm undertones. Fashion designers increasingly incorporate cinnamon into seasonal collections because it bridges the gap between traditional neutrals and statement colors.

When styling cinnamon colored garments:

• Pair with navy for a professional yet approachable look
• Combine with mustard yellow for a vibrant autumn palette
• Use metallic gold accessories to enhance its warmth
• Balance with crisp white for contrast and freshness

Cinnamon Color Variations and Undertones

Not all cinnamon colored shades are identical. Understanding the subtle variations helps designers select the perfect tone for their specific application. The primary variations include:

• True cinnamon (#D2691E) - Balanced red-orange-brown mix
• Light cinnamon (#E0A87D) - Higher value with more orange influence
• Dark cinnamon (#8B4513) - Deeper, more brown-dominant version
• Red cinnamon (#C04737) - Stronger red undertones
• Golden cinnamon (#DAA520) - More yellow influence

When selecting among cinnamon color variations, consider the lighting conditions of the space where it will be used. Natural light reveals true undertones, while artificial lighting can dramatically shift how cinnamon appears. Always test samples in the actual environment before finalizing selections.

Creating Effective Cinnamon Color Combinations

Successful implementation of cinnamon colored elements depends on thoughtful color pairing. This warm tone works with numerous complementary schemes:

Complementary Pairings

Cinnamon's position on the color wheel creates natural harmony with:

• Teal - Creates vibrant contrast while maintaining warmth
• Olive green - Earthy combination that feels natural and grounded
• Dusty rose - Softens cinnamon's intensity for feminine applications
• Deep navy - Professional pairing suitable for corporate environments

Monochromatic Schemes

Using varying shades of cinnamon creates sophisticated, cohesive looks:

• Combine light cinnamon walls with medium cinnamon furniture
• Add texture through different materials in similar tones
• Incorporate cinnamon colored textiles for visual interest
• Use metallic finishes to create dimension within the monochromatic scheme

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Cinnamon Color

Despite its versatility, cinnamon colored elements can create design challenges when implemented poorly. Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overusing cinnamon - This warm tone can become overwhelming if used extensively without balancing neutrals
• Mismatching undertones - Combining cinnamon with cool tones creates visual tension
• Ignoring lighting conditions - Cinnamon appears dramatically different in various lighting
• Using with incompatible materials - Certain finishes can make cinnamon appear dated

For best results, always test cinnamon colored samples in the actual environment where they'll be used. View them at different times of day to understand how lighting affects the perception of the color.

Seasonal Considerations for Cinnamon Color

Cinnamon's warm nature makes it particularly effective during certain seasons. Understanding these patterns helps maximize its impact:

• Fall - Naturally complements autumn foliage and seasonal decor
• Winter - Provides warmth against cold exterior views
• Spring - Use lighter cinnamon variations to avoid heaviness
• Summer - Best as an accent rather than dominant color

Interior designers often rotate cinnamon colored textiles seasonally, bringing them forward in fall and winter while scaling back during warmer months. This approach maintains visual interest while respecting seasonal color expectations.

FAQ Section

What is the exact hex code for cinnamon color?

The standard hex code for cinnamon color is #D2691E. This specific reddish-brown hue contains RGB values of 210 for red, 105 for green, and 30 for blue. When working with digital projects, this precise hex code ensures consistency across different platforms and devices.

How does cinnamon color differ from burnt orange?

Cinnamon color contains more brown undertones compared to burnt orange, which has stronger red-orange characteristics. While both are warm tones, cinnamon sits closer to brown on the color spectrum (hex #D2691E) versus burnt orange's position nearer to red-orange (hex #CC5500). Cinnamon appears more subdued and earthy, while burnt orange feels brighter and more vibrant.

What colors pair well with cinnamon in interior design?

Cinnamon pairs beautifully with cream, olive green, deep teal, and navy blue in interior spaces. For a sophisticated neutral palette, combine cinnamon with beige and ivory. For more contrast, pair with dusty rose or soft gold accents. When creating cinnamon color combinations, maintain balance by using cinnamon as an accent rather than the dominant color in most residential settings.

Is cinnamon color suitable for small rooms?

Cinnamon color can work in small rooms when used strategically. Opt for lighter cinnamon variations rather than deep tones, and use it as an accent wall rather than painting the entire space. Pair with plenty of light neutrals and reflective surfaces to maintain the room's sense of space. In north-facing small rooms with limited natural light, cinnamon can actually enhance warmth without making the space feel smaller when properly balanced.

How does lighting affect the appearance of cinnamon colored paint?

Lighting dramatically impacts how cinnamon colored paint appears. In natural daylight, cinnamon's red undertones become more apparent. Under incandescent lighting, it appears warmer and more orange. Fluorescent lighting can make cinnamon look flatter and less vibrant. Always test paint samples on multiple walls and view them at different times of day before committing to a cinnamon color scheme for interior spaces.