Looking for the perfect white paint? Sherwin Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) might be just what you need. This popular shade offers the brightness of white while maintaining a warm, cozy feel that works in any space. With a high Light Reflectance Value of 82, Alabaster reflects plenty of light back into your room, making spaces feel larger and more open.
Alabaster stands out from other whites because of its versatility. It features a neutral undertone that leans slightly warm, allowing it to pair beautifully with both cool and warm color schemes. This makes it an excellent choice for cabinets, walls, trim, and even exterior surfaces—adapting wonderfully to various design styles and lighting conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Alabaster SW 7008 is a soft, warm white with neutral undertones that works well in many design styles and lighting conditions.
- With its high LRV of 82, this paint color brightens spaces while still maintaining a cozy feeling rather than appearing stark.
- You can pair Alabaster with both warm and cool colors, making it versatile for trim, cabinets, walls, and even exterior applications.
What Color Is Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008?
Alabaster SW 7008 is a versatile, creamy white paint color with warm undertones that has become increasingly popular for both interior and exterior applications.
Color Family
Alabaster belongs to the white and pastel color family, but it’s not a stark or bright white. It’s a soft, warm white with subtle yellow undertones that give it a creamy appearance. This warmth prevents it from feeling cold or sterile in your space.
Many color experts consider Alabaster to be an “off-white” or “creamy white” rather than a pure white. The subtle warmth makes it more versatile and easier to work with than brighter whites.
In different lighting conditions, you might notice Alabaster displaying hints of beige or cream. This adaptability is why it works so well in various settings.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Alabaster has specific color values that help you match it with other elements in your design scheme:
Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 82
- This high LRV means Alabaster reflects back a lot of light, making spaces feel brighter and often larger.
Hex Code: #EDEAE0
RGB Values:
- Red: 237
- Green: 234
- Blue: 224
These values create Alabaster’s warm white appearance. The slightly higher red and green values compared to blue contribute to its warm undertones.
When choosing Alabaster for your home, remember that “less is more” often applies – its subtle warmth pairs beautifully with both bold accents and neutral companions.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 Undertones
Alabaster has subtle undertones that make it special among white paint colors. It contains a balanced “greige” undertone – a mix of gray and beige – that gives it warmth without feeling yellow.
You’ll notice Alabaster feels soft and warm rather than stark or clinical. This balance makes it versatile for many spaces in your home.
In different lighting, you might see slightly different aspects of Alabaster. In bright natural light, it appears more crisp and pure. In dimmer settings, the warm undertones become more noticeable.
The subtle undertones allow Alabaster to pair beautifully with:
- Marble finishes (enhances the natural veining)
- Calm, cool blues and greens
- Pure whites for trim
When you use Alabaster on your walls, these gentle undertones create a peaceful atmosphere without feeling too cold or too warm. It’s this balance that makes Alabaster work in so many design styles.
The creamy quality of Alabaster comes from these undertones, giving spaces a cozy feel while still maintaining brightness. Your rooms will feel fresh yet welcoming.
How Does Lighting Affect Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008?
Lighting dramatically changes how Alabaster looks on your walls. This versatile white paint shifts its appearance throughout the day based on the light source and intensity.
Natural Lighting
In rooms with plenty of sunlight, Alabaster appears as a crisp, clean white. You’ll notice it looks brightest and most true to white in spaces with large windows or southern exposure. Morning light brings out Alabaster’s warm, creamy undertones, creating a cozy atmosphere.
As the day progresses, the paint shifts in appearance. In afternoon light, it returns to a more balanced white. Rooms facing west might see Alabaster warm up again during sunset hours.
Spaces with limited natural light won’t show Alabaster at its brightest. The paint can appear softer and slightly muted in these conditions, which some homeowners actually prefer for a more subtle visual relief.
Artificial Lighting
Your choice of artificial lighting greatly impacts how Alabaster looks after sunset. Under warm bulbs (2700-3000K), Alabaster’s creamy qualities become more pronounced, creating a comfortable, inviting feel in living rooms and bedrooms.
Cool white bulbs (3500-4100K) make Alabaster appear more crisp and clean. This lighting works well in kitchens or bathrooms where you want a fresher look.
LED lighting tends to bring out Alabaster’s balanced nature. When choosing fixtures, consider how they’ll interact with this paint. Wall sconces or uplighting can highlight Alabaster’s subtle depth, while harsh overhead lighting might flatten its appearance.
Dimmer switches give you control over how Alabaster presents in your space, allowing you to adjust the atmosphere from bright and energizing to soft and relaxing.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Alabaster SW 7008 has an LRV of 82, making it a wonderfully bright and reflective white paint that still maintains warmth and coziness in your space.
What is LRV?
Light Reflective Value (LRV) measures how much light a paint color reflects versus absorbs. The scale runs from 0 to 100, with 0 being pure black (absorbing all light) and 100 being pure white (reflecting all light).
When you’re choosing paint colors, understanding LRV helps you predict how a color will look in your specific space. Higher LRV colors make rooms feel larger and brighter by reflecting more light.
Lower LRV colors absorb more light, creating cozier, more intimate spaces. The LRV is especially important when working with small rooms, rooms with limited natural light, or when trying to create specific moods in your home.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 LRV Range
Alabaster has an LRV of 82, placing it in the higher range of the scale. This means your walls will reflect back quite a lot of light into the room, helping spaces feel open and airy.
Despite being classified as a white, Alabaster isn’t a stark or clinical white. Its LRV of 82 gives you the brightness benefits of white while still providing warmth and softness.
This balance makes Alabaster incredibly versatile. You can use it in bright, sunny rooms without it feeling harsh or blinding. In darker spaces, it will maximize what light is available while still feeling cozy rather than cold.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 Coordinating Colors
Alabaster SW 7008 works beautifully with various colors that enhance its warm white charm while creating balanced, harmonious spaces. These pairing options range from earthy neutrals to subtle beiges, giving you flexibility for any design style.
Townhall Tan SW 7690
Townhall Tan creates a stunning partnership with Alabaster. This warm, earthy neutral adds depth to any space where Alabaster serves as the primary color.
You’ll find this combination particularly effective in living rooms and entryways. The contrast is subtle enough to maintain a cohesive look but provides enough visual interest to avoid monotony.
Try Alabaster on your walls with Townhall Tan on built-ins or as an accent wall. This pairing works beautifully with copper metallic finishes, which bring a touch of warmth and sophistication to the space.
For a complete look, consider:
- Alabaster for walls and trim
- Townhall Tan for accent pieces
- Copper hardware or lighting fixtures
Dakota Wheat SW 9023
Dakota Wheat offers a golden warmth that complements Alabaster’s soft white perfectly. This pairing creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere ideal for kitchens and dining areas.
You might use Alabaster on cabinets and Dakota Wheat as a wall color for a fresh, modern farmhouse look. The combination radiates a subtle Pura Vida vibe—calm, natural, and life-affirming.
Perfect Applications:
- Alabaster on trim and ceilings
- Dakota Wheat on walls
- Pura Vida-inspired accessories in natural materials
This color duo supports both traditional and contemporary styles. The warm undertones in both colors create a unified feeling while still providing dimension and visual interest.
Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige pairs wonderfully with Alabaster for a sophisticated, timeless look. This versatile greige (gray-beige) creates a subtle contrast that’s never jarring.
You can use this combination throughout your home for a cohesive color story. Alabaster on trim and ceilings with Accessible Beige walls creates an elegant backdrop for any décor style.
For a modern look, try:
- Alabaster cabinetry with copper hardware
- Accessible Beige walls
- Natural wood accents
This pairing works especially well in home offices and bedrooms where a calming, neutral palette promotes focus and relaxation. The combination supports both warm and cool accent colors, making it incredibly versatile.
Trim Colors for Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008
Choosing the right trim color can enhance Alabaster’s soft, warm undertones while creating a cohesive look in your space. The perfect pairing will highlight Alabaster’s unique qualities.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White is an excellent trim choice for Alabaster walls. It’s slightly brighter and crisper than Alabaster, creating a subtle contrast that defines doorways, windows, and baseboards. The difference is noticeable but not stark.
When you use Pure White trim with Alabaster walls, you’ll get a clean, sophisticated look. The combination works especially well in spaces with lots of natural light.
In rooms where you want a fresh, modern feel, this pairing shines. The slight contrast helps architectural details stand out without being too dramatic.
Consider using Pure White for crown molding, door frames, and window casings to create visual interest against your Alabaster walls.
High Reflective White SW 7757
High Reflective White is the brightest white in Sherwin Williams’ collection, making it a dramatic trim option against Alabaster walls. This pairing creates a more defined contrast that really makes your trim pop.
You’ll notice High Reflective White has a clean, almost cool quality that balances Alabaster’s warm undertones beautifully. This combination works wonderfully in contemporary spaces.
For a crisp, gallery-like feel, this pairing is perfect. It’s especially effective in rooms with abundant natural light, as High Reflective White maximizes brightness.
This trim color helps define the soft edges of Alabaster walls, creating architectural interest and depth in your space.
Dover White SW 6385
Dover White is warmer than Alabaster, creating a soft, subtle trim option. This pairing creates a gentle, layered look rather than a stark contrast.
When you choose Dover White trim, you’re embracing a cozy, classic aesthetic. The cream undertones complement Alabaster’s warm base beautifully.
This combination works wonderfully in traditional homes or spaces where you want a lived-in, comfortable feel. Think cottages, farmhouse styles, or historic homes.
The minimal contrast between these shades creates a seamless flow, making rooms feel larger and more cohesive. It’s a gentle way to define trim without creating harsh lines.
For a soft, elegant look with traditional charm, Dover White trim with Alabaster walls creates a timeless pairing that feels warm and inviting.
Real World Examples of Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 in Different Spaces
Alabaster works beautifully in many types of rooms, adapting to different lighting conditions and complementing various design styles from modern to traditional spaces.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Alabaster creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels both fresh and cozy. The soft white hue provides an excellent backdrop for both colorful furniture and neutral décor pieces.
You’ll notice how Alabaster catches light differently throughout the day, appearing slightly warmer in evening light and crisper in morning sunlight. This subtle shift helps living spaces feel dynamic yet consistently welcoming.
Many homeowners pair Alabaster walls with wood grain materials for a perfect balance of warmth and brightness. This combination works especially well in Scandinavian-inspired living rooms where the clean white walls complement natural wood tones in furniture and flooring.
For a traditional Nordic design approach, try Alabaster with rich textiles and simple, sleek lines in your furniture choices.
Bedrooms
Alabaster transforms bedrooms into peaceful retreats with its soft, calming presence. Unlike stark whites that can feel clinical, Alabaster offers just enough warmth to create a restful environment.
In master bedrooms, the color provides a versatile backdrop for bedding in any color palette. You might pair it with natural linens and wood elements for a Scandinavian décor influence that feels both modern and timeless.
Children’s bedrooms benefit from Alabaster’s adaptability too. The neutral base allows colorful toys and décor to stand out without overwhelming the space.
When used on bedroom ceilings, Alabaster creates an airy feeling that makes even smaller rooms feel more spacious. Consider painting trim in the same color for a seamless, contemporary look or in a contrasting finish for more traditional appeal.
Kitchens
Kitchens painted in Alabaster feel clean and bright without the harsh quality of pure white. Cabinet faces in this shade create a timeless look that won’t feel dated as trends change.
You’ll appreciate how Alabaster cabinets pair beautifully with various countertop materials:
- Marble/Quartz: Creates an elegant, high-end appearance
- Butcher block: Offers warmth and Scandinavian charm
- Dark granite: Provides dramatic contrast
Wall areas painted in Alabaster provide a neutral backdrop for colorful kitchen accessories or statement backsplashes. The color’s slight warmth also complements stainless steel appliances by softening their cool tones.
For a modern Nordic kitchen look, combine Alabaster walls and cabinets with natural wood open shelving and minimalist hardware. This approach embraces sleek lines while maintaining visual interest.
Bathrooms
Alabaster brings a spa-like quality to bathrooms of all sizes. The color’s warm undertones prevent the space from feeling cold or sterile while still delivering a clean aesthetic.
In smaller bathrooms, Alabaster walls create brightness that makes the space feel larger. You can enhance this effect by using the same color on trim and ceiling for a seamless look.
For powder rooms, Alabaster provides an elegant backdrop for statement fixtures or bold wallpaper. The neutral base allows decorative elements to shine without competition.
Many designers pair Alabaster with natural stone tiles in bathrooms to create a harmonious blend of warmth and luxury. The color works especially well with:
- Marble with warm veining
- Travertine
- Light gray stone tile
Wood accents in bathroom vanities or shelving complement Alabaster beautifully, creating that perfect Scandinavian balance of light and natural elements.
Home Offices
Home offices benefit greatly from Alabaster’s balanced nature. The color creates a focused environment without the harshness of brighter whites that can cause eye strain during long work sessions.
You’ll find that Alabaster pairs perfectly with wood desks and shelving, especially in workspaces inspired by Scandinavian décor. The combination of warm white walls and natural wood creates a productive yet calming atmosphere.
For a modern look with traditional Nordic design influences, try Alabaster walls with black metal accents and simple, sleek lines in your office furniture. This creates visual interest while maintaining a clean aesthetic.
Bookshelves and built-ins painted in Alabaster help showcase your books and decorative objects while keeping the overall space feeling open and organized. The color provides just enough contrast to highlight these elements without competing with them.
Exteriors
Alabaster makes a stunning exterior paint choice, offering sophistication without the maintenance concerns of brighter whites. The color’s slight warmth helps it appear clean and fresh even in various weather conditions.
On traditional homes, Alabaster exteriors create a timeless appeal that complements landscaping of all types. You might pair it with black shutters and doors for classic contrast or with natural wood elements for a more relaxed, contemporary look.
For modern home designs with sleek lines, Alabaster provides a perfect neutral canvas that highlights architectural details. The color works beautifully with:
- Metal roofing
- Wood accents
- Stone features
- Large windows
Many homeowners choose Alabaster for exterior trim and soffits even when using a different main color, as it provides subtle definition without harsh contrast. This approach works especially well with gray or taupe siding colors.
Comparing Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 to Similar Colors
Alabaster (SW 7008) has become one of Sherwin Williams’ most popular white paint colors due to its warm undertones that create a soft, inviting feel. When choosing the perfect white for your space, it’s helpful to see how Alabaster compares to other similar shades.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 vs White Snow SW 9541
White Snow is a much brighter, cleaner white compared to Alabaster. While Alabaster carries yellow undertones that give it warmth, White Snow offers a crisper, more neutral appearance with fewer visible undertones.
In north-facing rooms, you’ll notice Alabaster’s warmth helps balance the cool light, while White Snow might appear slightly starker. White Snow works beautifully in spaces where you want a modern, clean aesthetic.
The difference becomes most apparent in direct comparisons – Alabaster looks noticeably creamier next to White Snow. This makes White Snow a better choice for contemporary spaces, while Alabaster fits perfectly in traditional or farmhouse-style homes.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 vs Ancient Marble SW 6162
Ancient Marble takes a significant step away from true white territory compared to Alabaster. It has stronger beige-gray undertones that make it appear as a very light greige rather than a white.
While Alabaster brightens spaces with its warm white presence, Ancient Marble adds more color dimension to walls. In bright natural light, Alabaster maintains its white appearance, but Ancient Marble reveals its beige characteristics more clearly.
If you’re looking for a subtle wall color that isn’t quite white but still feels light and airy, Ancient Marble might be your better option. Alabaster works better when you want a true white that doesn’t read as beige or gray.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 vs Grey Mist SW 9625
Grey Mist introduces cool gray undertones that create a completely different feel from Alabaster’s warmth. This contrast becomes particularly noticeable in evening light, when Alabaster retains its cozy glow while Grey Mist appears more silvery.
In south-facing rooms with warm natural light, Grey Mist helps balance the yellow sunlight. Alabaster, however, might amplify that warmth, creating an even cozier atmosphere.
The choice between these colors often comes down to your design goals. Grey Mist pairs beautifully with blue and purple accents, while Alabaster complements wood tones and earth-toned furnishings more naturally.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 vs Open SW 9625
Open presents a lighter, airier alternative to Alabaster with very subtle cool undertones. While Alabaster has distinct yellow undertones, Open feels more neutral and fresh.
In rooms with limited natural light, Open helps create a sense of brightness and space. Alabaster, by contrast, adds warmth but might not reflect as much light in darker spaces.
When paired with colorful furnishings or artwork, Open provides a more neutral backdrop that lets other colors shine. Alabaster’s warmth can subtly influence how other colors appear in your space, sometimes creating a more cohesive, intentional design feel.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 vs Natural Choice SW 7011
Natural Choice steps firmly into the beige category while Alabaster remains a warm white. The difference is immediately apparent when samples are placed side by side.
In natural daylight, Natural Choice displays definite beige undertones that make it appear as a light neutral rather than a white. Alabaster maintains its white identity while just hinting at warmth.
For trim work, Alabaster provides a cleaner look, while Natural Choice might appear too beige. However, for walls in rooms with lots of wood elements, Natural Choice creates a beautiful harmony with natural materials while Alabaster offers more contrast.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 vs Oat Milk SW 9501
Oat Milk has recently gained popularity as part of the warm minimalist trend. Compared to Alabaster, it has stronger cream undertones that make it appear slightly darker and more saturated.
You’ll notice Alabaster maintains a cleaner white appearance while Oat Milk leans more visibly into its warm undertones. This makes Oat Milk an excellent choice for creating a cozy atmosphere in bedrooms or living spaces.
When used on cabinetry, Alabaster provides a softer alternative to bright white without yellowing, while Oat Milk might read as distinctly cream-colored. Both colors work beautifully with the current design trends, but Alabaster offers more versatility across different lighting conditions.
Complementary Colors to Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008
Alabaster’s soft, creamy warmth makes it versatile for pairing with various colors that enhance its cozy character. These complementary colors create beautiful combinations that work harmoniously throughout your home.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with Sea Mariner SW 9640
Sea Mariner creates a refreshing coastal vibe when paired with Alabaster. This deep blue tone offers a striking contrast to Alabaster’s warm undertones while maintaining a balanced look. You can use Sea Mariner as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms with Alabaster walls.
For a modern kitchen design, try Alabaster cabinets with Sea Mariner on the island. This creates a focal point without overwhelming the space. In bathrooms, Alabaster walls with Sea Mariner vanities provide a clean yet interesting look.
This pairing works exceptionally well in spaces that receive natural light. The contrast creates a sophisticated, timeless feel that stays fresh year-round.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with Starry Night SW 6540
Starry Night adds drama and depth when paired with Alabaster. This rich, deep blue creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for dining rooms or studies. The contrast between light and dark creates visual interest without feeling stark.
You can use Alabaster for trim and ceilings with Starry Night walls for a classic yet bold look. For a more subtle approach, try Alabaster walls with Starry Night built-ins or furniture.
This combination works beautifully with brass or gold accents. Consider adding metallic fixtures or decorative pieces to enhance the pairing. Wood tones, especially cherry or maple as mentioned in search results, complement this color scheme wonderfully.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with Soulful Blue SW 6543
Soulful Blue offers a calming, medium-toned complement to Alabaster. This versatile blue creates a peaceful atmosphere in bedrooms and living spaces. The color has enough depth to stand out against Alabaster without overwhelming it.
You can use this combination in open-concept spaces where defining zones is important. Try Alabaster in main areas with Soulful Blue in adjacent rooms for gentle transition.
For a cohesive look, incorporate elements that feature both colors. Patterned textiles, artwork, or decorative items can tie the colors together beautifully. This pairing works well with natural materials like linen, cotton, and light woods.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with Dusty Heather SW 9073
Dusty Heather brings a soft, sophisticated purple tone that pairs elegantly with Alabaster. This muted lavender creates a subtle, refined contrast that feels both current and timeless. It’s ideal for bedrooms, powder rooms, or any space where you want a touch of color without boldness.
You might try Alabaster on walls with Dusty Heather cabinetry or built-ins. The combination creates visual interest without feeling overwhelming.
For accessories, consider silver or chrome finishes that complement both colors. Textured fabrics like velvet work beautifully with this pairing. This combination creates a soothing atmosphere that feels both fresh and comfortable.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with After the Storm SW 9685
After the Storm provides a gentle gray-blue that creates a serene partnership with Alabaster. This soft, weathered color adds subtle dimension without competing with Alabaster’s warm tones. It’s perfect for creating peaceful environments in bedrooms or home offices.
Try Alabaster trim with After the Storm walls for a light, airy feel. Or reverse them, using Alabaster as your primary color with After the Storm for accent pieces.
This combination works beautifully with natural elements like woven shades mentioned in the search results. Add texture through stone, wood, or textiles to enhance the pairing’s organic quality. The result is a balanced, tranquil space that feels thoughtfully designed.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with Lavender Wisp SW 7138
Lavender Wisp creates a delicate, feminine pairing with Alabaster. This soft purple hint adds subtle color while maintaining the light, airy feel that makes Alabaster so popular. It’s perfect for nurseries, powder rooms, or relaxing bedrooms.
You can use Alabaster as your main color with Lavender Wisp as an accent wall or ceiling color. This creates interest without overwhelming the space.
Add natural elements like light woods or woven textures to ground the ethereal quality of this pairing. White linens and soft textiles enhance the gentle feel. This combination works beautifully in spaces that get plenty of natural light, where the subtle color differences can be fully appreciated.
Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 with Charcoal Blue SW 2739
Charcoal Blue creates a bold, dramatic contrast with Alabaster. This deep, moody blue-black adds sophistication and depth to spaces where Alabaster provides lightness and warmth. It’s ideal for dining rooms, libraries, or accent walls in living spaces.
Try Alabaster walls with Charcoal Blue built-ins, doors, or window frames for architectural interest. The stark contrast creates a modern yet timeless look.
This combination works well with metallic accents—brass or gold warm up the pairing, while chrome or nickel add crispness. As mentioned in the search results, this pairing complements wood tones beautifully, especially cherry and maple finishes. The result is a balanced space with visual weight and interest.