When selecting a versatile white paint color, two top choices from Sherwin Williams are Aesthetic White SW 7035 and Alabaster SW 7008. At first glance, these two off-whites may appear identical. But on closer inspection, there are noticeable differences that impact their aesthetics.
In this in-depth comparison article, we’ll examine Aesthetic White vs Alabaster side-by-side. We’ll look at undertones, LRV, real-world photos, and best room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how these whites differ and which is the ideal paint color for your space.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Aesthetic White and Alabaster
Before diving into the details, here is a brief overview of how SW Aesthetic White and SW Alabaster differ:
- Undertones: Aesthetic White is a true white, Alabaster is a cool white.
- LRV: Aesthetic White has a higher LRV of 73, Alabaster is darker at 82.
- Use: Aesthetic White works throughout homes, Alabaster best accenting.
- Rooms: Aesthetic White excels in kitchens, Alabaster shines in bathrooms.
Now let’s explore Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White vs Alabaster more closely!
Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White SW 7035
Aesthetic White SW 7035 is a gorgeous true white paint color from Sherwin Williams. It provides a clean, bright backdrop anywhere.
Here are some details about Aesthetic White:
- LRV: 73
- Undertones: True white
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, whole-home
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, wood tones
Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White is a very light white without strong warm or cool undertones. It reads as a clean, fresh neutral.
With an LRV of 73, Aesthetic White reflects a lot of light to prevent a space from feeling dull. The purity provides a crisp, bright feel.
This versatile true white works with nearly any color scheme. Pleasing combinations include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Sherwin Williams Peppercorn
While suitable throughout a home, this true white excels as the main wall color in kitchens, bathrooms, and open concept spaces.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a beautiful cool white paint color from Sherwin Williams. It adds refined contrast anywhere.
Here are some key details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Cool white
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, trim, focal walls
- Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, greens
Sherwin Williams Alabaster is a very light white with subtle hints of gray. The faint coolness provides a crisp, clean look.
With an LRV of 82, Alabaster SW 7008 reflects a decent amount of light while offering definition. The barely-there gray maintains a bright, refreshing vibe.
Some pleasing combinations with this crisp white include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Sherwin Williams Naval
While suitable throughout a home, this cool white excels when used thoughtfully to accent bathrooms, kitchens, trim, and focal walls.
Comparing Aesthetic White vs Alabaster
Now that we’ve looked at Aesthetic White and Alabaster separately, let’s compare them directly:
Light Reflectance
With LRVs of 73 and 82 respectively, Aesthetic White reflects more light than Alabaster. Aesthetic White avoids feeling dark or dreary.
Undertones
Here is the main difference. Aesthetic White is a true white while Alabaster is a cool white with gray undertones.
Aesthetic White’s purity provides a clean, fresh feel. Alabaster’s coolness feels more crisp and defined.
Rooms
Aesthetic White’s versatility makes it great throughout homes, especially kitchens. Alabaster works best accenting bathrooms, trims, and focal walls.
Paint Finishes
Both Aesthetic White and Alabaster come in any sheen from flat to high-gloss. They offer beautiful white paint finishes.
Aesthetic White vs Alabaster Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of their major differences:
| Paint Color | Aesthetic White SW 7035 | Alabaster SW 7008 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 73 | 82 |
| Undertones | True White | Cool White |
| Use | Whole-home color | Accent color |
| Sheens | All finishes | All finishes |
Real Rooms Painted in Aesthetic White and Alabaster
To better visualize Aesthetic White vs Alabaster, let’s look at real rooms painted in the two colors:
Aesthetic White SW 7035
Alabaster SW 7008
The images showcase the subtle true white vs cool white differences. Aesthetic White appears clean and pure, while Alabaster reads cooler with more definition. But their similar lightness can make them seem comparable.
Should You Choose Aesthetic White or Alabaster?
So which versatile white paint color is the better choice for your space – true white Aesthetic White or cool white Alabaster? Here are some tips for deciding:
Pick Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White SW 7035 if you want:
- A true white with no strong undertones
- Clean, bright versatility suitable for whole-home use
- Crisp feel for kitchens, bathrooms, and open spaces
- Pure simplicity without bold contrast
Choose Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool white with a hint of gray
- Subtle crisp definition on trims, walls, and cabinets
- A bright alternative to heavier whites
- Refined, modern contrast in traditional spaces
If still uncertain between the two, get samples and paint large swatches. View throughout different lighting before deciding.
Either elegant white you choose will provide beauty and versatility. But their differences mean one likely better fits your particular goals and style.
Ideal Room Applications
Here are some rooms that tend to suit Aesthetic White and Alabaster best:
Aesthetic White SW 7035
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Open Concept Spaces
- Whole-Home
- Laundry Rooms
Alabaster SW 7008
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Doors and Trim
- Accent Walls
- Foyers
Both can work beautifully throughout any home. But the above applications maximize their individual strengths.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Aesthetic White and Alabaster create clean, refined backdrops. Paired with other materials, they make gorgeous interiors:
Aesthetic White Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White (trim/ceilings)
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (accent wall)
- Medium wood tones (floors, furniture)
- Matte black hardware
Alabaster Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White (trim/ceilings)
- Sherwin Williams Naval (accent wall)
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray (furniture)
- Brass hardware
Aesthetic White vs Alabaster – Which is Best for You?
When choosing between SW Aesthetic White and SW Alabaster, keep your goals in mind:
Pick Sherwin Williams Aesthetic White SW 7035 if you want:
- A true white suitable for whole-home use
- Clean, simple versatility with no strong undertones
- Bright, airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- Pure, harmonious backdrop in any space
Choose Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool white for crisp, defined accents
- Subtle gray undertone for modern contrast
- Beautiful definition on trims, walls, and cabinets
- Refined, elegant look in traditional spaces
While the whites share similarities, the small differences likely mean one better fits your space. Get samples before deciding between Aesthetic White and Alabaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between SW Aesthetic White vs SW Alabaster? Here are answers to common questions:
Does Aesthetic White work well with wood tones?
Yes! The clean purity of Aesthetic White works beautifully with warm wood flooring and furniture. Provides harmony and balance.
What colors complement Alabaster walls?
Alabaster pairs nicely with light to mid-tone grays, blues, greens, and taupes. White trim and a navy blue accent wall help accentuate its crisp elegance.
Which white appears brighter – Aesthetic White or Alabaster?
With an LRV of 73, Aesthetic White reflects more light than the 82 LRV of Alabaster. However, Alabaster often appears sharper.
Can you use Alabaster in a kitchen?
Absolutely! Alabaster looks gorgeous in kitchens, providing subtle contrast against countertops and backsplashes. Use an accent wall to prevent it from feeling too clinical.
Is Aesthetic White suitable for bathrooms?
Yes! Aesthetic White works wonderfully in bathrooms. Its clean purity keeps the space feeling open and fresh rather than stark.
Conclusion
When comparing Sherwin Williams’ Aesthetic White vs Alabaster paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:
- Aesthetic White is a true white suitable for whole-home use, providing clean, harmonious brightness.
- Alabaster is a cool white that excels as an accent, adding refined, modern definition.
While the whites appear similar, the undertone variations help one likely better fit your goals. Consider your needs when deciding between versatile Aesthetic White and crisp Alabaster. Samples will ensure you select the perfect sophisticated white!
