When searching for the perfect neutral paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Alabaster SW 7008 and Agreeable Gray SW 7029 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle neutrals?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Alabaster vs Agreeable Gray to help you determine the ideal neutral paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Alabaster and Agreeable Gray
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Alabaster and Agreeable Gray:
- Undertones – Alabaster is a cool white, Agreeable Gray is a warm beige-gray
- Light Reflectance – Alabaster has an LRV of 82, Agreeable Gray has an LRV of 60
- Use – Alabaster suits modern styles, Agreeable Gray fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Alabaster excels in kitchens, baths, Agreeable Gray shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Alabaster and Agreeable Gray more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, offices, laundry rooms
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
Alabaster is a bright, icy white with the faintest hint of gray. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, understated neutral white appearance.
The 82 light reflectance value provides ample illumination without being too stark. Alabaster gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Alabaster color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains
- Stainless steel and chrome accents
- Navy blue and teal accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Alabaster truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Alabaster’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray SW 7029
With its warm beige-gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray SW 7029 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile neutral works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Agreeable Gray:
- LRV: 60
- Undertones: Warm beige-gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
Agreeable Gray is a relaxed, soft beige-influenced gray with faint tan undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered mushroom. The welcoming neutral has traditional appeal.
The 60 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark or drab. Agreeable Gray strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Agreeable Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
While suitable anywhere at home, Agreeable Gray truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Agreeable Gray’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow bold colors to stand out.
Comparing Alabaster vs Agreeable Gray
Now that we’ve examined Alabaster and Agreeable Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Alabaster and Agreeable Gray have quite different LRVs of 82 and 60 respectively. Alabaster will appear much brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Alabaster is a clean, crisp white, while Agreeable Gray is a warm, beige-influenced neutral.
Use & Rooms
Alabaster’s coolness excels in sleek kitchens and baths. Agreeable Gray’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Alabaster and Agreeable Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Alabaster SW 7008 | Agreeable Gray SW 7029 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 82 | 60 |
| Undertones | Cool white | Warm beige-gray |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Alabaster vs Agreeable Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Alabaster and Agreeable Gray:
Sherwin Williams Alabaster
Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
While they can overlap, Alabaster generally appears crisper and cooler than the warm beige tone of Agreeable Gray. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Alabaster or Agreeable Gray?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Alabaster or Agreeable Gray for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A clean, crisp, bright white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Choose Agreeable Gray SW 7029 if you want:
- A warm, beige-influenced gray
- A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
Get samples of both Alabaster and Agreeable Gray. Paint large sections on your walls viewing at different times of day. This gives you the best sense of how the undertones read in your environment.
You can also pair them with decor you already have to visualize the look. Both offer beautiful neutral tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Alabaster and Agreeable Gray paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Alabaster
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both neutrals work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Alabaster and Agreeable Gray create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Alabaster SW 7008 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains
- Stainless steel and chrome accents
- Navy blue and teal accents
Agreeable Gray SW 7029 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
Alabaster vs Agreeable Gray – Which is Better?
So which neutral paint color is better for your home – Alabaster or Agreeable Gray?
Consider Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A clean, crisp, bright white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Consider Agreeable Gray SW 7029 if you want:
- A warm, beige-influenced gray
- A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
While Alabaster offers modern crispness, Agreeable Gray provides subtle warm character.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams neutral you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Alabaster or Agreeable Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Alabaster and Agreeable Gray?
The main differences are their undertones and suitability for varied spaces. Alabaster is a clean, crisp white while Agreeable Gray is a warm, cozy beige-gray.
What colors go well with Alabaster?
Alabaster looks beautiful paired with bold colors like black and navy, as well as natural wood tones. It allows colors to pop.
Can you use Agreeable Gray in a kitchen?
Yes, Agreeable Gray’s warm yet sophisticated tone would work well in a kitchen paired with stainless steel appliances and white cabinetry.
Is Alabaster suitable for low light rooms?
Yes, Alabaster’s very high 82 LRV provides ample brightness even for low natural light spaces.
Does Agreeable Gray come in semi-gloss finish?
Yes, Agreeable Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to eggshell to high gloss semi-gloss.
