When searching for the perfect neutral paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Aloof Gray SW 6197 and Repose Gray SW 7015 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle neutrals?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Aloof Gray vs Repose 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 Aloof Gray and Repose Gray
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Aloof Gray and Repose Gray:
- Undertones – Aloof Gray is a cool gray, Repose Gray is a warm gray
- Light Reflectance – Both have an LRV of 58
- Use – Aloof Gray suits modern styles, Repose Gray fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Aloof Gray excels in bathrooms, Repose Gray shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Aloof Gray and Repose Gray more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Aloof Gray SW 6197
With its subtle cool gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Aloof Gray SW 6197 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Aloof Gray:
- LRV: 58
- Undertones: Cool gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, offices, laundry rooms
- Pairs Well With: Blues, bold colors, black and white
Aloof Gray is a quiet, dusty blue-gray with a hint of green undertone. In all lighting it maintains its understated neutral gray appearance.
The 58 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Aloof Gray gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Aloof Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Black and white patterns
- Rich wood stains
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Aloof Gray truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Offices
- Laundry rooms
- Hallways
Aloof Gray’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Repose Gray SW 7015
With its warm gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Repose Gray SW 7015 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 Repose Gray:
- LRV: 58
- Undertones: Warm gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
Repose Gray is a relaxed, soft gray with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered putty. The welcoming neutral has traditional appeal.
The 58 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark or drab. Repose Gray strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Repose 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, Repose Gray truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Repose 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 Aloof Gray vs Repose Gray
Now that we’ve examined Aloof Gray and Repose Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Aloof Gray and Repose Gray have the same LRV of 58. They will appear identical in terms of brightness.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Aloof Gray is a cool gray, while Repose Gray is a warm, beige-influenced neutral.
Use & Rooms
Aloof Gray’s coolness excels in modern baths and kitchens. Repose Gray’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Aloof Gray and Repose Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Aloof Gray SW 6197 | Repose Gray SW 7015 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 58 | 58 |
| Undertones | Cool gray | Warm gray |
| Use | Modern spaces | Traditional rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Contemporary | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Aloof Gray vs Repose Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Aloof Gray and Repose Gray:
Sherwin Williams Aloof Gray
Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
While they can overlap, Aloof Gray generally appears crisper and cooler than the warm tone of Repose Gray. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Aloof Gray or Repose Gray?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Aloof Gray or Repose Gray for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Aloof Gray SW 6197 if you want:
- A cool, crisp gray
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Choose Repose Gray SW 7015 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 Aloof Gray and Repose 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 Aloof Gray and Repose Gray paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Aloof Gray
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Offices
- Laundry rooms
- Hallways
Sherwin Williams Repose 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, Aloof Gray and Repose Gray create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Aloof Gray SW 6197 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Black and white patterns
- Rich wood stains
- Chrome hardware accents
Repose Gray SW 7015 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
Aloof Gray vs Repose Gray – Which is Better?
So which neutral paint color is better for your home – Aloof Gray or Repose Gray?
Consider Aloof Gray SW 6197 if you want:
- A cool, crisp gray
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Consider Repose Gray SW 7015 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 Aloof Gray offers modern crispness, Repose 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 Aloof Gray or Repose Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Aloof Gray and Repose Gray?
The main differences are their undertones. Aloof Gray is a cool crisp gray while Repose Gray is a warm, cozy beige-gray.
What colors go well with Aloof Gray?
Aloof Gray looks beautiful paired with bold blues, blacks, whites, and chrome accents for nice contrast.
Can you use Repose Gray in a bathroom?
Yes, Repose Gray’s warmth would complement white tile and black accents nicely in a bathroom.
Is Aloof Gray suitable for northern exposure?
Yes, Aloof Gray’s 58 LRV provides enough brightness for a north facing room without being too dark.
Does Repose Gray come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Repose Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to eggshell.
