When searching for the perfect neutral gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Amazing Gray SW 7044 and Anew Gray SW 7030 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle grays?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Amazing Gray vs Anew Gray in-depth to help you determine the ideal neutral gray paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Amazing Gray and Anew Gray
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Amazing Gray and Anew Gray:
- Undertones – Amazing Gray is a greige, Anew Gray is a taupe gray
- Light Reflectance – Both Amazing Gray and Anew Gray have an LRV of 47%
- Use – Amazing Gray suits modern and traditional styles, Anew Gray leans traditional
- Rooms – Amazing Gray excels anywhere, Anew Gray shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Amazing Gray and Anew Gray more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Amazing Gray SW 7044
With its subtle greige appearance, Sherwin Williams Amazing Gray SW 7044 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for varied styles. This versatile neutral works across modern and traditional spaces.
Here are some details about Amazing Gray:
- LRV: 47%
- Undertones: Greige
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Whole home color, especially living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways
- Pairs Well With: Pops of color, black and white, wood tones
Amazing Gray is a warm dove gray with faint beige-green undertones. In all lighting it maintains its versatile neutral gray appearance.
The 47% light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too dark or stark. Amazing Gray gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Amazing Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Crisp white trims
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Brass hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Amazing Gray truly excels in these sleek, serene spaces:
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
Amazing Gray’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for varied styles and rooms.
Sherwin Williams Anew Gray SW 7030
With its subtle taupe gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Anew Gray SW 7030 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 Anew Gray:
- LRV: 47%
- Undertones: Taupe gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, greens, blacks, wood tones
Anew Gray is a soft, muted gray with faint beige-brown undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered mushroom. The welcoming neutral has traditional appeal.
The 47% light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark or drab. Anew Gray strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Anew Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Black Magic
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim and mouldings
While suitable anywhere at home, Anew Gray truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Anew 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 Amazing Gray vs Anew Gray
Now that we’ve examined Amazing Gray and Anew Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Amazing Gray and Anew Gray have the exact same LRV of 47%. They offer identical illumination.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Amazing Gray is a greige, while Anew Gray is a taupe gray.
Use & Rooms
Amazing Gray’s greige tone excels anywhere. Anew Gray’s warmth fits cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Amazing Gray and Anew Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Amazing Gray vs Anew Gray Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Amazing Gray SW 7044 | Anew Gray SW 7030 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 47% | 47% |
| Undertones | Greige | Taupe gray |
| Use | Anywhere | Bedrooms, living rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Modern, traditional | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Amazing Gray vs Anew Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the subtle differences between Amazing Gray and Anew Gray:
Sherwin Williams Amazing Gray
Sherwin Williams Anew Gray
While they overlap, Amazing Gray generally appears slightly greener and warmer than the taupe tone of Anew Gray. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Amazing Gray or Anew Gray?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Amazing Gray or Anew Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Amazing Gray SW 7044 if you want:
- A greige tone with warmth
- A versatile color suitable for varied spaces
- An airy feel for open concept rooms
- A backdrop that allows colors to pop
Choose Anew Gray SW 7030 if you want:
- A light taupe gray
- A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, enveloping backdrop
Get samples of both Amazing Gray and Anew 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 gray tones that suit many styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Amazing Gray and Anew Gray paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Amazing Gray
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Hallways
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
Sherwin Williams Anew Gray
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both grays work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Amazing Gray and Anew Gray create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Amazing Gray SW 7044 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Crisp white trims
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Brass hardware accents
Anew Gray SW 7030 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Black Magic
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim and mouldings
Amazing Gray vs Anew Gray – Which is Better?
So which neutral gray paint color is better for your home – Amazing Gray or Anew Gray?
Consider Amazing Gray SW 7044 if you want:
- A greige tone with warmth
- A versatile color suitable for varied spaces
- An airy feel for open concept rooms
- A backdrop that allows colors to pop
Consider Anew Gray SW 7030 if you want:
- A light taupe gray
- A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, enveloping backdrop
While Amazing Gray is greige and versatile, Anew Gray provides cozy warmth. Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams gray you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Amazing Gray or Anew Gray? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Amazing Gray and Anew Gray?
The main differences are their undertones and suitability for varied spaces. Amazing Gray is a greige that works anywhere while Anew Gray is a taupe gray for cozy bedrooms.
What colors complement Anew Gray?
Anew Gray looks beautiful paired with light blues, grays, crisp blacks and whites, and wood tones for nice contrast.
Can you use Amazing Gray in a bathroom?
Yes, Amazing Gray’s subtle and sophisticated greige hue would work wonderfully in a bathroom paired with white tile for a relaxing oasis.
Is Anew Gray suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Anew Gray’s 47% LRV provides enough brightness for a south facing room without appearing too bold or overwhelming.
Does Amazing Gray come in satin finish?
Yes, Amazing Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to satin to high gloss semi-gloss.
