When searching for the perfect light, airy gray paint color, two great options from Sherwin Williams are City Loft SW 7631 and Drift of Mist SW 9166. At first glance, these two shades appear quite similar – soft whites with gray undertones. But looking closely, there are noticeable differences in tone and intensity.
This in-depth guide will compare City Loft vs Drift of Mist to help you determine which is better for your home’s interior. We’ll analyze everything from undertones, light reflectance value (LRV), real photos, room pairings, and more.
By the end, you’ll understand how to choose between these beautiful, tranquil grays from Sherwin Williams. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between City Loft and Drift of Mist
Before getting into the details, here’s a high-level overview of how City Loft and Drift of Mist differ:
- Undertones – City Loft is a cool white-gray, Drift of Mist is a warm greige
- Light Reflectance – City Loft has an LRV of 70, Drift of Mist has an LRV of 69
- Use – City Loft suits modern styles, Drift of Mist fits traditional decor
- Rooms – City Loft excels in kitchens, Drift of Mist shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore City Loft SW 7631 and Drift of Mist SW 9166 more thoroughly.
Detailed Review of City Loft SW 7631
With its cool white-gray appearance, City Loft SW 7631 by Sherwin Williams creates a sleek, urban backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile color works beautifully across modern spaces.
Here are some details about City Loft:
- LRV: 70
- Undertones: Cool white-gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
City Loft is a hushed dove gray with subtle hints of blue. In all lighting it maintains its understated neutral white-gray appearance.
The 70 LRV provides ideal illumination without being too stark. City Loft gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular City Loft color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Naval
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Black and white patterns
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Polished chrome and nickel accents
While suitable anywhere at home, City Loft truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
City Loft’s versatility creates a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for contemporary styles.
Detailed Review of Drift of Mist SW 9166
With its warm greige appearance, Drift of Mist SW 9166 by Sherwin Williams creates a subtle, welcoming backdrop that accentuates traditional decor. This versatile color succeeds in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Drift of Mist:
- LRV: 69
- Undertones: Warm greige
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
Drift of Mist is a hushed greige with faint beige undertones. In most lighting it maintains its understated neutral appearance.
The 69 LRV provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Drift of Mist gives off a peaceful, grounded feel.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Drift of Mist color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Black and white patterns
- Weathered wood finishes
- Oil rubbed bronze lighting
While suitable anywhere at home, Drift of Mist truly excels in these welcoming spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Drift of Mist’s warmth helps create a relaxed, traditional feel – perfect as an all-over home color.
Light Reflectance Value Comparison
The main difference in LRV between City Loft and Drift of Mist is minor:
- City Loft SW 7631: 70 LRV
- Drift of Mist SW 9166: 69 LRV
While only 1 point apart, City Loft will read just slightly brighter and crisper than the soft, subtle Drift of Mist. But both offer excellent illumination.
Direct Comparison of Undertones
When viewed together, here is how the undertones of City Loft and Drift of Mist differ:
- City Loft is a cool-toned white-gray with hints of blue.
- Drift of Mist is a warm greige with faint beige qualities.
City Loft has a crisper white appearance, while Drift of Mist provides subtle warmth.
Style and Room Pairings
Due to its white-gray tone, City Loft SW 7631 excels in modern spaces like:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Nurseries
Drift of Mist SW 9166 fits best with traditional decor and shines in these rooms:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Libraries
- Offices
So City Loft delivers contemporary versatility, while Drift of Mist offers traditional sophistication.
Real-Life Photo Examples
Let’s look at real-life photos to compare City Loft and Drift of Mist:
City Loft SW 7631
Drift of Mist SW 9166
You can see City Loft’s subtle coolness compared to the warm greige tone of Drift of Mist. But lighting affects their appearance.
Should You Choose City Loft or Drift of Mist?
So which airy gray should you choose for your space? Consider the following:
Consider City Loft SW 7631 if you want:
- A slightly cool, crisp white-gray
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- A relaxing yet fresh backdrop
- To allow bold colors to pop
Consider Drift of Mist SW 9166 if you want:
- A warm, welcoming greige neutral
- A color ideal for traditional design
- A cozy, peaceful bedroom and living room
- A softly enveloping feel
City Loft offers light modern crispness, while Drift of Mist provides subtle warm tranquility.
Get large color samples before deciding. Test them on walls in natural light at all times of day. This gives the most accurate impression of undertones.
Either gorgeous gray from Sherwin Williams will complement your home beautifully!
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, City Loft and Drift of Mist create soothing backdrops. Here are ideas to complement them:
City Loft SW 7631 Pairings:
- Navy blues and grays
- Sleek chrome finishes
- Rich walnut wood tones
- Black and white abstract art
- Sheer linen drapery
Drift of Mist SW 9166 Pairings:
- Soothing sage greens
- Creamy antique whites
- Weathered oak wood finishes
- Oil rubbed bronze lighting
- Floral accent patterns
Choosing colors and materials that enhance the crispness of City Loft or the warmth of Drift of Mist is key.
Room-by-Room Guide
Here are rooms best suited to City Loft and Drift of Mist:
Kitchens
City Loft – A crisp, modern backdrop that feels airy. Lets colorful accents pop.
Drift of Mist – A subtle, welcoming color that warms up traditional kitchens beautifully.
Bathrooms
City Loft – Crisp and spa-like. Pairs nicely with marble finishes and chrome accents.
Drift of Mist – Peaceful and relaxing – perfect for a long soak.
Bedrooms
City Loft – Light and bright. Highlights colorful bedding and artwork.
Drift of Mist – Warm and calming – promotes restful sleep.
Living Rooms
City Loft – A relaxing yet contemporary backdrop suitable for varied furnishings.
Drift of Mist – A versatile, welcoming color perfect for traditional living rooms.
Both grays work well but have unique strengths based on the style.
City Loft vs. Drift of Mist Comparison Chart
Here is an overview comparison between City Loft SW 7631 and Drift of Mist SW 9166:
| Paint Color | City Loft SW 7631 | Drift of Mist SW 9166 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 70 | 69 |
| Undertone | Cool white-gray | Warm greige |
| Use | Modern styles | Traditional decor |
| Sheen | All finishes | All finishes |
| Rooms | Kitchens, baths | Bedrooms, living rooms |
Which Gray is Best for Your Home?
So which of these beautiful Sherwin Williams grays is right for you?
City Loft SW 7631 is the better choice if you:
- Prefer cool, modern color palettes
- Want an airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- Seek a backdrop that allows accent colors to stand out
- Are decorating in contemporary style
Drift of Mist SW 9166 is ideal if you:
- Love warm, welcoming grays for bedrooms and living rooms
- Prefer cozy traditional design
- Need a universally flattering and relaxing neutral
- Want a soft, enveloping feel
City Loft modernizes, while Drift of Mist cocoons. Choose the one that best fits your style!
Be sure to get samples before deciding – both create gorgeous spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about City Loft and Drift of Mist:
Q: How do City Loft and Drift of Mist differ?
A: City Loft is a slightly cool white-gray while Drift of Mist is a warm, beige-influenced greige. City Loft has a more modern look.
Q: Which gray paint color is lighter?
A: City Loft SW 7631 has an LRV of 70, while Drift of Mist SW 9166 has an LRV of 69, making City Loft just slightly lighter.
Q: What colors go well with Drift of Mist?
A: Sage greens, antique whites, oak wood tones, oil-rubbed bronze, and floral patterns complement Drift of Mist’s subtle warmth nicely.
Q: Can you use City Loft in a dark room?
A: Yes, City Loft SW 7631’s LRV of 70 provides enough brightness to liven up a dark space without being too stark.
Q: Does Drift of Mist have gray undertones?
A: Drift of Mist SW 9166 has faint gray influences but reads as a true greige, with both gray and beige undertones.
Conclusion
Whether you choose chic City Loft SW 7631 or cozy Drift of Mist SW 9166, both of these Sherwin Williams grays create beautiful, tranquil spaces.
Consider your style and needs, get color samples, and test them out to find your perfect light airy gray paint color!
