Dover White vs Alabaster: What’s the Difference?

When choosing a sophisticated white paint color, two popular options from Sherwin Williams are Dover White SW 6385 and Alabaster SW 7008. At first glance, these two whites may appear very similar. But looking closer, there are noticeable differences between Dover White and Alabaster that impact the overall aesthetic.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare Sherwin Williams Dover White vs Alabaster paint colors. We’ll examine undertones, LRV levels, real-world photos, and ideal room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how Dover White and Alabaster differ and which refined white is the perfect choice for your space.

Key Differences Between Dover White and Alabaster

Before diving into all the details, here is a brief overview of how Sherwin Williams Dover White and Alabaster differ:

  • Undertones: Dover White is a warm white, Alabaster is a cool white.
  • LRV: Alabaster has a higher LRV of 82, Dover White is slightly darker at 83.
  • Use: Dover White works well whole-home, Alabaster best for accents.
  • Rooms: Dover White excels in bedrooms, Alabaster shines in bathrooms.

Now let’s explore the comparison between Sherwin Williams Dover White SW 6385 and Alabaster SW 7008 more closely!

Sherwin Williams Dover White SW 6385

Sherwin-Williams Dover White SW 6385

Dover White SW 6385 is a gorgeous warm white paint color with an open, inviting vibe. Its versatility makes it a popular neutral choice.

Here are some details about Dover White:

  • LRV: 83
  • Undertones: Warm white, hint of cream
  • Sheen: Available in all finishes
  • Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, offices, dining rooms
  • Pairs Well With: Tans, grays, blues, greens

Dover White is a crisp white with very subtle undertones of warm cream. The faint warmth gives it an approachable, welcoming feel without strong contrast.

With an LRV of 83, Dover White reflects a significant amount of light to prevent a space feeling stark or cold. The hint of creaminess maintains an airy, open ambiance.

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This versatile white complements a variety of color schemes. Pleasing combinations include:

  • Sherwin Williams Pure White
  • Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
  • Sherwin Williams Rainwashed
  • Sherwin Williams Silverstrand

While suitable anywhere in a home, this warm welcoming white truly excels when used as the main wall color in bedrooms, living areas, offices, and dining rooms.

Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008

SW Alabaster

Alabaster SW 7008 is a beautiful cool white paint color with widespread popularity. Its crispness allows it to suit any home style.

Here are some key details about Alabaster:

  • LRV: 82
  • Undertones: Cool white, hint of gray
  • Sheen: Available in all finishes
  • Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, trims, accents
  • Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, greens, wood tones

Alabaster is a clean, bright white with faint undertones of cool gray. While it reads as a true white, the subtle gray gives it a slightly sharper, more defined edge.

With an LRV of 82, Alabaster reflects a significant amount of light to prevent a space feeling flat or dull. The barely-there grayness provides a touch of crisp freshness.

Some pleasing color combinations with Alabaster include:

  • Sherwin Williams Extra White
  • Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
  • Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray
  • Sherwin Williams Naval

While suitable anywhere when used properly, this cool crisp white truly excels when strategically placed in bathrooms, kitchens, on trim, doors, and accent walls throughout a home.

Directly Comparing Dover White vs Alabaster Paint Colors

Now that we’ve explored Dover White SW 6385 and Alabaster SW 7008 separately, let’s directly compare the two Sherwin Williams paint colors:

Light Reflectance Value (LRV)

Alabaster has a higher LRV of 82, while Dover White has an LRV of 83. This means Alabaster reflects a bit more light than Dover White. However, both avoid feeling dark or gloomy.

Undertones

Here is the main difference. Dover White is a warm white, while Alabaster is a cooler white.

Dover White’s subtle creaminess provides an inviting, gentle vibe. Alabaster’s faint gray gives it a slightly sharper, brighter feel.

Rooms

Dover White’s versatility makes it great whole-home, especially for bedrooms and living rooms. Alabaster excels as an accent in bathrooms, kitchens, and on architectural details.

Paint Finishes

Both Dover White and Alabaster come in any sheen from matte to high-gloss. They can provide soft elegance or add definition through gloss.

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Dover White vs Alabaster Comparison Chart

Here is an overview of their major differences:

Paint Color Dover White SW 6385 Alabaster SW 7008
LRV 83 82
Undertones Warm white, cream hint Cool white, gray hint
Use Whole-home color Accent color
Sheens All finishes All finishes

Real Rooms Painted in Dover White and Alabaster

To better envision Dover White vs Alabaster, let’s look at real-world rooms painted in the two colors:

Dover White SW 6385

Alabaster SW 7008

Real Room Photos SW Alabaster

The images showcase the subtle differences in undertones. Dover White leans warm, while Alabaster is a cooler white. But their comparable lightness can make them seem similar at first glance.

Should You Choose Dover White or Alabaster?

So which refined white paint color is the better choice for your space – versatile Dover White or crisp Alabaster? Here are some tips for deciding:

Pick Dover White SW 6385 if you want:

  • A warm white with subtle creaminess
  • A welcoming color suitable for whole-home use
  • Gentle sophistication for bedrooms and living rooms
  • Soft, approachable vibes without contrast

Choose Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:

  • A cool white with a hint of sharpness
  • Subtle bright contrast for baths, kitchens, and trim
  • A crisp, fresh alternative to warm whites
  • Definition and brightness for accents

If still uncertain between the two, get samples and paint large swatches. View throughout different lighting before deciding.

Either elegant white you select will provide beauty and versatility. But their minor differences mean one likely better suits your particular style and goals.

Ideal Room Applications

Here are some rooms that tend to suit Dover White SW 6385 and Alabaster SW 7008 best:

Dover White SW 6385

  • Bedrooms
  • Living Rooms
  • Dining Rooms
  • Offices
  • Libraries/Studies

Alabaster SW 7008

  • Bathrooms
  • Kitchens
  • Doors and Trim
  • Accent Walls
  • Entryways/Foyers

Both can work beautifully throughout any home. But the above applications maximize their individual strengths.

Design Ideas and Color Pairings

On their own, Dover White and Alabaster create refined backdrops. Paired with other colors and materials, they make gorgeous interiors:

Dover White Color Pairings

  • Sherwin Williams Pure White (trim/ceilings)
  • Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (accent wall)
  • Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray (furniture)
  • Medium wood flooring

Alabaster Color Pairings

  • Sherwin Williams Extra White (trim/molding)
  • Sherwin Williams Naval (accent wall)
  • Sherwin Williams Repose Gray (furniture)
  • Marble countertops

Dover White vs Alabaster – Which is Best for You?

When choosing between Dover White and Alabaster, keep your own goals and style in mind:

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Pick Dover White SW 6385 if you want:

  • A warm white suitable for whole-home use
  • Subtle creaminess with an open, inviting vibe
  • A peaceful oasis for bedrooms and living rooms
  • Soft sophistication without strong contrast

Choose Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:

  • A cool crisp white for subtle bright accents
  • Slightly sharper tone than warm whites
  • Beautiful definition on trims, doors, and focal walls
  • A clean, airy feel with a hint of gray

While they share similarities, the minor differences likely mean one better suits your particular space. Get samples before deciding between Dover White and Alabaster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still trying to choose between Dover White vs Alabaster? Here are answers to some common questions:

Does Alabaster work well in bedrooms? Yes, Alabaster can look beautiful in bedrooms when used thoughtfully on an accent wall or ceiling trim to add definition.

What colors complement Dover White walls? Dover White pairs nicely with deeper blues, grays, greens, and tans. Crisp white trim and a black accent wall provide nice contrast.

Which white paint color is lighter?
Alabaster has a slightly higher LRV of 82 compared to the 83 LRV of Dover White. However, both reflect ample light.

Can you use Dover White in a bathroom? Definitely. Paired with white tile, Dover White provides a soothing, spa-like feel in bathrooms. Its subtle warmth is welcoming.

Is Alabaster suitable for kitchen cabinets? Yes, Alabaster looks gorgeous against white countertops in kitchens! Its faint gray undertone adds definition without feeling too stark.

Conclusion

When comparing Sherwin Williams’ Dover White SW 6385 and Alabaster SW 7008 paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:

  • Dover White is a warm white suitable for whole-home use, providing an inviting, gentle vibe.
  • Alabaster is a cool white that excels as an accent, adding subtle brightness and definition.

While quite similar, the minor variations in undertone help make one likely better suit your space and style. Carefully consider your needs when deciding between Dover White and Alabaster. Getting samples will ensure you select the perfect sophisticated white!

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