When selecting the perfect white paint color, two beautiful options to consider are Sherwin Williams Eider White SW 7014 and Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008. At first glance, these two popular whites can seem very similar. But looking closer, there are subtle differences that impact the overall aesthetic.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare Eider White vs Alabaster to help you determine the best white paint for your space. We’ll examine undertones, LRV, real-world photos, and top room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how these whites differ and which Sherwin Williams white is the right choice.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Eider White and Alabaster
Before diving into the details, here is a brief overview of how Eider White and Alabaster differ:
- Undertones: Eider White is a crisp, clean white while Alabaster is a subtly warm white.
- LRV: Eider White has a slightly higher LRV of 73, Alabaster is 82 LRV.
- Use: Eider White works well whole-home, Alabaster excels on trims and accents.
- Rooms: Eider White fits modern spaces, Alabaster suits traditional styles.
Now let’s explore Eider White vs Alabaster more closely!
Sherwin Williams Eider White SW 7014
Eider White SW 7014 is a gorgeous bright white paint color with widespread popularity. Its versatility allows it to work in nearly any space and style.
Here are some key details about Eider White:
- LRV: 73
- Undertones: Clean, crisp
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Contemporary spaces, modern homes
- Pairs Well With: Greys, blues, blacks
Eider White is a true white without strong undertones. Its faint coolness gives it a fresh, clean feel. But the barely noticeable undertone prevents it from looking sterile.
With an LRV of 73, Eider White reflects a lot of light. This creates open, airy rooms that avoid feeling stark or harsh. The excellent light reflectance also imparts a brightness and illumination.
Some pleasing colors to pair Eider White with include:
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray
- Sherwin Williams Rainwashed
- Sherwin Williams Peppercorn
- Sherwin Williams Naval
While suitable anywhere, Eider White excels as the main wall color in modern, contemporary spaces. It provides a neutral backdrop that allows other elements to shine.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a beautiful warm white paint color with widespread popularity. Its soft versatility enables it to work in any style home.
Here are some key details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Subtly warm
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, traditional spaces
- Pairs Well With: Beiges, browns, reds
Alabaster is an off-white with very faint warm golden undertones. While it reads as a true white, its barely noticeable creaminess gives it a welcoming vibe.
With an LRV of 82, Alabaster reflects a lot of light while still providing pleasing contrast. The subtle warmth prevents it from feeling sterile or stark white.
Some great colors to pair with Alabaster include:
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog
- Sherwin Williams Renwick Olive
While suitable anywhere, Alabaster excels as an open neutral backdrop in bedrooms, living spaces, and traditional homes. Its soft warmth complements classic color schemes.
Comparing Eider White vs Alabaster
Now that we’ve looked at Eider White and Alabaster separately, let’s directly compare the two popular Sherwin Williams whites:
Light Reflectance
Eider White has a slightly higher LRV of 73 compared to the 82 LRV of Alabaster. This means rooms painted Eider White will feel a touch brighter and more illuminated. However, the 2-point LRV difference is minor.
Undertones
Here is the main distinction. Eider White is a crisp, clean white while Alabaster has faint warm undertones.
Eider White’s subtle coolness gives it a fresh, neutral vibe. Alabaster’s barely-there warmth provides a welcoming, soothing feel.
Use
The cool crispness of Eider White makes it extremely versatile for whole-home use. Alabaster’s subtle warmth suits it best for trims, accents, and traditional spaces.
Paint Finishes
Both Eider White and Alabaster come in any sheen from matte to high-gloss. They allow for beautiful white paint finishes.
Eider White vs Alabaster Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of their main differences:
| Paint Color | Eider White SW 7014 | Alabaster SW 7008 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 73 | 82 |
| Undertones | Clean, crisp | Subtly warm |
| Use | Whole-home color | Trims and accents |
| Sheens | Any finish | Any finish |
Real Rooms Painted in Eider White and Alabaster
To envision the two whites better, below are real world rooms painted in Eider White and Alabaster:
Eider White SW 7014
Alabaster SW 7008
While the differences are subtle, Eider White leans slightly cooler while Alabaster has a hint of warmth. But both still read as beautiful, bright whites.
Should You Choose Eider White or Alabaster?
So which Sherwin Williams white paint color is the better choice for your space – versatile Eider White or welcoming Alabaster? Here are some tips for deciding:
Consider Eider White SW 7014 if you want:
- A super crisp, clean white with barely any undertones
- Lots of brightness and illumination
- A fresh, modern aesthetic
- Flexible neutral for contemporary spaces
Consider Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A warm ivory white with a touch of creaminess
- Classic sophistication for traditional rooms
- A soft, soothing feel while still feeling light and bright
- Contrast on trims, accents, and focal walls
If still uncertain between the two, get samples and paint large swatches. View at different times and in various lighting conditions before deciding.
For most homes, one white will likely better suit your goals and style. Keep reading for ideal room applications and color pairings.
Best Room Applications
Here are some rooms that tend to suit Eider White vs Alabaster best:
Eider White SW 7014 Works Well In:
- Modern Kitchens
- Contemporary Bathrooms
- Bright White Bedrooms
- Laundry Rooms
- Open Floor Plans
Alabaster SW 7008 Works Well In:
- Traditional Bedrooms
- Rustic Living Spaces
- Classic Dining Rooms
- Vintage Offices
- Farmhouse Kitchens
Both can work beautifully throughout any home. But the above applications maximize the individual strengths of each white.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Eider White and Alabaster create airy backdrops. Paired with other paint colors and materials, they make gorgeous rooms:
Eider White Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black accents
- Sherwin Williams Rainwashed walls
- Glossy subway tile
- Chrome fixtures
Alabaster Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog accent wall
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige walls
- Medium oak floors
- Oil-rubbed bronze lighting
Eider White vs Alabaster – Which is Best For You?
When choosing between Eider White and Alabaster, consider your goals, home style, and preferences:
Consider Eider White SW 7014 if you want:
- A true clean white suitable for modern homes
- Lots of brightness and illumination
- Crisp, neutral backdrop for minimalist spaces
- Flexible color for contemporary styles
Consider Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A warm ivory white with subtle creaminess
- Welcoming feel for bedrooms and living areas
- Soft, gentle contrast for trims and accents
- Timeless white for traditional spaces
While the differences are minor, one white likely better fits your needs and aesthetic. Get samples before deciding between Eider White and Alabaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between Eider White vs Alabaster? Here are some common questions answered:
Does Eider White work well in living rooms?
Yes! Eider White looks beautiful and illuminating in living spaces, especially contemporary ones. Goes nicely with gray sectionals, marble coffee tables, and gallery walls.
What colors complement Alabaster walls?
Alabaster pairs nicely with sage greens, light blues, deeper grays, and brick reds. Dark wood floors and black iron fixtures help accentuate its traditional sophistication.
Which white appears warmer – Eider White or Alabaster?
Alabaster SW 7008 has very faint warm undertones, while Eider White SW 7014 is slightly cooler and crisper. But the differences are extremely subtle.
Can you use Alabaster in modern bathrooms?
Definitely! Pair Alabaster with matte black fixtures, marble counters, and white subway tile for a beautiful, contrasting look. Keep all elements sleek and minimal.
Is Eider White suitable for trims and doors?
Yes! Eider White makes the perfect crisp, bright white for trims, doors, shutters, and accent walls. Especially nice with light gray walls.
Conclusion
When comparing Sherwin Williams’ Eider White vs Alabaster paint colors, it comes down to your style and goals:
- Eider White SW 7014 is a crisp, neutral white fitting modern homes.
- Alabaster SW 7008 is a soft white perfect for traditional trims and spaces.
While the differences are minor, the undertones help one likely better suit your needs and aesthetic. Consider your goals before deciding between versatile Eider White and welcoming Alabaster. Get samples to ensure you select the perfect white!
