When searching for the perfect dark charcoal gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Grizzle Gray SW 7068 and Peppercorn SW 7674 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, deep charcoals?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Grizzle Gray vs Peppercorn in-depth to help you determine the ideal charcoal 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 Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn:
- Undertones – Grizzle Gray is a cool charcoal, Peppercorn is a warm charcoal
- Light Reflectance – Grizzle Gray has an LRV of 13, Peppercorn has an LRV of 10
- Use – Grizzle Gray suits modern styles, Peppercorn fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Grizzle Gray excels in offices, Peppercorn shines in dining rooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Grizzle Gray SW 7068
With its cool charcoal appearance, Sherwin Williams Grizzle Gray SW 7068 creates an understated backdrop with contemporary appeal. This versatile gray works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Grizzle Gray:
- LRV: 13
- Undertones: Cool charcoal
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Offices, kitchens, bathrooms, dining rooms, bedrooms
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, bright colors, chrome
Grizzle Gray is a darkened blue-gray with strong slate undertones. In all lighting it maintains its cool, charcoal gray color.
The 13 light reflectance value absorbs light while allowing some contrast. Grizzle Gray gives a sleek, chic feel.
This adaptable gray complements bold whites and colors nicely. Popular Grizzle Gray pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Glossy black accents
- Chrome or silver metal finishes
- Navy blue and teal accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Grizzle Gray truly excels in these contemporary spaces:
- Offices
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Bedrooms
Grizzle Gray’s cool charcoal tone creates an urbane, sophisticated mood perfect for modern styles. Use it to ground bright colors.
Sherwin Williams Peppercorn SW 7674
With its warm charcoal appearance, Sherwin Williams Peppercorn SW 7674 creates an understated backdrop with traditional appeal. This versatile gray works across classic spaces.
Here are some details about Peppercorn:
- LRV: 10
- Undertones: Warm charcoal
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Dining rooms, offices, kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms
- Pairs Well With: Wood tones, cream whites, brass
Peppercorn is a darkened gray with strong brown-orange undertones. In certain lights it can appear more brown than gray.
The 10 light reflectance value absorbs light while allowing its warmth to show through. Peppercorn gives an intimate, ornate feel.
This charcoal gray complements wood tones, creams, and brass nicely. Popular Peppercorn pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Creamy
- Walnut wood stains
- Aged brass fixtures
- Terracotta accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Peppercorn truly excels in these warm, traditional spaces:
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Kitchens
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
Peppercorn’s warm charcoal tone creates a refined, ornate feel perfect for classic decor. Use its rich color for sophisticated drama.
Comparing Grizzle Gray vs Peppercorn
Now that we’ve examined Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn have LRVs of 13 and 10 respectively. Grizzle Gray will appear slightly lighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Grizzle Gray is a cool charcoal, while Peppercorn is a warm charcoal.
Use & Rooms
Grizzle Gray’s cool tone excels in chic offices. Peppercorn’s warmth shines in traditional dining rooms.
Availability
Both Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn come in any sheen from matte to gloss.
| Paint Color | Grizzle Gray SW 7068 | Peppercorn SW 7674 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 13 | 10 |
| Undertones | Cool charcoal | Warm charcoal |
| Use | Modern styles | Traditional decor |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Modern | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Grizzle Gray vs Peppercorn
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn:
Sherwin Williams Grizzle Gray
Sherwin Williams Peppercorn
While they can overlap, Grizzle Gray generally appears cooler than the warm undertones of Peppercorn. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Grizzle Gray or Peppercorn?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Grizzle Gray or Peppercorn for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Grizzle Gray SW 7068 if you want:
- A cool-toned, slate charcoal gray
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- A refined feel for offices and dining rooms
- A sophisticated, urbane backdrop
Choose Peppercorn SW 7674 if you want:
- A warm, brown-toned rich charcoal
- A versatile color for traditional decor
- A cozy feel for classic dining rooms
- An ornate, dramatic neutral
Get samples of both Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn. Paint large test sections to see undertones in your lighting.
You can also visualize them with decor pairings. Both deep charcoals provide bold, elegant style.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms and spaces ideally suited to Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn paint colors:
Grizzle Gray SW 7068
- Offices
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Bedrooms
Peppercorn SW 7674
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Kitchens
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
While both work anywhere, the above applications highlight each charcoal’s strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn create dramatic depth. Complement them with lighter accents for bold contrast:
Grizzle Gray SW 7068 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Glossy black accents
- Chrome or silver metal finishes
- Navy blue and teal accents
Peppercorn SW 7674 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Creamy
- Walnut wood stains
- Aged brass fixtures
- Terracotta accents
Grizzle Gray vs Peppercorn – Which is Better?
So which charcoal paint color is better for your home – Grizzle Gray or Peppercorn?
Consider Grizzle Gray SW 7068 if you want:
- A cool-toned, slate charcoal gray
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- A refined feel for offices and dining rooms
- A sophisticated, urbane backdrop
Consider Peppercorn SW 7674 if you want:
- A warm, brown-toned rich charcoal
- A versatile color for traditional decor
- A cozy feel for classic dining rooms
- An ornate, dramatic neutral
While Grizzle Gray offers sleek modern elegance, Peppercorn provides cozy traditional drama.
Get samples before deciding. Either stunning charcoal from Sherwin Williams you choose will look beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Grizzle Gray or Peppercorn? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Grizzle Gray and Peppercorn?
The main differences are their undertones and suitability for varied styles. Grizzle Gray is a cool-toned charcoal while Peppercorn is a warmer, brown-toned charcoal.
Does Peppercorn have purple undertones?
No, Peppercorn does not have strong purple undertones. Its base tones lean warm brown and orange rather than cool purple.
Is Grizzle Gray suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Grizzle Gray’s 13 LRV prevents it from feeling overly dark even in rooms with lots of direct southern sun exposure.
Can you use Peppercorn in a bedroom?
Yes, Peppercorn’s warm ornate charcoal tone would pair nicely with creamy whites, dark wood, and brass accents in a traditional master bedroom.
Does Grizzle Gray come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Grizzle Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to eggshell satin to high gloss semi-gloss.
