When searching for the perfect green paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Illusive Green SW 9164 and Evergreen Fog SW 9130 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle greens?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Illusive Green vs Evergreen Fog in-depth to help you determine the ideal green 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 Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog:
- Undertones – Illusive Green is a blue-green, Evergreen Fog is a gray-green
- Light Reflectance – Illusive Green has an LRV of 29, Evergreen Fog has an LRV of 30
- Use – Illusive Green suits modern styles, Evergreen Fog fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Illusive Green excels in kitchens, Evergreen Fog shines in living rooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Illusive Green SW 9164
With its cool blue-green appearance, Sherwin Williams Illusive Green SW 9164 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile color works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Illusive Green:
- LRV: 29
- Undertones: Blue-green
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Kitchens, bathrooms, offices, accent walls
- Pairs Well With: Crisp whites, grays, black and white
Illusive Green is a hushed teal-tinged gray green with no yellow undertones. In all lighting it maintains its understated neutral green appearance.
The 29 light reflectance value provides ideal balance without being too dark or stark. Illusive Green gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable green complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Illusive Green color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Illusive Green truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Offices
- Accent Walls
- Entryways
Illusive Green’s sophistication helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog SW 9130
With its muted gray-green appearance, Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog SW 9130 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile color works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Evergreen Fog:
- LRV: 30
- Undertones: Gray-green
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Wood tones, blacks, jewel tones
Evergreen Fog is a relaxed, inviting weathered sage green with subtle hints of gray. In certain lights it can read as a lichen green. The welcoming color has natural appeal.
The 30 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark while still remaining cozy. Evergreen Fog strikes a comfortable balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile green complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Evergreen Fog color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood finishes
- Brass hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Evergreen Fog truly excels in these spaces:
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Evergreen Fog’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 Illusive Green vs Evergreen Fog
Now that we’ve examined Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog have very similar LRVs of 29 and 30 respectively. They will appear equally dark.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Illusive Green is a blue-green, while Evergreen Fog is a gray-green.
Use & Rooms
Illusive Green’s coolness excels in modern kitchens and baths. Evergreen Fog’s warmth is perfect for cozy living rooms.
Availability
Both Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Illusive Green vs Evergreen Fog Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Illusive Green SW 9164 | Evergreen Fog SW 9130 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 29 | 30 |
| Undertones | Blue-green | Gray-green |
| Use | Contemporary styles | Traditional decor |
| Rooms | Kitchens, bathrooms | Living rooms, bedrooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Modern | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: Illusive Green vs Evergreen Fog
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog:
Sherwin Williams Illusive Green
Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog
While they can overlap, Illusive Green generally appears cooler than the gray-green tone of Evergreen Fog. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Illusive Green or Evergreen Fog?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Illusive Green or Evergreen Fog for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Illusive Green SW 9164 if you want:
- A cool, crisp blue-green
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow accent colors to pop
Choose Evergreen Fog SW 9130 if you want:
- A warm, muted gray-green
- A cozy yet sophisticated color for bedrooms and living rooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
Get samples of both Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog. 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 green tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Illusive Green
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Offices
- Accent Walls
- Entryways
Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both greens work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Illusive Green SW 9164 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains
- Chrome hardware accents
Evergreen Fog SW 9130 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood finishes
- Brass hardware accents
Illusive Green vs Evergreen Fog – Which is Better?
So which green paint color is better for your home – Illusive Green or Evergreen Fog?
Consider Illusive Green SW 9164 if you want:
- A cool, crisp blue-green
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow accent colors to pop
Consider Evergreen Fog SW 9130 if you want:
- A warm, muted gray-green
- A cozy yet sophisticated color for bedrooms and living rooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
While Illusive Green offers modern crispness, Evergreen Fog provides traditional warmth.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams green you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between Illusive Green and Evergreen Fog?
The main differences are their undertones. Illusive Green is a cooler blue-green while Evergreen Fog is a warmer gray-green. Their light reflectance is very similar.
What colors pair well with Illusive Green?
Illusive Green looks beautiful with crisp whites, modern grays, black and white patterns, and light wood tones for contrast. Avoid warm beiges and browns.
Can you use Evergreen Fog in a bedroom?
Yes, Evergreen Fog’s muted gray-green warmth would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with wood furniture and neutral accents for a relaxing feel.
Is Illusive Green suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Illusive Green’s blue undertone keeps it from feeling too stark or glaring in a south facing room. The LRV of 29 prevents it from being too bright.
Does Evergreen Fog come in semi-gloss finish?
Yes, Evergreen Fog is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to semi-gloss to high gloss.
