When searching for the perfect warm, versatile neutral paint color, two great options from Sherwin Williams are Ivory Lace SW 7013 and Alabaster SW 7008. At first glance, these two shades appear quite similar – soft whites with a subtle beige tone. But looking closely, there are noticeable differences in depth and intensity.
This in-depth guide will compare Ivory Lace vs Alabaster 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 ivory neutrals from Sherwin Williams. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Ivory Lace and Alabaster
Before getting into the details, here’s a high-level overview of how Ivory Lace and Alabaster differ:
- Undertones – Ivory Lace is a warm ivory, Alabaster is a soft white
- Light Reflectance – Ivory Lace has an LRV of 79, Alabaster has an LRV of 82
- Use – Ivory Lace suits accent walls, Alabaster fits backdrops
- Rooms – Ivory Lace excels as a focal point, Alabaster shines everywhere
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Ivory Lace SW 7013 and Alabaster SW 7008 more thoroughly.
Detailed Review of Ivory Lace SW 7013
With its warm ivory appearance, Ivory Lace SW 7013 by Sherwin Williams creates a cozy, welcoming focal point or accent wall. This soft neutral adds subtle depth and contrast.
Here are some details about Ivory Lace:
- LRV: 79
- Undertones: Warm ivory
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Accent walls, bedrooms, living rooms
- Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, greens
Ivory Lace is a relaxed, softened ivory with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can read as a weathered putty. The versatile neutral has broad appeal.
The 79 LRV prevents the shade from feeling too dark while still providing cozy warmth. Ivory Lace strikes a bright, inviting balance.
This adaptable neutral complements cool and warm palettes nicely. Popular Ivory Lace color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Online
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Crisp white trims
- Aged bronze sconces
- Black iron fixtures
While suitable anywhere a warm accent is desired, Ivory Lace truly excels:
- On accent walls
- In bedrooms
- On built-ins
- In entryways
Ivory Lace’s warmth helps create a welcoming, versatile focal point or bold accent.
Detailed Review of Alabaster SW 7008
With its warm white appearance, Alabaster SW 7008 by Sherwin Williams creates a flexible, inviting backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This color succeeds in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Warm white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Wood tones, grays, blacks
Alabaster is a creamy white with the slightest hint of beige warmth. In most lighting it maintains its understated neutral white appearance.
The 82 LRV provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Alabaster gives off a welcoming, peaceful feel.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Alabaster color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray
- Black and white patterns
- Weathered wood finishes
- Oil rubbed bronze lighting
While suitable anywhere at home, Alabaster truly excels in these cozy spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Alabaster’s warmth helps create a relaxed, traditional feel – perfect as an all-over home color.
Light Reflectance Value Comparison
The main LRV difference between Ivory Lace and Alabaster is minor but noticeable:
- Ivory Lace SW 7013: 79 LRV
- Alabaster SW 7008: 82 LRV
Alabaster will read slightly lighter and brighter than the cozy, inviting Ivory Lace. But both offer nice illumination without being too stark.
Direct Comparison of Undertones
When viewed together, here is how the undertones of Ivory Lace and Alabaster differ:
- Ivory Lace is a warm ivory with distinct beige qualities.
- Alabaster is a warm white with only faint beige influences.
Ivory Lace leans more solidly beige, while Alabaster is just lightly warmed up.
Style and Room Pairings
Due to its beige tone, Ivory Lace SW 7013 excels:
- On accent walls
- In bedrooms
- On built-ins and bookshelves
- In entryways
Alabaster SW 7008 fits best as an all-over wall color in these rooms:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
So Ivory Lace makes a cozy statement, while Alabaster shines as a flexible backdrop.
Real-Life Photo Examples
Let’s look at real-life photos to compare Ivory Lace and Alabaster:
Ivory Lace SW 7013
Alabaster SW 7008
You can see Ivory Lace’s distinct beige tone compared to Alabaster’s white warmth. But lighting affects their appearance.
Should You Choose Ivory Lace or Alabaster?
So when choosing between Sherwin Williams’ Ivory Lace or Alabaster, which should you pick for your space? Consider the following:
Consider Ivory Lace SW 7013 if you want:
- A warm, welcoming beige accent
- To add depth and contrast to a room
- A cozy focal point or bold accent
- A light, inviting pop of color
Consider Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A soft white with subtle warmth for walls
- A universally flattering neutral
- A peaceful backdrop for bedrooms and living rooms
- A flexible all-over wall color
Ivory Lace accents, while Alabaster enhances as an overall wall color.
Get large color samples before deciding. Test Ivory Lace and Alabaster in natural light at varied times of day to perceive undertones accurately.
Either of these warm Sherwin Williams neutrals complement homes beautifully!
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Ivory Lace and Alabaster create soothing backdrops. Here are ideas to complement them:
Ivory Lace SW 7013 Pairings
- Light blues and grays
- Crisp white trims
- Black iron light fixtures
- Weathered wood accents
- Natural fiber textures
Alabaster SW 7008 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 richness of Ivory Lace or the flexibility of Alabaster is key.
Room-by-Room Guide
Here are rooms best suited to Ivory Lace and Alabaster:
Living Rooms
Ivory Lace – Provides a lovely cozy accent wall in casual and formal living rooms.
Alabaster – A versatile, welcoming color perfect for traditional living rooms.
Bedrooms
Ivory Lace – A soft, welcoming accent behind beds or on a focal wall.
Alabaster – Peaceful and relaxing – promotes restful sleep.
Kitchens
Ivory Lace – A beautiful accent wall to add warmth and contrast.
Alabaster – A subtle, welcoming color that warms up traditional kitchens.
Bathrooms
Ivory Lace – Lovely accent on the bathtub wall or bathroom trims.
Alabaster – Peaceful and relaxing – perfect for a long soak.
Both neutrals work well but serve different purposes.
Ivory Lace vs. Alabaster Comparison Chart
Here is an overview comparison between Ivory Lace SW 7013 and Alabaster SW 7008:
| Paint Color | Ivory Lace SW 7013 | Alabaster SW 7008 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 79 | 82 |
| Undertone | Warm ivory | Warm white |
| Use | Accents | Walls |
| Sheen | All finishes | All finishes |
| Rooms | Bedrooms, living rooms | Bedrooms, living rooms |
Which Neutral is Best for Your Home?
So which of these beautiful Sherwin Williams neutrals works best for you?
Ivory Lace SW 7013 is the better choice if you:
- Want a warm ivory accent wall
- Need to add depth and contrast to a space
- Are looking for a cozy focal point or bold accent
- Prefer light, inviting pops of color
Alabaster SW 7008 is ideal if you:
- Need a welcoming all-over wall color
- Want a soft white with faint warmth
- Seek a universally flattering neutral
- Desire a peaceful backdrop for bedrooms and living areas
Ivory Lace accents, while Alabaster enhances entire rooms beautifully.
Be sure to get large color samples before deciding. Both of these Sherwin Williams neutrals are gorgeous!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to common questions about Ivory Lace and Alabaster:
Q: How do Ivory Lace and Alabaster differ?
A: Ivory Lace is a beige-toned ivory accent while Alabaster is a white suitable for walls. Ivory Lace is darker and warmer.
Q: Which paint color has a higher LRV?
A: Alabaster SW 7008 has an LRV of 82, while Ivory Lace SW 7013 has an LRV of 79, making Alabaster slightly lighter.
Q: What colors complement Ivory Lace?
A: Light blues, grays, crisp white trims, black iron fixtures, and natural wood tones coordinate beautifully with Ivory Lace as an accent.
Q: Is Alabaster too stark for a bedroom?
A: No, Alabaster SW 7008 has just enough warmth at an LRV of 82 to provide a clean yet cozyrestful look in bedrooms.
Q: Does Ivory Lace have gray undertones?
A: No, Ivory Lace SW 7013 is a true warm ivory without any cool gray influences coming through.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the warm ivory accent of Ivory Lace SW 7013 or the soft white walls of Alabaster SW 7008, both of these Sherwin Williams neutrals are beautiful options.
Consider your needs, get color samples, and test them out to find the perfect warm neutral paint color for your home!
