When searching for the perfect neutral paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices On the Rocks SW 7671 and Repose Gray SW 7015 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle neutrals?
In this guide, we’ll analyze On the Rocks vs Repose Gray in-depth to help you determine the ideal neutral 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 On the Rocks and Repose Gray
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ On the Rocks and Repose Gray:
- Undertones – On the Rocks is a cool gray, Repose Gray is a greige
- Light Reflectance – On the Rocks has an LRV of 62, Repose Gray has an LRV of 58
- Use – On the Rocks suits modern styles, Repose Gray fits traditional decor
- Rooms – On the Rocks excels in bathrooms, Repose Gray shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore On the Rocks and Repose Gray more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams On the Rocks SW 7671
With its crisp, cool gray appearance, Sherwin Williams On the Rocks SW 7671 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about On the Rocks:
- LRV: 62
- Undertones: Cool gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
On the Rocks is a hushed blue-gray with no overt undertones. In all lighting it maintains its understated neutral white appearance.
The 62 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too stark. On the Rocks gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular On the Rocks color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, On the Rocks truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
On the Rocks’ crispness helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Sherwin Williams Repose Gray SW 7015
With its greige appearance, Sherwin Williams Repose Gray SW 7015 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile neutral works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Repose Gray:
- LRV: 58
- Undertones: Greige
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Wood tones, black, jewel tones
Repose Gray is a relaxed, warm-leaning medium greige with subtle hints of gray and beige. In certain lights it can read as a weathered putty. The welcoming neutral has traditional appeal.
The 58 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark while still remaining cozy. Repose Gray strikes a comfortable balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Repose Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood finishes
- Brass hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Repose Gray truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Repose Gray’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 On the Rocks vs Repose Gray
Now that we’ve examined On the Rocks and Repose Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
On the Rocks and Repose Gray have similar LRVs of 62 and 58 respectively. On the Rocks will appear slightly brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. On the Rocks is a cool gray, while Repose Gray is a warm greige.
Use & Rooms
On the Rocks’ crispness excels in modern baths and kitchens. Repose Gray’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both On the Rocks and Repose Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
On the Rocks vs Repose Gray Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | On the Rocks SW 7671 | Repose Gray SW 7015 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 62 | 58 |
| Undertones | Cool gray | Warm greige |
| Use | Contemporary styles | Traditional decor |
| Rooms | Bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms | Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Modern | Traditional |
Real-Life Photos: On the Rocks vs Repose Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between On the Rocks and Repose Gray:
Sherwin Williams On the Rocks
Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
While they can overlap, On the Rocks generally appears crisper and cooler than the warm greige tone of Repose Gray. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose On the Rocks or Repose Gray?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ On the Rocks or Repose Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose On the Rocks SW 7671 if you want:
- A cool, crisp neutral white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow accent colors to pop
Choose Repose Gray SW 7015 if you want:
- A warm, greige neutral
- A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
Get samples of both On the Rocks and Repose Gray. 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 neutral tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to On the Rocks and Repose Gray paint colors:
Sherwin Williams On the Rocks
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
While both neutrals work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, On the Rocks and Repose Gray create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
On the Rocks SW 7671 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams High Reflective White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
Repose Gray SW 7015 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood finishes
- Brass hardware accents
On the Rocks vs Repose Gray – Which is Better?
So which neutral paint color is better for your home – On the Rocks or Repose Gray?
Consider On the Rocks SW 7671 if you want:
- A cool, crisp neutral white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for kitchens and bathrooms
- To allow accent colors to pop
Consider Repose Gray SW 7015 if you want:
- A warm, greige neutral
- A cozy yet sophisticated neutral for bedrooms
- A versatile color that works with traditional decor
- A soft, welcoming backdrop
While On the Rocks offers modern crispness, Repose Gray provides subtle traditional warmth.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams neutral you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between On the Rocks and Repose Gray?
The main differences are their undertones and suitability for varied spaces. On the Rocks is a cool, crisp neutral while Repose Gray is a warm, cozy greige.
What colors complement On the Rocks?
On the Rocks looks beautiful paired with deeper blues, black accents, brass metallics, and espresso wood tones for contrast. Avoid warm tones.
Can you use Repose Gray in a living room?
Yes, Repose Gray’s subtle greige warmth would work wonderfully in a living room paired with wood furniture and jewel tone accents for a welcoming feel.
Is On the Rocks suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, with an LRV of 62 On the Rocks should have enough brightness for a south facing room. Its cool tone prevents harsh glare.
Does Repose Gray come in satin finish?
Yes, Repose Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to satin to high gloss semi-gloss.
