When searching for the perfect neutral white paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Origami White SW 7636 and Shoji White SW 7042 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle whites?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Origami White vs Shoji White to help you determine the ideal neutral white paint for your home. We’ll look at undertones, light reflectance, real-life photos, room pairings and more.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Origami White and Shoji White
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Origami White and Shoji White:
- Undertones – Origami White is a warm white, Shoji White is a cool white
- Light Reflectance – Origami White has an LRV of 76, Shoji White has an LRV of 74
- Use – Origami White suits traditional styles, Shoji White fits modern decor
- Rooms – Origami White excels in bedrooms, Shoji White shines in bathrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Origami White and Shoji White more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Origami White SW 7636
With its soft, warm white appearance, Sherwin Williams Origami White SW 7636 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional decor. This versatile neutral white works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Origami White:
- LRV: 76
- Undertones: Warm white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Blues, blacks, wood tones
Origami White is a quiet, creamy white with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can read as an antique white. The laidback neutral white has traditional appeal.
The 76 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too stark. Origami White strikes a cozy yet bright balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral white complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Origami White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
While suitable anywhere at home, Origami White truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Origami White’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it allow bold colors to stand out.
Sherwin Williams Shoji White SW 7042
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams Shoji White SW 7042 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile neutral white works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Shoji White:
- LRV: 74
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
Shoji White is a bright, icy white with the faintest hint of blue undertone. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, understated white appearance.
The 74 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without being too stark. Shoji White gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Shoji White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Shoji White truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Shoji White’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Comparing Origami White vs Shoji White
Now that we’ve examined Origami White and Shoji White independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Origami White and Shoji White have similar LRVs of 76 and 74 respectively. Origami White will appear slightly brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Origami White is a warm white, while Shoji White is a cool white.
Use & Rooms
Origami White’s warmth excels in cozy bedrooms and living areas. Shoji White’s coolness is perfect for sleek modern baths and kitchens.
Availability
Both Origami White and Shoji White come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Origami White SW 7636 | Shoji White SW 7042 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 76 | 74 |
| Undertones | Warm white | Cool white |
| Use | Traditional styles | Modern decor |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Traditional | Contemporary |
Real-Life Photos: Origami White vs Shoji White
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Origami White and Shoji White:
Sherwin Williams Origami White
Sherwin Williams Shoji White
While they can overlap, Origami White generally appears warmer than the crisp cool tone of Shoji White. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Origami White or Shoji White?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Origami White or Shoji White for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Origami White SW 7636 if you want:
- A soft, warm white
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A welcoming backdrop
Choose Shoji White SW 7042 if you want:
- A crisp, clean white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
Get samples of both Origami White and Shoji White. 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 white tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Origami White and Shoji White paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Origami White
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Sherwin Williams Shoji White
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
While both neutral whites work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Origami White and Shoji White create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Origami White SW 7636 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
Shoji White SW 7042 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
Origami White vs Shoji White – Which is Better?
So which neutral white paint color is better for your home – Origami White or Shoji White?
Consider Origami White SW 7636 if you want:
- A soft, warm white
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A welcoming backdrop
Consider Shoji White SW 7042 if you want:
- A crisp, clean white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
While Origami White offers subtle warm character, Shoji White provides modern crispness.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams neutral white you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Origami White or Shoji White? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Origami White and Shoji White?
The main differences are their undertones. Origami White is a warm white while Shoji White is a cooler, crisper white.
What colors complement Origami White?
Origami White looks beautiful paired with deeper blues, blacks, wood tones, and off-white trim for nice contrast.
Can you use Shoji White in a bedroom?
Yes, Shoji White’s crisp yet subtle sophistication would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with black accents for a clean modern look.
Is Origami White suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Origami White’s warmth complements sunlight from southern exposure very nicely.
Does Shoji White come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Shoji White is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss eggshell.
