When searching for the perfect gray paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Passive SW 7064 and Light French Gray SW 0055 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, subtle grays?
In this guide, we’ll analyze Passive vs Light French Gray in-depth to help you determine the ideal gray 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 Passive and Light French Gray
Before getting into the nitty gritty, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Passive and Light French Gray:
- Undertones – Passive is a cool gray, Light French Gray is a greige
- Light Reflectance – Passive has an LRV of 60, Light French Gray has an LRV of 53
- Use – Passive suits modern and traditional styles, Light French Gray fits traditional decor
- Rooms – Passive excels in living rooms, Light French Gray shines in bedrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Passive and Light French Gray more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Passive SW 7064
With its subtle cool gray appearance, Sherwin Williams Passive SW 7064 creates an understated backdrop well-suited for both contemporary and traditional styles. This versatile neutral works across a variety of spaces.
Here are some details about Passive:
- LRV: 60
- Undertones: Cool gray
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, wood tones, black and white
Passive is a relaxed medium-tone dove gray with the slightest hint of blue undertone. In all lighting it maintains its sophisticated neutral gray appearance.
The 60 light reflectance value provides ideal balance without being too dark or too stark. Passive gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable neutral complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Passive color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Brass hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Passive truly excels in these chic, welcoming spaces:
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Passive’s sophistication helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating both modern and traditional styles.
Sherwin Williams Light French Gray SW 0055
With its greige appearance, Sherwin Williams Light French Gray SW 0055 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 Light French Gray:
- LRV: 53
- Undertones: Greige
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices
- Pairs Well With: Wood tones, black, jewel tones
Light French 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 53 light reflectance value prevents the shade from feeling too dark while still remaining cozy. Light French Gray strikes a comfortable balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile neutral complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Light French Gray color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood finishes
- Brass hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Light French Gray truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Light French 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 Passive vs Light French Gray
Now that we’ve examined Passive and Light French Gray independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Passive and Light French Gray have different LRVs of 60 and 53 respectively. Passive will appear brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Passive is a cool gray, while Light French Gray is a warm greige.
Use & Rooms
Passive’s cool sophistication excels in living rooms and dining rooms. Light French Gray’s warmth is perfect for cozy bedrooms.
Availability
Both Passive and Light French Gray come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
Passive vs Light French Gray Comparison Chart
| Paint Color | Passive SW 7064 | Light French Gray SW 0055 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 60 | 53 |
| Undertones | Cool gray | Warm greige |
| Use | Contemporary and traditional styles | Traditional decor |
| Rooms | Living rooms, dining rooms | Bedrooms, living rooms |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
Real-Life Photos: Passive vs Light French Gray
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Passive and Light French Gray:
Sherwin Williams Passive
Sherwin Williams Light French Gray
While they can overlap, Passive generally appears lighter and cooler than the warm greige tone of Light French Gray. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Passive or Light French Gray?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Passive or Light French Gray for your home? Here are a few tips:
Choose Passive SW 7064 if you want:
- A cool, sophisticated gray
- A versatile color suitable for varied styles
- A relaxed feel for dining and living rooms
- To allow accent colors to pop
Choose Light French Gray SW 0055 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 Passive and Light French 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, subtle neutral tones that suit varied spaces.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Passive and Light French Gray paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Passive
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Sherwin Williams Light French 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, Passive and Light French Gray create peaceful backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Passive SW 7064 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Brass hardware accents
Light French Gray SW 0055 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood finishes
- Brass hardware accents
Passive vs Light French Gray – Which is Better?
So which gray paint color is better for your home – Passive or Light French Gray?
Consider Passive SW 7064 if you want:
- A cool, sophisticated gray
- A versatile color suitable for varied styles
- A relaxed feel for dining and living rooms
- To allow accent colors to pop
Consider Light French Gray SW 0055 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 Passive offers cool sophistication, Light French Gray provides subtle traditional warmth.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams gray you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between Passive and Light French Gray?
The main differences are their undertones and light reflectance. Passive is a cooler, brighter gray while Light French Gray is a warmer, darker greige.
What colors complement Passive?
Passive looks beautiful paired with crisp whites, deep charcoal blacks, brass metallics, and natural wood tones for nice contrast.
Can you use Light French Gray in a bedroom?
Yes, Light French Gray’s subtle greige warmth would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with wood furniture and jewel tone accents for a cozy feel.
Is Passive suitable for northern exposure?
Yes, with an LRV of 60 Passive should reflect enough light in a north facing room without appearing too dark or gloomy.
Does Light French Gray come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Light French Gray is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to eggshell to high gloss semi-gloss.
