When selecting a versatile white paint color, two popular choices from Sherwin Williams are Snowbound SW 7004 and Alabaster SW 7008. At first glance, these two off-whites can appear very similar. But on closer inspection, there are noticeable differences that impact their aesthetics.
In this in-depth comparison article, we’ll examine Snowbound vs Alabaster side-by-side. We’ll look at undertones, LRV, real-world photos, and best room applications. By the end, you’ll understand how these whites differ and which is the ideal paint color for your space.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Snowbound and Alabaster
Before diving into the details, here is a brief overview of how SW Snowbound and SW Alabaster differ:
- Undertones: Snowbound is a warm white, Alabaster is a cool white.
- LRV: Snowbound has a higher LRV of 83, Alabaster is darker at 82.
- Use: Snowbound works well whole-home, Alabaster best accenting.
- Rooms: Snowbound excels in bedrooms, Alabaster shines in bathrooms.
Now let’s explore Sherwin Williams Snowbound vs Alabaster more closely!
Sherwin Williams Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound SW 7004 is a beautiful warm white paint color from Sherwin Williams. It provides a soft, welcoming backdrop in any space.
Here are some details about Snowbound:
- LRV: 83
- Undertones: Warm white
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bedrooms, living rooms, offices, whole-home
- Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, browns
Sherwin Williams Snowbound is a very light warm white with the subtlest hint of cream. This faint warmth gives it a gentle, cozy feel.
With an LRV of 83, Snowbound reflects a lot of light to prevent a space feeling dark or dreary. The bare creaminess maintains an open, airy mood.
This versatile warm white complements various color schemes. Pleasing combinations include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Sherwin Williams Peppercorn
While suitable throughout a home, this welcoming white excels as the main wall color in bedrooms, living spaces, offices, and entryways.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a gorgeous cool white paint color from Sherwin Williams. It adds refined contrast anywhere.
Here are some details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Cool white
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, trim, focal walls
- Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, greens
Sherwin Williams Alabaster is a very light white with subtle hints of gray. The faint coolness provides a crisp, elegant look.
With an LRV of 82, Alabaster SW 7008 reflects a decent amount of light while still offering definition. The barely-there gray maintains a bright, refreshing vibe.
Some pleasing combinations with this refined white include:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Sherwin Williams Naval
While suitable throughout a home, this cool white excels when used thoughtfully to accent bathrooms, kitchens, trim, and focal walls.
Comparing Snowbound vs Alabaster
Now that we’ve explored the two whites separately, let’s compare Snowbound and Alabaster directly:
Light Reflectance
With LRVs of 83 and 82 respectively, Snowbound reflects more light than Alabaster. Snowbound avoids feeling dark or dull.
Undertones
Here is the main difference. Snowbound is a warm white while Alabaster is a cool white with gray undertones.
Snowbound’s subtle warmth provides a welcoming, gentle vibe. Alabaster’s coolness feels more refined and crisp.
Rooms
Snowbound’s versatility makes it ideal throughout homes, especially bedrooms. Alabaster works best thoughtfully accenting baths, kitchens, and architectural details.
Paint Finishes
Both Snowbound and Alabaster come in any sheen from matte to glossy. They offer beautiful white paint finishes.
Snowbound vs Alabaster Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of their major differences:
| Paint Color | Snowbound SW 7004 | Alabaster SW 7008 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 83 | 82 |
| Undertones | Warm White | Cool White |
| Use | Whole-home color | Accent color |
| Sheens | All finishes | All finishes |
Real Rooms Painted in Snowbound and Alabaster
To better envision the two whites, let’s look at real rooms painted in Snowbound and Alabaster:
Snowbound SW 7004
Alabaster SW 7008
The images showcase the subtle warm vs cool undertone differences. Snowbound reads as a welcoming white, while Alabaster appears crisper and cooler. But their similar lightness can make them seem alike.
Should You Choose Snowbound or Alabaster?
So which versatile white paint color is better for your space – warm Snowbound or cool Alabaster? Here are some tips for deciding:
Pick Sherwin Williams Snowbound SW 7004 if you want:
- A warm white with a hint of creaminess
- Welcoming comfort suitable for whole-home use
- Gentle sophistication for bedrooms and offices
- Soft, peaceful ambiance without starkness
Choose Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool white with subtle crispness
- Elegant definition on trims, walls, and cabinets
- A bright alternative to heavier whites
- Refined, modern contrast in traditional spaces
If still uncertain between the two, get samples and paint large swatches. View throughout different lighting before deciding.
Either versatile white you select will provide beauty and versatility. But their minor differences mean one likely better fits your goals and style.
Ideal Room Applications
Here are some rooms that tend to suit Snowbound and Alabaster best:
Snowbound SW 7004
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Offices
- Dining Rooms
- Entryways
Alabaster SW 7008
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Doors and Trim
- Accent Walls
- Foyers
Both can work beautifully throughout any home. But the above applications maximize their strengths.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Snowbound and Alabaster create clean, elegant backdrops. Paired with other materials, they make gorgeous interiors:
Snowbound Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White (trim/ceilings)
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (accent wall)
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray (furniture)
- Walnut wood floors
Alabaster Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White (trim/ceilings)
- Sherwin Williams Naval (accent wall)
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray (furniture)
- Matte black hardware
Snowbound vs Alabaster – Which is Best for You?
When choosing between SW Snowbound and SW Alabaster, keep your goals in mind:
Pick Sherwin Williams Snowbound SW 7004 if you want:
- A warm white suitable for whole-home use
- Subtle creaminess with a welcoming vibe
- Cozy comfort for bedrooms and offices
- Gentle sophistication without starkness
Choose Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool white for crisp, elegant accents
- Slightly cooler tone than true bright white
- Beautiful definition on trims, walls, and cabinets
- Refined, modern contrast with a sharp edge
While the whites share similarities, the small differences likely mean one better fits your space. Get samples before deciding between warm Snowbound and cool Alabaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between SW Snowbound vs SW Alabaster? Here are answers to common questions:
Does Alabaster work well in a bedroom?
It can, but Snowbound would be a better full wall color in most bedrooms. Alabaster sometimes reads too cool and crisp for relaxed bedrooms. Use it carefully on accent walls.
What colors complement Snowbound walls?
Snowbound pairs nicely with deeper tones like grays, blues, greens, and browns. Crisp white or black trim and a navy accent wall help accentuate its welcoming vibe.
Which white appears brighter – Snowbound or Alabaster?
With an LRV of 83, Snowbound reflects a bit more light than the 82 LRV of Alabaster. However, Alabaster often appears sharper and crisper to the eye.
Can you use Alabaster in a living room?
Yes, Alabaster can work in living rooms, especially paired with darker woods and neutral furniture. Adds refined definition without starkness. Use thoughtfully.
Is Snowbound suitable for kitchen cabinets?
Absolutely! Snowbound looks gorgeous on kitchen cabinets. Its subtle warmth contrasts beautifully against countertops and backsplashes.
Conclusion
When comparing Sherwin Williams’ Snowbound vs Alabaster paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:
- Snowbound is a warm white suitable for whole-home use, providing a soft, welcoming ambiance.
- Alabaster is a cool white that excels as an accent, adding refined crisp elegance.
While the whites appear similar, the undertone variations help one likely better suit your space and style goals. Consider your needs when deciding between cozy Snowbound and elegant Alabaster. Samples will ensure you select the perfect sophisticated white!
