When selecting a refined white paint color, two popular options from Sherwin Williams are Westhighland White SW 7566 and Alabaster SW 7008. At first glance, these two whites may appear very similar. But looking closer, there are noticeable differences between Westhighland White and Alabaster that impact the overall look and feel of a space.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare Sherwin Williams Westhighland White vs Alabaster paint colors. We’ll examine undertones, LRV levels, real photos of rooms painted in Westhighland White and Alabaster, and the best applications for each color. By the end, you’ll understand how Westhighland White and Alabaster differ and which pristine white is the ideal choice for your home.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Westhighland White and Alabaster
Before diving into all the details, here is a brief overview of how Sherwin Williams Westhighland White and Alabaster differ:
- Undertones: Westhighland White is a warm white, Alabaster is a cool white.
- LRV: Alabaster has a higher LRV of 82, Westhighland White is slightly darker at 86 LRV.
- Use: Westhighland White works well whole-home, Alabaster best for accents.
- Rooms: Westhighland White excels in living spaces, Alabaster shines in bathrooms.
Now let’s explore the comparison between Sherwin Williams Westhighland White SW 7566 and Alabaster SW 7008 more closely!
Sherwin Williams Westhighland White SW 7566
Westhighland White SW 7566 is a beautiful warm white paint color with welcoming, open vibes. It provides flexibility as a versatile neutral white.
Here are some key details about Westhighland White:
- LRV: 86
- Undertones: Warm white, hint of cream
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, offices, dining rooms
- Pairs Well With: Tans, grays, blues, greens
Westhighland White is a clean white with very faint undertones of warm cream. The subtle warmth gives it an inviting, open feel without strong contrast.
With an LRV of 86, Westhighland White reflects a significant amount of light to prevent a space from feeling stark or cold. The creaminess maintains an airy, welcoming ambiance.
This adaptable white complements various color combinations. Pleasing pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Sherwin Williams Rainwashed
- Sherwin Williams Silverstrand
While suitable anywhere in a home, this welcoming white truly shines when used as the main wall color in living areas, bedrooms, home offices, and dining spaces.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a gorgeous cool white paint color with widespread popularity. Its versatility allows it to work in any style home.
Here are some key details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Cool white, hint of gray
- Sheen: Available in all finishes
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, trims, accents
- Pairs Well With: Grays, blues, greens, wood tones
Alabaster is a clean, bright white with the faintest undertones of cool gray. While it reads as a true white, the subtle gray gives it a slightly sharper, more defined edge.
With an LRV of 82, Alabaster reflects a large amount of light to avoid feeling flat or dull. The barely-there grayness adds a touch of crisp freshness.
Some pleasing color combinations with Alabaster include:
- Sherwin Williams Extra White
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray
- Sherwin Williams Naval
While fitting for any room when used correctly, this cool clean white truly excels when strategically placed in bathrooms, kitchens, on trim, doors, and accent walls throughout a home.
Directly Comparing Westhighland White vs Alabaster Paint Colors
Now that we’ve looked at Westhighland White SW 7566 and Alabaster SW 7008 separately, let’s directly compare the two Sherwin Williams paint colors:
Light Reflectance Value (LRV)
Alabaster has an LRV of 82, while Westhighland White has an LRV of 86. This means Alabaster reflects a bit more light than Westhighland White. However, both reflect ample light and avoid feeling dark or dingy.
Undertones
Here is the biggest difference between the two whites. Westhighland White has subtle warm cream undertones, giving it an inviting, airy vibe. Alabaster has faint cool gray undertones, providing a sharper, brighter feel.
Best Room Applications
Thanks to its versatility, Westhighland White works beautifully throughout an entire home, especially in main living areas. Meanwhile, Alabaster excels when used strategically as an accent color due to its hint of cool crispness.
Paint Finishes
Both Westhighland White and Alabaster come in any sheen from matte to high-gloss. They can provide soft, elegant finishes or add definition through gloss.
Westhighland White vs Alabaster Comparison Chart
Here is an at-a-glance overview of their major differences:
| Paint Color | Westhighland White SW 7566 | Alabaster SW 7008 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 86 | 82 |
| Undertones | Warm white, cream hint | Cool white, gray hint |
| Use | Whole-home color | Accent color |
| Sheens | All finishes | All finishes |
Real Rooms Painted Westhighland White and Alabaster
To better visualize the contrast between cozy Westhighland White and crisp Alabaster, let’s look at real rooms painted in the two white colors:
Westhighland White SW 7566
Alabaster SW 7008
The images demonstrate the noticeable difference in warmth between Westhighland White and Alabaster. Westhighland White has a creaminess, while Alabaster is a sharper white. But their similar lightness can make them seem comparable at first glance.
Should You Choose Westhighland White or Alabaster?
So how do you decide between welcoming Westhighland White or cool and crisp Alabaster for your home? Here are some tips:
Pick Westhighland White SW 7566 if you want:
- A warm white with subtle creaminess
- A welcoming color suitable for whole-home use
- Inviting tranquility for living rooms and bedrooms
- Open airiness without strong contrast
Choose Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool white with a hint of sharpness
- Crisp, subtle brightness for baths, kitchens, and trim
- A clean alternative to warmer whites
- A bright, refreshing white for accents
If you’re still unsure, get samples of both paint colors and test them out. View the swatches throughout the day to help guide your decision.
Either refined white you select will provide beauty, lightness, and versatility. But their slight differences mean one likely better fits your personal style and goals.
Ideal Room Applications
Here are the rooms that tend to suit Westhighland White SW 7566 and Alabaster SW 7008 best:
Westhighland White SW 7566
- Living Rooms
- Bedrooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Entryways
Alabaster SW 7008
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Doors and Trim
- Accent Walls
- Hallways
Both can work well throughout an entire home. But the above applications maximize each white paint color’s unique strengths.
Design Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Westhighland White and Alabaster create clean, elegant backdrops. Combined with other paint colors and materials, they can make truly stunning interiors:
Westhighland White SW 7566 Color Combinations
- Sherwin Williams Extra White (trim/ceilings)
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (accent wall)
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray (furniture)
- Medium wood flooring
Alabaster SW 7008 Color Combinations
- Sherwin Williams Pure White (trim/molding)
- Sherwin Williams Naval (accent wall)
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray (furniture)
- White quartz countertops
Westhighland White vs Alabaster – Which is Best for You?
When selecting between Westhighland White and Alabaster, keep your own design style and goals in mind:
Pick Westhighland White SW 7566 if you want:
- A warm white suitable for whole-home use
- Subtle creaminess with an inviting vibe
- A soothing oasis for living rooms and bedrooms
- Open airiness without strong contrast
Choose Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool crisp white with sharp definition
- Bright, subtle contrast for accents
- Beautiful crispness on trims, cabinets, and walls
- A clean, refreshing white with a hint of gray
While the two whites share some similarities, their unique undertones make one likely a better fit for your space and needs. Get samples before deciding on warm Westhighland White or cool Alabaster.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to determine between welcoming Westhighland White or crisp Alabaster? Below are answers to some common questions:
Does Alabaster work well in living rooms?
Yes, Alabaster can work beautifully in living rooms, especially paired with contrasting trims and furnishings. The subtle coolness adds nice definition when used strategically.
What colors complement Westhighland White walls?
Westhighland White pairs nicely with deeper blues, grays, greens, and tans. Crisp white trim and a black accent wall help provide depth against its airy warmth.
Which white paint color is lighter?
Alabaster has a slightly higher LRV of 82 vs the 86 LRV of Westhighland White. However, the minute difference is barely discernible to the eye in real rooms.
Can you use Westhighland White in a bathroom?
Definitely. Paired with white tile and natural wood accents, warm Westhighland White provides a soothing, welcoming ambiance in bathrooms.
Is Alabaster suitable for kitchen cabinets?
Yes, Alabaster looks gorgeous against white marble countertops! Its hint of cool gray adds definition without feeling stark or clinical.
Conclusion
When comparing Sherwin Williams’ Westhighland White SW 7566 and Alabaster SW 7008 paint colors, the main differences come down to undertones and aesthetics:
- Westhighland White is a warm white suitable for whole-home use, providing an inviting, tranquil vibe.
- Alabaster is a cool white that excels as an accent, adding subtle brightness and definition.
While the two whites share some similarities, their unique undertones make one likely better suit your goals. Carefully consider your needs when deciding between welcoming Westhighland White and crisp Alabaster paint colors. Getting samples will ensure you select the perfect refined white for your home!
