When searching for the perfect white paint color, it’s easy to get stuck comparing two similar versatile shades from Sherwin Williams. Popular choices Zurich White SW 7626 and Alabaster SW 7008 appear very alike at first glance. But what really differentiates these two beautiful, bright whites?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll analyze Zurich White vs Alabaster to help you determine the ideal 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 Zurich White and Alabaster
Before getting into the details, here is an overview of the main differences between Sherwin Williams’ Zurich White and Alabaster:
- Undertones – Zurich White is a warm white, Alabaster is a cool white
- Light Reflectance – Alabaster has an LRV of 82, Zurich White has an LRV of 76
- Use – Zurich White suits traditional styles, Alabaster fits modern decor
- Rooms – Zurich White excels in bedrooms, Alabaster shines in bathrooms
- Availability – Both come in all sheens
Now let’s explore Zurich White and Alabaster more thoroughly.
Sherwin Williams Zurich White SW 7626
With its soft, warm white appearance, Sherwin Williams Zurich White SW 7626 creates a bright backdrop well-suited for accentuating traditional styles. This versatile white works in both formal and casual spaces.
Here are some details about Zurich 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
Zurich White is a relaxed, creamy white with faint beige undertones. In certain lights it can read as an antique white. The welcoming white has traditional appeal.
The 76 light reflectance value provides ideal illumination without appearing too stark. Zurich White strikes a bright yet soft balance suitable for most rooms.
This versatile white complements both cool and warm accents nicely. Popular Zurich White color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
While suitable anywhere at home, Zurich White truly excels in these spaces:
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Zurich White’s warmth helps create a welcoming, traditional feel perfect as an all-over home color. Use it to allow bold colors to stand out.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008
With its crisp, clean white appearance, Sherwin Williams Alabaster SW 7008 creates a bright backdrop well-suited for contemporary styles. This versatile white works across modern spaces.
Here are some details about Alabaster:
- LRV: 82
- Undertones: Cool white
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Bathrooms, kitchens, offices, laundry rooms
- Pairs Well With: Bold colors, black and white, wood tones
Alabaster is a bright, icy white with the faintest hint of gray undertone. In all lighting it maintains its crisp, understated white appearance.
The 82 light reflectance value provides ample illumination without being too stark. Alabaster gives an open, breathable feel.
This adaptable white complements a wide variety of colors from bold to muted. Popular Alabaster color pairings include:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
While suitable anywhere at home, Alabaster truly excels in these sleek, modern spaces:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
Alabaster’s versatility helps create a relaxing yet fresh backdrop, perfect for accentuating contemporary styles.
Comparing Zurich White vs Alabaster
Now that we’ve examined Zurich White and Alabaster independently, let’s directly compare them:
Light Reflectance
Alabaster and Zurich White have quite different LRVs of 82 and 76 respectively. Alabaster will appear noticeably brighter.
Undertones
Here’s where the main difference lies. Zurich White is a warm white, while Alabaster is a cool white.
Use & Rooms
Zurich White’s warmth excels in cozy bedrooms and living areas. Alabaster’s coolness is perfect for sleek modern baths and kitchens.
Availability
Both Zurich White and Alabaster come in any sheen from matte to high gloss.
| Paint Color | Zurich White SW 7626 | Alabaster SW 7008 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 76 | 82 |
| Undertones | Warm white | Cool white |
| Use | Traditional styles | Modern decor |
| Finishes | All sheens | All sheens |
| Style | Traditional | Contemporary |
Real-Life Photos: Zurich White vs Alabaster
Let’s look at real-life photos to better visualize the differences between Zurich White and Alabaster:
Sherwin Williams Zurich White
Sherwin Williams Alabaster
While they can overlap, Zurich White generally appears warmer than the cool crisp tone of Alabaster. But lighting affects their look.
Should I Choose Zurich White or Alabaster?
So how do you decide between Sherwin Williams’ Zurich White or Alabaster for your home? Here are some tips:
Choose Zurich White SW 7626 if you want:
- A warm, creamy white
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A welcoming backdrop
Choose Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool, icy 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 Zurich White and Alabaster. 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 white tones that suit varied styles.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are some rooms that are especially well-suited to Zurich White and Alabaster paint colors:
Sherwin Williams Zurich White
- Bedrooms
- Living Rooms
- Dining Rooms
- Offices
- Libraries
Sherwin Williams Alabaster
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Laundry Rooms
- Offices
- Hallways
While both whites work well throughout the home, the above applications make optimal use of their unique strengths.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
On their own, Zurich White and Alabaster create clean backdrops. Complement them with other colors and materials for gorgeous spaces:
Zurich White SW 7626 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Walnut wood finishes
- White trim
Alabaster SW 7008 Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Black accent pieces
- Rich wood stains and finishes
- Chrome hardware accents
Zurich White vs Alabaster – Which is Better?
So which white paint color is better for your home – Zurich White or Alabaster?
Consider Zurich White SW 7626 if you want:
- A warm, creamy white
- A cozy yet sophisticated white for bedrooms
- A versatile white that works with traditional decor
- A welcoming backdrop
Consider Alabaster SW 7008 if you want:
- A cool, icy white
- A versatile color suitable for modern spaces
- An airy feel for bathrooms and kitchens
- To allow bold accent colors to pop
While Zurich White offers subtle warm character, Alabaster provides modern crispness.
Get samples before deciding. Either beautiful Sherwin Williams white you choose will suit your home perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to decide between Zurich White or Alabaster? Here are answers to some common questions:
What are the main differences between Zurich White and Alabaster?
The main differences are their undertones. Zurich White is a warm white while Alabaster is a cooler, crisper white.
What colors complement Zurich White?
Zurich White looks beautiful paired with deeper blues, blacks, wood tones, and off-white trim for nice contrast.
Can you use Alabaster in a bedroom?
Yes, Alabaster’s crisp yet subtle sophistication would work wonderfully in a bedroom paired with black accents for a clean modern look.
Is Zurich White suitable for southern exposure?
Yes, Zurich White’s warmth complements sunlight from southern exposure very nicely.
Does Alabaster come in eggshell finish?
Yes, Alabaster is extremely versatile and comes in any sheen from flat matte to high gloss eggshell.
