White on White: Which Bright Whites Match Which Off-Whites?
5 Popular Off-White Paint Colors from Sherwin Williams and Their Complementary Bright Whites
I like to joke with my customers that I wouldn’t have a job if choosing a white paint color were easy! Choosing the perfect off-white paint color can elevate your space while providing a warm, inviting atmosphere. Off-white shades can vary from soft, creamy tones to cooler, crisp hues, making them incredibly versatile for both modern and traditional settings. Here are the top five off-white paint colors from Sherwin Williams, along with bright white shades that beautifully complement them.
1. White Duck (SW 7010)
White Duck is a cool yet creamy white that has become one of my personal favorites (and painters love it too). Its soft undertones make it an ideal backdrop for various decorating styles.
Complementary Bright White:
Pure White (SW 7005): A bright, clean white that enhances the warmth of White Duck, giving your space a fresh and airy feel.
2. City Loft (SW 7631)
City Loft is a classic off-white with slight taupe and gray undertones that harmonizes well with natural wood tones and colorful accents.
Complementary Bright White:
Snowbound (SW 7004): This bright white has a hint of coolness and a bit of red that pairs well with City Loft (that also has a hint of both gray and red) while adding a crisp touch to trim and moldings.
3. Shoji White (SW 7042)
Shoji White offers a sophisticated, soft hue with both subtle gray and beige undertones (greige undertones if you will). Its neutrality allows it to blend effortlessly with different decor styles.
Complementary Bright White:
White Snow (SW 9541): White Snow, a chameleon shade of bright white that has both a hint of warmth and cool tones, provides an excellent bright white contrast to Shoji White, highlighting architectural details. Just a FYI, it is part of the designer collection which means it only comes in Emerald Designer Series formula which is fairly expensive. For a less expensive alternative, try Pure White (SW 7005).
4. First Star (SW 7646)
First Star embodies a soft, understated elegance, featuring hints of gray that bring depth to a space. It works well in both bright and moody settings.
Complementary Bright White:
Extra White (SW 7006): A very bright reflective white, Extra White enhances the sophisticated shades of First Star and offers a bright freshness to any room.
5. Navajo White (SW 6126)
Navajo White is a classic off-white with warm undertones, reminiscent of sand. It’s a great choice for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Complementary Bright White:
Alabaster (SW 7008): It complements Navajo White beautifully by maintaining warmth while adding brightness to any trim or ceiling.
When selecting off-white paint colors, consider how they interact with the lighting in your home, as this can greatly affect their appearance. Pairing them with the right bright white can create a striking contrast that highlights your home's architectural features while ensuring a harmonious color palette. Each combination provides a unique opportunity to accentuate your style, making the right choice crucial for achieving your desired atmosphere.