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Okay, let’s be real for a sec, picking colors for your whole house? That’s intimidating. Feels like you’re about to make a life-long commitment (to paint, of all things), but hey, it’s also where the magic happens. Nothing like finally seeing your personality splashed across the walls instead of that boring builder beige.
So, Sherwin Williams. That brand is basically the Beyoncé of paint, tons of options, all the inspo, and a color for literally every mood swing. If you’re stuck staring at paint chips till your eyes cross, join the club. But don’t worry, I’ve got you.
Here’s what’s up: I pulled together 11 whole-house color palettes from Sherwin Williams. Trust me, this will make things a whole lot easier, and maybe even get you pumped instead of panicked. There’s something here whether you’re into chill neutrals or you want to make your walls scream “LOOK AT ME!”
How to Know if a Paint Color Is Right for You?
The best way to see if a paint color works for your home is to test it on your wall. Look at it over a few days in different lighting; morning, afternoon, and evening, to see how it really feels.
You can do this by getting a sample from the paint store and using a brush put it up on the walls, but then you are left with a can that you can’t do anything with. Those samples are used with poor-quality paint and aren’t meant for use on your walls permanently.
Instead, I recommend going with Samplize. They are a company that will send you a 9”x14.75” peel and stick swatch of a paint color that you can stick to the wall. When you are done just peel it off and throw it away.
It’s easy and much less messy!
11 Whole House Color Palette From Sherwin Williams Ideas
Let’s be honest, picking a “cohesive palette” isn’t just about grabbing a bunch of pretty colors and calling it a day. You want your place to feel like it actually goes together, right? Like, you walk from the living room and the vibe just… flows. No weird color whiplash.
Here’s some color combos that actually get it right. Mix and match, or copy-paste the whole thing—no shame.
1. Classic Neutrals Palette
If you wanna keep things classy (think Nancy Meyers movie house), this one’s for you. Clean, timeless, and your grandma probably approves.
Alabaster (SW 7008):
Creamy, soft, not blinding white, perfect for big spaces or anywhere you want light without feeling like you live inside a hospital.
Repose Gray (SW 7015):
Chill gray with just enough warmth. Solid pick for open layouts or when you need something to play nice with, well, everything.
Tricorn Black (SW 6258):
It’s black. Like, real black. Use it for doors, shelves, kitchen islands if you wanna look like you know what you’re doing.
Eider White (SW 7014):
Super pale, cool gray-white. I like it for trim and moldings. It’s clean without being icy.
Accessible Beige (SW 7036):
Not your grandma’s old beige, there’s a little gray in there so it feels modern. Makes hallways or spare bedrooms feel cozy, especially with wood stuff around.
Why it works
Simple: these colors don’t fight each other. You get a house that feels put-together, but not boring. Works in everything from old-school houses to “modern farmhouse” Pinterest dreams.
2. Warm and Cozy Palette
Wanna feel hugged by your house? This one’s all about making things comfy. Bring on the fuzzy socks and hot cocoa energy.
Accessible Beige (SW 7036):
Your base color. It’s warm, feels inviting, and plays nice with basically anything.
Sea Salt (SW 6204):
Soft greeny-gray, spa vibes all the way. Bathrooms, bedrooms, laundry rooms? Yes, please.
Urbane Bronze (SW 7048):
Deep, moody, dramatic. Want a fireplace or accent wall that looks expensive? Go here.
Creamy (SW 7012):
Warm white that’s not yellow. Use it for ceilings, trim, or little rooms you wanna keep light and happy.
Warm Stone (SW 7032):
Mid-tone taupe. It grounds a space, makes dining rooms or entryways feel like you actually meant to decorate them.
Why it works
It’s cozy central. You get depth from the darks, and light from the neutrals, everything feels layered, not flat and boring.
3. Cool and Contemporary Palette
If you’re into crisp lines, modern feels, and want your house to look like it belongs in a design magazine, this one’s calling your name.
Snowbound (SW 7004):
Bright, cool white. Use it everywhere for a fresh-as-heck backdrop.
Passive (SW 7064):
Airy, cool gray. Open floor plans, kitchens, anywhere you want things to feel light and floaty.
Peppercorn (SW 7674):
Charcoal drama, baby. Accent walls, doors, or if you’re brave, cabinets.
Silver Strand (SW 7057):
Soft gray-green. Sneak it into bedrooms or bathrooms for a little “ahhh” moment.
Cyberspace (SW 7076):
Bold navy with a hint of gray. Perfect for built-ins or just flexing on an accent wall.
Why it works
You get high-contrast, modern vibes without it feeling like a hospital. Pops of color plus moody darks? Chef’s kiss.
4. Earthy and Organic Palette
Honestly, nothing beats the vibe of bringing the outside in. This color combo is all about chill, grounded energy, think forest walks or a quiet afternoon at a cabin.
Shoji White (SW 7042):
Sorta like your favorite cozy sweater, off-white, a hint of beige, and just the right amount of warmth. Slap it on walls or ceilings and your whole place feels instantly more zen.
Oyster Bay (SW 6206):
That green-gray that basically whispers “spa day.” Bedrooms, kitchens, anywhere you want a little peace and quiet.
Dried Thyme (SW 6186):
Earthy green, but make it sophisticated. Dining room? Entryway? Accent wall in the living room? Yes, yes, yes.
Natural Tan (SW 7567):
Soft beige that doesn’t try too hard. Use it in hallways or living spaces for that seamless, everything-just-goes feel.
Black Fox (SW 7020):
Deep brownish-black, super moody, super chic. Cabinets, doors, that one dramatic furniture piece everyone asks about.
Why it works
Nature doesn’t mess around with color, and neither should you. These shades play so well with wood, stone, plants, pretty much anything earthy. Perfect if you want your home to feel like a retreat (minus the bugs).
5. Coastal Serenity Palette
So you want your place to feel like a never-ending vacation? Go coastal. It’s breezy, it’s fresh, it practically smells like saltwater and sunscreen.
Pure White (SW 7005):
Bright, crisp—like fresh sheets. Use it everywhere: ceilings, trim, walls if you’re feeling bold. Makes everything feel bigger and brighter.
Rainwashed (SW 6211):
That blue-green that just screams “beach house.” Bathrooms, bedrooms, sunrooms, anywhere you want that laid-back, ocean breeze vibe.
Naval (SW 6244):
Rich navy that brings the drama. Not too much though—a little goes a long way. Accent walls, kitchen islands, or that old dresser you wanna make pop.
Tradewind (SW 6218):
Pale blue, super soft. Living room walls, open spaces, spots where you wanna just flop down and relax.
Drift of Mist (SW 9166):
A soft, neutral gray that plays nice with everything. Hallways or as a backup wall color, keeps the look pulled together.
Why it works
This palette? It’s basically a deep breath for your house. Light colors bounce the sun around, deeper blues keep it grounded. It’s like living inside a perfectly edited Instagram beach shot, without the sand in your shoes.
6. Earthy Luxe Palette
Wanna go fancy but keep it real? This one’s for you. Think cozy, but make it glam—layered, rich colors that feel both high-end and totally comforting.
Humble Gold (SW 6387):
Warm, golden, just a bit earthy. Great for an accent wall that says “I have my life together,” even if you totally don’t.
Antique White (SW 6110):
Creamy, soft, a little sunshine-y. Ceilings, trim, or big spaces where you want things light but not cold.
Sable (SW 6107):
Rich brown with a hint of red. Super cozy in a home office, library, or master bedroom, basically anywhere you wanna curl up with a book.
Cavern Clay (SW 7701):
Muted terracotta, all desert vibes. Accent walls, entryways, spots you want to feel a little rustic but still sophisticated.
Tricorn Black (SW 6258):
Sleek, deep black. Use it for trim, doors, or an accent wall if you’re feeling gutsy. Instantly ups the drama and makes the lighter shades pop.
Why it works
Mixing those deep colors with soft neutrals? Chef’s kiss. You get all the luxury without the stuffiness. Works like magic with wood or leather, so your space feels both snuggly and swanky.
7. Modern Farmhouse Palette
Alright, picture the vibes: classic farmhouse, but without the kitsch. Clean lines, warm tones, a sprinkle of color—super welcoming, but still up-to-date.
Alabaster (SW 7008):
Soft white, a bit creamy, never harsh. Walls, ceilings, trim, it’s pretty much the MVP here.
Dovetail (SW 7018):
Medium gray with a little warmth. Use it on cabinets, feature walls, or furniture if you’re into that subtle contrast thing.
Fawn Brindle (SW 7648):
Earthy taupe, straight-up cozy. Bedrooms, living rooms, makes everything feel like a hug.
Charcoal Blue (SW 2739):
Deep, muted blue. Accent walls, doors, built-ins. Instant sophistication, zero effort.
Extra White (SW 7006):
Crisp white with cool undertones, great for trim and ceilings. Balances the warmer colors, keeps it fresh.
Why it works
You get that comfy, lived-in feel with a modern twist. The mix of warm and cool tones keeps things interesting, and nothing feels too precious. It’s like Joanna Gaines meets downtown loft—what’s not to love?
8. Soft and Subtle Palette
Okay, let’s talk chill. This one’s for folks who want a space that feels like a sigh of relief after a long day, none of that high-voltage drama, just soft and mellow, ya know?
Worldly Gray (SW 7043):
Think of this as that cozy sweater you never want to take off. It’s a warm gray with a hint of beige, so it never feels cold or sterile. Living room, dining room, wherever—this color just gets along with everyone.
Crushed Ice (SW 7647):
Silvery, light, and crisp—like you just opened the windows after a rain. Pop it in your bedroom or down a hallway for a clean, fresh vibe that doesn’t scream for attention.
Silver Strand (SW 7057):
Blue-gray, kind of like those calm, misty mornings where everything feels peaceful. Bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways, it’s basically tranquility in a can.
Wool Skein (SW 6148):
A soft beige with enough warmth to make you want to kick off your shoes and stay a while. Great for walls in living rooms or entryways. It’s inviting, not overwhelming.
Repose Gray (SW 7015):
This one’s like the Swiss Army knife of paint colors, light gray with just a whisper of warmth, so it plays nice with almost anything. Use it as your backdrop or sneak it in as an accent.
Why it works
All these muted grays and beiges? They’re like a spa day for your house. Super peaceful, nothing too loud, just easy-breezy comfort. The balance of cool and warm shades keeps it interesting without turning your space into a snoozefest.
9. Bright and Cheerful Palette
Alright, let’s crank up the good vibes. This one’s for the optimists, the ones who want their home to feel like a sunny playlist on repeat.
Lemon Chiffon (SW 6675):
Soft, sunny yellow, think “breakfast with the windows open.” Makes kitchens, dining rooms, and playrooms feel extra happy.
Extra White (SW 7006):
The cleanest, brightest white out there. Throw it on trim, ceilings, or wherever you need a little visual “reset” between all the fun colors.
Aquavert (SW 6747):
Seafoam green with a fresh, coastal vibe. Bathrooms or kitchens instantly feel lighter, you might even start craving mojitos.
Coral Reef (SW 6606):
Lively coral, a little orange, a lot of fun. Use it for an accent wall or punch up some furniture. If this color were a person, it’d definitely be the life of the party.
Open Air (SW 6491):
Light blue, totally reminds you of a cloudless day. Perfect for bedrooms or workspaces, somehow relaxes you and wakes you up at the same time.
Why it works
It’s happiness in paint form. The yellows, greens, and corals have so much personality, but they’re not obnoxious about it. Family rooms, kitchens, kids’ spaces, anywhere you want a “heck yes!” sort of energy. It’s cheerful without being chaos.
10. Timeless Traditional Palette
Now for the classics. Think “grown-up,” but not boring. This palette mixes rich, deep colors with crisp neutrals for a vibe that never goes out of style.
High Reflective White (SW 7757):
Sharp, clean white. Great for walls, trim, ceilings, seriously, it’s the “little black dress” of paint.
Silverplate (SW 7649):
Cool gray with a touch of blue. Looks fancy but not stuck-up. Perfect for dining rooms, libraries, or anywhere you want to impress your in-laws.
Caviar (SW 6990):
Deep, dramatic black with blue undertones. Slap it on an accent wall, doors, or some bold furniture. It’s the color equivalent of a tuxedo, classic, a bit mysterious.
Dried Thyme (SW 6186):
Earthy green, subtle and grounded. Feature walls, cabinets, you name it. It’s got that “heritage home” feel without looking like grandma’s curtains.
Anew Gray (SW 7030):
Warm, mid-tone gray with a dash of brown. Big spaces love this shade, living rooms, kitchens—because it’s cozy but not bland.
Why it works
This palette’s the real MVP if you love traditional style but don’t wanna get stuck in the past. Deep colors like Caviar and Silverplate give you that classy look, while the warm neutrals stop things from feeling stiff. Works everywhere, from formal living rooms to laid-back kitchens. Timeless, but with a bit of edge.
11. Vibrant and Bold Palette
Okay, so if you’re the type who thinks beige is basically the color of sadness, this palette is your jam. We’re talking loud, proud, and basically screaming “look at me!” in the best way possible. This is for people who want their space to slap you awake with energy, think creative studios, funky apartments, or just anyone who loves a little chaos (the good kind).
Forsythia (SW 6907):
Wild, juicy yellow-orange. It’s like sunshine after three cups of coffee. Splash it on an accent wall, or maybe in your kitchen if you want to feel like every morning is a new adventure. Warmth? Check. Good vibes? Double check.
Show Stopper (SW 7588):
This red does not play. It’s bold, it’s classic, and it basically begs for company. Throw it in a dining room and suddenly you’re hosting dinner parties, whether you wanted to or not. Living room? Sure, if you like your Netflix marathons with a side of drama.
Nifty Turquoise (SW 6941):
Tropical blue, straight outta your dream vacation. It’s got that laid-back, “let’s chill but also have a dance party” feel. Perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, or just jazzing up a boring old nightstand.
Lemon Twist (SW 6909):
Golden yellow, almost good enough to eat (but like, don’t). It turns up the happy in any space—kitchens, living rooms, whatever. Instant mood booster.
Zircon (SW 7667):
All these wild colors need someone to calm them down, right? Enter: cool steel gray. Use it to ground the room, or as a background so your other colors can go wild without losing the plot.
Why it works
Honestly? Because it’s not afraid to go all-in. These colors are like best friends at a music festival, different personalities, zero chill, but somehow they bring out the best in each other. If you want a home that’s got personality for days, this mix is basically your spirit animal.
What the Heck Is a Whole House Color Palette, and Why Bother?
Alright, so a whole house color palette is basically your home’s wardrobe. Instead of picking random colors for every room and ending up with a patchwork mess, you pick a handful that vibe together. You don’t have to paint every wall the same color—just make sure they’re all getting along.
Why do this?
- Smooth Moves: Everything flows. No more color whiplash moving from room to room.
- Decision Fatigue? Gone: You’ve got your colors, so picking paint isn’t an existential crisis.
- Looks Fancy: Buyers love a house that looks like someone actually planned it.
- Still You: You can show off your style while keeping things looking intentional.
How Many Colors Should You Actually Use?
Don’t go wild, unless you’re into the whole circus look. Most people land somewhere between 5 and 7. That usually means:
- 1 or 2 neutrals for the big stuff (walls, halls, ceilings… the boring bits)
- 2 or 3 accents so things don’t get too snoozy
- 1 or 2 deep/bold shades for drama (because you deserve some)
Example:
- Base: “Alabaster” (SW 7008)
- Accent: “Sea Salt” (SW 6204)
- Bold: “Urbane Bronze” (SW 7048)
How to Pick Your Whole House Color Palette (Without Losing Your Mind)
- Figure out your style:
Are you a modern minimalist, retro fanatic, or farmhouse chic? Pick colors that match your vibe. Modern = cool tones, Farmhouse = warm whites, you get the idea. - Check your light:
If your place is flooded with sunshine, go bold, you can handle it. Dark, cave-like rooms? Stick with lighter shades unless you want to feel like you live in a bat cave. - Keep it connected:
Use the same neutral or base in spaces that flow into each other. It’ll make your home feel bigger and less like a maze. - Don’t fight the fixtures:
If you’ve got orange-toned wood floors, don’t slap cool gray on the walls unless you like chaos. Work with what you’ve got (cabinets, counters, floors). - Sample, sample, sample:
Slap those paint chips everywhere. Colors change all day long with the light, so don’t trust the can. Trust your eyeballs.
And that’s it. You’re ready to make your home look like you actually know what you’re doing.
Can I Mix Warm and Cool Colors in My Whole House Color Palette?
Heck yes, you can mix warm and cool colors! Forget those old-school “rules”, life’s too short for boring beige everywhere. Really, mixing warms and cools is what gives a house some soul. The trick? Don’t just throw colors together like you’re making a salad. Find a common thread, maybe a neutral like greige (yeah, that weird word that’s basically gray + beige had a baby) to keep stuff from looking all over the place.
Also, pick a side: do you want your house to feel more chill (cool tones) or cozy (warm tones)? Let one vibe lead, and use the other as the backup dancers, like warm beige walls with a pop of cool blue pillows. Oh, and don’t go wild in every single room. Too many color battles in one space and your eyes won’t know where to look.
What Are the Popular Colors for a Whole House?
People are obsessed with Sherwin Williams, so, let’s talk faves:
Neutrals:
- Alabaster (SW 7008): Soft, warm white. Honestly, it goes anywhere, walls, ceilings, even your grandma’s baseboards.
- Repose Gray (SW 7015): If gray could give you a hug, this is it. A little warm, super flexible.
Soft Accent Colors:
- Sea Salt (SW 6204): Calming blue-green. Feels like a spa, minus the cucumber water.
- Accessible Beige (SW 7036): The name says it all—friendly and easy-going. Works in pretty much any room where you want neutral but not boring.
Bold Colors:
- Naval (SW 6244): Deep navy. Super classy, looks killer on an accent wall or cabinets.
- Urbane Bronze (SW 7048): Moody gray-brown. It’s got drama, but in a good way.
Trendy Colors for 2025:
- Evergreen Fog (SW 9130): Earthy green-gray. It’s like bringing the outside in, but without the bugs.
- Pure White (SW 7005): Classic white. Seriously, it’s like the little black dress of wall colors, goes with anything.
Put together a palette like this, and suddenly your house doesn’t just look good, it feels like it actually gets you.