Today, I’m revealing the most popular neutral paint colors from Sherwin-Williams that consistently top designers’ favorite lists.
After analyzing thousands of home photos and surveying professional painters, I’ve identified the neutrals that appear most often in beautiful homes. I’ve even tested dramatic alternatives like Thunderous to understand why these softer shades remain so popular.
Here are the neutral colors that never disappoint.
What Makes a Neutral Paint Popular?
A neutral paint becomes popular when it offers lasting comfort and versatility, allowing anyone to live with it easily over time.
People often look for shades that feel warm, inviting, and timeless rather than trendy or overwhelming.
One key factor is the Light Reflectance Value (LRV), which measures how much light a color reflects and influences whether a room feels bright and open or cozy and intimate.
Sherwin-Williams has a broad spectrum of neutrals, ranging from warm beiges to cool grays, designed to adapt beautifully to different lighting conditions and décor styles.
These shades stay popular year after year for good reason. Inspiration photos of colors like Sherwin-Williams’ Rain help you see how the paint will actually look in your own space.
Sherwin-Williams Top Neutral Paint Colors for 2025
These popular neutral shades from Sherwin-Williams continue to be favorites among homeowners and designers alike in 2025.
1. Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
A soft, warm gray that feels welcoming in living rooms or open spaces, lending subtle warmth without being overpowering.
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 60
- RGB Value: 209 / 203 / 193
- HEX Value: #D1CBC1
Agreeable Gray’s gentle warmth and versatility make it ideal for many living spaces, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.
2. Accessible Beige (SW 7036)
I often recommend this warm beige with gray undertones for cozy, inviting rooms; it’s extremely adaptable.
- LRV: 58
- RGB Value: 209 / 199 / 184
- HEX Value: #D1C7B8
Accessible Beige brings warmth and depth to any room, pairing well with a variety of furnishings and lighting.
3. Repose Gray (SW 7015)
This medium gray is a personal favorite for spaces that need flexibility; it works with many lighting conditions.
- LRV: 58
- RGB Value: 204 / 201 / 192
- HEX Value: #CCC9C0
Repose Gray provides a balanced tone that complements both warm and cool décor, great for adaptable living areas.
4. Alabaster (SW 7008)
As a creamy warm white, Alabaster shines on trims, ceilings, or even walls, adding gentle brightness and softness.
LRV: 82
RGB Value: 237 / 234 / 224
HEX Value: #EDEAE0
Alabaster’s soft, welcoming glow enhances spaces by adding brightness without starkness, perfect for accents or main walls.
5. Retreat (SW 6207)
For those wanting a subtle touch of color, Retreat offers a calming green-gray that’s perfect in bedrooms or relaxation areas.
LRV: 21
RGB Value: 122 / 128 / 118
HEX Value: #7A8076
Retreat brings a sense of balance and peace, making it a go-to shade for anyone wanting a restful, grounded atmosphere at home.
How to Choose the Right Neutral for Your Space
Choosing the perfect neutral paint depends on several factors that affect how the color looks and feels in your home.
- Natural light makes cool neutrals appear crisp and vibrant.
- Artificial lighting can warm up cool shades or soften warm tones.
- Consider undertones, warm or cool, to create your desired mood.
- Match neutrals with furniture and flooring for a cohesive design.
- Use accent pieces to add depth and personality to neutral walls.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can select a neutral that enhances your space beautifully and harmoniously.
Note: For those weighing gray options, a side-by-side comparison of Thunder Gray and Storm Cloud can be especially helpful, since it highlights how subtle undertones change a room’s feel.
Wrapping it Up
Whether you lean toward warm hues, cool tones, or gentle green undertones, these Sherwin-Williams paints have the flexibility to grow and change alongside your style and needs.
Sampling different shades and experimenting in your own space is the best way to find the neutral that truly fits and enhances your home’s ambiance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can neutral paint colors make small rooms look bigger?
Yes, light neutral shades reflect more light, making small rooms feel brighter and more spacious without overwhelming the space.
Are Sherwin-Williams neutral paints good for high-traffic areas?
Many neutrals from Sherwin-Williams offer durable finishes that withstand wear and tear, making them ideal for living rooms, hallways, and kitchens.
How do I maintain the look of neutral walls over time?
Regular dusting and gentle cleaning help keep neutral walls fresh. Avoid harsh chemicals as they may fade or damage the paint finish.
Can neutral colors help improve my home’s resale value?
Neutral tones appeal to a wide range of buyers, creating a versatile backdrop that can increase your home’s market appeal and resale potential.
