Choosing the right paint color can make a big difference in how your space feels. Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 is a deep, balanced gray that adds a modern and stylish look to any room. This shade is known for its ability to look bold without feeling harsh, making it a top pick for accent walls, kitchens, and even exteriors.
You’ll notice that Peppercorn changes with different lighting, giving you a rich and versatile color that stands out but still feels welcoming. It works well with many other colors, so you can easily match it with your existing décor or trim. If you’re searching for a reliable, quality paint that is both striking and neutral, Peppercorn might be the one for you.
Key Takeaways
- Peppercorn is a versatile dark gray that fits many styles.
- Lighting and trim choice can change how Peppercorn looks.
- This paint has the quality and durability expected from Sherwin Williams.
What Color Is Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674?
Sherwin Williams Peppercorn (SW 7674) is often picked for its dramatic, modern look. This color blends deep gray tones with a hint of warmth for a versatile and refined finish in your home.
Color Family
Peppercorn belongs to the gray family, but it stands out as a deep, charcoal gray. It has a sophisticated look that can make a space feel both cozy and elegant. You might notice hints of cool undertones, which means it pairs especially well with crisp whites and other cool paint colors.
Although it is a dark shade, it is not as stark or cold as black. Many people choose it for accent walls, kitchen cabinets, and exteriors when they want a modern touch. The color adds depth and drama but still feels inviting and stylish, never harsh.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
When choosing Peppercorn SW 7674, knowing its technical details can help. The hex code is #585858, which shows its dark gray look with a slight bluish hint.
The RGB values are:
- Red: 88
- Green: 88
- Blue: 88
These values are very close together, showing Peppercorn’s balanced, true gray tone. The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is about 10, meaning it absorbs a lot of light and will appear quite rich and deep on your walls. Always try a paint sample since lighting can make Peppercorn look warmer or cooler in your space.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 Undertones
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams is a dark gray paint color that may look neutral at first glance, but it has subtle undertones that can show up depending on your space.
You might notice hints of blue, purple, or even green in some lighting. These undertones are not bold, so they usually appear soft and quiet.
This color has real depth. Its rich, deep tone gives any room a bit of drama without turning black.
Peppercorn sits right between warm and cool. In bright natural light, it can look cooler and lean toward blue or purple.
In warmer artificial light or rooms with wood accents, the gray can feel a little softer, but Peppercorn never feels truly warm.
Table: Common Undertones in Peppercorn SW 7674
| Undertone | When It Appears |
|---|---|
| Blue | Cool, natural light |
| Purple | Low light |
| Green | With greenery nearby |
If you want a gray that has some character but still feels classic, Peppercorn’s mix of depth and shifting undertones can work in many different spaces.
Remember, the look of Peppercorn will depend on your lighting and the other colors in your room. Testing a sample on your wall is the best way to see its undertones in your own home.
How Does Lighting Affect Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674?
Lighting plays a big role in how Peppercorn SW 7674 looks in your home. The amount and type of light will change Peppercorn from cool to warm and even shift its depth and mood.
Natural Lighting
Natural light can make Peppercorn look different throughout the day. If your room faces north, you will likely see Peppercorn as a cool, deep gray. North-facing rooms usually get less direct sunlight, which means the paint may appear a bit darker and more blue-gray.
South-facing rooms bring out a warmer and slightly softer side of Peppercorn. More sunlight will make the color feel lighter and even highlight some brown or taupe undertones.
Rooms with lots of daylight or big windows often make Peppercorn less bold and more neutral. If you have east- or west-facing windows, expect the color to shift between warm and cool as the sun moves.
| Room Direction | Color Appearance |
|---|---|
| North-facing | Cooler, deeper gray, blue tones |
| South-facing | Warmer, lighter, soft taupe |
| East/West-facing | Changes during the day |
Artificial Lighting
Artificial lighting will also impact how Peppercorn looks. LED lights with a soft white tone can warm up the color, making it feel cozier in the evenings. If you use daylight LED or cooler lighting, Peppercorn may look sharper and more modern, showing more of its gray side.
In spaces with minimal windows, artificial light becomes the main source and can make Peppercorn appear darker or more saturated. It’s a good idea to sample the color in your lighting conditions and look at it in the morning, day, and night to see how it changes.
Different bulb colors like warm, neutral, or cool LEDs will shift Peppercorn’s mood. A ceiling fixture can brighten the space, while accent lamps might create deep shadows, making the color feel darker on some walls.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams stands out as a dark, strong paint color. One important feature to notice about this color is its Light Reflectance Value, or LRV.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It is a scale from 0 to 100 that shows how much visible light a color reflects from a painted surface.
A color with a high LRV reflects more light, which makes a room feel brighter and sometimes larger. Lighter colors, like white, usually have a high LRV. On the other hand, a color with a low LRV absorbs more light, making a space feel cozier or even more dramatic.
Peppercorn’s LRV of 10 means it reflects only 10% of light and absorbs most of the rest. This can make a room feel more enclosed if you use it on all walls, or add depth and focus when used as an accent color. An LRV of 10 is considered very low and is typical for dark paint shades.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 LRV Range
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 has an LRV of 10. This is at the darker end of the paint color spectrum. You won’t get much bounce-back of natural or artificial light from this color.
Here’s a quick comparison table:
| Color | LRV | Lightness |
|---|---|---|
| Pure White | 84 | Very Light |
| Light Gray | 60 | Light |
| Peppercorn | 10 | Very Dark |
When you pick Peppercorn, know that it will give you a rich, deep look. Rooms painted with colors at this LRV level can feel modern and bold. Try using Peppercorn in spaces where you want a dramatic effect, or balance it with lighter trim for contrast.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 Coordinating Colors
Peppercorn SW 7674 works well with a select group of shades that help highlight its bold, cool undertones. These coordinating colors create smooth transitions and balance in almost any space.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White SW 7005 pairs neatly with Peppercorn for a clean and crisp effect. This white is bright and slightly warm, but not yellow, so it never looks cold or stark. If you want Peppercorn to stand out, use Pure White on trim, ceilings, or doors.
This high-contrast combination is perfect if you want a modern or classic look. Pure White’s subtle warmth softens Peppercorn’s intensity, making your space feel open and fresh. In kitchens and bathrooms, Pure White cabinets or tile next to Peppercorn walls look sharp and timeless. If natural light is limited, Pure White helps reflect it, preventing rooms from feeling too dark.
Best uses:
- Trim and ceilings
- Doors and cabinetry
- Bathrooms and kitchens
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray SW 7015 is a soft, versatile gray that sits in the middle of the color spectrum. When used with Peppercorn, Repose Gray offers a lower contrast look, blending cool notes from both colors. You might choose Repose Gray for walls while using Peppercorn for an accent or feature wall.
This pairing creates a calm, relaxed feel. The undertones work together, so the result is smooth instead of jarring. Repose Gray is a smart pick for living rooms, bedrooms, or open floor plans where you want flow but not monotony. If you use Repose Gray on walls, Peppercorn works nicely for cabinetry, built-ins, or fireplace mantels.
Best uses:
- Main walls with Peppercorn accents
- Bedrooms and family rooms
- Large, open areas
Eider White SW 7014
Eider White SW 7014 is a very light, soft gray with subtle violet undertones. When paired with Peppercorn, it provides a gentle contrast that is more muted than using pure white. The combination keeps the overall feel bright while avoiding a harsh difference between dark and light.
Eider White is helpful in spaces where you want Peppercorn to feel less intense but still noticeable. This color works well as a wall color, with Peppercorn used for doors, trim, or built-ins. It’s an especially good choice in bedrooms and offices, giving spaces a soothing, sophisticated vibe.
Best uses:
- Wall color with Peppercorn accents
- Offices and bedrooms
- Spaces needing soft contrast
Trim Colors For Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674
Pairing the right trim color with Peppercorn SW 7674 helps show off its rich, balanced gray shade. Choosing from clean, crisp whites or softer tones creates different styles and moods in your space.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White SW 7006 is one of Sherwin Williams’ brightest and most modern whites. It has a cool, clear undertone that stands out next to Peppercorn’s dark gray. If you want a sharp, bold contrast, Extra White is a solid choice for trim.
This color is great for making doors, baseboards, and windows feel fresh. It works best in rooms with cool lighting or modern, minimal furniture. Extra White also highlights architectural details, so your trim lines look very crisp.
A table showing where Extra White works well:
| Area | Result |
|---|---|
| Baseboards | Bold, clean edge |
| Doors | Accent feature |
| Windows | Frame pops |
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a warm white that gives a soft, inviting touch to rooms with Peppercorn walls. Its slight creamy tone makes it less stark than other whites, helping your trim blend gently with both modern and classic styles.
Use Alabaster when you want your trim to look cozy but still bright. It pairs nicely with wood floors, beige accents, and other warm elements. Alabaster also works well if your room gets natural sunlight, since it won’t look too yellow or too cold.
Here are a few settings where Alabaster shines:
- Rooms with natural wood flooring
- Living rooms with warm decor
- Kitchens that have brass or gold hardware
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound SW 7004 offers a soft yet cool shade of white. It sits between Extra White and Alabaster, leaning toward a neutral look. Using Snowbound on trim gives you a subtle contrast with Peppercorn, perfect if you want neither strong contrast nor warmth.
Snowbound is a favorite for homes that want a clean look without going too bright. It’s also a good match if you have mixed finishes, like metal and wood, since it’s flexible and neutral.
Here’s a quick list for when to choose Snowbound:
- If your style is soft modern or transitional
- If you want trim that feels calm and balanced
- If you have light wood or pale flooring
Choosing Snowbound works well for a relaxed, easygoing look that links your sharp Peppercorn walls, white trim, and any natural wood features.
Real World Examples Of Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 In Different Spaces
Peppercorn (SW 7674) is a deep, rich gray that adds a bold touch but still feels timeless. This color works on accent walls, cabinets, and even exteriors to bring out different styles in your home.
Living Rooms
You can make your living room feel cozy and inviting by using Peppercorn on an accent or statement wall. When paired with light trim or bright furniture, the contrast creates a modern, high-end look without feeling too cold.
Choose soft fabrics like velvet on furniture to add warmth and texture against the dark gray backdrop. For larger spaces, consider painting all four walls for a dramatic effect or just one for a subtle touch.
Add metallic or wood accents to balance the depth of Peppercorn. Simple additions like white pillows or natural wood coffee tables keep the room from feeling too dark.
Bedrooms
Peppercorn creates a relaxing, cozy vibe in bedrooms. It works well on feature walls behind the bed or throughout the whole room if you want a moody, calming space.
Pair it with light bedding and curtains in off-whites or muted colors. This helps keep the room from feeling too heavy or dark, especially in smaller rooms.
For an extra touch, use Peppercorn on furniture like bedside tables or a velvet headboard. Warm lighting and simple décor complete the look, helping you wind down at the end of the day.
Kitchens
Peppercorn is popular for kitchen cabinets, either on lowers or uppers, or both. The deep gray offers a sleek, updated look that stands out, especially against light countertops and backsplashes.
Paint your island in Peppercorn for a bold focal point, keeping the rest of the cabinets lighter for balance. Brass or gold hardware pairs very well with the deep color, adding an extra pop.
If your kitchen gets a lot of light, you can use Peppercorn more widely without it feeling closed in. Add open shelves in natural oak or floating white shelves for contrast and storage.
Bathrooms
This color brings modern style to bathrooms, especially when used for vanity cabinets or a statement wall. Peppercorn’s dark tone makes the space feel more polished without being overwhelming.
Pair with white subway tiles or light marble to brighten up the look. Add mirrors with black or brushed gold frames for a little contrast and luxury.
Soft towels or rugs in lighter shades help balance the space. Use Peppercorn only on part of the walls if your bathroom is small, to keep it feeling open.
Home Offices
Peppercorn helps create a focused atmosphere in a home office. You might want to use it on all four walls if you need a space that feels separate and professional.
For a lighter feel, paint just one accent wall behind your desk. Pair with natural wood desks, open shelving, and greenery to warm up the space.
Add white or light-colored décor to make the space feel less heavy. Use metal touches like desk lamps or frames for a modern finish.
Exteriors
Peppercorn works beautifully on house exteriors, doors, or trim. Its neutral tone stands out but doesn’t clash with landscaping or other exterior elements.
For siding, pair Peppercorn with a crisp white trim for high contrast and a clean look. It makes a strong choice for modern farmhouse or cottage style homes.
Peppercorn is also a smart pick for garage doors or shutters. The deep gray hides dirt well and holds up through different seasons. This color gives your home curb appeal without feeling too trendy.
Front Doors
Painting your front door in Peppercorn is a sophisticated way to elevate your home’s curb appeal. This deep, charcoal gray shade exudes modern elegance while remaining versatile enough to complement a variety of exterior color palettes, from crisp whites to earthy neutrals and bold hues.
The rich, moody tone of Peppercorn provides a striking contrast against lighter siding, making your entrance a true focal point. Not only does this color evoke a sense of timeless style, but it also hides dirt and fingerprints better than lighter shades, making it a practical choice for a frequently used entryway. Choosing Peppercorn for your front door is a stylish statement that welcomes guests with understated confidence.
Comparing Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 To Similar Colors
Peppercorn SW 7674 is a deep, versatile gray that offers a soft, rich look without feeling too harsh. You can find similar shades from Sherwin Williams, but each has its own differences in undertone, depth, and personality.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 vs Iron Ore SW 7069
Iron Ore SW 7069 is deeper and more dramatic than Peppercorn. While Peppercorn is a true charcoal gray, Iron Ore leans closer to black with very subtle warmth. If you want a space that feels bold and moody, Iron Ore gives you that extra punch of darkness.
Peppercorn offers a softer touch, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or exteriors where you want a cozy, modern vibe. Iron Ore works well for accent walls, doors, or trim where strong contrast is needed. The main difference is brightness—Peppercorn keeps a trace of gray, while Iron Ore nearly reaches black.
| Peppercorn (SW 7674) | Iron Ore (SW 7069) | |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Charcoal gray | Almost black |
| Use | Cozy, soft, versatile | Bold, dramatic, accents |
| Depth | Lighter | Much darker |
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 vs Grizzle Gray SW 7068
Grizzle Gray SW 7068 is one step lighter than Peppercorn. This gives you a similar cool gray feel, but without as much depth. If you’re looking for a color that feels a bit softer or more subtle, Grizzle Gray can be a good pick.
Peppercorn brings a stronger presence, so it helps make features like kitchen islands or accent walls stand out. Grizzle Gray works well for entire rooms if you want the space to feel open yet still moody. Both shades pair well with lighter trim and white decor.
Key differences:
- Grizzle Gray is noticeably lighter.
- Peppercorn has more “charcoal” in its appearance.
- Both are flexible, but Peppercorn stands out more boldly.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 vs Classic French Gray SW 0077
Classic French Gray SW 0077 is quite different from Peppercorn. It is a true mid-toned gray with gentle green undertones, which gives it a slightly cooler and softer look compared to Peppercorn’s depth.
Peppercorn is much darker and more dramatic, while Classic French Gray feels airier and more traditional. If you want an elegant, vintage look, Classic French Gray is an easy choice, especially for bedrooms and dining rooms.
Peppercorn is preferred if you want something contemporary and bold. The main contrasts are in darkness, warmth, and the touch of color.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 vs Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze SW 7048 carries strong brown and bronze undertones. It is deeply rich, with both warmth and gray, and was even Sherwin Williams’ Color of the Year in 2021. Peppercorn is cooler, pure gray with almost no brown, so it feels more neutral.
If you want a statement wall or exterior with earthy depth and coziness, Urbane Bronze brings that warmth. Peppercorn is better when you want a modern, urban edge without added warmth.
- Urbane Bronze: brown-gray, warm, inviting
- Peppercorn: charcoal gray, cool, sleek
Both are sophisticated, but their undertones are very different.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 vs Tricorn Black SW 6258
Tricorn Black SW 6258 is Sherwin Williams’ truest black. In comparison, Peppercorn is much lighter and definitely gray. If you need pure black for bold drama and high contrast, Tricorn Black is the standard choice.
Peppercorn works where you want depth but also want to avoid black’s heaviness. For exterior trim, doors, and even cabinetry, Peppercorn is more forgiving and less stark.
When you put the two together, Tricorn Black has no visible grayness, while Peppercorn keeps a softer edge.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 vs Gauntlet Gray SW 7019
Gauntlet Gray SW 7019 is another strong gray, but it comes with brown undertones that make it a bit warmer and earthier. Compared to Peppercorn’s cool, clear charcoal, Gauntlet Gray feels more relaxed and lived-in.
For homes with lots of wood or brown accents, Gauntlet Gray can tie things together. Peppercorn is the go-to for modern or urban spaces needing crisp gray without extra warmth.
| Peppercorn (SW 7674) | Gauntlet Gray (SW 7019) | |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Cool, almost neutral | Warm, brown-based |
| Effect | Sleek, modern | Cozy, earthy |
| Best use | Clean, crisp settings | Rustic, traditional |
Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal is another alternative with a deep gray feel and a hint of brown, similar to Gauntlet Gray but from a different brand.
Complementary Colors To Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams is a deep charcoal gray that works well with both warm and cool tones. Pairing it with the right complementary colors creates balance and interest in any space.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 With Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige SW 7036 is a versatile, warm beige that softens the boldness of Peppercorn. When you use these two together, you get a look that feels both modern and inviting.
Try Peppercorn on an accent wall or cabinetry, then use Accessible Beige on the rest of the walls for a balanced, airy background. This pairing works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways.
To highlight the contrast, choose white trim and add decor in natural wood or brass for warmth.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 With Silver Strand SW 7057
Silver Strand SW 7057 is a pale gray with soft green undertones. When paired with Peppercorn, the space feels calm and fresh.
You can use Silver Strand as the main wall color and add Peppercorn for accents, doors, or trim. This creates a gentle mix that is not too dark or too light.
This combination is ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, or entryways, offering a soothing and relaxed feel that works with both traditional and modern styles.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 With Agreeable Gray SW 7029
Agreeable Gray SW 7029 is one of the most popular greiges (gray-beiges) from Sherwin Williams. When set next to Peppercorn, it brings balance and warmth without overpowering the look.
This combo works well if you want an understated yet stylish space—it pairs great in open floor plans where you need one color to ground the other.
Peppercorn as an accent color through furniture or a feature wall adds depth, while Agreeable Gray on other walls keeps things light and open.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 With Naval SW 6244
Naval SW 6244 is a rich, deep navy blue that adds drama and sophistication when paired with Peppercorn. These two dark tones work best if you break them up with lighter textiles, trim, or artwork.
You can use Naval as an accent color on a single piece like a front door or a statement wall, while Peppercorn anchors cabinetry or built-ins.
For a bold look, use gold, brass, or light wood accents to create a striking contrast. This color mix looks great in studies, dining rooms, or formal spaces.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 With Sea Salt SW 6204
Sea Salt SW 6204 is a soft, muted green with gray and blue hints. When you pair it with Peppercorn, you get a gentle and airy effect that is perfect for relaxing spaces.
Use Sea Salt as a wall color in bedrooms, bathrooms, or laundry rooms to create a peaceful vibe. Peppercorn can be used for cabinet paint, doors, or trim to add a touch of richness.
This pairing is especially popular in coastal or modern farmhouse homes, creating a harmonious look that feels fresh and calm.
Peppercorn by Sherwin Williams SW 7674 With Stardew SW 9138
Stardew SW 9138 is a light blue-gray that helps balance the depth of Peppercorn. This makes the room feel open, while still offering character and contrast.
Using Stardew on the walls with Peppercorn on built-ins or accent walls brings a cool, clean look to living areas or offices. The combination fits well with white, silver, or chrome accents.
You can also pair these with navy or soft green decor for more depth and an extra layer of color without being overwhelming.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.