Looking for a refreshing yet peaceful shade to brighten up your home? Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 is a soft, breezy blue that brings a calm and soothing vibe to any space. Chosen as Sherwin-Williams’ Color of the Year for 2024, this color stands out for its versatility and subtle style.
Whether you want to create an airy bedroom retreat or add a gentle touch to your living area, Upward’s balanced blue-gray undertones make it easy to work with. In different lighting, this paint color shifts from light and airy to soft and cozy, making it a great match for both modern and classic designs.
Key Takeaways
- Upward SW 6239 is a calm, airy blue with gentle gray undertones.
- Lighting and trim colors greatly affect how Upward looks in your space.
- It pairs well with whites, grays, and deep accent colors for a balanced look.
What Color Is Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239?
Upward SW 6239 is a blue paint with a soft feel that’s trending in homes right now. It brings a calm, airy look and works well in many styles and rooms.
Color Family
You’ll find Upward SW 6239 in the light blue family. Its base is a blue hue with a slight grayish tint. This touch of gray helps tone down the brightness, giving it a soothing, soft appearance.
It isn’t a bold or bright blue. Instead, it often looks like a clear sky or a slightly misty morning. Some people describe it as a “light-toned blue” or even a “mid-tone blue” on a wall, depending on how much natural light is in the space.
Upward stands out because it’s cool and clean. It doesn’t have green or purple undertones, which is something to keep in mind if you want a pure but gentle blue.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
You might need the exact codes for projects or digital designs. Here’s what you need to know:
- Hex: #BFC9D0
- RGB: (191, 201, 208)
Upward SW 6239 has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 57. This means it reflects a solid amount of light but isn’t overly bright or stark. The LRV puts it in the mid-range, so you can use this shade for larger spaces without worrying that it will make the room too cool or dark.
With these details, you can match Upward precisely in design software or when narrowing down paint chips. This info helps make sure your space gets the clean blue you expect.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 Undertones
When you look at Upward SW 6239, you’ll notice its cool undertones first. This soft blue isn’t bright or vibrant—it feels relaxed, thanks to its subtle gray base. That touch of gray keeps the color feeling calm and balanced, not too icy or stark.
Upward is known for its gray undertone, which helps it fit into both modern and classic spaces. The gray makes the blue less intense, so it pairs well with many other colors.
In some lighting, you might spot a hint of violet undertone. This isn’t very strong, but it can add a soft twist depending on the time of day and nearby colors.
Upward is not dark blue or green-blue. Instead, it stays light and airy, without green or teal touches that some blues have. If you want a true blue with gentle character, Upward can work well.
Key undertones in Upward SW 6239:
| Undertone | Strength | Visible in Most Light? |
|---|---|---|
| Gray | Medium | Yes |
| Violet | Subtle | Sometimes |
| Green-Blue | None | No |
| Dark Blue | None | No |
How Does Lighting Affect Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239?
The way Upward SW 6239 looks on your walls changes a lot depending on the kind of lighting in your room. Changes in sunlight, bulb type, and even time of day can impact whether this blue-gray paint appears lighter, darker, or more muted.
Natural Lighting
Natural light from windows can greatly change how Upward SW 6239 shows up in your space.
If your room faces south, sunlight brings out the soft blue tones and keeps the shade looking bright and airy, especially when the sun is highest. North-facing rooms get cooler, steady light most of the day, so Upward’s subtle gray side will stand out more and the room might feel a bit calmer.
East-facing rooms fill with bright morning sunlight, so Upward looks fresh and light earlier in the day but may appear softer in the afternoon. West-facing rooms see warmer, golden sunlight later, which can make the color look slightly warmer or even muted toward evening.
The paint color also shifts slightly depending on the weather. On cloudy days, it leans more gray; on sunny days, its light blue quality is more noticeable.
Artificial Lighting
Artificial lights can shift how Upward SW 6239 feels in your home, depending on the type of bulbs you use.
Warm white bulbs (yellow-toned, around 2700K) can make this color look cozier and bring out subtle purple or gray hints in the blue. Cool white or daylight bulbs (closer to 4000-5000K) keep Upward looking crisp and fresh, helping highlight its airy blue quality.
LED, CFL, and incandescent bulbs all affect the mood and strength of the color. Dimmer switches can also change things—dimming the lights can make the blue seem richer, while bright, full lighting will enhance the soft, breezy look.
Mixed lighting, where both natural and artificial light are present, can make the color look different in various parts of the same room. It’s helpful to test Upward in your space with your regular lights and at different times of day for the most accurate idea of how it will look.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) tells you how much light a paint color reflects. Knowing the LRV can help you decide if Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 is right for your space, especially if you want a certain level of brightness or mood.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. This number ranges from 0 to 100 and shows how much visible light a paint color will bounce back into a room.
A color with a low LRV absorbs more light, making it look darker. A higher LRV means the paint is lighter and reflects more light.
Designers and homeowners often use LRV to pick colors that brighten up a space or create a cozy, dim feel. For example, if your room doesn’t get much sunlight, a color with a higher LRV can help it look brighter.
Knowing the LRV of a paint color helps you predict how it will feel on your walls during the day in different lights.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 LRV Range
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 has an LRV of about 57. This means it sits just above the middle of the scale, reflecting a decent amount of light without feeling too stark.
On your walls, Upward will feel like a soft and airy light blue. It brings in brightness but still keeps some color and warmth.
Rooms painted with Upward can look cheerful during the day and cozy at night, depending on your lighting. If you use it in a darker room, it won’t make the space feel smaller or dingy.
This LRV is a good choice if you want a color that balances light reflection with a gentle hint of blue.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 Coordinating Colors
Upward is a soft blue shade with subtle gray undertones, making it a versatile choice for many rooms. When you combine it with well-chosen coordinating colors, you can create a balanced and cohesive color palette that looks clean and modern.
Pure White SW 7005
Pairing Upward with Pure White SW 7005 gives you a crisp and airy look. Pure White is bright, but not too stark, so it keeps the space from feeling cold. It provides a nice contrast against the blue-gray tones of Upward.
You can use Pure White on trim, doors, or ceilings to frame your walls. This pairing works well for bedrooms, living rooms, or even kitchens. The combination creates a modern yet calming feeling that’s easy to live with every day.
Pure White also matches well with cabinets, built-in shelves, or accent pieces. It helps the blue of Upward stand out without being overwhelming. If you want a space that feels clean, fresh, and relaxing, this pairing makes a strong choice.
Reflection SW 7661
Reflection SW 7661 is a cool, light gray that complements the blue tones of Upward. When used together, these shades build a subtle monochromatic palette that feels soft and modern. Reflection is a bit darker and more muted, so it adds depth to your design.
You can use Reflection for accent walls, furniture, or even cabinetry. This combo works well in spaces where you want a little more contrast, but don’t want anything bold. It’s a nice option for offices or bedrooms where calm and focus matter.
Reflecting natural light, these shades maintain an open, breezy atmosphere. The gray in Reflection matches the undertones in Upward, so everything feels connected and smooth. For those who love shades of blue and gray, this pairing is dependable.
North Star SW 6246
North Star SW 6246 is another blue-gray, but it’s a lighter, cooler version compared to Upward. Layering North Star with Upward can give your room a soothing, layered effect, especially if you want an easy-going, monochromatic palette.
You can use North Star on ceilings or in adjoining rooms for a gentle transition between spaces. It works well in bathrooms, bedrooms, and hallways when you want everything to flow. Mixing different shades of blue-gray helps your space look thoughtfully designed.
North Star and Upward can work together for simple color blocking, using one for main walls and one for accents. This combination is welcoming and never feels too stark. If you enjoy cool, relaxed shades, this pairing is worth considering.
Trim Colors For Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239
Upward pairs best with crisp, clean whites that help highlight its soft blue tone. Using the right trim color can make your walls stand out and add a polished look to any space.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White SW 7006 is a popular trim color choice with Upward. This paint offers a bright, cool white that feels fresh and modern. Its crisp look can make the blue of Upward appear lighter and more relaxing.
When you pair Extra White with Upward, you get a clear contrast without any warmth or yellow undertones showing through. This makes your trims and ceilings pop. The result is a space that feels open and airy.
This choice works especially well in rooms with lots of daylight or where you want your walls and trim to look sharp and clean. It’s a safe pick if you want a modern edge or a classic, crisp style.
A quick table for reference:
| Feature | Extra White SW 7006 |
|---|---|
| Undertone | Cool, crisp |
| Effect with Upward | Clean, bright contrast |
| Best For | Modern, bright spaces |
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is an off-white that leans slightly warm, but still feels neutral. If you want trim that looks soft and gentle next to Upward, this is a smart option. Alabaster adds a touch of coziness without feeling yellow or creamy.
When used with Upward, Alabaster keeps your space feeling calm and welcoming. The easy, subtle warmth can make blue walls feel a little less chilly. This combination is good for bedrooms, family rooms, or areas where you want a comfortable vibe.
For homes with lots of wood or warmer décor, Alabaster often looks more natural than a very bright white. It works well if you like a gentle, inviting look that isn’t too stark.
A quick look:
- Undertone: Soft, warm neutral
- Effect with Upward: Cozy, gentle contrast
- Best For: Bedrooms, traditional or cozy spaces
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound SW 7004 is a light off-white with a cool, slight gray undertone. This trim color feels clean but isn’t as bright or blue-toned as Extra White. Snowbound gives you a more muted contrast against Upward.
Pairing Snowbound with Upward creates a calm, balanced feel. The gray undertone in Snowbound helps soften both the trim and the blue walls. This makes it a good pick for spaces where you want a softer, more relaxed finish.
Snowbound works best in rooms with soft, neutral furnishings or when you want your trim to blend more quietly without being stark. It’s a great match for homes with softer lighting or more muted color palettes.
Here’s a summary:
| Feature | Snowbound SW 7004 |
|---|---|
| Undertone | Cool, soft gray |
| Effect with Upward | Muted, soft contrast |
| Best For | Relaxed, subtle spaces |
Real World Examples Of Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 In Different Spaces
Upward SW 6239 can help you create a calming, airy look in just about any room or even outside your home. With its soft blue-gray tone, this color works well with both modern and classic styles and is easy to pair with popular whites and deep blues.
Living Rooms
Upward SW 6239 is a great choice for living rooms if you want a peaceful and inviting vibe. The light blue undertones help make the room feel bigger and brighter, especially when paired with white trim like SW 7005 Pure White.
You can use it on every wall, or just on one wall as an accent to add interest without being too bold. Pair it with soft gray sofas and natural wood coffee tables for a look that feels cozy yet fresh.
Throw pillows in navy or light beige also work well. If you get good natural light, this color stays soft and does not look cold or stark during the day.
Bedrooms
For bedrooms, Upward SW 6239 creates a gentle and restful environment that’s perfect for sleep. It looks especially nice with crisp white bedding and simple, light furniture.
You might choose this color as a main wall or as an accent behind your bed’s headboard. It combines nicely with soft grays, creams, and even subtle blush tones if you want a bit of warmth.
It also doesn’t overpower small spaces, so even compact bedrooms feel open. Use minimal decor to keep the look calm, or add layered linens and textured rugs for more coziness.
Kitchens
In kitchens, Upward brings a clean and modern look that doesn’t feel cold. Many people like to use it on all the walls, but it can also work well on just your upper or lower cabinets for a soft pop of color.
Pair it with white marble countertops, stainless steel appliances, and brushed nickel hardware for a timeless finish. Open shelving or glass cabinet fronts look even more open against its gentle blue-gray hue.
If you have a coastal- or farmhouse-style kitchen, Upward fits right in. Accent with natural woods or woven baskets for added warmth. Under bright lighting, it keeps kitchens feeling cheerful but not overly bright.
Bathrooms
Upward is an excellent pick if you want a spa-like feeling in your bathroom renovation. It works well on both walls and vanities, making the space feel fresh but not chilly.
Pair it with white or pale gray tiles, chrome fixtures, and fluffy white towels. Add a pop of greenery with a small plant for a touch of nature.
If your bathroom is small, this color can make it appear larger and more open. With natural or artificial light, it keeps the space feeling clean and comfortable.
Use it behind a mirror as an accent wall, or on shutters and cabinetry for a bit of contrast.
Home Offices
Upward works well for home offices because it promotes focus and calm. The blue-gray shade is easy on the eyes and helps reduce distractions.
Paint all four walls for a unified look, or pick one wall behind your desk as a feature. Mix in white built-ins, bookshelves, and floating shelves for a professional but pleasant space.
Consider black or dark blue accents in lamps or desk organizers to ground the room. If your office doesn’t get a lot of light, Upward still feels open and avoids being too bold.
Exteriors
Upward SW 6239 can be a beautiful exterior paint color when you want something unique but not flashy. It’s subtle enough for most architectural styles, from cottages to more modern homes.
It pairs nicely with bright white trim, slate or charcoal roofing, and natural stone. Use it as a main siding color, or just on dormers and gables for a softer highlight.
Rain and changing light bring out the blue tones, while still staying neutral. Consider accenting with deep navy or black shutters for a crisp look. It resists looking too blue or purple, even in strong sunlight.
Front Doors
For front doors, Upward offers a soft pop of color without being too bright or overwhelming. It looks especially striking against white or pale gray siding.
This color makes your entryway feel friendly and welcoming, but also timeless. Pair it with brushed brass hardware for a modern twist or classic black fixtures for a traditional look.
You can match planters or house numbers in navy or charcoal to tie the look together. Even if you have a small porch, this shade draws attention without being too bold.
Comparing Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 To Similar Colors
Upward SW 6239 is a soft blue-gray paint known for its balanced look and calming effect. When you compare it to other colors, you can spot differences in tone, warmth, and depth that help you decide what fits best for your space.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 vs Misty SW 6232
Upward is a true blue-gray, while Misty SW 6232 tends to lean a little more gray with a slight hint of green. Upward feels lighter and airier, thanks to its higher light reflectance value (LRV 57), making rooms feel brighter.
Misty, with an LRV of 64, is even lighter but looks less blue. In north-facing rooms, Upward shows a clearer blue, while Misty may sometimes read as a cool, soft gray. Upward works well where you want a touch of color that doesn’t overpower, while Misty is perfect if you want a subtle, near-neutral backdrop.
- Upward: More blue, calm vibe
- Misty: Grayer, slightly more sophisticated
If you want a blue that won’t take over, Upward is the better choice. For a barely-there, misty feel, Misty is a strong contender.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 vs Windy Blue SW 6240
Windy Blue SW 6240 is just one step deeper and bolder than Upward. Both are blue-grays, but Windy Blue has a noticeably stronger blue presence and lower LRV.
Windy Blue makes a stylish statement, and it’s a good fit for accent walls or anywhere you want more color impact. Upward is more subtle, lighter, and easier to use in larger spaces because it doesn’t feel overwhelming.
- Upward: Lighter, softer, more gray
- Windy Blue: Deeper, bolder, more saturated blue
Pick Windy Blue if you want your walls to stand out or create a cozy nook. Go with Upward if you love the idea of a gentle and peaceful blue.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 vs Ice Cube SW 6252
Ice Cube SW 6252 looks noticeably cooler and is a modern, crisp gray with a hint of blue. In comparison, Upward brings out more of a blue-gray blend, while Ice Cube can seem more purely gray, sometimes with a slight icy undertone.
Ice Cube has a higher LRV, so it reflects more light and can brighten smaller or darker spaces. However, because Upward feels warmer and softer, it prevents rooms from feeling sterile.
- Upward: Calm, blue-gray presence
- Ice Cube: Crisp, clean, cool gray with blue undertones
If you want a touch of blue that is obvious but soft, Upward is ideal. For a very light, almost-white gray with just a whisper of blue, Ice Cube is a solid pick.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 vs Let It Rain SW 9152
Let It Rain SW 9152 is a deeper blue-gray, heavier on the gray, and several shades darker than Upward. You’ll notice that Let It Rain gives a moodier, more dramatic effect, especially in larger rooms or on accent walls.
Upward keeps the space open and more relaxed. Let It Rain is usually used for a cozy, deeper feel. If light and airiness are priorities, Upward wins. For a layered look or to add contrast with trims and moldings, Let It Rain stands out.
- Upward: Light, soft blue-gray
- Let It Rain: Deeper, more dramatic blue-gray
Use Let It Rain where a dramatic mood is welcome, and Upward where you want serenity and brightness.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 vs Sleepy Blue SW 6225
Sleepy Blue SW 6225 is another light blue from Sherwin Williams, but it leans a bit more to blue-green, while Upward has blue-violet undertones. This means Sleepy Blue can feel a bit fresher or cooler, especially in daylight.
Upward is a little grayer and more subdued, great if you want your blue to stay calm and not jump out. Sleepy Blue has a playful, airy feel, good for bedrooms or kid’s spaces.
- Upward: Balanced, blue-gray, slight violet touch
- Sleepy Blue: Blue-green, lighter, playful
Choose Sleepy Blue if you prefer a youthful or coastal vibe. If you want a slightly more mature look, Upward offers a classic choice.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 vs Serious Gray SW 6256
Serious Gray SW 6256 is a true gray that is much darker and stronger than Upward. If Upward feels airy and peaceful, Serious Gray is bold, with a much lower LRV that absorbs more light.
You’ll notice that Serious Gray sometimes has a slight blue undertone, but it is mostly just a deep, rich gray. Upward is better for keeping spaces light and open, while Serious Gray works as a dramatic main color or trim for major contrast.
- Upward: Light, airy, clear blue-gray
- Serious Gray: Dark, bold true gray with a hint of blue
Pair Serious Gray with Upward for a striking contrast, or pick one that fits the level of drama and brightness you want.
Complementary Colors To Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 is a cool, airy blue with a hint of gray that pairs well with a range of complementary colors, from deep blues to soft neutrals and muted greens. Matching Upward with the right color helps you create rooms that feel calming, fresh, or more dynamic, depending on your style.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 With Naval SW 6244
Pairing Upward SW 6239 with Naval SW 6244 creates a bold, striking color combination. Naval is a deep, rich navy blue that anchors a space and adds depth to your walls or accents.
Upward’s lighter blue provides balance and keeps the room from feeling too dark. This mix works well in bedrooms or living rooms, where you want a cozy, yet elegant vibe. Naval can be used for feature walls, cabinets, or even furniture, while Upward can be used for the main wall color.
Try combining them with crisp white trim, such as Snowbound SW 7004, for a fresh finish. This scheme is ideal for anyone who enjoys contrast but prefers cool-toned, calming blues.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 With Agreeable Gray SW 7029
If you want a softer and more subtle look, Agreeable Gray SW 7029 complements Upward perfectly. Agreeable Gray is a warm, greige neutral that helps blend Upward’s cool tone into a cozier, more inviting color palette.
This combination works well in open-concept rooms or hallways, where you need continuity and harmony. Upward adds a hint of color, while Agreeable Gray creates a relaxed, welcoming feeling.
The two together are versatile enough for a modern, farmhouse, or classic home. Add natural materials or light wood furniture to make the space feel even warmer and more lived-in. This combo is timeless and popular with many homeowners.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 With Sea Salt SW 6204
Sea Salt SW 6204 is a soft, muted green with hints of gray and blue that makes it a gentle companion for Upward. When paired, they create a spa-like, soothing color palette that’s ideal for bathrooms, bedrooms, or any relaxing space.
Sea Salt is lighter and airy, blending seamlessly with Upward’s tranquil vibe. Both colors have subtle undertones that complement each other without feeling overwhelming.
You can use Sea Salt on cabinets, accent walls, or as a trim color next to Upward-painted walls. Consider white, sand, or light gray accessories for a peaceful, fresh look. This pair is favored if you like serene, coastal-inspired designs.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 With Stardew SW 9138
Stardew SW 9138 is a blue-gray shade that sits close to Upward on the color spectrum. Pairing Stardew with Upward gives you a smooth, layered look without too much contrast. This makes spaces feel cohesive and calm.
Use Stardew on doors, trim, or built-in shelves, while keeping Upward on the main walls. The two colors together are great for a monochromatic design that feels sophisticated.
If you want more interest, add natural textures like rattan or unfinished wood. Both colors look great with modern, farmhouse, or Scandinavian decor styles. It’s a safe choice if you want subtle variation without bold color jumps.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 With Acier SW 9170
For a cool, modern look, try Acier SW 9170 with Upward. Acier is a medium gray with slight blue undertones that bring out the best in Upward’s cool tone. This duo is sharp and sophisticated but still feels welcoming.
Upward’s brightness helps prevent Acier from feeling heavy. Use Acier on lower cabinets, island bases, or accent walls, and set it off with Upward on most walls.
Add metallic finishes or black fixtures for extra style, or keep it simple with white trim. This combination works well in kitchens, offices, or even entryways for a crisp, clean impression.
Upward by Sherwin Williams SW 6239 With Pewter Green SW 6208
Pewter Green SW 6208 is a deep, muted green that stands out when paired with the light blue of Upward. This color mix feels earthy and grounded but still bright thanks to Upward’s influence.
Use Pewter Green on cabinetry, built-ins, or as a dramatic accent, keeping most walls in Upward. Together, these shades create a modern-meets-nature feeling that works well in kitchens, bathrooms, or foyers.
Add gold or brass hardware and touches of natural wood for warmth. This pairing works especially well if you want to blend traditional and modern elements using nature-inspired complimentary colors.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.