People love Sherwin Williams Dorian Gray SW 7017, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. This warm, medium-toned gray strikes a sweet spot between modern vibes and classic charm, so it just kind of works anywhere.
With an LRV of 39, it brings enough depth to give a room character without making everything feel gloomy or heavy.
Watch how this color shifts as the sun moves, and you’ll start to notice its subtle undertones doing their thing. Whether you’re thinking about walls, cabinets, or even trim, knowing how Dorian Gray behaves in real homes can make your decision way easier.
This guide covers everything from Dorian Gray’s color profile and best pairings to real-life photos so you know what you’re getting into. You’ll see how it stacks up against other grays, too, so you can pick with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Dorian Gray SW 7017 is a warm, medium gray with a hint of purple, fitting both modern and traditional spaces
- Its LRV of 39 makes it deep enough for impact but light enough for most rooms
- Pairs well with white trim, warm woods, and beige accents
What Color Is Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017?
Dorian Gray SW 7017 is a medium, warm gray featuring brown undertones. It’s one of those colors that just fits into different design styles without much fuss.
Color Family
Dorian Gray sits in the gray family, but it’s definitely on the warm side. You’ll catch brown undertones right away, and sometimes, if you squint, there’s a whisper of purple.
It falls in the middle range—not too light, not too dark. In sunny, south-facing rooms, the brown undertones step forward. In north-facing spaces, you might notice the purple peeking through.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Dorian Gray’s hex code is #aca79e.
The RGB breakdown looks like this:
- Red: 172
- Green: 167
- Blue: 158
Its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is 39, meaning it reflects 39% of incoming light.
With an LRV of 39, Dorian Gray lands in the medium-toned category. Colors between 30-50 on the LRV scale are considered mid-toned.
So, the color will look brighter in sunny rooms and a bit moodier in darker ones. That flexibility makes it a solid choice for rooms with all sorts of lighting.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 Undertones
Dorian Gray carries warm brown undertones that make it feel comfortable, even a bit cozy. In spaces flooded with sunlight, those brown notes really come alive.
Sometimes, you’ll spot a subtle purple undertone—especially in north-facing rooms or under cooler lighting. It’s not obvious, but it’s there if you look.
Some folks also see a touch of beige mixed into the gray, which softens the whole look and keeps it from feeling too cold.
Lighting totally changes how these undertones show up:
- Warm light: Brown undertones are stronger
- Cool light: Purple hints start to show
- Natural daylight: You’ll see the most balanced version
Your room’s direction and lighting will shift the undertones a bit. South-facing rooms with warm sunlight really highlight the brown side.
The warm undertone profile puts Dorian Gray firmly in the warm gray camp, which is great if you want a gray that doesn’t feel icy or sterile.
All those undertones help Dorian Gray act as a reliable neutral. The brown and beige keep things inviting, not stark.
If you’re not sure, just try a sample on your wall and watch it change with the light. That’s really the only way to know for sure how it’ll look in your space.
How Does Lighting Affect Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017?
Dorian Gray’s warm brown undertones show up more in natural light. Artificial lighting can either boost the warmth or cool things down, depending on your bulbs.
Natural Lighting
Natural light really brings out Dorian Gray’s best qualities. In north-facing rooms, you’ll see a more muted gray with just a hint of warmth.
South-facing rooms, though, make the brown undertones pop and the color feels richer and more welcoming.
Morning light gives Dorian Gray a fresh, clean look. The gray feels brighter and pretty neutral early in the day.
As the sun shifts in the afternoon, the warmth gets deeper. Brown undertones become more noticeable.
In the evening, the color softens and feels even cozier. The gray just mellows out as the natural light fades away.
On cloudy days, the gray base stands out, and the warm undertones take a back seat.
Artificial Lighting
LED bulbs in warm white (2700K-3000K) really enhance Dorian Gray’s brown undertones, making rooms feel extra inviting.
Cool white LEDs (4000K-5000K) pull more of the gray forward, so the space feels a bit cleaner but less warm.
Incandescent bulbs amp up the warmth and can even make the color look a little beige. That yellow glow really does a number on it.
Fluorescents, on the other hand, can make Dorian Gray look flat or even a bit lifeless, especially under harsh office lighting.
Dimmer switches are awesome for tweaking the vibe. Lower light levels bring out the cozy side of Dorian Gray.
If you use track or recessed lights, you’ll get even coverage, which helps the color stay true across the whole wall.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 LRV 39 (Light Reflectance Value)
Dorian Gray’s LRV of 39 puts it right in the medium-tone zone, reflecting a moderate amount of light. This number gives you a sense of how bright or dark it’ll feel in your room.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It’s a fancy way of saying how much light a paint color bounces back versus how much it soaks up.
The scale goes from 0 (pure black, absorbs all light) to 100 (pure white, reflects all light).
Most paints fall somewhere in the middle. Light colors have LRVs over 50. Darker shades are usually under 30.
Higher LRV colors make rooms feel bigger and brighter. Lower LRV shades give spaces a cozy, intimate vibe.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 LRV Range
Dorian Gray’s LRV of 39 puts it in the medium-tone category. It’s not too light, not too dark—just right for a lot of spaces.
It reflects some light but absorbs enough to give the room a gentle, comfortable feel. That’s probably why it never feels too stark or too heavy.
In bright rooms, Dorian Gray holds its color well and doesn’t wash out. In darker spaces, it still has presence and doesn’t just vanish into the background.
That LRV makes Dorian Gray a solid pick for most lighting situations. It adds enough depth for interest, but still keeps things neutral and easygoing.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 Coordinating Colors
Dorian Gray looks fantastic with lighter grays like Repose Gray, bold navy blues like Naval, and crisp whites such as Alabaster. These combos bring out Dorian Gray’s warmth and add a little extra flair to your room.
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray works as a lighter partner to Dorian Gray’s depth. Together, they create a layered look that’s interesting but not overwhelming.
Try Repose Gray on your main walls and Dorian Gray for accents or trim. Both shades have warm undertones, so the flow between rooms feels natural.
| Room Application | Repose Gray Use | Dorian Gray Use |
|---|---|---|
| Living Room | Main walls | Accent wall |
| Kitchen | Upper cabinets | Lower cabinets |
| Bedroom | Ceiling | Feature wall |
This duo is especially handy in open layouts. The lighter Repose Gray keeps things airy, while Dorian Gray adds some grounding where you need it.
Naval SW 6244
Naval brings a bold, classic contrast to Dorian Gray’s warmth. This navy shade adds a touch of drama and sophistication to the mix.
Try Naval as an accent—maybe a kitchen island or a feature wall—while Dorian Gray covers the rest. That combo looks sharp, especially with white trim.
On exteriors, Naval makes a killer front door against Dorian Gray siding. It’s a combo that feels both timeless and a bit trendy.
In bedrooms, maybe go for a Naval accent wall with Dorian Gray on the other three. White trim ties it all together for a look that never really goes out of style.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster is that perfect crisp white to set off Dorian Gray’s medium depth. It’s a classic pairing that just feels right.
Use Alabaster for your trim if you’re doing Dorian Gray walls. The white makes the gray stand out while keeping everything fresh and bright.
Why this works:
- High contrast, so rooms feel bigger
- Draws attention to details
- Works in any kind of light
You can flip the script: paint walls Alabaster and use Dorian Gray for cabinets, vanities, or shelves. That way, you get a touch of gray without darkening the whole space.
Trim Colors for Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017
White trim looks fantastic with Dorian Gray’s medium tone. Here are three classic whites, each with a slightly different vibe, that pair beautifully with gray walls.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White offers a clean, balanced contrast with Dorian Gray. It doesn’t lean too warm or cool, so it fits just about anywhere.
The neutral vibe of Pure White by Sherwin Williams SW 7005 plays nicely with Dorian Gray’s warmth. No weird color clashes here.
This combo shines on trim and ceilings. Medium gray walls really pop against crisp white trim.
Pure White also covers well and doesn’t yellow over time, which is a relief if you’ve dealt with that before.
Extra White SW 7006
Pair Extra White with Dorian Gray and you’ll get the brightest, crispest contrast possible. This stark white really amps up the richness of your gray walls.
The bright finish opens up a room and bounces light everywhere, which helps balance out Dorian Gray’s medium depth.
Extra White shines in rooms with plenty of natural light. In darker spaces, though, the contrast can feel a bit too severe for some tastes.
Honestly, this combo feels fresh and modern—great for kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas where you want things clean and crisp.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster adds warmth to Dorian Gray walls with its creamy undertones. It gives you a softer, gentler contrast than those super-bright whites.
The warm undertones in Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008 play nicely with Dorian Gray’s yellowish hue family. These two just work together—no clashing, no fuss.
This pairing feels cozy and inviting. It’s a solid choice for bedrooms, dining rooms, and family spaces where you want a relaxed vibe.
Alabaster has an LRV of 82, so it still bounces plenty of light around. You get the brightness but skip the harshness of pure white trim.
Real World Examples of Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 in Different Spaces
Dorian Gray SW 7017 teams up beautifully with other popular Sherwin Williams grays. Each brings a little something different to the table, depending on your design needs.
These colors help you create a cohesive palette throughout your home without everything feeling too samey.
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray offers a lighter touch compared to Dorian Gray, with an LRV of 58 (Dorian Gray sits at 39). It’s a lifesaver in smaller spaces or rooms that don’t get much sun.
Homeowners often use Repose Gray in main living areas and save Dorian Gray for accent walls or nearby rooms. This keeps things flowing visually without being overly coordinated.
Key differences include:
- Repose Gray leans cooler
- Dorian Gray feels warmer and a bit more intimate
- Repose Gray fits open floor plans better
Try painting your kitchen in Repose Gray, then use Dorian Gray in the dining room next door. You’ll get nice separation but still keep everything harmonious.
Mindful Gray SW 7016
Mindful Gray SW 7016 lands right between Dorian Gray and Repose Gray with an LRV of 48. It’s the Goldilocks option—not too light, not too dark.
This color works especially well in bedrooms and home offices. It feels calming, which is great for spaces where you need to focus or just chill out.
Popular combinations include:
- Mindful Gray for main walls
- Dorian Gray for feature walls
- White trim everywhere
Designers often recommend Mindful Gray for north-facing rooms where Dorian Gray might get too heavy. That extra lightness helps brighten up tricky spaces.
Amazing Gray SW 7044
Amazing Gray brings more purple undertones, while Dorian Gray leans brown and warm. With an LRV of 60, Amazing Gray reflects a lot more light than Dorian Gray does.
You’ll see this color in contemporary homes with clean lines and modern furniture. It often gets paired with crisp white trim and bold accents.
Best applications:
- Open concept living areas
- Modern kitchens with white cabinets
- Bathrooms with natural light
The purple undertones in Amazing Gray shift with the light. Mornings feel cooler, evenings a bit warmer—it’s kind of fascinating.
Colonnade Gray SW 7641
Colonnade Gray brings the deepest tone in this family with an LRV of 53. It adds more drama than Dorian Gray but still feels elegant and sophisticated.
This shade excels in formal dining rooms and master bedrooms where you want a cozy, intimate vibe. The depth adds richness but doesn’t overwhelm.
Design considerations:
- Needs good lighting
- Looks best with light-colored furniture
- Pairs well with brass fixtures
Try Colonnade Gray as your main color, then sprinkle in Dorian Gray with accessories or accent pieces for a layered effect.
Agreeable Gray SW 7029
Agreeable Gray SW 7029 stays a fan favorite with an LRV of 60. It’s much lighter than Dorian Gray but shares those warm undertones.
This versatile color fits almost any style, from farmhouse to modern. Agreeable Gray gives you a neutral backdrop that doesn’t fight your furniture.
Popular uses:
- Whole house color schemes
- Main living spaces
- Transitional spots like hallways
Plenty of folks go with Agreeable Gray for the main areas, then use Dorian Gray in bedrooms or studies where a deeper tone feels cozier.
On the Rocks SW 7671
On the Rocks has green undertones that play nicely with Dorian Gray’s brown base. With an LRV of 44, it’s just a bit lighter than Dorian Gray but still has nice depth.
This color looks especially good in rooms with natural wood accents. The green brings out the warmth in wood while the gray keeps things classy.
Ideal locations:
- Family rooms with wood beams
- Kitchens with wood cabinets
- Home offices with built-ins
You’ll notice the green undertones more in spaces with lots of sunlight. Northern light tends to pull out more of the gray.
Naval SW 6244
Naval gives you bold contrast against Dorian Gray’s neutrality. This deep navy makes a dramatic accent when you use Dorian Gray on the main walls.
Paint one wall in Naval and keep the rest Dorian Gray for a real focal point. This works especially well behind beds or in dining rooms.
Design applications:
- Accent walls in bedrooms
- Kitchen islands or lower cabinets
- Built-ins or entertainment centers
Mixing Naval and Dorian Gray creates a sophisticated, almost hotel-like feel. Add white trim and some brass and you’re golden.
Comparing Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 to Similar Colors
Dorian Gray’s warm undertones set it apart from cooler blues, clay tones, dramatic blacks, and nature-inspired greens. Each match-up shows how this balanced neutral stands out in terms of lightness, warmth, and versatility across different rooms.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 vs Smoky Blue SW 7604
Dorian Gray gives you a warm, grounded feel, while Smoky Blue brings cool, airy vibes. The undertones and mood couldn’t be more different.
Color Temperature:
- Dorian Gray: Warm taupe with a hint of green
- Smoky Blue: Cool blue-gray, fresh and crisp
Light Reflectance Value:
- Dorian Gray: LRV 39 (medium depth)
- Smoky Blue: LRV 49 (a bit lighter and brighter)
Smoky Blue really shines in rooms with tons of natural light. It creates a spa-like feeling in bathrooms and bedrooms.
If you want warmth without heaviness, Dorian Gray is your friend. It’s great for living rooms and dining spaces where people gather.
Go with Smoky Blue for a modern, minimalist look. Choose Dorian Gray if you want something that feels both current and timeless, especially in traditional or transitional homes.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 vs Coral Clay SW 9005
These two couldn’t be more different. Dorian Gray stays cool and calm, while Coral Clay brings energy and warmth.
Undertone Comparison:
- Dorian Gray: Subtle taupe, a little green
- Coral Clay: Bold peachy-pink
Room Impact:
Coral Clay makes a statement as an accent wall. It fits well in dining rooms or powder rooms where you want a pop of personality.
Dorian Gray gives you a calm backdrop that lets your furniture and art take center stage. It’s ideal for main living areas that need flexibility.
Pairing Differences:
Coral Clay pairs well with deep blues and crisp whites. You have to be careful not to let it overpower smaller spaces.
Dorian Gray is way more forgiving. You can swap out accessories and decor as your tastes change, no repainting needed.
If you like to change things up, Dorian Gray makes life easier. Coral Clay is more of a commitment to a warm palette.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 vs Tricorn Black SW 6258
The contrast here is huge. Dorian Gray brings subtle sophistication; Tricorn Black is all about drama.
Visual Weight:
- Dorian Gray: Medium, balanced
- Tricorn Black: Deep, commands attention
Application Differences:
Tricorn Black works best on an accent wall or a front door. Too much, and it can shrink a room fast.
Dorian Gray can handle a whole room without making it feel closed in or heavy.
Maintenance Considerations:
| Color | Touch-ups | Scuff Visibility | Dust Showing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dorian Gray | Easy to blend | Moderate visibility | Low |
| Tricorn Black | Needs precision | High visibility | High |
Tricorn Black will show every fingerprint and dust speck. Dorian Gray hides little imperfections a lot better.
Pick Tricorn Black if you want drama in a specific spot. For everyday ease and versatility, Dorian Gray is hard to beat.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 vs Waterscape SW 6470
Both colors bring calm, but they take very different routes. Dorian Gray uses warm neutrality, while Waterscape channels nature’s peaceful side.
Color Family:
- Dorian Gray: Warm gray
- Waterscape: Blue-green, inspired by water
Room Applications:
Waterscape is a natural fit for bathrooms and bedrooms if you want a spa vibe. Its blue-green undertones create a soothing, water-inspired feel.
Dorian Gray works in everything from kitchens to home offices. It’s neutral enough to support any room function without competing for attention.
Lighting Behavior:
Waterscape shifts a lot between natural and artificial light. Sometimes it looks more blue, sometimes more green—it depends on your bulbs.
Dorian Gray stays pretty consistent no matter the lighting. That makes coordinating with furniture and fabrics way easier.
Style Compatibility:
Waterscape fits coastal, contemporary, and transitional styles. Dorian Gray adapts easily to farmhouse, traditional, modern, or even eclectic spaces.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 vs Redend Point SW 9081
These colors really capture different vibes. Dorian Gray leans into subtle elegance, while Redend Point brings a bold, earthy richness to the table.
Depth Comparison:
- Dorian Gray: Medium depth with a balanced, steady presence.
- Redend Point: Deep, rich brown that carries a lot of visual weight.
Warmth Levels:
Redend Point radiates serious warmth thanks to its brown undertones. It almost wraps a room in a cozy, cocoon-like feeling.
Dorian Gray gives just enough gentle warmth, never tipping too cool. It strikes a nice balance—welcoming, but still fresh.
Best Uses:
Redend Point shines in libraries, studies, and formal dining rooms. It looks especially good with leather furniture and brass touches.
Dorian Gray fits right in with open floor plans and rooms that have to do a bit of everything. It’s versatile enough to keep up as your style changes with the seasons.
Commitment Factor:
Redend Point asks you to commit to a warm, rich palette. It pretty much sets the tone for all your other color choices in the space.
Dorian Gray, on the other hand, gives you tons of flexibility. You can play around with accent colors and different decorating styles as you please.
Complementary Colors to Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017
Dorian Gray pairs well with both cool blues like Smoky Blue and warm corals. If you want more drama, try deep blacks or rich teals for contrast.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 with Smoky Blue SW 7604
Smoky Blue sets a calming, sophisticated mood with Dorian Gray. This soft blue-gray brings cool undertones that balance out the warm beige in Dorian Gray.
Try Smoky Blue on accent walls and keep Dorian Gray as your main color. This combo feels especially peaceful in bedrooms and living rooms.
Both colors share gray undertones, which helps them feel like they belong together. Smoky Blue has just enough blue to stay interesting, but it won’t overpower the room.
If you’re up for it, use Smoky Blue on trim or cabinetry while Dorian Gray covers the walls. That move adds some depth but keeps everything tied together.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 with Coral Clay SW 9005
Coral Clay adds warmth and a spark of energy to Dorian Gray’s neutral base. It’s got a terracotta vibe that brings personality without going overboard.
The orange undertones in Coral Clay really complement Dorian Gray’s cooler side. This keeps things balanced and stops the room from feeling flat.
It’s smart to use Coral Clay as an accent—think pillows, art, or maybe a single feature wall. Too much and you might drown out Dorian Gray’s subtle charm.
This duo feels right at home in dining rooms and kitchens where you want to invite people in. It’s modern, but there’s something timeless about it too.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 with Tricorn Black SW 6258
Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams brings a bold, dramatic contrast to Dorian Gray’s soft neutrality. This true black instantly adds depth and a touch of sophistication.
Try Tricorn Black for trim, doors, or built-ins while Dorian Gray covers the walls. You’ll notice architectural details pop in a really satisfying way.
This pairing suits modern and transitional rooms where you want crisp lines and strong definition. Black and gray just never seem to get old.
For a striking focal point, use Tricorn Black on an accent wall behind a bed or fireplace. Dorian Gray will mellow out the look, keeping the vibe comfortable.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 with Waterscape SW 6470
Waterscape brings in a fresh blue-green that works nicely with Dorian Gray’s earthy side. It’s got a nature-inspired calm but doesn’t shout for attention.
This soft teal really shines in bathrooms and bedrooms where you want a little spa energy. Waterscape adds color but keeps the peaceful mood intact.
Consider a 70-30 split—mostly Dorian Gray with Waterscape as the accent. That ratio keeps things grounded and soothing.
White trim and natural wood accents look great with this combo. Both shades have enough gray in them to feel like a natural match.
Dorian Gray by Sherwin Williams SW 7017 with Redend Point SW 9081
Redend Point brings a rich, burgundy depth that really pops against Dorian Gray. This deep red-brown shade adds a cozy, sophisticated vibe to otherwise neutral spaces.
You’ll notice the pairing stands out in formal dining rooms or libraries. It’s also a good fit for home offices if you’re after something elegant but not stuffy.
Try painting one accent wall or built-in bookcases in Redend Point, leaving Dorian Gray as the main color. That way, you get a bit of drama without things feeling too heavy.
This combo looks especially good with brass or gold hardware. Warm wood tones play nicely with both colors, too.
Honestly, both shades offer enough depth to handle rich textures and a touch of luxury throughout the room. There’s something inviting about the whole look, isn’t there?
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.