Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031: Color Guide

Looking for a paint color that feels calm but still adds character to your space? Sherwin-Williams Dutch Tile Blue (SW 0031) gives you that balance.

This medium blue with subtle gray undertones creates a relaxed, timeless look that works in both modern and traditional homes.

You can use it to bring a cozy mood to bedrooms or add depth to living rooms. It also gives a touch of sophistication to an office.

With an LRV of 39, it reflects just enough light to feel warm without being too bright. That makes it pretty versatile in different lighting conditions.

Pair it with soft neutrals for a soothing palette. Or, go bold with deeper colors for a striking contrast.

However you style it, Dutch Tile Blue offers a flexible foundation. It fits a lot of design goals.

Key Takeaways

• Dutch Tile Blue is a medium-toned blue with gray undertones
• Lighting and surroundings affect how this color appears
• It pairs well with both soft neutrals and bold accents

What Color Is Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031?

Dutch Tile Blue (SW 0031) is a medium blue with gray undertones. It creates a calm, balanced look.

The muted quality makes it work for both traditional and modern spaces.

Color Family

You’ll find Dutch Tile Blue in the blue color family. But it doesn’t read as a bright or primary blue.

Instead, it leans toward a slate-like tone with subtle gray influences. That makes it feel softer and more grounded than pure blue.

Because of its muted character, you can use it in rooms where you want a sense of calm without the color feeling overwhelming. It works well in bedrooms, living rooms, and offices, especially when paired with neutral trim or warm accent colors.

The shade also fits nicely in historic or colonial revival interiors. Muted colors often feel more authentic in those spaces.

If you prefer a natural look, this blue pairs well with earthy tones like beiges, creams, and soft greens.

Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)

Dutch Tile Blue has specific color values that help you understand how it looks in different settings.

• Hex: #9AABAB
• RGB: (154, 171, 171) → 60% Red, 67% Green, 67% Blue
• LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 39

The LRV of 39 means the color reflects a moderate amount of light. It’s not too dark, but it won’t brighten a room the way lighter shades do.

In natural light, you might notice the gray undertones more strongly. In artificial light, the blue tones often become more visible.

This balance makes it flexible for different lighting conditions.

Real World Examples of Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 in Different Spaces

This mid-tone cool blue works well in many settings. It balances color depth with softness.

You can use it to add calmness, highlight architectural details, or bring contrast to lighter and warmer tones.

Bathrooms

You can use Dutch Tile Blue to give your bathroom a calm and clean look. The cool undertones pair nicely with white tile, marble counters, or chrome fixtures.

If your bathroom gets natural light, the color appears brighter and more refreshing. In smaller bathrooms with limited light, it takes on a softer, muted tone.

For a balanced space, consider pairing it with white trim, light wood shelves, or brushed nickel hardware. These accents keep the room airy while letting the blue stand out.

Bedrooms

Dutch Tile Blue works well in bedrooms because it creates a restful backdrop. The color’s cool tone helps the space feel calm, which is ideal for winding down at night.

You can use it on all four walls for a cozy effect or as an accent wall behind the bed. Pairing it with linen bedding, cream curtains, or warm wood furniture helps balance its cooler base.

If you want a brighter look, add soft lighting and lighter textiles. For a more dramatic style, combine it with navy or charcoal accents.

Front Doors

Painting your front door in Dutch Tile Blue adds a welcoming but understated touch. It stands out against neutral siding colors like beige, taupe, or white without looking too bold.

The color pairs well with brass hardware and matte black fixtures, giving your entryway a polished finish. If your home has brick or stone, the blue creates a nice contrast that highlights the natural texture.

Since it’s a medium shade, it hides dirt better than lighter colors while still looking fresh.

Home Offices

In a home office, Dutch Tile Blue helps create focus and calm. The cool undertone cuts visual clutter and makes the space feel organized.

You can use it on the walls with white trim and light oak desks for a balanced look. If your office has little natural light, use brighter task lighting to keep the color from looking too muted.

Adding warm accents like tan leather chairs or brass desk lamps keeps the room from feeling too cold.

Houses

When used on exteriors, Dutch Tile Blue gives houses a timeless and clean look. It works especially well with white trim, natural stone, or dark shutters.

The medium depth of the color makes it stand out without overpowering the architecture. It looks brighter in direct sunlight and more muted in shaded areas, so placement matters.

For a coordinated exterior scheme, pair it with a white front porch, grey roofing, and wood accents on doors or shutters.

Kitchen Cabinets

Dutch Tile Blue can make kitchen cabinets feel fresh and modern. It works well with white countertops, subway tile backsplashes, and stainless steel appliances.

Because it’s a mid-tone, it adds color without making the kitchen feel too dark. If you have an open kitchen, pairing it with lighter walls keeps the space from feeling closed in.

For a warmer balance, add brass pulls, butcher block counters, or wood floors. This softens the cool undertone and creates a more inviting kitchen.

Living Rooms

In living rooms, Dutch Tile Blue adds depth without overwhelming the space. You can use it on all walls for a cozy, modern feel or just as an accent wall.

It pairs well with neutral sofas, light rugs, and wood coffee tables. If you prefer more contrast, combine it with mustard yellow pillows or burnt orange throws for a complementary look.

Lighting plays a big role. With natural light, the color feels crisp and airy, while in dimmer rooms it becomes softer and more muted.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 Undertones

You’ll notice that Dutch Tile Blue is not a bright or pure blue. It leans toward a slate-like tone with soft gray mixed in, which keeps it calm and balanced.

Because of these gray undertones, the color feels more muted than bold. This makes it easier to use in both traditional and modern spaces without feeling overwhelming.

The undertones also shift depending on light.

• In bright natural light, you may see more of the blue come forward.
• In dim or warm light, the gray becomes stronger, giving the color a more subdued look.

Lighting Condition	What You’ll See
Bright daylight	Blue looks clearer and fresher
Warm indoor light	Gray tones soften the blue
Low light	Color appears deeper and moodier

You can pair it with warm neutrals like beige or creamy whites to highlight the blue side. If you want a stronger contrast, try it with navy or deep green, which bring out its cooler edge.

How Does Lighting Affect Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031?

The way this color looks in your home depends heavily on the type and amount of light in the room. Its slate-gray undertones can shift from soft and muted to deeper and more dramatic depending on the conditions.

Natural Lighting

In north-facing rooms, Dutch Tile Blue often appears cooler and more muted. The gray undertones become more noticeable, which can give the space a calm and reserved mood.

South-facing rooms bring out more warmth. The stronger sunlight makes the blue feel lighter and a bit more vibrant, softening the gray influence.

East-facing light adds a gentle brightness in the morning, making the color look fresh and airy. In contrast, west-facing light deepens the shade in the evening, creating a cozier feel.

If you want to see how it reacts in your space, try testing large paint swatches on multiple walls. This helps you notice how the color shifts throughout the day.

Artificial Lighting

Under warm incandescent or LED bulbs, Dutch Tile Blue leans toward a softer, slightly warmer blue. The gray undertones fade a bit, and the color feels more balanced and welcoming.

Cool white or daylight bulbs highlight the gray tones more strongly. This can make the paint look moodier and more formal, especially at night when natural light is gone.

Fluorescent lighting often brings out a muted, flat version of the color. This works in practical spaces but may not show the richness you expect.

To get the look you want, match your bulb temperature to the mood you prefer. Warmer bulbs create a relaxed atmosphere, while cooler bulbs emphasize the crisp, slate-like qualities of the shade.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 LRV 39 (Light Reflectance Value)

This color reflects a medium amount of light, giving you flexibility in how it looks in different rooms and lighting conditions. Its balance between depth and brightness makes it useful for both cozy and open spaces.

What Is LRV?

Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measures how much light a paint color reflects on a scale from 0 to 100.

• 0 = absolute black (absorbs all light)
• 100 = pure white (reflects all light)

When you choose paint, LRV helps you understand how dark or light a color will appear on your walls.

A higher LRV means the color will make a room feel brighter and more open. A lower LRV absorbs more light, giving a space a moodier or more intimate feel.

Knowing the LRV helps you plan how a color interacts with natural light and artificial lighting throughout the day. It also guides you in pairing colors so that your palette feels balanced.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 LRV Range

Dutch Tile Blue has an LRV of about 39. That puts it right in the medium range. So, it reflects some light but doesn’t get anywhere near “bright.”

In a sunny room, you’ll notice it looks lighter and a bit more airy. In a dim or north-facing space, the color deepens and feels more muted.

You can use this flexibility to your advantage. Try pairing it with lighter neutrals like Accessible Beige or Creamy to brighten things up.

For contrast, throw in darker tones like Naval or Secret Garden. That combo adds some drama if you’re into that look.

With its LRV, Dutch Tile Blue holds its own in living rooms, bedrooms, and offices. It gives you color with presence, but doesn’t turn the space cave-like.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 Coordinating Colors

Dutch Tile Blue works best when you pair it with colors that balance its medium depth and subtle gray undertones. Go with soft whites for brightness, or try earthy neutrals for warmth—it just depends on the vibe you’re after.

Alabaster SW 7008

Pair Dutch Tile Blue with Alabaster SW 7008 for a clean, calming contrast. Alabaster is a soft white, not stark at all, and it brightens a room without feeling harsh.

With a high light reflectance value, Alabaster bounces light back into the space. That makes Dutch Tile Blue feel more open and airy, which is especially helpful in small rooms or spots with not much daylight.

Use Alabaster on trim, ceilings, or cabinetry. It frames Dutch Tile Blue in a crisp, timeless way. Or, use Alabaster on the walls and let Dutch Tile Blue shine as an accent. You can check out more about Alabaster SW 7008 if you want a versatile white that plays nice with lots of colors.

Manor House SW 7505

If you want a richer, grounded palette, Manor House SW 7505 is a solid choice with Dutch Tile Blue. It’s a warm, earthy neutral that adds depth, but doesn’t overpower.

Manor House brings warmth to balance Dutch Tile Blue’s cool undertones. This pairing works in living rooms, dining rooms, or even outside if you’re after a classic, welcoming look.

Try Manor House on big surfaces like walls or siding, and use Dutch Tile Blue as an accent for shutters, trim, or cabinets. Add natural textures—wood, stone, maybe some woven stuff—and the combo feels really cohesive.

Greek Villa SW 7551

Greek Villa SW 7551 is another soft white, but it’s warmer than Alabaster. If you want to soften Dutch Tile Blue while keeping things bright, this one’s worth a look.

Greek Villa reflects light beautifully, especially when you get some sun in the room. Paired with Dutch Tile Blue, it gives you a warm, fresh look that feels pretty inviting.

Try Greek Villa on the walls with Dutch Tile Blue accents on built-ins, doors, or furniture. The subtle creaminess keeps it flexible for both modern and traditional spaces. If you’re leaning toward a warm white, Greek Villa SW 7551 is a solid, timeless option.

Trim Colors for Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031

When you pair Dutch Tile Blue with the right trim, you really highlight the color’s depth. The choice of white trim can swing the look from crisp and modern to soft and welcoming.

Pure White SW 7005

If you want trim that’s clean but not too sharp, Pure White SW 7005 is a good pick. It has a soft base, so it avoids that harsh, bright-white look and works for lots of styles.

This shade lets Dutch Tile Blue take center stage. The subtle warmth in Pure White keeps the contrast from feeling cold or sterile.

It adapts well to different lighting, which is handy if your space gets both sun and artificial light. You can read more about Pure White SW 7005 if you want a trim that feels fresh but still flexible.

Alabaster SW 7008

Alabaster SW 7008 gives you a softer look than Pure White. Its creamy undertone pairs nicely with Dutch Tile Blue, especially if you want a cozier feel.

This one works in traditional or transitional spaces—it doesn’t lean too modern or too vintage. Alabaster’s warmth helps soften Dutch Tile Blue’s cool side.

It’s especially nice in bedrooms or dining rooms, or anywhere you want comfort. The creaminess keeps the contrast gentle, so the room feels more inviting.

Snowbound SW 7004

Snowbound SW 7004 offers a cooler take on white trim. It shifts a bit depending on the light—sometimes you catch hints of gray or off-white. That makes it pretty flexible if your room’s light changes a lot.

With Dutch Tile Blue, Snowbound creates a fresh, contemporary look. The cooler undertone keeps things airy and modern, but doesn’t go overboard.

If you want trim that’s crisp but still soft, Snowbound SW 7004 is worth a look. It shines in bright spaces where natural light shows off those subtle shifts in tone.

Comparing Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 to Similar Colors

Dutch Tile Blue sits in the middle depth-wise and brings gray undertones, making it pretty versatile. But it’s easy to mix up with other blues if you’re not careful. The real differences come down to undertone, how much light they reflect, and the mood you want in your space.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 vs Loyal Blue SW 6510

Loyal Blue is way more saturated than Dutch Tile Blue. While Dutch Tile Blue comes off as muted and a bit slate-like, Loyal Blue is bold and commanding. It’s great for accent walls or exterior doors, while Dutch Tile Blue fits better in softer, more chill spaces.

The undertones set them apart. Dutch Tile Blue’s got gray mixed in, so it looks softer. Loyal Blue is a brighter, cleaner blue—think classic or even nautical.

On the LRV scale, Dutch Tile Blue is at 39, but Loyal Blue is darker and reflects less light. If you want calm, historic vibes, Dutch Tile Blue wins. For a crisp, standout blue, Loyal Blue is the one.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 vs Naval SW 6244

Dutch Tile Blue and Naval SW 6244 both have depth, but Naval is much darker. It’s a true navy with an LRV of 4—one of the deepest blues Sherwin-Williams offers. Dutch Tile Blue feels softer and more approachable in comparison.

Naval doesn’t have gray undertones, so it’s a purer blue. Dutch Tile Blue’s slate undertone makes it look more muted, less dramatic. That changes how each one reacts to light.

Naval creates a strong, moody backdrop and pairs well with crisp whites or brass accents. Dutch Tile Blue is better for casual spaces where you want color but not too much intensity.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 vs Smoky Blue SW 7604

Smoky Blue is also muted, but it feels warmer than Dutch Tile Blue. While Dutch Tile Blue leans cool with gray undertones, Smoky Blue has a soft, dusty teal vibe. That gives Smoky Blue a slightly more inviting, less formal feel.

Both are mid-depth, so you can use them similarly. Smoky Blue brings more color presence, while Dutch Tile Blue blends in more easily.

If you want relaxed but still colorful, Smoky Blue might be your pick. Dutch Tile Blue is more restrained—good for subtle spaces.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 vs Distance SW 6243

Distance is deeper and moodier than Dutch Tile Blue. It’s got a noticeable gray undertone, but the overall effect is more intense. That makes Distance work for accent walls or spaces where you want drama.

Dutch Tile Blue, with its medium depth, feels lighter and more versatile. You can use it across a whole room without things getting too dark. Distance, though, can make a space feel smaller but cozier.

So, think about scale. Dutch Tile Blue is easier for an entire room, while Distance shines in smaller doses.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 vs Honorable Blue SW 6811

Honorable Blue is brighter and more vivid than Dutch Tile Blue. It doesn’t have those gray undertones—just a strong, clean blue. That makes Honorable Blue feel playful and energetic.

Thanks to its brightness, Honorable Blue is great for kids’ rooms, creative spaces, or anywhere you want a lively feel. Dutch Tile Blue feels more sophisticated and calming by comparison.

Both pair well with whites and neutrals, but Honorable Blue pops more. Dutch Tile Blue blends in with muted palettes.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 vs Refuge SW 6228

Refuge is another deep blue, but it leans a bit teal. That subtle green undertone sets it apart from Dutch Tile Blue’s cooler gray tones. You’ll notice the difference more in natural light.

Dutch Tile Blue comes off more neutral and balanced. Refuge brings a bit of richness, so it feels bolder. Refuge fits modern spaces where you want depth but not quite navy territory.

If you want steady and understated, Dutch Tile Blue is the safer bet. Refuge adds more personality and can shift the mood depending on lighting.

Complementary Colors to Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031

This medium blue with gray undertones pairs well with earthy browns, warm terracotta, and rich neutrals that balance out its coolness. You can go for contrast with deep shades or keep it soft by mixing in warm, muted colors.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 with Manor House SW 7505

Pair Dutch Tile Blue with Manor House SW 7505 for a bold, classic contrast. Manor House is a deep, warm brown that grounds the blue, making both colors stand out.

This combo works in traditional spaces where you want a rich, timeless vibe. For example, try Dutch Tile Blue on cabinets and Manor House on trim or doors.

The pairing also fits exteriors—Dutch Tile Blue on siding and Manor House as an accent for shutters or entryways. The contrast is strong but not over the top, so your space looks refined.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 with Cavern Clay SW 7701

Cavern Clay SW 7701 is a warm terracotta that brings energy to Dutch Tile Blue’s calm. The earthy orange-brown complements blue since they’re opposites on the color wheel.

Use this mix in living rooms or dining areas where you want warmth and depth. Dutch Tile Blue on the walls with Cavern Clay as an accent or on furniture creates a cozy, stylish setting.

This pairing also works for rustic or Southwestern-inspired looks. The clay tone highlights natural wood, while the blue keeps things from feeling too heavy or dark.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 with Copper Mountain SW 6356

Copper Mountain SW 6356 is a rich copper-brown. It pairs beautifully with the slate undertones of Dutch Tile Blue.

Together, these colors create a warm and cool balance. The vibe feels inviting and steady—honestly, it’s a combo that just works.

Kitchens really shine with this mix. Try Dutch Tile Blue on cabinets, then bring in Copper Mountain through tile, hardware, or maybe even an accent wall.

The copper tones highlight the blue without clashing. It’s subtle but makes a real difference.

This combo also works in offices or studies. Copper-brown adds warmth and structure, while the blue keeps things from getting too dark or heavy.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 with Spiced Cider SW 7702

Pair Dutch Tile Blue with Spiced Cider SW 7702 for a rich, autumn-inspired look. Spiced Cider is a warm, reddish-brown that brings energy and depth.

This duo works in dining rooms, especially with wood furniture. Natural fabrics add to the cozy, welcoming vibe.

Try Dutch Tile Blue walls and Spiced Cider accents. The space feels both inviting and a little bit bold.

You can use this pairing outside, too. Dutch Tile Blue siding with Spiced Cider trim or shutters creates a balanced look that feels warm and striking.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 with Pueblo SW 7711

Pueblo SW 7711 is a muted brown with red undertones. It complements Dutch Tile Blue’s cooler base, which is pretty neat.

The result is earthy and stable. Living spaces feel grounded but still calm with this palette.

Try Dutch Tile Blue walls with Pueblo furniture or trim. You’ll get contrast, but it’s never too sharp on the eyes.

This pairing fits outdoor spaces, too. Pueblo’s warm tone pairs nicely with stone or brick, while Dutch Tile Blue adds a classic, fresh touch.

Dutch Tile Blue by Sherwin Williams SW 0031 with Armagnac SW 6354

Pairing Dutch Tile Blue with Armagnac SW 6354 gives you this bold mix of cool and warm. Armagnac, a deep reddish-orange, pops against the softer blue.

This combo really shines when you want to draw attention to architectural details. Try Dutch Tile Blue on walls and Armagnac on doors or trim—it instantly creates a strong focal point.

It works in kitchens or dining rooms too. The orange brings energy, while the blue keeps things feeling balanced and cozy.