If you’re after a paint color that feels warm but still neutral, Sherwin-Williams Moth Wing SW 9174 might just fit the bill. This shade lands somewhere between beige and taupe, with soft gray undertones, making it a flexible choice for almost any room.
It brings comfort without getting too dark. You’ll find it easy to pair with both light and dark accents.
Moth Wing works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or even offices. It creates a calm, inviting vibe wherever you use it.
The muted tone shifts a bit depending on lighting, which keeps things interesting. With an LRV of 29, it reflects enough light to avoid feeling heavy but still offers depth and warmth.
You can match Moth Wing with a big range of coordinating and trim colors. Whether your style is modern, traditional, or even Scandinavian, this color blends in easily and brings a grounded feel to your space.
Key Takeaways
- Moth Wing is a warm neutral with beige, taupe, and gray undertones
- Lighting changes how this color looks in different spaces
- It coordinates well with many accent and trim colors
What Color Is Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174?
Sherwin Williams Moth Wing SW 9174 is a medium-depth neutral that mixes brown and gray tones. It feels grounded and warm, but never too dark, making it a go-to for lots of rooms.
Color Family
Moth Wing falls into the taupe and beige color family with clear gray undertones. It leans a little warm, which helps it feel cozy but not heavy.
Since it balances brown and gray, this shade acts as a bridge between warm and cool palettes. It tends to look earthy and natural, especially with wood, stone, or soft textiles nearby.
In bright light, Moth Wing can look a bit more beige. In dimmer spaces, it shifts toward a deeper taupe.
This flexibility makes it practical if you want a neutral that adapts to changing light. Use it on walls in living rooms, bedrooms, or home offices. It even works as an exterior color, blending with natural surroundings.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Moth Wing’s color values help you know what to expect. Its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is 29, so it reflects a moderate amount of light. It’s not too dark, but it will feel deeper in rooms with less light.
Here are the codes:
| Code Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Hex | #8A7C6E |
| RGB | (138, 124, 110) |
| LRV | 29 |
These numbers explain why the paint feels rich and grounded. The lower LRV gives it depth, while the balanced RGB mix creates that soft brown-gray vibe.
When you compare paint colors, these values help you see how Moth Wing stacks up against other neutrals like taupe, beige, or greige. They’re handy for coordinating trim, accents, or even furniture finishes.
Real World Examples of Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 in Different Spaces
This color shines when you pair it with finishes that highlight its warm, muted depth. It works well alongside natural textures, soft whites, and darker accents.
Bathrooms
Moth Wing makes bathrooms feel calm and grounded. Its medium depth looks great with white trim, marble counters, or light tile.
The gray undertone keeps it modern, not too brown. For smaller bathrooms, try it on an accent wall.
Pair it with brushed nickel fixtures or matte black hardware for contrast. If you want a spa vibe, combine it with warm whites like Sherwin Williams Alabaster and natural wood finishes.
Bedrooms
Moth Wing brings warmth and restfulness to bedrooms. Its LRV of 29 means it adds color but doesn’t make the space feel cave-like.
If your room gets lots of natural light, go for all four walls. In darker bedrooms, it works best as an accent behind the bed.
Soft fabrics in beige, cream, or muted green pair nicely. For trim, Pure White or White Dove keeps things fresh, while a darker accent like Urbane Bronze in furniture or lamps adds some punch.
Front Doors
Paint your front door in Moth Wing for a welcoming, understated look. It pairs well with brick, stone, or neutral siding because it doesn’t swing too green or violet.
If your exterior has warm stone or tan brick, Moth Wing blends right in. On white siding, it stands out as a softer contrast than black or navy.
For a polished finish, go with satin or semi-gloss sheen. Hardware in oil-rubbed bronze or matte black matches the muted brown-gray tone.
Home Offices
Moth Wing helps a home office feel focused but not cold. Its muted vibe keeps things professional and still warm.
Paint all four walls for a cozy workspace, or just one if the room is small. Pair with light gray or beige walls elsewhere for balance.
Wood desks and shelves look right at home next to this color. For a modern edge, add dark green accents or muted blues with gray undertones.
Houses
On exteriors, Moth Wing pairs nicely with stone, brick, or stucco. Its medium depth makes it flexible for siding.
It looks great with warm whites on trim and charcoal or bronze for shutters and gutters. The body color stands out without looking flat.
Since it doesn’t lean green or purple, it works with lots of roof colors—brown, gray, or weathered wood.
Kitchen Cabinets
Moth Wing is a solid pick for kitchen cabinets if you want something deeper than off-white but not as bold as black. Its earthy tone adds richness without taking over.
Pair it with light countertops like quartz or marble for contrast. For backsplash, try soft beige or white subway tile.
Hardware makes a difference here. Matte black or brushed brass pulls bring out the warmth in the paint.
Living Rooms
Moth Wing anchors living rooms nicely. Its depth works well on main walls, especially if you’ve got good natural light.
For a layered look, use it with softer neutrals like Tony Taupe or Keystone Gray on other walls. That creates flow without everything blending together too much.
Textiles like linen, wool, and leather bring out the earthy side of the color. Muted greens or darker grays in pillows, rugs, or accent furniture tie the room together.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 Undertones
When you check out Moth Wing (SW 9174), you’ll see it floats between beige and taupe. There’s a soft brown-gray base that feels warm but not heavy.
The undertones lean warm and earthy, giving the color a cozy vibe. The subtle gray influence keeps it from looking too golden or flat.
This balance means the color can shift with lighting. In bright natural light, the beige warmth pops more. In lower light, the gray undertones show up.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Undertone | Effect in a Room |
|---|---|
| Beige | Adds warmth and comfort |
| Gray | Brings balance and softness |
| Brown | Grounds the color, making it feel stable |
These undertones make Moth Wing flexible. Pair it with lighter neutrals for a soft look or deeper colors for contrast.
Honestly, Moth Wing’s undertones give you a neutral with depth. That makes it easy to adapt to different spaces and styles.
How Does Lighting Affect Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174?
This warm taupe paint shifts depending on the light in your space. In brighter conditions, it feels lighter and softer. Dimmer or warmer light brings out deeper, richer tones.
Natural Lighting
Natural daylight keeps Moth Wing looking balanced and true to its base. In a room with big south-facing windows, you might notice the shade looking warmer and a bit more beige in the afternoon.
Cooler north-facing light can bring out the gray or taupe notes. That makes the color seem more muted.
Morning light from east windows often highlights softer undertones. West-facing evening light deepens the color. The same wall can look totally different as the day goes on.
To see how Moth Wing behaves, test it on a few walls and check it out at different times. That’s the best way to know if it’ll lean warm or cool in your home.
Artificial Lighting
Artificial light changes things after sunset. Incandescent bulbs cast a yellow glow, making the color look warmer and a bit more beige.
LED bulbs can go either way. Warm LEDs (2700K–3000K) give a cozy effect, while cool LEDs (4000K+) pull out more gray or taupe.
Fluorescent light usually brings out cooler notes, which might make the shade less inviting. The type of bulb you use matters as much as the paint.
If you want a consistent look, stick with the same kind of bulb throughout the room. That way, the color doesn’t shift too much between fixtures.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 LRV 29 (Light Reflectance Value)
This color sits in the medium range of light reflectance. That affects how it looks in different rooms and lighting.
What Is LRV?
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) measures how much light a color bounces back, on a scale from 0 to 100.
- 0 = pure black (absorbs all light)
- 100 = pure white (reflects all light)
When you pick paint, LRV tells you how light or dark it’ll read on your walls. You can use LRV to plan how a color interacts with both natural and artificial light.
A higher LRV bounces more light, making a room feel brighter. A lower LRV soaks up light, which can make things feel more intimate.
Pairing a low-LRV paint with lighter trim creates contrast. Mixing it with other mid-range shades gives a softer, more blended vibe.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 LRV Range
Sherwin Williams Moth Wing (SW 9174) has an LRV of about 29. That puts it in the medium-dark range—it reflects less light than lighter neutrals but isn’t as deep as charcoal or black.
Moth Wing soaks up more light than it bounces back, so walls feel warm and grounded. It fits nicely in rooms where you want things cozy but not cave-like.
In bright, sunny rooms, the color softens and looks a bit lighter. In dimmer spaces, it deepens and feels more dramatic.
You can use it in living rooms or bedrooms—honestly, it’s flexible. Pair it with lighter neutrals like Wool Skein or Shiitake to balance out its depth.
Darker accents like Iron Ore or Slate Tile give you a richer contrast. That combo’s great if you’re after a layered, moody vibe.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 Coordinating Colors
This color really shines when you pair it with neutrals that balance its warmth. Light, medium, and warm shades each bring out something different in Moth Wing.
You can use these options for trim, walls, or accents, depending on the look you want.
Shoji White SW 7042
Shoji White SW 7042 works well as a trim or wall color to brighten up a room with Moth Wing. It’s not a blinding white—more of a soft, warm neutral with cream and beige undertones.
That makes it feel less harsh and more welcoming than a true white. Shoji White is great if you want contrast, but not a jarring one.
Next to Moth Wing, it highlights details like crown molding or baseboards. Both colors have warmth, so the palette stays cohesive but still has some separation.
If you want to dig deeper, Shoji White is described as a warm neutral that sits between white and beige. It’s a dependable pick for a softer, more natural look.
Keystone Gray SW 7504
Keystone Gray SW 7504 is a medium neutral that leans a bit cooler than Moth Wing. Together, they create a grounded, layered look that feels balanced.
Keystone Gray works on cabinetry, accent walls, or built-ins. It stands on its own but still blends with Moth Wing’s warmth.
In rooms with good light, Keystone Gray shows off subtle undertones that play nicely with Moth Wing’s earthy base. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a more modern, muted palette.
Canvas Tan SW 7531
Canvas Tan SW 7531 is a light, warm beige that softens Moth Wing for a more relaxed vibe. It has just enough warmth to brighten a space without feeling yellow or washed out.
Use Canvas Tan on surrounding walls and let Moth Wing be your accent. This works especially well in open layouts where you want a gentle flow between lighter and darker shades.
Canvas Tan also pairs well with wood and stone, so it’s easy to tie in floors or furniture. If you want a warm, welcoming palette, this combo gives you comfort and flexibility without being too bold.
Trim Colors for Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174
Choosing the right trim color for Moth Wing helps balance its earthy warmth. The right white trim can brighten things up, soften the look, or give a subtle contrast that keeps the room fresh.
Pure White SW 7005
If you want crisp, clean trim, Pure White SW 7005 is a go-to. It has a soft, balanced feel—not too stark, not too creamy.
This makes it a safe bet when you want your trim to feel fresh but not attention-grabbing. Pairing Pure White with Moth Wing creates a clear contrast that makes the trim pop while keeping the walls grounded.
This combo works especially well in modern spaces where you want sharp lines and a polished finish. Pure White has a high LRV, so it bounces plenty of light around and can help brighten up rooms where Moth Wing might feel a tad heavy.
It’s especially handy in hallways, kitchens, and living rooms with good natural light.
Shoji White SW 7042
Shoji White SW 7042 gives you a softer, more muted trim option. It brings a hint of beige, so it feels warmer and less crisp than Pure White.
Choose Shoji White if you want a gentle shift between wall and trim instead of a sharp divide. The transition feels calm and understated—nice for a traditional or relaxed look.
This shade works well in bedrooms, dining rooms, or anywhere you want a cozy feel. It also pairs nicely with wood accents and natural finishes.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is another strong trim choice if you want warmth without losing brightness. It’s soft, creamy, and inviting, but still reads as white.
Pair Alabaster with Moth Wing for a balanced look. The warmth in both colors works together, making the space feel cozy and cohesive.
Unlike sharper whites, Alabaster softens the edges and keeps things from feeling too stark. It’s especially nice in living rooms and bedrooms where you want a welcoming vibe.
If your room doesn’t get much natural light, Alabaster’s high LRV helps reflect brightness and keep things airy.
Comparing Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 to Similar Colors
Moth Wing sits in the medium-depth range with a warm, muted brown base and a touch of gray. It’s close to other earthy neutrals—some warmer, some cooler—depending on undertones and lighting.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 vs Dovetail SW 7018
Want more gray? Dovetail SW 7018 is a solid comparison. Moth Wing leans brown with gray undertones, while Dovetail is a true medium gray with a hint of brown warmth.
Moth Wing feels warmer and more natural in low light. Dovetail comes across modern and crisp, so it’s better for contemporary spaces.
On trim, both look good with soft whites, but Dovetail can handle bright whites more easily. If you’re stuck between the two, think about whether you want the room to feel more grounded in brown (Moth Wing) or solidly gray, like Dovetail SW 7018.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 vs Warm Stone SW 7032
Warm Stone SW 7032 is deeper and richer than Moth Wing. Where Moth Wing feels muted and soft, Warm Stone brings more drama.
Warm Stone can lean a bit taupe and has a stronger earthy presence. It’s a good pick for accent walls or exteriors if you want something bold.
Moth Wing stays more versatile indoors. Warm Stone might feel too heavy in smaller spaces, while Moth Wing keeps things adaptable.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 vs Brainstorm Bronze SW 7033
Brainstorm Bronze SW 7033 is deeper and more saturated than Moth Wing. It’s a darker brown with bronze undertones, so it feels richer and heavier.
Moth Wing, with its gray softness, stays calmer and less intense. That makes it easier to use throughout a whole room.
Brainstorm Bronze works better as an exterior shade or for cabinetry if you want high contrast. If you’re torn, ask yourself if you want a subtle, muted neutral (Moth Wing) or a bold, earthy brown (Brainstorm Bronze).
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 vs Porpoise SW 7047
Porpoise SW 7047 is darker and moodier than Moth Wing. Moth Wing balances beige and gray, but Porpoise leans into deep taupe with a strong gray base.
In south-facing rooms, Porpoise can look dramatic and rich, while Moth Wing stays warmer and softer. Porpoise is great for accent walls or exteriors if you want depth.
Moth Wing is better when you want warmth without too much heaviness. If you need a medium-depth neutral that won’t go too dark, Moth Wing is the safer bet.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 vs Keystone Gray SW 7504
Keystone Gray SW 7504 is about as deep as Moth Wing but moves more toward taupe-gray. Moth Wing leans brown with gray undertones, and Keystone Gray feels cooler—right in the middle of gray and beige.
Keystone Gray is a good backdrop if you want to play with bold accent colors. Moth Wing, though, creates a softer, warmer setting that pairs nicely with muted greens or off-whites.
Both look good on exteriors, but Keystone Gray might read more modern. Moth Wing blends better with natural stone or brick.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 vs Fawn Brindle SW 7640
Fawn Brindle SW 7640 is another greige that’s close to Moth Wing in depth. The main difference? Fawn Brindle leans more gray, while Moth Wing has a softer brown warmth.
Fawn Brindle is versatile and balanced—great for open floor plans. Moth Wing brings more warmth, which makes a space feel cozier.
If you want a mix of gray and brown, Fawn Brindle SW 7640 is a strong choice. Prefer a slightly warmer, muted look? Moth Wing’s probably the better fit.
Complementary Colors to Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174
Moth Wing is a warm taupe with earthy undertones. It plays well with rich browns, clay tones, and warm oranges.
These combos add depth, contrast, or warmth—depending on what you pair it with. There’s a lot of room to experiment, honestly.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 with Renwick Golden Oak SW 2824
Pairing Moth Wing with Renwick Golden Oak gives you a grounded palette full of natural warmth. Renwick Golden Oak is a deep, golden brown that really brings out the subtle warmth in Moth Wing.
This combo works nicely in living rooms or studies where you want things cozy but still a bit refined. The oak tone plays up wood finishes, so it fits right in with walnut or cherry-stained furniture.
Keep trim or ceilings in a lighter neutral like Alabaster SW 7008 for balance. That way, the space won’t feel too heavy, but those rich tones still get to stand out.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 with Copper Harbor SW 6634
Pair Moth Wing with Copper Harbor and you get a warm, earthy contrast. Copper Harbor is a golden orange—lively, but not too loud.
This duo shines in dining areas or on accent walls if you’re after a welcoming vibe. Moth Wing offers a calm backdrop while Copper Harbor sneaks in some brightness.
You could even use Copper Harbor in small accents, like throw pillows or artwork. It keeps things balanced, and the orange tones look great against that muted taupe.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 with Smoky Topaz SW 6118
Smoky Topaz is a deep brown with a hint of red. Paired with Moth Wing, it creates a layered, earthy look that just feels right—natural and a bit timeless.
This combo works in bedrooms where you want a grounded, restful vibe. Moth Wing softens Smoky Topaz’s depth, so the room doesn’t go too dark.
Add some beige or cream fabrics if you want to lighten things up. The contrast lets the warm undertones in both colors play off each other.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 with Armagnac SW 6354
Using Armagnac with Moth Wing gives the space a rich, warm personality. Armagnac is a medium orange-brown that adds vibrancy without overpowering the soft taupe.
This pairing really pops in kitchens or family rooms. Moth Wing lays the groundwork, while Armagnac highlights focal points like cabinets or accent walls.
Layer in neutral upholstery or natural textures—linen, leather, that sort of thing. It keeps the palette warm but still feels approachable.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 with Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay is a terracotta shade that pairs beautifully with Moth Wing’s muted base. The clay tone brings warmth and energy, while Moth Wing keeps things grounded.
This combo fits entryways or open spaces where you want a genuinely welcoming feel. Cavern Clay’s red-orange undertone makes everything feel earthy and organic.
Try natural accents like woven baskets, pottery, or warm wood tones. These details tie the colors together and highlight their natural vibe.
Moth Wing by Sherwin Williams SW 9174 with Spiced Cider SW 7702
Spiced Cider is a rich, burnt orange. It creates a bold contrast with Moth Wing, which feels both modern and classic.
Pairing these two makes for a warm and inviting palette. I love how this combo works for accent walls or standout furniture pieces.
Moth Wing softens the intensity of Spiced Cider. The space feels balanced instead of overwhelming.
Add darker accents like black fixtures or iron hardware if you want more depth. These touches ground the palette and stop the warmth from taking over.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.