Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams (SW 7701) brings a natural, grounded beauty to any space. This terracotta-inspired hue mixes earthy red and soft orange, calling to mind sunbaked desert landscapes.
Cavern Clay gives your home a cozy, welcoming feel while staying timeless and versatile. You can use it as a neutral backdrop or let it stand out as a bold feature color.
Watch how this shade shifts through the day—richer in low light, more vivid when the sun’s out. Its warmth works easily with muted greens, creamy whites, and deep browns, helping your space feel calm and connected to nature.
If you want a modern edge, pair it with soft grays like those in timeless Sherwin Williams grays. That blend brings warmth and a touch of sophistication together.
Use Cavern Clay on an accent wall, kitchen cabinets, or outside your home. It feels both modern and familiar, celebrating natural textures and the beauty of simple, comfortable design.
Key Takeaways
- Cavern Clay adds warmth and earthy character to any space.
- Its tone shifts subtly with lighting, offering flexible design use.
- Pair it with soft greens, warm neutrals, or classic grays for balance.
What Color Is Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701?
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams is a warm, earthy paint color inspired by natural terracotta and sunbaked clay. It brings comfort and a bit of sophistication, giving your space an inviting, natural look that fits both modern and rustic styles.
Color Family
Cavern Clay sits in the orange color family, but it’s not a loud orange. You’ll spot red and brown undertones that soften its look and give it some depth.
Those undertones make it feel calm and grounded, almost like desert landscapes or aged pottery. This color shines in rooms with plenty of natural light, where its richness comes through without making things feel heavy.
It pairs easily with earthy neutrals like beige, taupe, and cream, or with natural greens like olive and sage. Since it leans toward a muted, terracotta vibe, you can use it as a main wall color or just an accent.
In open spaces, it adds warmth without taking over. Its versatility makes it a favorite for anyone who wants to bring warmth and texture into their decor.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Cavern Clay comes with a few handy details if you want to match or coordinate it just right:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hex Code | #AC6B53 |
| RGB | 170 / 107 / 83 |
| Light Reflectance Value (LRV) | 20 |
The LRV of 20 tells you it absorbs most light, so it reads as medium-dark. It won’t brighten a dim space, but in sunlit rooms, it adds depth and character.
Cavern Clay is a dependable terracotta shade that feels both sophisticated and natural. Its blend of red, orange, and brown makes it flexible for a bunch of styles—classic, southwestern, or even contemporary.
Real World Examples Of Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 In Different Spaces
Cavern Clay brings a warm, terracotta tone that fits naturally into many design styles. Its earthy color adds comfort and depth, whether you use it as a main wall shade or just an accent.
Bathrooms
Cavern Clay turns a bathroom into a grounded, spa-like retreat. Its reddish-brown warmth looks great with white subway tile, matte black fixtures, or brushed gold hardware.
Natural textures like woven baskets or wood shelving balance out the rich tone. For smaller bathrooms, try Cavern Clay on one wall and keep the rest neutral—ivory or light beige walls bounce light and open up the space, while the accent wall keeps things cozy.
The warm color works well with terracotta floor tiles or stone countertops. Toss in a little greenery or desert-inspired art for a subtle Southwest vibe.
Bedrooms
Cavern Clay feels cozy and calm in bedrooms. If you use it on all the walls, the room becomes a snug retreat perfect for relaxing.
Pair it with soft fabrics in warm whites, muted greens, or denim blue to keep things balanced. If you like lighter walls, just paint the headboard wall in Cavern Clay for a nice focal point.
A solid wood bed frame, linen bedding, and neutral artwork finish the look. The color goes with mid-century furniture or rustic pieces, depending on your style.
Soft lighting, like table lamps with warm bulbs, really brings out those earthy undertones. Suddenly, your bedroom feels calm and welcoming.
Front Doors
Paint your front door in Cavern Clay and you’ve got instant character. The color pops against off-white, gray, or beige exteriors, giving your home a warm, inviting vibe.
Pair it with black hardware for a crisp contrast or brass details for something classic. If your home has stone or brick, Cavern Clay draws out those natural tones.
It also works with green landscaping, making the door stand out but not in a loud way. Paint the shutters in a similar shade for a pulled-together look.
Home Offices
Cavern Clay in a home office gives you a mix of creativity and focus. Its warm energy helps you stay on task but doesn’t feel harsh.
Try it on an accent wall behind your desk for depth without distraction. Pair it with light gray, off-white, or soft green décor to keep things balanced.
Natural touches—a wood desktop or rattan chair—make the space more inviting. Good lighting keeps the room from feeling too dark.
In open workspaces, Cavern Clay works best with minimalist décor. The earthy color adds comfort while keeping things professional.
House Exteriors
Cavern Clay can totally change your home’s exterior, bringing a warmth that just feels right outdoors. It pairs well with cream trim, tan stonework, or deep brown wood accents.
In sunlight, it looks like soft terracotta; at dusk, it deepens into a rich clay. For a modern look, use sharp white trim and black windows.
For a Southwestern or rustic home, go with beige stucco and natural wood beams. You can use Cavern Clay just for shutters, porch columns, or gables if you want a bit of contrast instead of painting the whole house.
Kitchen Cabinets
Cavern Clay makes kitchen cabinets feel warm and inviting without being too bold. On lower cabinets, it looks great with white quartz countertops and cream walls.
Add brass or brushed nickel handles for a little shine. If you like color contrast, try Cavern Clay on the lowers with soft green uppers or white oak shelving for a layered look that feels both new and classic.
A tiled backsplash in beige or ivory ties it all together. A few clay pots or plants repeat the natural tones and add a bit of texture.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Cavern Clay brings comfort and depth. If you paint all the walls, it creates an intimate spot for conversation or relaxing.
Keep furniture and accessories light—think cream sofas, woven rugs, and brass lamps—for balance. If you prefer a more open feel, just use it on one wall behind a sofa or fireplace.
The color makes leather furniture, wood beams, and stone accents look even richer. Add linen curtains or wool throws for a relaxed vibe. The mix of natural materials and warm clay makes the room feel inviting and a bit down-to-earth.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 Undertones
Look at Cavern Clay SW 7701 and you’ll spot its warm, earthy personality right away. It sits somewhere between orange, red, and brown, giving off a terracotta vibe that feels grounded and comfortable.
The paint has brown and red undertones that soften the orange, so it never gets too bright. Sometimes, depending on the light, you might catch hints of pink or rust, adding a gentle depth that changes as the day goes on.
Lighting really changes things. In natural light, Cavern Clay can look lighter and more vibrant. Under warm artificial light, it often turns deeper and cozier. If your room faces a certain direction, you’ll notice the tone shifts a bit, so testing a sample is always smart.
| Lighting Type | Color Appearance |
|---|---|
| Natural Light | Brighter, more orange |
| Warm Artificial Light | Richer, deeper terracotta |
| Cool Artificial Light | Muted, slightly brown |
Thanks to its warm undertones, Cavern Clay goes well with wood finishes, creamy whites, and muted greens. These combos really highlight its earthy charm without taking over the whole room.
How Does Lighting Affect Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701?
The color’s warmth and depth shift a lot depending on the light. Bright spaces show off its rich terracotta glow, while dimmer rooms make it look more muted and earthy.
Natural Lighting
Sunlight changes Cavern Clay all day long. In south-facing rooms with strong, warm light, the color pops—its orange and red tones really show up. North-facing rooms get cooler light, which softens and mutes the color.
Morning light from east-facing spaces gives Cavern Clay a lively, welcoming warmth. In west-facing rooms, late afternoon sun deepens the hue, making it look richer and more dramatic.
If your room has big windows or lots of reflective surfaces, the color can seem lighter and more open. In shaded corners, it feels cozier and more grounded, almost like clay or earthen walls.
Artificial Lighting
Light bulbs can change this paint color just as much as sunlight. Warm bulbs (2700K–3000K) will pull out the red and brown undertones, making a room feel comfortable and inviting.
Cooler bulbs (4000K–5000K) shift Cavern Clay to a more subdued look, sometimes showing a bit of gray or pink. The intensity of the light plays a role too.
Bright bulbs make the color pop, adding energy. Dimmer lighting brings out a softer, more intimate vibe.
If you want a balanced effect, try using warm-white LED bulbs with Cavern Clay. That combo keeps the earthy tone steady and natural, whether it’s in a living room, dining area, or a cozy bedroom.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 LRV 20 (Light Reflectance Value)
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams has an LRV of 20, so it reflects little light and comes across as a deep, earthy shade. This number gives you a sense of how bright or dark the color will look in your space and how it’ll play with light throughout the day.
What Is LRV?
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) tells you how much light a color bounces back, on a scale from 0 to 100. 0 means pure black, soaking up almost everything, while 100 is pure white, bouncing back the most light. Most interior colors sit somewhere in the middle.
Think of LRV as your brightness cheat sheet. Darker shades like Cavern Clay soak up light, adding warmth and depth. Lighter ones reflect more, making a room feel bigger. If you get how LRV works, you can pick colors that fit your room’s size and lighting.
A quick reference:
| LRV Range | Appearance | Effect on Space |
|---|---|---|
| 0–25 | Very Dark | Warm, intimate |
| 26–50 | Medium | Balanced tone |
| 51–75 | Light | Open, airy |
| 76–100 | Very Light/White | Bright, spacious |
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 LRV Range
With an LRV of 20, Cavern Clay lands in the dark-to-medium category. It soaks up more light than it bounces back, giving your walls a grounded, cozy look.
In low light, the color turns into a rich terracotta brown. When natural light hits, it softens into a sun-baked clay shade.
You’ll see the red and orange undertones shift depending on the light source. Cavern Clay looks best with lighter trim or finishes—think soft whites, warm grays, or muted greens. Try it out under your home’s lighting before you commit; it’s the only real way to know how this 20 LRV color will act on your walls.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 Coordinating Colors
Picking the right companion paints for Cavern Clay balances its warm terracotta vibe. Soft neutrals keep things light, muted purples add depth, and earthy tans play up its natural side.
Creamy SW 7012
Creamy SW 7012 is a soft, warm off-white that mixes well with Cavern Clay’s orange-brown undertones. The gentle yellow tint keeps rooms from feeling sterile and adds a little glow.
This color works for ceilings, trim, or cabinets if you want a lighter touch that still feels warm. Creamy also pulls a room together when you’ve got wood or leather accents. For more about this shade, check out Creamy by Sherwin Williams SW 7012.
Want the best look? Use Creamy in spots with natural light. Brightness brings out its yellow undertones, making the space feel softer and brighter alongside Cavern Clay.
Slate Violet SW 9155
Slate Violet SW 9155 brings a calm, modern twist to Cavern Clay. It’s a muted purple with gray hints that cools down the terracotta, so things don’t get too heavy.
You might use Slate Violet in textiles, art, or as an accent on smaller furniture. It stays in the background, letting Cavern Clay shine but still adds visual interest.
In soft light, Slate Violet almost looks smoky and relaxed. When sunlight hits, subtle purple tones show up, working nicely with the clay color for a balanced effect.
Ligonier Tan SW 7717
Ligonier Tan SW 7717 is a warm, natural beige that fits right in with Cavern Clay’s earthy feel. It brings harmony and depth, especially if you use it on nearby walls or big pieces of furniture.
This pairing keeps things grounded but lets Cavern Clay stand out. Together, they create layers that remind you of sunbaked clay and sand in the desert.
In gentle morning or evening light, Ligonier Tan gets richer and draws out Cavern Clay’s warmth. For a natural match, try woven textures, matte black, or bronze accents.
Trim Colors For Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701
The trim color you pick can totally change how Cavern Clay SW 7701 feels. Soft or crisp whites move its reddish-orange warmth toward modern, earthy, or classic, depending on what undertone you’re after.
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound SW 7004 gives you a clean, gentle contrast with Cavern Clay’s warmth. It’s a cool white with a touch of gray, which helps balance out the orange and brown tones.
If you want a modern, calm look without too much warmth, this one’s a good pick. In bright rooms, Snowbound bounces light around and softens the walls.
It’s great for trim, ceilings, and built-ins, especially in open layouts. When you pair it with Cavern Clay, Snowbound keeps things from feeling too heavy.
This neutral white also plays well with lots of accent colors. Try soft greens or muted blues for extra dimension. Snowbound SW 7004 stays versatile and reliable in different lights.
Pure White SW 7005
Pairing Cavern Clay with Pure White SW 7005 gives you crisp lines and a sharper contrast. It’s a white that’s clean but not icy, landing somewhere between warm and cool.
It brightens up trim and doors without looking too harsh. In darker rooms, Pure White adds a fresh touch and works well in farmhouse or transitional styles.
You can use it on crown molding or wainscoting to highlight features without stealing the show from Cavern Clay. Pure White SW 7005 also won’t clash with wood or metal finishes. Honestly, it’s a safe bet if you want Cavern Clay to stay the main focus.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 brings a soft warmth that matches Cavern Clay’s earthy vibe. This creamy white has a gentle glow instead of the sharpness you get from cool whites, making rooms feel cozier.
On trim, Alabaster blends with Cavern Clay, so you don’t get a harsh edge. It’s perfect for relaxed, traditional, or rustic spaces, especially with wood or textured fabrics.
With its high light reflectivity, Alabaster SW 7008 bounces light around, helping out in darker rooms. Its warmth brings out Cavern Clay’s terracotta side without dulling it, keeping things balanced and comfy.
Comparing Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 To Similar Colors
Cavern Clay falls in the warm terracotta group, mixing orange, brown, and red. It’s easier to get a feel for it when you see how it stacks up against similar shades with different undertones and depths.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 vs Rookwood Red SW 2802
Rookwood Red comes off deeper and more historic than Cavern Clay. Cavern Clay leans into an earthy orange with brown, while Rookwood Red feels more like a red-brown brick. In low light, Rookwood Red can feel heavier and a bit more formal.
If you want warmth without going too dark, Cavern Clay is probably the better fit. Rookwood Red works in traditional spaces or exteriors with stone or brick. Cavern Clay is more casual, especially with creamy trim and wood details.
| Feature | Cavern Clay SW 7701 | Rookwood Red SW 2802 |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Orange-brown | Red-brown |
| LRV | 20 | 13 |
| Mood | Warm and earthy | Historic and rich |
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 vs Redend Point SW 9081
Redend Point is softer and more muted compared to Cavern Clay. It mixes beige and blush, so you get a taupe-pink look, while Cavern Clay is all about terracotta with more orange-brown punch.
If you prefer warm neutrals that don’t shout for attention, Redend Point is the way to go. Cavern Clay stands out more, especially in sunlight. Both work with cream or greige, but Cavern Clay pops more with leafy greens or dark bronze.
Quick Tip: Try Redend Point in low-light rooms for calm, and Cavern Clay in sunny spaces if you want a bolder effect.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 vs Coral Clay SW 9005
Coral Clay brings a lighter, pink-orange vibe that feels cheerful and rosy. It works great in bright, coastal, or vintage-inspired rooms.
Cavern Clay, on the other hand, has an earthy, rich look that adds depth and a grown-up tone to walls or cabinets. Honestly, Coral Clay feels like the upbeat one, while Cavern Clay leans rustic and natural.
| Tone Comparison | Coral Clay | Cavern Clay |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Pink-orange | Orange-brown |
| Color Depth | Light-Medium | Medium-Dark |
| Best Use | Light-filled interiors | Rustic or natural designs |
If you like layered, earthy palettes, try using Coral Clay for small accents and Cavern Clay for feature walls. They play off each other pretty well.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 vs Cavern Clay SW 7701
Comparing Cavern Clay to itself sounds odd, but honestly, it can shift depending on lighting, finish, or even the room’s vibe. North-facing spaces pull out more brown, while bright southern light makes it look more orange.
Sheen matters, too. Flat finishes soak up light and make the color seem darker; satin or eggshell reflect more, so the shade looks a bit lighter. Always slap a sample on your wall before you commit.
Tip: Warm bulbs bring out the terracotta, while cool bulbs tone it down. Lighting’s a game-changer.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 vs Rustic Red SW 7593
Rustic Red comes in hot—bold, true red, and not shy about it. It’s got more red and less brown than Cavern Clay, so it reads like a classic barn red.
Cavern Clay feels softer and fits more styles. If you’re after earthy warmth, Cavern Clay’s the pick. But if you want a statement-making red, Rustic Red really pops.
| Feature | Cavern Clay | Rustic Red |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Terracotta Orange | Deep Red |
| Best Setting | Warm, neutral interiors | Accent walls, exteriors |
| Feel | Subtle warmth | High-energy boldness |
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 vs Red Bay SW 6321
Red Bay’s got this rich coral-red that feels lively and bright. There’s a tropical undertone from its strong red base and a hint of orange.
Cavern Clay looks more subdued and desert-inspired in comparison. If you want depth without overpowering a room, Cavern Clay’s earthy tone does the trick.
Red Bay works best as an accent or front door when you want a jolt of color. Cavern Clay blends nicely with tan, sage, and cream, while Red Bay stands out with crisp whites or navy.
Color Character:
- Red Bay: Vibrant and fresh.
- Cavern Clay: Warm and grounded.
Both have warmth, but they set totally different moods.
Complementary Colors To Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701
Pairing Cavern Clay SW 7701 with other colors lets you play up its warm, terracotta side or highlight that earthy vibe. You can pull together calming, grounded, and inviting spaces by picking colors that work with its red-orange base, not against it.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 With Coral Clay SW 9005
When you bring Cavern Clay and Coral Clay SW 9005 together, you keep things warm but add a softer, rosier touch. Both have that earthy orange core, but Coral Clay feels lighter, helping Cavern Clay pop.
This duo shines in living rooms or entryways where you want to feel cozy and welcomed. Try Coral Clay on most walls and Cavern Clay as a feature—here’s a natural gradient idea. Stick to neutral trim and furniture—creamy white, tan, or wood all look great with these shades.
They’re a solid fit for Southwest-inspired homes or rustic spaces. With shared terracotta roots, your place stays balanced, not overwhelming, even as the light changes.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 With Rainwashed SW 6211
You can cool off Cavern Clay’s heat by pairing it with Rainwashed SW 6211. Rainwashed brings a soft blend of green, blue, and gray that takes the edge off Cavern Clay’s orange.
This combo feels right in bedrooms or bathrooms where you want warmth but still crave a bit of calm. The earthy terracotta and gentle aqua contrast just enough to keep things interesting.
For trim, soft white or light beige keeps lines clean. Want to show off natural touches? Add wood accents or woven textures. The blue-green and red-orange together give a chill, nature-inspired vibe.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 With Ripe Olive SW 6209
Ripe Olive SW 6209 brings deep, grounded contrast to Cavern Clay. It’s a dark green with blue-gray undertones that really soaks up the light, so the pairing feels sophisticated.
Ripe Olive next to Cavern Clay makes the terracotta look even richer. This mix suits studies, dining rooms, or anywhere you want cozy with a touch of refinement.
Metallics like brass or bronze bring out the warmth in both. Light fabrics or natural rugs can soften the whole look. Together, these colors feel tied to nature but still modern.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 With Indigo Batik SW 7602
Try Cavern Clay with Indigo Batik SW 7602 for a punchy warm-cool combo. Indigo Batik is a deep, muted blue that cools things down and balances Cavern Clay’s energy.
In sun-filled rooms, this pairing pops with contrast but never feels heavy. Cavern Clay works well on accent walls, while Indigo Batik looks sharp on built-ins or trim.
Matte gold or brushed nickel finishes pair nicely here. Keep the rest of the decor simple so the colors take center stage.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 With Waterscape SW 6470
Waterscape SW 6470 adds a breezy turquoise that lifts Cavern Clay’s grounded feel. It’s like desert canyons meeting cool lakes—warm and refreshing all at once.
Waterscape’s soft green-blue cools down Cavern Clay’s orange and brown, making it a smart pick for open living spaces or kitchens. White trim or pale wood furniture helps the combo look balanced.
Want more brightness? Use Waterscape as your main color and Cavern Clay as the accent. You’ll get lively contrast that’s still easy on the eyes.
Cavern Clay by Sherwin Williams SW 7701 With Rejuvenate SW 6620
Rejuvenate SW 6620 brings a lively burst of coral-red energy to Cavern Clay. The vibe is definitely bolder and a bit playful, so together they really fit creative or social spaces.
This combo lets Cavern Clay’s muted side show off, while Rejuvenate just brightens everything up with its cheerful punch of color.
Try this mix in a dining room or maybe a sunroom if you want more warmth and energy. To keep things from getting a little too wild, stick with neutral accessories and fabrics.
Soft gray or some natural wood finishes? They help the colors blend instead of clash.
Both colors have those red-orange undertones, so they feel like they belong together—even if they’re still pretty distinct. The result is a lively combo that just radiates harmony and warmth.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.