Picking the right paint color totally changes the vibe of a room. Sherwin Williams Illusive Green (SW 9164) brings out a calm, modern feel with its easy mix of green and gray.
This shade feels fresh but grounded, adding a subtle sophistication to bedrooms, living rooms, or any spot where comfort matters.
You’ll probably notice how its tone shifts with the light—soft and silvery during the day, then deeper and cozier under warm bulbs. Because of this, it fits with so many interior styles, whether you lean minimalist or traditional.
Illusive Green really stands out because it can act as a subtle neutral or a gentle pop of color, depending on how you use it.
The low Light Reflectance Value of 29 gives it a depth that’s refined but never overwhelming. Try pairing it with off-whites for some contrast or go bold with dark accents for a little drama.
It’s kind of amazing how this color quietly transforms a space without trying too hard.
Key Takeaways
- Illusive Green blends soft green and gray for a calm, versatile look.
- The color shifts tone beautifully under different lighting.
- It pairs easily with neutral or deep accent colors for balanced design.
What Color Is Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164?
Illusive Green SW 9164 mixes gray and green tones to create a color that feels both modern and natural. It works great in spaces where you want a grounded but airy feel.
Color Family
Illusive Green sits in the green-gray family, but it’s muted enough to come off as a soft neutral. That subtle green hint gives a natural touch without taking over the room.
Its cool undertones mean it shifts a bit depending on the light—looking greener in daylight, grayer with artificial light.
Because it balances green and gray so well, you can easily match it with whites, taupes, or even darker accents. It brings depth to bedrooms, offices, or living spaces without making them feel cramped.
The versatility here is really something—it fits with both modern and classic styles, which isn’t always easy to pull off.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Here’s a quick look at the main color specs:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hex Code | #A0A89D* |
| RGB | (160, 168, 157)* |
| Light Reflectance Value (LRV) | 29 |
*Approximate digital values may vary by lighting and screen settings.
With an LRV of 29, Illusive Green reflects a low to moderate amount of light. That gives it a richer, more grounded look than a lot of lighter neutrals.
Its depth helps walls look composed and relaxing, even as the light changes throughout the day.
Real World Examples of Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 in Different Spaces
Illusive Green SW 9164 brings a calm mix of soft gray and muted green that works indoors and out. Its warm, balanced vibe helps you create rooms that feel grounded and inviting.
Bathrooms
Use Illusive Green in the bathroom for a spa-like calm. The gentle green undertone softens bright lighting and balances white tiles or marble.
It pairs really well with polished chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black fixtures. In smaller bathrooms, this medium tone adds depth without making things feel cramped.
If your bathroom gets natural light, the color looks warmer and more relaxing. Under artificial light, the gray comes through a bit more, keeping things clean and crisp.
Try white trim and towels for contrast, or add wood-framed mirrors for a little warmth. Even simple touches like woven baskets or tan rugs can boost the natural feel.
Bedrooms
Illusive Green makes bedrooms feel restful. Its muted tone lowers visual noise and brings a sense of balance after a long day.
Pair it with beige bedding, woven textures, and soft white accents for a simple, elegant look. In darker rooms, it feels cozy and grounded; in brighter ones, the green pops a bit more for an organic touch.
If you like layering colors, use cream or dusty blue fabrics to add dimension. Metallic décor—think brushed gold lamps or curtain rods—brings in some quiet polish without overpowering the space.
Front Doors
Painting your front door with Illusive Green gives your exterior a modern, welcoming feel. It blends nicely with stone walls, white trims, and neutral siding.
This color offers a calm alternative to bold or super dark greens, making your entryway stand out but not scream for attention. Sunlight softens the green, and in shade, it leans gray.
For balance, try brass hardware or black fixtures to define the door’s edges. A simple wreath or a couple of potted plants by the door round out the earthy look.
Home Offices
In a home office, Illusive Green can help you focus and feel comfortable. The gentle shade reduces visual strain and makes a quiet backdrop for work.
It looks especially good next to light oak furniture, matte black shelving, or white workspace accessories. If your office gets indirect daylight, the color feels fresh and natural, which is great for alertness.
Under warmer light, it leans a bit more gray-green and keeps things calm. Add navy blue, terracotta, or warm metallic accents for depth. A few framed prints or wooden storage pieces bring personality and balance.
House Exteriors
Illusive Green does well outside, where light changes all day long. It comes across as a soft neutral with a hint of green, so it fits both modern and traditional homes.
It works with white trims, dark gray roofs, and wood accents. With an LRV around 29, it reflects a moderate amount of light—enough to feel open but never washed out.
You can use it for full siding, shutters, or trim contrasts. Pair it with warm stone materials or brick foundations for a cohesive, grounded look.
| Surface | Recommended Finish | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Siding | Satin or Low Sheen | Maintains depth while resisting glare |
| Trim | Gloss or Semi‑Gloss | Highlights architectural details |
| Front Door | Satin | Creates smooth color transitions |
Kitchen Cabinets
Illusive Green gives kitchen cabinets a calm, sophisticated vibe. The gray-green mix pairs easily with white countertops, marble backsplashes, or light wood floors.
Try it on lower cabinets and use lighter shades like soft ivory on uppers to keep things open. Under cool LED lights, the gray stands out; under warm bulbs, the green comes forward.
Add some brass, aged bronze, or brushed steel handles for a bit of depth. The end result is a kitchen that feels modern but still comfy to hang out in.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Illusive Green creates a peaceful, inviting mood. It works with different décor styles and pairs well with natural touches like linen upholstery, jute rugs, or wood furniture.
During the day, you’ll see a soft green tone that brightens the space. As evening sets in, the gray takes over for a relaxed, cozy feel.
You can build an easy accent scheme with cream, charcoal, and sage shades. Layered lighting from floor and table lamps really shows off how the paint shifts with brightness and shadow.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 Undertones
When you look at Illusive Green (SW 9164), that gentle green base is the first thing you’ll notice. What makes it interesting, though, is the strong gray undertone—it keeps the color from feeling too bright or saturated.
This balance helps the color stay calm and refined instead of bold. Depending on the lighting, Illusive Green can shift subtly. In bright light, you’ll see more of the soft green; in low or north-facing light, the gray comes out and the whole thing feels cooler and more muted.
This shade works well with both warm and cool palettes because of its neutral base. It brings a serene backdrop to natural woods, brushed metals, or white trim without clashing.
| Undertone | Tone Description | Lighting Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Green | Soft, natural, muted | Stands out more in bright, warm light |
| Gray | Neutral, grounding, subtle | Becomes stronger in dim or cool light |
How Does Lighting Affect Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164?
Lighting really changes how Illusive Green looks in a space—sometimes it’s cooler and gray, other times it’s softer and green. You’ll see the biggest difference as natural and artificial light shift throughout the day.
Natural Lighting
Illusive Green responds a lot to the direction and strength of sunlight. In north-facing rooms, gray and muted tones show up more because the cooler light brings out its neutral side.
In south-facing spaces, warm sunlight makes it look a bit greener and cozier. Morning light can make it seem lighter and fresher, while afternoon sun deepens the shade and shows off its elegant depth.
Rooms with big windows or lots of outdoor reflection will make it look lighter, while shaded areas bring out a darker, calming finish.
| Light Direction | Color Appearance |
|---|---|
| North-facing | Cool gray-green |
| South-facing | Warm, muted green |
| East-facing | Fresh and bright |
| West-facing | Deeper and moodier |
Seeing how these shifts play out can help you decide where this color feels just right in your home.
Artificial Lighting
Your choice of indoor lighting really changes how Illusive Green shows up after dark. Warm bulbs (soft white or incandescent) toss in a bit of yellow, which softens the gray and makes the green look richer and more natural.
Cool bulbs (daylight or bright white LEDs) push those gray undertones forward, giving the color a crisper, more modern vibe.
Dimmable lighting lets you play with mood and depth. At lower settings, the paint feels velvety and relaxing.
Turn the lights up, and suddenly it’s more contemporary and open—almost surprising how much it shifts.
Maybe you’ll lean toward warm light in bedrooms or living rooms for a chill atmosphere, but cool light in offices or kitchens feels just right for a clean, focused space. Even small lighting tweaks can really shift how balanced or refreshing Illusive Green feels inside.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 LRV 29 (Light Reflectance Value)
This color reflects a medium amount of light, balancing brightness and depth without making a room feel closed in. It’s a solid pick when you want cozy, but not dark or heavy.
What Is LRV?
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) tells you how much visible light a paint color bounces back or soaks up. The scale runs from 0 (pure black), which absorbs almost everything, to 100 (pure white), which reflects nearly all light.
LRV helps you guess whether your walls will look bright or dim under different lighting. High LRV colors open up a space, while low LRVs make things moodier and more enclosed.
When you’re picking paint, checking the LRV helps you match your walls with lighting, floors, and decor. Knowing this number honestly saves some headaches and helps you get the light balance you want at home.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 LRV Range
Illusive Green (SW 9164) lands at an LRV of about 29, so it’s in the medium-dark zone. It reflects a decent amount of light but still absorbs enough to keep things calm and grounded.
This shade holds its color well in both natural and artificial light. You won’t see it get too bright or washed out. In daylight, it feels like a soft neutral green with cool undertones.
Under warm lighting, it leans a bit grayer, which somehow makes it even more relaxing. Try Illusive Green in bedrooms, offices, or entryways for a soothing backdrop.
Pair it with light trim or pale wood if you want contrast without losing that tranquil vibe.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 Coordinating Colors
Mix Illusive Green SW 9164 with the right shades, and you get a calm, balanced palette that works for both modern and classic spaces. Light neutrals—like gentle whites or soft yellows—can brighten up this muted green-gray, adding warmth or freshness depending on your decor and lighting.
Reserved White SW 7056
Reserved White SW 7056 is a cool, crisp white that tones down the depth of Illusive Green. It’s got subtle gray undertones, so it doesn’t fight with Illusive Green’s soft, muted feel.
It keeps rooms looking open and clean, letting the green-gray really stand out. This combo shines in spaces with good natural light.
Try Reserved White for trim, ceilings, or cabinets to frame Illusive Green neatly. For a more modern feel, add brushed nickel or black hardware for a smooth, understated finish.
| Feature | Effect |
|---|---|
| Undertone | Cool gray-white |
| Best for | Trim, door frames, or minimalist interiors |
| Lighting fit | Natural or bright artificial light |
Navajo White SW 6126
Navajo White SW 6126 brings warmth to Illusive Green with its creamy undertone and soft golden touch. It’s not a harsh white, so it offsets green-gray tones and gives living rooms or bedrooms a cozy, welcoming feel.
If you want a more natural, traditional look, this is the way to go. Navajo White blends beautifully with oak and maple, or with beige and taupe fabrics.
Use it on walls, trim, or cabinets alongside Illusive Green for a layered effect. Warm lighting will highlight the creamy tones and soften the green, keeping things balanced and comfy.
| Feature | Effect |
|---|---|
| Undertone | Warm cream with yellow hints |
| Complements | Natural woods, warm metallics |
| Mood | Inviting and soft |
Blonde SW 6128
Blonde SW 6128 adds a cheerful brightness to Illusive Green but doesn’t overpower it. This light yellow-based neutral sneaks in a bit of warmth and creates a soft contrast, so the palette stays uplifting but relaxed.
In rooms with good light, Blonde reflects it nicely, adding energy and depth to those muted green walls. It’s a solid choice if you want a sunny, welcoming room without anything too bold.
For best results, try Illusive Green on main walls and Blonde on adjacent walls or as an accent. Add some light wood furniture and off-white fabrics to keep things balanced and comfortable.
| Feature | Effect |
|---|---|
| Undertone | Warm golden beige |
| Complements | Green-grays, ivory, and pale woods |
| Mood | Bright, clean, and inviting |
Trim Colors for Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164
Choosing the right trim color with Illusive Green (SW 9164) sharpens edges and shows off those muted gray-green tones. The best trims balance warmth and brightness, staying soft enough to complement rather than compete with this calm shade.
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound (SW 7004) brings a cool, crisp white with soft undertones that shift with the light. If you want contrast without sharp edges, this is the one.
The mix of light gray and creamy hues adds dimension next to Illusive Green. It gives your space a clean finish and a sophisticated, airy look that works great in bedrooms or living rooms.
Try Snowbound for trim, doors, or even kitchen cabinets if you want to brighten up deeper walls. It stays balanced in natural light—never too cool or too creamy—so it’s versatile for all kinds of styles.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White (SW 7005) has just a hint of warmth under its bright surface. If you like a softer contrast that’s still modern, this is a great pick.
The subtle warmth keeps Illusive Green feeling cozy, not cold. Together, the walls look grounded and the trim stays fresh.
This combo works especially well in open-plan layouts, giving gentle definition to each space. Pure White keeps lines crisp without being too formal, which makes it great for everyday living areas or kitchens.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster (SW 7008) is a warm white with a creamy undertone, leaning soft instead of bright. It creates a calm, comfortable look next to Illusive Green and brings just enough warmth for traditional or rustic rooms.
Paired up, these two deliver a tranquil palette that’s perfect for cozy living rooms or bedrooms. Alabaster reflects plenty of light, so smaller spaces feel bigger but still warm.
If you want a classic, welcoming trim, you might love Alabaster. Its creamy base works well with wood tones and natural textures, pulling Illusive Green into a soothing, unified look.
Comparing Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 to Similar Colors
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams sits between green and gray, offering a calm, moody tone that shifts with the light. It stands out from other greens because it’s so muted and neutral—little changes in undertone and brightness really pop when you compare them.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 vs Nurture Green SW 6451
Nurture Green feels warmer and more botanical than Illusive Green. While Illusive Green mixes cyan and gray, Nurture Green brings in yellow undertones, making it livelier and sunnier.
Daylight really shows off Nurture Green’s fresh, garden-like vibe. Illusive Green works better if you want a cooler, more sophisticated wall color with a gray edge.
Nurture Green feels more traditional—great for cozy spaces with wood or rustic finishes. Side by side, Nurture Green is clearly greener, while Illusive Green softens into a balanced neutral that fits modern or contemporary looks.
| Feature | Illusive Green | Nurture Green |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Gray-cyan | Yellow-green |
| LRV (approx.) | 29 | 45 |
| Vibe | Calm, muted | Fresh, warm |
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 vs Ripe Olive SW 6209
Ripe Olive gives a deeper, earthier vibe than Illusive Green’s muted softness. You’ll notice brown undertones that make Ripe Olive feel grounded and cozy.
Illusive Green, on the other hand, stays cool and pairs easily with whites and grays. In big rooms, Ripe Olive can get dramatic and bold.
Illusive Green works best when you want light control without too much depth. Try Ripe Olive on accents or cabinetry, and use Illusive Green for most wall space.
Under warm lighting, Ripe Olive glows with a comforting warmth. Illusive Green just keeps its steady, neutral look.
| Feature | Illusive Green | Ripe Olive |
|---|---|---|
| Tone | Muted mid-tone | Deep earth green |
| Undertone | Gray-cyan | Brown-green |
| Best Use | Walls | Accent pieces |
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 vs Clary Sage SW 6178
Clary Sage looks softer and warmer than Illusive Green. It mixes gray and yellow-green undertones for a comforting, inviting mood.
Daylight brings out Clary Sage’s natural, sunlit vibe—think dried herbs. Illusive Green, though, stays cool and a bit misty.
If you’re stuck choosing, Clary Sage brightens a space and fits casual rooms or kitchens. Illusive Green gives a modern, refined feel, better for minimalist or cooler interiors.
Clary Sage adapts to warm woods and soft textures, creating a gentle, organic atmosphere. Both look good in neutral palettes, but Clary Sage just feels a bit more flexible.
| Comparison | Illusive Green | Clary Sage |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Cool gray-green | Warm gray-green |
| Mood | Calm and smooth | Cozy and inviting |
| Lighting Response | Cool light balance | Warmer reflection |
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 vs Rosemary SW 6187
Rosemary brings more depth and cool intensity than Illusive Green. Its darker LRV makes rooms feel enclosed, but in a sophisticated way.
Illusive Green softens into a peaceful mid-tone, while Rosemary holds a stronger, evergreen presence. Go for Illusive Green if you want moderate color that feels airy.
Choose Rosemary for drama—without going all the way to black or navy. In smaller spaces, Rosemary can feel heavy, but Illusive Green stays balanced and tranquil.
Both look great with off-white trim, though Rosemary pops more. Under artificial light, Rosemary keeps its herbal richness and Illusive Green fades a bit toward gray.
| Detail | Illusive Green | Rosemary |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Medium | Deeper |
| Undertone | Gray-cool | Gray-green |
| Finish Style | Calming | Bold and earthy |
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 vs Escape Gray SW 6185
Escape Gray shares a similar gray base with Illusive Green, but it feels much cooler, thanks to its blue undertones. Illusive Green leans a bit greener, which gives it a more organic look.
Put them side by side and Escape Gray almost passes for a neutral gray. Illusive Green holds onto its green presence, even in shadow.
Escape Gray works well if you want a modern look with low saturation. Illusive Green adds just enough warmth from its green hue to keep things from getting flat.
If you want minimal contrast between walls and trim, Escape Gray is your pick. For a touch more color depth but the same calm tone, stick with Illusive Green.
| Feature | Illusive Green | Escape Gray |
|---|---|---|
| Undertone | Green-gray | Blue-gray |
| Temperature | Balanced cool | Cooler |
| Use | Nature-inspired | Urban-modern |
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 vs Dried Thyme SW 6186
Dried Thyme comes across richer and a bit darker than Illusive Green. You’ll see stronger sage and olive undertones, which create a grounded, cozy feeling.
Illusive Green, lighter and more muted, adapts well to different lighting. Dried Thyme really shines on accent walls or cabinetry, adding warmth and depth without being too heavy.
Illusive Green keeps things soft, so it’s great for bedrooms or living areas. Both colors feel natural, but Dried Thyme reads more rustic, and Illusive Green is just more modern and subdued.
Pairing them can even highlight Dried Thyme’s earthy side in a layered palette. It’s a subtle but effective way to add interest.
| Aspect | Illusive Green | Dried Thyme |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Medium | Medium-dark |
| Undertone | Gray-green | Olive-sage |
| Ambience | Cool calm | Cozy warmth |
Complementary Colors to Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164
Illusive Green’s soft gray-green tone pairs nicely with muted corals, dusty blues, navy, or deeper greens. Each combo changes the mood—sometimes warm, sometimes calm, sometimes just a bit bold.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 with Coral Clay SW 9005
Mixing Illusive Green with Coral Clay gives you a balanced, earthy palette. Illusive Green’s cool undertones settle the warmth of Coral Clay, which is a muted terracotta shade that brings color without shouting.
The result is a space that feels natural and inviting. Coral Clay grounds Illusive Green’s subtle gray tone with just enough warmth.
Together, they offer depth but stay easy on the eyes. Try this mix in living rooms or entryways if you want both freshness and warmth.
Keep trim and furniture neutral to let the colors stand out. It’s a simple trick, but it works.
| Tone | Character | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cool green-gray | Warm clay coral | Balanced and grounded |
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 with Rainwashed SW 6211
Pairing Illusive Green with Rainwashed SW 6211 gives everything a lighter, relaxed feel. Rainwashed brings in soft blue-green hues that make the combo airy and just a bit coastal.
This duo brings calm and clarity to spots like bathrooms or bedrooms. Rainwashed brightens, while Illusive Green grounds the palette with its gray undertones.
Lighting changes their look—sometimes the pairing is cooler, sometimes more balanced. White trim or sandy beige accents can help the gentle contrast pop.
Together, they make rooms feel bigger and more soothing. It’s a favorite for anyone who wants a chill space.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 with Indigo Batik SW 7602
When you mix Illusive Green with Indigo Batik SW 7602, you get a subtle yet dramatic contrast. Indigo Batik’s deep navy tone adds richness and brings out Illusive Green’s gray notes.
This combo works especially well in offices or dining rooms. The navy adds focus and structure, while the muted green softens everything up.
It feels polished, formal, and calm at the same time. Try matte finishes or brass hardware to add a bit of warmth to the cool undertones.
You’ll see depth without harsh contrast—pretty ideal, honestly.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 with Rejuvenate SW 6620
Pair Illusive Green with Rejuvenate for a burst of reddish-orange energy. Rejuvenate pops against the calm, grounded green-gray, and the two balance each other—one lively, one serene.
This works best in spaces that need personality, but not clutter. Use small bits of Rejuvenate in art or textiles for maximum effect.
Together, they create warmth and visual interest, especially in kitchens or on accent walls. Keep the rest of the surfaces neutral so things don’t get overwhelming.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 with Waterscape SW 6470
Illusive Green and Waterscape make a harmonious, cool-toned mix. Waterscape’s soft aqua brightens Illusive Green’s gray depth, and together they remind you of water and foliage.
This pairing is perfect for relaxed spaces—bedrooms, reading nooks, anywhere you want to unwind. Add white or pale gray trim for clean contrast.
If you like texture, bring in linen or rattan to enhance the natural vibe. It’s a gentle pairing that feels organic, not too pastel, and not cold either.
Illusive Green by Sherwin Williams SW 9164 with Ripe Olive SW 6209
When you pair Illusive Green with Ripe Olive SW 6209, you end up with a palette that’s both elegant and a bit moody. Ripe Olive brings in this deep, earthy green that really stands out against the softer Illusive Green.
Because Ripe Olive has a low LRV, it soaks up light and adds a sense of depth and drama. Illusive Green, meanwhile, tones things down just enough to keep it feeling sophisticated instead of overwhelming.
This combo works surprisingly well in both modern and rustic spaces. Toss in a few warm metal accents or some natural wood, and you’ve pretty much nailed the vibe.
When the room’s dimly lit, the colors make it feel cozy and grounded. But in daylight? Everything looks balanced and, honestly, kind of timeless.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.