Searching for a solid medium gray paint that fits just about anywhere—from kitchen cabinets to exterior siding? Sherwin Williams Dovetail SW 7018 could be the answer. This shade is a favorite among homeowners and designers who want something sophisticated but not overly dramatic.
Dovetail SW 7018 brings a warm medium gray with quiet brown undertones and an LRV of 26. It’s versatile, offering depth and character without feeling stark or gloomy.
Cooler grays sometimes feel clinical, but Dovetail adds warmth and keeps things modern and timeless. I think that’s why so many people gravitate toward it.
Lighting can really shift how this color looks. I’ll break down which trim colors work best, how Dovetail compares to shades like Dorian Gray and Mindful Gray, and show you real-life examples. Plus, I’ll toss in some favorite coordinating colors to help you build a palette that actually works for your home.
Key Takeaways
- Dovetail SW 7018 is a warm medium gray with brown undertones and an LRV of 26—great for nearly any room
- This paint can pair well with both light and dark colors, though it needs decent lighting to really shine
- It works on walls, cabinets, exteriors, and trim if you match it with the right colors
What Color Is Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018?
Dovetail SW 7018 sits in the warm, medium-gray camp with a touch of blue undertones. It’s cozy yet still feels a bit elevated. The technical specs help you get a sense of what you’re working with, especially if you’re picky about undertones or matching existing finishes.
Color Family
Dovetail lives in the neutral gray family, but it’s not your standard chilly gray. This one leans warm, so it feels a little more welcoming.
It’s got a medium depth that keeps it from fading away or taking over. Dovetail lands right between light and dark grays, offering enough richness to make a statement without shouting for attention.
There’s a subtle blue undertone that gives it personality. Depending on your lighting, you might even notice hints of purple or green sneaking in. That’s paint for you—always a bit unpredictable.
Because of its warmth, Sherwin Williams Dovetail feels softer and more relaxed than cooler grays. It’s easy to use in both modern and classic spaces, which is a big plus if you’re not ready to commit to one style forever.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Getting technical for a second: SW 7018 has a hex code of #908a83. Handy if you’re trying to match digital swatches or coordinate with other brands.
The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) clocks in at 26, meaning it absorbs more light than it reflects. That’s why it reads as a medium to dark gray—never washed out, but it can look much deeper in low-light rooms.
So, Dovetail has enough depth to add drama, but it stays neutral enough for everyday living. It’s a fine line, and this color walks it well.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Undertones
Dovetail SW 7018 is a warm gray paint with subtle blue undertones that add depth and character. It sits right between gray and beige, so it feels cozy instead of cold.
The undertones lean warm, with hints of brown and taupe. That keeps it from turning sterile or harsh, which is a relief if you’re nervous about gray looking too industrial.
Some folks even call Dovetail a greige paint because of its gray-beige blend. In certain lighting, those warm undertones can look like cappuccino or a soft brown.
Key undertone characteristics:
- Primary: Warm gray base
- Secondary: Subtle blue hints
- Tertiary: Brown and taupe notes
Blue undertones show up more in cooler lighting. When the room is bathed in warm light, the brown and beige tones come forward instead.
What’s nice is that these undertones don’t overpower. They’re subtle, so Dovetail won’t fight with your furniture or existing decor.
It pairs well with both warm and cool colors. You can throw it next to crisp whites, deep blues, or even warmer beiges without any weird clashes.
That balance in undertones is what makes Dovetail so flexible. The warm base keeps things inviting, while the gray keeps it feeling fresh and current.
How Does Lighting Affect Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018?
Dovetail shifts depending on your lighting. The direction and type of light can make it look warmer, cooler, lighter, or darker. It’s honestly a bit of a chameleon.
Natural Lighting
North-facing rooms make Dovetail look cooler and more like a classic gray. The northern light tends to tone down the warmth.
South-facing rooms let those warm undertones shine. The space feels cozier and just more inviting throughout the day.
East-facing rooms show Dovetail at its brightest and warmest in the morning. By afternoon, the color deepens and loses some vibrancy as the sun moves away.
West-facing spaces get the opposite: Dovetail looks richer and warmer in the afternoon, thanks to that strong western sun. It’s a subtle shift, but you’ll notice it if you pay attention.
In bright natural light, you might spot blue undertones, or even a dash of green or purple depending on the time of day. Paint colors really like to keep things interesting.
Artificial Lighting
Strong artificial lighting can wash out Dovetail a bit. It’ll look lighter, but the color still has enough depth to avoid feeling flat.
If you use yellow bulbs, Dovetail’s blue undertones might skew greenish. That’s just how color mixing works—blue and yellow make green, even on your walls.
Cooler lights, like daylight LEDs, can tease out a bit of purple in the paint. It’s subtle, but it’s there if you’re looking for it.
Lower light levels make Dovetail seem deeper and richer, sometimes giving a more dramatic, almost masculine vibe.
Bulb choice matters. LEDs usually show truer colors than warm incandescent bulbs, so keep that in mind if you’re picky about undertones.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 LRV 26 (Light Reflectance Value)
Dovetail’s LRV of 26 puts it squarely in the darker neutral range. It absorbs more light than it reflects, so it’s not going to brighten up a dim room on its own.
What Is LRV?
LRV means Light Reflectance Value. It’s just a fancy way of measuring how much light a paint color bounces back into a room.
Zero is pure black, one hundred is pure white. Most colors fall somewhere in the middle.
Dark colors are usually between 0-30 LRV, mediums from 30-60, and light colors are 60-100. LRV helps you figure out how bright or cozy a room will feel with a certain color.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 LRV Range
Dovetail’s LRV of 26 means it falls into the darker neutral category. It just soaks up most of the light, which can be great or not-so-great, depending on your space.
It works best in rooms that get plenty of natural light. If you’ve got a north-facing room or tiny windows, Dovetail could look a bit heavy or moody.
You’ll probably want extra lamps or overhead lights if you’re using Dovetail on big walls. Otherwise, things might start to feel a little dim.
This LRV makes Dovetail a smart pick for accent walls or cabinetry where you want some drama. It gives kitchens and bathrooms a richer look without going full-on dark cave.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Coordinating Colors
Dovetail plays nicely with lighter neutrals like Repose Gray for a gentle contrast. Crisp whites like Extra White give it a classic edge, and deep shades like Urbane Bronze add some dramatic flair.
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray is a great lighter partner to Dovetail’s depth. It’s several shades lighter but shares similar undertones, so the combo feels natural.
Try Repose Gray on main walls and Dovetail as an accent—maybe on trim or built-ins. It’s a solid way to create layered looks without clashing.
This pairing works especially well in open layouts. Paint the living area in Repose Gray and use Dovetail on a kitchen island or a dining room wall for a little extra interest.
The LRV difference between the two adds visual interest. Repose Gray bounces more light, while Dovetail keeps things grounded.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White is the go-to crisp white for trim with Dovetail. It keeps the gray from feeling too heavy and helps everything look clean and defined.
This combo is classic and works in just about any style. Extra White’s cool undertones team up with Dovetail’s subtle blues without any weirdness.
Use Extra White on trim, doors, and ceilings if you’re painting walls in Dovetail. It gives you clean lines and really makes architectural details pop.
If you’ve got Dovetail cabinets, Extra White countertops or backsplash tiles will brighten things up and add contrast without making the space feel cold.
Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze brings drama and sophistication to the table when you pair it with Dovetail. It’s a deep, rich shade that stands out but still feels cohesive.
Try Urbane Bronze on a front door, shutters, or an accent wall next to Dovetail. It’s bold but not overwhelming, and honestly, it just looks sharp.
This combo is killer on exteriors—Dovetail siding with Urbane Bronze trim has major curb appeal and doesn’t feel trendy or overdone.
Inside, put Dovetail on kitchen cabinets and Urbane Bronze on the island. The darker accent adds depth and keeps the palette grounded and sophisticated.
Trim Colors For Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018
Dovetail’s warm gray works best with crisp white trim. You want something that contrasts cleanly but doesn’t turn yellow or look too stark. Cool-toned whites are especially nice since Dovetail’s blue undertones play well with them.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White jumps out as a great contrast against Dovetail’s medium gray. This bright white has an LRV of 84, which is way lighter than Dovetail’s 26.
When you put Pure White on trim, it really sharpens up the room’s details. Baseboards, crown molding, and door frames pop right out against Dovetail walls.
This combo fits right in with both modern and traditional styles. Pure White stays neutral, so it won’t fight with Dovetail’s subtle blue undertones.
Key Benefits:
- High contrast for clear definition
- Works in any lighting condition
- Complements Dovetail’s undertones
- Suitable for all trim applications
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White gives you the boldest contrast for Dovetail trim. The neutral undertones and high reflectance create sharp, crisp lines against gray walls.
This white keeps your trim from looking yellow or creamy next to Dovetail. The cool undertones in Extra White sync nicely with Dovetail’s blue notes.
It’s a solid pick for rooms that don’t get much natural light. The high LRV helps brighten things up and keeps the contrast fresh.
Applications that work best:
- Window trim – Creates clean frames
- Baseboards – Defines floor lines clearly
- Crown molding – Highlights ceiling details
- Door frames – Sharp, professional appearance
Alabaster SW 7008
Sherwin Williams’ go-to for Dovetail trim is Alabaster. This warm white sits at an LRV of 82 and brings blue-violet undertones that blend with Dovetail’s gray base.
The gentle warmth in Alabaster keeps the contrast from feeling harsh, but still gives you clear trim definition. Your trim feels coordinated, not blindingly white.
This pairing looks balanced and sophisticated in any room. Alabaster’s undertones support Dovetail, rather than competing with it.
You’ll get clean lines without that jarring, high-contrast look some folks find too much for their space.
Real World Examples Of Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 In Different Spaces
Dovetail’s warm gray, with just a hint of purple, can turn any room into something special. The color works in both busy family areas and cozier spots where you want a little extra depth.
Bathrooms
Dovetail on vanity cabinets turns your bathroom into a calm, spa-like retreat. The warm gray draws the eye, especially against white counters and backsplashes.
It’s especially nice in powder rooms—adds drama, but doesn’t take over. The rich tone hides water spots and daily wear better than lighter shades.
Best Applications:
- Vanity cabinets with white quartz tops
- Accent walls behind floating vanities
- Bathroom islands in master suites
Try satin or semi-gloss for moisture resistance. Pair with brushed nickel fixtures and white subway tile if you want a timeless vibe.
Bedrooms
Dovetail behind the bed makes your bedroom feel like a true retreat. The warmth cozies things up and helps you relax.
This color really shines in big bedrooms that might otherwise feel a bit empty or chilly. It brings the walls in just enough without making things feel tight.
You can go with crisp white bedding for contrast, or layer in creams and beiges. Natural wood furniture looks especially good here.
Lighting Considerations:
- North-facing rooms: Appears more gray
- South-facing rooms: Shows brown undertones
- Artificial light: Enhances warm qualities
Front Doors
Dovetail on your front door makes a refined, welcoming statement. It says you’ve got style, but you’re not chasing trends.
The door looks great with both brick and siding. Dovetail’s warm gray fits everything from classic to modern architecture.
You’ll notice it hides scuffs and fingerprints better than lighter colors. Plus, it photographs well if you’re thinking resale.
Exterior Pairing Ideas:
- White or cream siding
- Red or brown brick
- Natural stone accents
- Black shutters for contrast
Home Offices
Dovetail on your office walls can boost focus without making the room feel cold. This gray feels just right for video calls and productivity.
The color is easier on the eyes than bright white. Your office ends up feeling more intentional and pulled together.
Accent with white built-ins or floating shelves if you want. Dovetail’s neutral base won’t compete with your tech or paperwork.
Professional Benefits:
- Video conference appropriate
- Reduces screen glare
- Creates calm work environment
- Pairs with any office furniture
Houses
Lots of people use Dovetail in open layouts where you want one color to flow through the whole space. It works in living rooms, halls, and dining areas.
Your home feels unified when you use this shade as the main wall color. There’s enough personality to stand on its own, but it’s still neutral enough for any style.
The color changes with the light—cooler in the morning, warmer in the afternoon. It’s subtle, but it keeps things interesting.
Kitchen Cabinets
Dovetail cabinets really elevate the kitchen. This warm gray works for uppers, lowers, or just an island accent.
The color looks fantastic with white quartz counters and subway tile. Stainless appliances and brass hardware pair up beautifully, too.
Popular Cabinet Combinations:
- Dovetail island with white perimeter cabinets
- Full kitchen in Dovetail with white trim
- Lower cabinets in Dovetail, uppers in white
Go for a semi-gloss finish to show off the depth and get some durability. The end result feels custom and high-end, but not overdone.
Living Rooms
Dovetail accent walls turn your living room into a welcoming hangout. This warm gray is the perfect canvas for family photos and art.
It works with both leather and fabric furniture, and you can toss in bold pillows or throws for a pop of color.
Dovetail and white trim are a match made in heaven. The contrast highlights the architecture and keeps the space feeling polished.
Decorating Tips:
- Use white or cream trim for contrast
- Add brass or gold accents for warmth
- Layer different textures for visual interest
- Include plants for natural color
Comparing Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 To Similar Colors
Dovetail sits in that medium-dark gray sweet spot, with an LRV of 26 and warm blue undertones. It’s not as light as Repose Gray, nor as deep as Gauntlet Gray. Each option brings its own vibe, depending on undertones, reflectance, and warmth.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Vs Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray is much lighter, with an LRV of 58 compared to Dovetail’s 26. Basically, Repose Gray bounces back over twice the light.
Repose Gray shows up as a soft, neutral gray that’s nice for rooms that don’t get much sun. Dovetail, on the other hand, brings more drama and coziness with its deeper tone.
Undertone differences:
- Repose Gray: neutral with slight gray-beige undertones
- Dovetail: warm with blue undertones
Repose Gray plays well with both warm and cool palettes. Dovetail shines with earth tones and rich woods.
If you want a safe bet for big spaces, go with Repose Gray. Need more character or depth? Dovetail’s your pick.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Vs Classic French Gray SW 0077
Classic French Gray is the cooler cousin here. Its LRV is around 70, so it feels much lighter and airier than Dovetail.
These two grays give you totally different looks. Classic French Gray leans blue-green and stays crisp, while Dovetail is warmer and cozier.
Key differences:
- Warmth level: Classic French Gray is cool, Dovetail is warm
- Intensity: Classic French Gray is subtle, Dovetail is bold
- Room impact: Classic French Gray brightens, Dovetail creates drama
Classic French Gray is easier to decorate around, honestly. Dovetail needs a little more planning, but the payoff is a bolder look.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Vs Grizzle Gray SW 7068
Grizzle Gray is closer to Dovetail in depth, with an LRV of 36. Both make a statement, but they feel very different.
Grizzle Gray brings cool undertones with a hint of green. Dovetail keeps its warm blue vibe and feels a bit softer.
Both work on kitchen islands, bathroom vanities, or accent walls. Grizzle Gray matches up well with crisp whites and cool blues, while Dovetail pairs better with warm whites and earthy tones.
Comparison highlights:
- LRV: Grizzle Gray 36 vs Dovetail 26
- Undertones: Grizzle Gray has green hints, Dovetail has blue
- Style fit: Grizzle Gray suits modern homes, Dovetail fits traditional spaces
Go for Grizzle Gray in contemporary spaces. Dovetail is lovely for farmhouse or transitional looks.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Vs Gauntlet Gray SW 7019
Gauntlet Gray takes things up a notch in drama, with an LRV of 17. It’s definitely darker and more intense than Dovetail.
Both have warm undertones, but Gauntlet Gray leans brown-taupe, while Dovetail stays on the blue side for a softer feel.
Gauntlet Gray needs plenty of natural light to shine. Dovetail handles lower light and still gives you rich color.
When to choose each:
- Gauntlet Gray: Large rooms with excellent lighting
- Dovetail: Medium rooms with moderate lighting
Gauntlet Gray gives off a moody, masculine energy. Dovetail feels sophisticated, but won’t overwhelm smaller spaces.
Gauntlet Gray pairs beautifully with warm metals like brass and copper. Dovetail plays well with both warm and cool metals, so you’ve got options.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Vs Westchester Gray SW 2849
Westchester Gray gives you a cooler, more neutral option compared to Dovetail’s warmth. It usually looks cleaner and more contemporary, whatever the lighting does.
Westchester Gray has similar depth to Dovetail but brings drama without those warm undertones. Most days, it comes across as a true neutral gray—no surprises.
You’ll see Westchester Gray fitting right in with modern or transitional homes. Dovetail feels more at home in traditional, farmhouse, or those cozy contemporary spaces people love.
Style considerations:
- Westchester Gray: Clean lines, modern fixtures
- Dovetail: Natural textures, warm wood tones
If your place features cool metals like chrome or stainless steel, Westchester Gray plays nicer. Dovetail’s the pick if you’ve got warm wood cabinets or brass fixtures hanging around.
Both shades can work on exterior siding. Westchester Gray tends to look timeless, while Dovetail adds a bit more character and warmth outside.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 Vs Gray Matters SW 7066
Gray Matters lands somewhere between Dovetail and lighter grays, with an LRV around 46. It’s a middle-ground choice that offers more versatility than Dovetail’s bold vibe.
Most folks find Gray Matters easier to live with day to day. Dovetail grabs more attention, but you’ll want to plan your lighting and decor if you go that route.
Gray Matters works as a main wall color or as an accent. Dovetail’s best when you want drama—think accent walls or specific rooms.
Practical differences:
- Flexibility: Gray Matters adapts to various lighting
- Impact: Dovetail creates stronger focal points
- Maintenance: Gray Matters hides imperfections better
Try Gray Matters if you’re new to bold gray paint. If you’re feeling confident and want that dramatic, cozy depth, Dovetail might be the one.
Complementary Colors To Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018
Dovetail’s warm gray base, with a hint of blue, pairs up beautifully with bold colors that really pop. These combos bring out Dovetail’s versatility and add a little extra personality to your space.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 With Naval SW 6244
Pairing Dovetail with Naval creates a classic look that just works in any room. The deep navy blue highlights Dovetail’s subtle blue undertones and gives you rich contrast.
Try this combo in kitchens—Dovetail on the island, Naval on the perimeter cabinets. It feels sophisticated but never goes overboard.
Best applications for this pairing:
- Kitchen cabinets (two-tone design)
- Bedroom accent walls
- Living room feature walls
- Bathroom vanities
Naval’s dark shade makes Dovetail look lighter and warmer. That balance can keep a space from feeling too heavy if you’re using darker colors elsewhere.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 With Cascade Green SW 0066
Cascade Green brings an earthy vibe to Dovetail’s warm gray. This forest green creates a calming, natural feel when you pair them up.
The combo shines in spaces where you want nature-inspired colors. Cascade Green’s depth boosts Dovetail’s use as a neutral base.
Popular room combinations:
- Dovetail walls with Cascade Green built-ins
- Cascade Green front door with Dovetail exterior trim
- Dovetail kitchen island with Cascade Green dining room walls
This pairing feels fresh and modern, but there’s still a cozy, welcoming vibe. Dovetail’s greenish undertones in certain light just mesh perfectly with Cascade Green’s natural hue.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 With Smoky Blue SW 7604
Smoky Blue and Dovetail make a monochromatic scheme that’s super calming and cohesive. Both share similar undertones, so they’re easy partners.
If you want contrast but nothing dramatic, this is your combo. Smoky Blue’s lighter tone softens things up against Dovetail’s depth.
Ideal room pairings:
- Dovetail lower cabinets, Smoky Blue upper cabinets
- Smoky Blue bedroom walls with Dovetail furniture
- Dovetail bathroom vanity with Smoky Blue walls
The blue undertones in both colors help the space flow. This pairing feels especially nice in rooms with tons of natural light.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 With Redend Point SW 9081
Redend Point brings a punch of warmth and energy to Dovetail’s cooler side. This rusty red-orange creates a bold, balanced contrast that’s hard to ignore.
Redend Point’s orange tones make Dovetail’s blue undertones stand out more. The result? Visual interest that doesn’t overpower the room.
Successful combinations include:
- Dovetail kitchen island with Redend Point dining room
- Redend Point front door with Dovetail exterior siding
- Dovetail bathroom vanity with Redend Point accent wall
This pairing works especially well in traditional and farmhouse spaces. The whole look feels grounded, welcoming, and still pretty sophisticated.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 With Rejuvenate SW 6620
Rejuvenate’s bright lime green brings an unexpected pop to Dovetail. This energetic combo adds life and personality to otherwise neutral rooms.
The vibrant green makes Dovetail look more grounded and, honestly, a bit more sophisticated. It’s best to use this pairing as small accents, not giant wall areas.
Best accent applications:
- Rejuvenate cabinet hardware against Dovetail cabinets
- Small furniture pieces in Rejuvenate with Dovetail walls
- Rejuvenate decorative elements in Dovetail rooms
Use this combo sparingly for the best effect. That bright green keeps Dovetail from ever feeling too serious or heavy—sometimes you just need a little zing.
Dovetail By Sherwin Williams SW 7018 With Gale Force SW 7605
Gale Force brings a sophisticated blue-gray vibe when you pair it with Dovetail. The look feels modern, maybe even a bit refined, but not in a stuffy way.
Both colors carry a similar depth, which just works. Gale Force has these blue-green undertones that play off Dovetail’s warm gray base—honestly, it’s a beautiful combo.
Recommended combinations:
- Dovetail kitchen island, Gale Force perimeter cabinets
- Gale Force bedroom walls with Dovetail trim
- Dovetail exterior with a Gale Force front door
Since both shades have pretty close saturation levels, they balance each other out. The combo feels calming and intentional, no matter which room you use it in.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.