Looking for a paint color that feels natural and calming? Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 is a rich, muted green that brings the peacefulness of nature into your home. This versatile shade works well in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, or even as an accent wall, and pairs beautifully with both light neutrals and bolder colors.
When you choose Dried Thyme, you’ll notice its earthy undertones and how it changes with the lighting in your space. The color can make different rooms feel cozy or airy depending on how much light they get. You can combine SW 6186 Dried Thyme with soft whites or warm beiges for a balanced look, or coordinate it with deeper colors for extra contrast.
Key Takeaways
- Dried Thyme is a muted green paint color from Sherwin Williams.
- It works well with different lighting and pairs with many trim and accent shades.
- This shade fits in many rooms and matches various decorating styles.
What Color Is Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186?
Dried Thyme SW 6186 is known for its calm and earthy green look. It works well in many rooms to bring a touch of sophistication and nature-inspired style.
Color Family
Dried Thyme belongs to the green color family, more specifically a muted or earthy green. The color is deep but not too bold, making it cozy yet refined. It draws inspiration from the look of fresh thyme leaves—think of the dusty, soft green shades you see in an herb garden.
This color carries hints of both gray and beige, which helps tone down the green and gives it a more natural look. It doesn’t feel too bright or saturated. Instead, it looks more like a natural background color, which can help other colors in your room, like cream or beige accents, stand out.
Dried Thyme pairs well with neutrals like off-white, cream, and soft beige. It’s a good choice if you want a dark green that feels relaxing and not too strong.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
You’ll find that Dried Thyme SW 6186 uses these digital color codes for matching:
- HEX: #7B8070
- RGB: 123, 128, 112
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 21
The hex code and RGB values show it’s a mix that leans toward dark, muted green. The LRV of 21 means it reflects a moderate amount of light, so it isn’t too dark or too bright on your walls.
These codes help if you’re trying to match paints, fabrics, or digital colors in your design. It’s especially helpful if you’re comparing it to other greens or earthy tones for a cohesive look.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 Undertones
When you look at Dried Thyme SW 6186, you will notice its main undertone is green. This is what gives the paint color its earthy and calming feeling.
There is a subtle gray base mixed in with the green. This gray keeps the color from feeling too bright or bold and adds to its soft, muted look.
You might also see a slight brown or olive hint, especially in certain lighting. These extra undertones help Dried Thyme work well with natural woods, beiges, and creams.
Key Undertones of Dried Thyme SW 6186:
| Undertone | Description |
|---|---|
| Green | Main undertone; gives earthy calm |
| Gray | Adds softness and keeps it subdued |
| Olive/Brown | Subtle, adds warmth and depth |
Because of these undertones, Dried Thyme creates a cozy background that feels peaceful in living rooms, bedrooms, or kitchens.
If your room gets lots of light, the green undertones will show more. In lower light, the gray and olive undertones become stronger.
Dried Thyme’s rich yet gentle undertones make it easy to match with other colors and styles in your home.
How Does Lighting Affect Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186?
The way light hits your walls changes how Dried Thyme looks and feels. This color can appear cooler or warmer depending on the type of light and the direction it comes from.
Natural Lighting
Natural light can make a big difference with Dried Thyme.
- In north-facing rooms, the light is cool and often less intense. Here, Dried Thyme can look a bit more muted, and you may notice its soft blue or gray undertones stand out more. The shade usually feels calm and peaceful in these spaces.
- In south-facing rooms, sunlight is stronger and brings warmth. This can make Dried Thyme look a little lighter and slightly warmer. The green tones become richer, and the color feels more inviting.
- East-facing rooms get bright light in the morning, making Dried Thyme look fresh and airy at the beginning of the day, but a bit flatter in the afternoon.
- West-facing rooms can create dramatic shifts. The green can look subdued in the morning, but as the sun lowers, it picks up extra warmth and looks cozier.
Light from your windows can change the mood and character of the paint. Testing a sample in different areas is the best way to see how it will really look in your home.
Artificial Lighting
Artificial lighting changes how Dried Thyme appears after the sun goes down or in rooms without much natural light. The type of bulb you use is important:
- Warm white bulbs (like most incandescent bulbs) make Dried Thyme look softer and amplify its cozy green tones.
- Cool white or daylight bulbs can bring out more blue or gray in the paint. The color might look slightly cooler and less earthy.
- In rooms with very bright artificial lighting, Dried Thyme may appear lighter and the green more prominent; in dim lighting, the color deepens and looks richer.
If you use different lights during the day and night, you may notice Dried Thyme looking a little different every time you turn a switch. Choosing the right lighting helps you get the look and feel you want for your room.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Dried Thyme SW 6186 has a distinct LRV that makes it different from lighter greens. Knowing the LRV can help you decide if this color will work in your space, depending on how much natural or artificial light you have.
What Is LRV?
LRV, or Light Reflectance Value, is a measurement that shows how much visible light a paint color reflects. This is shown on a scale from 0 to 100, where 0 is pure black (reflects almost no light) and 100 is pure white (reflects all the light).
A color’s LRV helps you understand if it will make a room feel lighter or darker. Higher LRVs brighten up spaces, while lower numbers make rooms feel cozier and more intimate. Designers and homeowners often use LRV to plan how light or dark a painted space will look throughout the day.
If you have a lot of natural light in your room, you can usually use lower LRV colors without making your space feel too dark. In rooms with limited light, high LRV colors are best if you want the area to feel more open and airy.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 LRV Range
Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme (SW 6186) has an LRV of 21. This puts it on the lower end of the scale—meaning it reflects less light than mid-tone or pale colors. It’s considered a medium-to-dark green, so it can create a cozy and grounded feeling in any space.
This LRV makes Dried Thyme a good pick for accent walls, bedrooms, or rooms where you want a calming, earthy mood. If your room doesn’t get a lot of sunlight, Dried Thyme may look even deeper and richer. Extra lighting can help balance out its depth if you’re concerned about the room feeling too dim.
Here’s a quick comparison for context:
| Color | LRV | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Pure White | 100 | Very bright, reflects all light |
| Light Gray | 60 | Light and airy |
| Dried Thyme | 21 | Cozy, muted, grounded |
| Pure Black | 0 | Dark, absorbs all light |
When planning your palette, knowing Dried Thyme’s LRV helps you choose coordinating colors and lighting that work best in your space.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 Coordinating Colors
When you use Dried Thyme SW 6186, picking the right coordinating colors can help create a balanced, inviting space. Light neutrals and soft greens work especially well and can shift the mood from crisp and airy to cozy and warm.
Heron Plume SW 6070
Heron Plume is a subtle, light gray-beige that brings out the softness in Dried Thyme. It acts like a gentle backdrop and lets the muted green take center stage without feeling stark or cold. You’ll notice it has a hint of warmth, which makes rooms feel light and calm.
This color is helpful for areas where you want more brightness, but also need a color that quietly supports your bold green accent. Try using Heron Plume on trim, ceilings, or nearby walls for an open and seamless look.
Heron Plume is especially useful in living rooms and bedrooms. It helps create a sense of extra space without competing with your main color palette.
Antique White SW 6119
Antique White is a warm, creamy white that pairs nicely with the rich, earthy green of Dried Thyme. This color brings an inviting feeling to your space and stops things from feeling too cool or dark. It softens up the palette and blends easily with wood tones or brass accents.
Using Antique White on woodwork, kitchen cabinets, or accent walls gives your room a classic and slightly vintage flair. It’s a good option if you want to add a bit more warmth but still keep things refreshing.
This combo works well in dining areas and kitchens, helping balance strong colors with light, simple comfort.
Svelte Sage SW 6164
Svelte Sage is a muted, light green that sits just a few shades lighter than Dried Thyme. When you use both together, it creates a smooth tone-on-tone effect that feels natural and peaceful. The colors coordinate easily because they’re both earthy and subdued.
You might want to use Svelte Sage on built-in shelves or as an accent color in an entryway. Pairing these two greens with soft woods and natural textures forms a calming, modern look.
Svelte Sage helps blend your color palette, especially if you want a space that feels relaxing and closely tied to nature.
Trim Colors For Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186
Choosing the right trim color helps Dried Thyme SW 6186 look even better on your walls. Paint shades like crisp white, warm white, and soft white each give a different feel and can match different styles in your home.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White SW 7006 is a bright, clean white with cool undertones. This trim color looks especially sharp against the earthy green of Dried Thyme. If you want your walls and trim to stand out and look modern, Extra White is a good pick.
You get a sleek contrast that is crisp and makes the green color pop. This bright white works well with both classic and contemporary decor styles. Choose Extra White when you want a fresh look or have a room that does not get much natural light.
Pairing Dried Thyme with Extra White also works nicely with natural wood accents. The contrast lets both the paint and wood details stand out.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a popular choice because it is a soft white with warm undertones. This trim color makes your rooms feel relaxed and inviting when paired with Dried Thyme. Alabaster does not look harsh and can make spaces feel comfortable, even with darker green walls.
You will notice that Alabaster softens the look of Dried Thyme, blending the wall and trim gently together. It works well if you want your space to feel warm and cozy. Alabaster also looks natural beside wood trim or furniture.
This shade is great for traditional, farmhouse, or transitional styles. It’s a favorite if you want white trim without a stark or cold feel.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White SW 7005 is another excellent trim color. It’s very balanced, neither too bright nor too creamy. This makes Pure White a flexible choice for homes where you want a crisp trim but not something as bright as Extra White.
This trim color highlights Dried Thyme without drawing too much attention. It helps the green look rich, yet your trim will look fresh and neat.
Pure White matches well with natural wood features, offering a soft white look that works with nearly any decor. It is ideal for a clean, simple style, and works in every room from living rooms to kitchens.
Real World Examples Of Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 In Different Spaces
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams offers a muted sage green with earthy undertones. You can use this calm and timeless shade in almost any room to bring a natural, welcoming feeling to your home.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Dried Thyme can be used on the main walls or as an accent wall behind a sofa or TV. This color helps create a cozy and relaxing spot that feels close to nature.
Pairing Dried Thyme with soft beige or warm white trim makes the green stand out without feeling too bold. If you add light wooden furniture or cream-colored drapes, the room feels even more peaceful.
For modern living rooms, consider mixing in metallic details or black decor pieces for contrast. If your space has lots of windows, the light brings out the blue and gray undertones in Dried Thyme, making the room look fresh and airy.
Bedrooms
Dried Thyme works well in bedrooms if you want a calm place to relax and sleep. You can use it on all walls or only behind the bed for a soft accent.
Decorate with crisp white bedding or natural linen sheets to keep your bedroom light and inviting. Wooden furniture, tan area rugs, and leafy plants fit perfectly with the earthy feel of this paint color.
Adding gold lamps, woven baskets, or black picture frames can give your bedroom a modern twist without taking away from the color’s soothing look. Soft gray or pastel throw pillows also work nicely.
Kitchens
Many people choose Dried Thyme for kitchen cabinets, especially if they want an updated but classic look. It brings a hint of color without being too flashy, and it matches well with white or marble countertops.
For walls, Dried Thyme gives your kitchen an organic, cozy feeling. Pair it with subway tiles and open shelves for a farmhouse touch. Stainless steel appliances or matte black hardware look sharp against this muted green.
If you have a small kitchen, using Dried Thyme on lower cabinets and a lighter shade up top can make the space feel larger. Brass or brushed nickel fixtures are another stylish choice.
Bathrooms
Dried Thyme can turn your bathroom into a calming retreat. Use it on the walls or paint a vanity for a unique touch.
White tile, slate floors, or matte black faucets look clean and modern against this green shade. You can add soft towels, woven baskets, and simple wall art to make the room feel restful but not plain.
If you have a window, the natural light brings out the paint’s blue-green undertones. For a spa-like style, combine Dried Thyme with pale gray and crisp white accents.
Home Offices
For home offices, Dried Thyme helps keep you focused and calm while working. It works well as the main wall color or behind a desk as an accent.
Light wood desks and white bookcases create a warm, modern look. Add a leafy plant or framed art in black or gold frames for interest.
You might want to pair the paint with light gray or cream decor to prevent the space from feeling too dark. Good natural light or plenty of lamps will keep your office from feeling closed in.
Exteriors
Dried Thyme is a good choice for exteriors if you want your home to blend with its outdoor surroundings. It fits well on siding, front doors, or shutters.
Pair it with crisp white trim for a classic, inviting look, or go for dark gray accents to add depth. Stone paths, wood porch furniture, and potted plants enhance the earthy green of the paint.
This shade looks especially good in gardens or wooded areas. Use it for porch ceilings or even garden sheds to create a cohesive look that feels natural and welcoming.
Comparing Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 To Similar Colors
When you compare Dried Thyme to other green shades from Sherwin Williams, you’ll notice differences in depth, undertone, and warmth. Each comparison helps you decide which green is best for your space and how it might work with your decor.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 vs Sage SW 2860
Dried Thyme (SW 6186) is a muted, mid-to-deep green that leans slightly earthy and has subtle gray undertones. Sage (SW 2860), by comparison, is noticeably lighter and more of a traditional sage green. Sage feels softer and airier, which gives it a lighter look, especially in rooms with plenty of natural light.
If you want a richer, more grounded green, Dried Thyme offers more depth. Sage is better for a calm, fresh feeling. While both are versatile, Dried Thyme works well for accent walls, cabinets, or exterior trim, whereas Sage is ideal if you prefer lighter, almost pastel, green walls.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 vs Privet Hedge SW 6185
Privet Hedge (SW 6185) is just one shade darker than Dried Thyme. Its deep, forest-like tone makes it bolder and more dramatic. Dried Thyme, while still dark, appears dustier and softer due to more gray in its formula.
You’ll notice that Privet Hedge is best for making a statement or for small areas where you want a moody effect. Dried Thyme feels gentler and less intense in comparison. If you’re choosing between the two, consider how much light your room gets and how cozy or dramatic you want the space to feel.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 vs Escape Gray SW 6185
Escape Gray (SW 6185) is a soft, muted gray-green. Next to Dried Thyme, it looks significantly lighter with more visible gray undertones. Escape Gray can almost read as a gray with hints of green instead of a true green.
Dried Thyme stands out as a deeper, earthier green. You might choose Escape Gray if you want a subtle, airy vibe, especially in spaces that need brightness. Use Dried Thyme for a stronger color impact and a more traditional green feel. Both pair well with white trim and natural wood.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 vs Clary Sage SW 6178
Clary Sage (SW 6178) is a soft, muted green with a warm yellow undertone. It feels lighter and has a hint of earthiness but is less intense than Dried Thyme.
Dried Thyme appears deeper and cooler while Clary Sage is brighter and warmer. You may prefer Clary Sage for a kitchen or entryway where you want a cheerful, welcoming look. Dried Thyme works well if you want a classic green with a touch of sophistication or a hint of nature.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 vs Oyster Bay SW 6206
Oyster Bay (SW 6206) is a light, cool green with blue and gray undertones. It feels more serene and calming compared to Dried Thyme. When viewed together, Oyster Bay is noticeably lighter and almost reads as a blue-green.
You might like Oyster Bay for bedrooms, bathrooms, or spaces where you want to create a peaceful feel. Dried Thyme, in contrast, is stronger, more grounded, and looks great in living areas or on exteriors. They both work well with whites and dark wood furniture.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 vs Retreat SW 6207
Retreat (SW 6207) sits a step deeper and more muted on the green spectrum. It’s a cool, dark green with a heavy dose of gray, which makes it feel even more subdued than Dried Thyme.
If you want a green that reads almost like a neutral, Retreat is a great choice. It’s ideal for cozy rooms or dramatic accent spaces. Dried Thyme is a bit more lively, with a clearer green tone that brings more color to your walls or cabinetry without feeling too bold.
Dried Thyme fits right between these other greens from Sherwin Williams—offering a pleasant mix of earthiness, depth, and softness. This makes it easy to compare and choose the right green for your home.
Complementary Colors To Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186
Pairing Dried Thyme SW 6186 with the right colors helps you create different moods and styles in your space. Each color below brings out unique qualities in this earthy green and works for rooms of all sizes.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 With Almond Roca SW 9105
Dried Thyme is an earthy green, while Almond Roca is a warm taupe with soft brown undertones. Together, these colors give your room a calm, natural look that feels grounded. This pairing works well in family rooms, bedrooms, or even kitchens.
You can use Dried Thyme on walls and Almond Roca on trim, or mix them up with accent furniture. The combination makes wood accents stand out and pairs well with woven baskets or plants.
For a quick idea, see this table for possible uses:
| Area | Dried Thyme | Almond Roca |
|---|---|---|
| Walls | Main color | Accent or trim |
| Furniture | Painted cabinets | Upholstery |
| Accessories | Vases, frames | Rugs, curtains |
This combo is simple and easy to live with.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 With Eider White SW 7014
Eider White is a light, soft gray with a slight touch of warmth. It’s a classic pick to brighten up any space where Dried Thyme is the main color.
You could use Dried Thyme on one wall, then paint the others with Eider White to keep the room from feeling too dark. This pairing works especially well in bedrooms and living rooms because the mix of green and gray is restful.
Eider White lets Dried Thyme be the focus but keeps everything fresh. You can add metallics like brushed nickel in light fixtures or handles for more style.
Try Eider White for ceilings or woodwork. It blends in nicely while letting Dried Thyme remain the star.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 With Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige is a warm greige that softens the boldness of Dried Thyme. This subtle backdrop is great for creating a cozy vibe that won’t go out of style.
The mix of green and beige makes rooms look bigger and more open, so it’s perfect for small spaces or places where you want a bit more light. Use Dried Thyme on an accent wall and Accessible Beige everywhere else for balance.
With this combo, adding in wood, tan, or black details works well. Try it in living spaces or hallways for a look that feels both modern and relaxed.
Accessible Beige is also forgiving when it comes to touch-ups, making it a good choice for busy homes.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 With Creamy SW 7012
Creamy SW 7012 is a soft, gentle off-white. It makes Dried Thyme look brighter and richer, adding warmth to the whole room. This color pair is welcoming and cheerful.
Dried Thyme looks great on kitchen cabinets or furniture when the walls are painted Creamy. This is especially true in kitchens or bathrooms where you want a clean, fresh look.
Creamy keeps things light without feeling stark or cold. If your space doesn’t get much sunlight, using Creamy can help open it up.
You can tie the look together with gold or brass accents, or with simple wood shelf details.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 With Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay is a warm, earthy orange with a hint of terracotta. When you pair it with Dried Thyme, you get a vibrant, natural feel inspired by the outdoors.
Try using Dried Thyme on large surfaces and Cavern Clay as an accent, such as on one wall, fireplace trim, or a door. This pairing is bold and adds a creative mood to your space.
If you want a rustic or Southwest look, these two colors together do the job. Add earthy textured textiles or clay pots to boost the effect.
This duo stands out, so use it where you want to make a statement—such as a dining room or entryway.
Dried Thyme by Sherwin Williams SW 6186 With Naval SW 6244
Naval SW 6244 is a deep, rich blue that looks almost navy. With Dried Thyme, you get a dramatic yet balanced look—cool and sophisticated but not too busy.
Use Dried Thyme on lower cabinets or inbuilt shelves, and Naval on an island or one accent wall. For a modern style, use bright white trim to frame these two colors.
This pairing is good in offices, kitchens, or bathrooms where you want a sense of calm but still want color. Add silver or chrome finishes for a crisp, clean feel.
Both colors make each other stand out, creating a smart look that’s easy to update with accessories.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.