Looking for a versatile neutral paint color that adapts to any space? Sherwin-Williams Drift of Mist (SW 9166) might be exactly what you need. This soft, warm gray creates an airy, inviting atmosphere while remaining subtle enough to complement various design styles and color schemes.
Drift of Mist combines well with other colors and shifts its character based on your room’s lighting conditions. In north-facing rooms, it can appear cooler, while in spaces with plenty of natural light, its gentle warmth becomes more apparent. This adaptability makes it an ideal neutral that won’t look too dark even in areas lacking natural light.
As Sherwin-Williams’ February 2024 Color of the Month, Drift of Mist has gained popularity for its exceptional flexibility. Whether you’re painting a living room, bedroom, or kitchen, this muted gray provides a beautiful backdrop that allows your furniture and decor to stand out without competing for attention.
Key Takeaways
- Drift of Mist is a soft, warm gray that adapts to different lighting conditions, appearing cooler in north-facing rooms and warmer in natural light.
- This versatile neutral works with various design styles and won’t look too dark in spaces with limited natural light.
- You can easily pair Drift of Mist with other colors as it shifts its character based on surrounding elements, making it ideal for any room in your home.
What Color is Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166?
Drift of Mist (SW 9166) is a soft, warm gray paint color with muted undertones that can adapt to different lighting conditions while maintaining its gentle, airy appearance.
Color Family
Drift of Mist belongs to the neutral color family, specifically falling into the soft gray category. It’s not a pure gray though—it has subtle warm undertones that prevent it from feeling cold or sterile. This versatile shade sits between gray and greige (gray-beige), making it incredibly adaptable.
In north-facing rooms, you might notice Drift of Mist looking slightly cooler. In spaces with warm, southern light, its subtle warmth becomes more apparent. This chameleon-like quality is why many designers recommend it for open floor plans.
The color creates a bright, breezy atmosphere without being stark white. It’s perfect when you want a light neutral that has more depth and character than basic white paint.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Here are the specific color codes for Drift of Mist (SW 9166):
Hex Code: #E8E6E1
RGB Values: R: 232, G: 230, B: 225
LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 73
The high LRV of 73 indicates Drift of Mist reflects a significant amount of light, making it excellent for brightening spaces. This makes it particularly useful in rooms with limited natural light or smaller areas you want to appear larger.
When sampling this color, remember that lighting significantly affects how it appears. Try painting a sample board you can move around different areas of your room to see how it looks throughout the day.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 Undertones
Understanding the undertones in Drift of Mist can help you predict how this paint color will look in your home. While often described as a soft gray, this shade has subtle complexities worth exploring.
Drift of Mist (SW 9166) has primarily warm gray undertones, though they’re quite muted. This warmth gives the color a cozy, inviting feel in most lighting conditions.
Interestingly, this paint can appear differently depending on your lighting. In north-facing rooms, you might notice it looking considerably cooler than expected. This chameleon-like quality makes it versatile for various spaces.
The color falls into the cool undertone family according to some sources, showing how balanced this shade truly is between warm and cool properties.
With its gentle undertones, Drift of Mist works beautifully as a neutral backdrop. You’ll find it doesn’t compete with other design elements in your space.
The paint’s subtle warmth prevents it from feeling harsh or sterile, even in areas with limited natural light. This makes it perfect for hallways, bathrooms, or any room needing a soft, airy feel.
When considering Drift of Mist for your home, remember that time of day and artificial lighting will influence how these undertones present themselves on your walls.
How Does Lighting Affect Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166?
Drift of Mist SW 9166 is a chameleon-like paint color that shifts its appearance dramatically based on your lighting conditions. This versatile neutral gray can appear warmer or cooler depending on the light source it’s exposed to.
Natural Lighting
In spaces with lots of natural light, Drift of Mist shows its true colors as a light, airy gray. North-facing rooms bring out its cooler undertones, making it appear more gray than beige.
South-facing rooms with warm sunlight can transform this color into a softer, warmer neutral with subtle beige hints. This versatility makes it work well in many room orientations.
East-facing rooms may show Drift of Mist as warmer in the morning and cooler in the afternoon. West-facing spaces will experience the opposite effect.
The walls will look “light and bright but definitely lean gray and slightly cool in the natural light,” as noted by color experts. This adaptability helps you create different moods throughout the day in your home.
Artificial Lighting
Your choice of artificial lighting significantly impacts how Drift of Mist appears in your space. Cool white LED bulbs tend to enhance the gray tones, creating a crisper, more modern feel.
Warm bulbs (like traditional incandescents or warm LEDs) bring out the warmer undertones, making the color feel cozier and more inviting. This effect is particularly noticeable in the evening when artificial lighting dominates.
In rooms “lacking natural light,” Drift of Mist won’t appear too dark—making it ideal for hallways, bathrooms, or basement spaces. Its ability to “shift character based on the lighting of your space” means you can use it throughout your home for a cohesive look.
Try placing lamps at different heights and angles to create dimension on your walls. This technique highlights Drift of Mist’s subtle depth and prevents it from appearing flat in artificially lit spaces.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Drift of Mist has a Light Reflectance Value of 62, making it a versatile mid-tone gray with gentle warm undertones that works well in various lighting conditions.
What is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It measures how much light a paint color reflects versus how much it absorbs.
The scale runs from 0 to 100. Pure black would have an LRV near 0 (absorbs almost all light), while pure white would be close to 100 (reflects almost all light).
Higher LRV colors make spaces feel larger and brighter. They’re great for small rooms or areas with limited natural light.
Lower LRV colors create cozier, more intimate spaces. They can make large rooms feel more comfortable and grounded.
Knowing a paint color’s LRV helps you predict how it will look in your specific space with your unique lighting conditions.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 LRV Range
Drift of Mist has an LRV of 62, placing it in the medium-light range. This value makes it quite versatile for many spaces.
At 62, it reflects enough light to brighten rooms while still providing noticeable color on your walls. It won’t wash out completely in bright spaces.
In north-facing rooms, Drift of Mist may appear slightly cooler than expected. In warmer southern or western light, its subtle warm undertones become more visible.
You’ll find this color adapts well throughout the day as lighting changes. It won’t appear too dark even in areas lacking natural light.
For comparison:
- Very light colors: LRV 75-100
- Light colors: LRV 60-75
- Medium colors: LRV 30-60
- Dark colors: LRV 0-30
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 Coordinating Colors
Drift of Mist pairs beautifully with several other Sherwin Williams colors that enhance its soft, warm-gray qualities. These coordinating colors can help create a balanced and harmonious look in your home.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White is an excellent companion for Drift of Mist when you want a clean contrast. This crisp white has no stark undertones, making it versatile for trim, ceilings, or adjacent walls to Drift of Mist.
In rooms with limited natural light, using Pure White alongside Drift of Mist can help brighten the space. The pairing creates a soft, airy feeling that works in modern, farmhouse, or traditional styles.
Try using Pure White for kitchen cabinets with Drift of Mist walls, or vice versa for a timeless look. This combination also works beautifully in bathrooms where you want a clean but not clinical appearance.
Acier SW 9170
Acier is a deeper, more saturated gray that coordinates perfectly with Drift of Mist for a sophisticated monochromatic scheme. This medium-toned gray adds depth without overwhelming your space.
You can use Acier as an accent wall color while painting the remaining walls Drift of Mist. This creates visual interest without harsh contrast.
For a cohesive look, consider Acier for lower cabinets in kitchens or bathroom vanities while using Drift of Mist above. This pairing works especially well in spaces with good natural light that can handle the deeper tone.
Silver Strand SW 7057
Silver Strand introduces a subtle green-blue undertone that complements the neutrality of Drift of Mist. This pairing creates a soothing, coastal-inspired palette that feels both fresh and timeless.
Use Silver Strand in connecting rooms or as an accent color to add gentle variation to your color scheme. The colors flow beautifully together without creating stark transitions.
In bedrooms or living spaces, this combination promotes a calming atmosphere. Consider using Silver Strand for furniture pieces against Drift of Mist walls, or as a ceiling color with Drift of Mist walls for an unexpected touch of interest.
Trim Colors for Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166
The right trim color can make Drift of Mist shine in your space. White trim provides a clean contrast that highlights this soft gray’s warmth and depth.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White is one of the brightest, crispest options you can pair with Drift of Mist. This cool white creates a strong, modern contrast against the soft gray tones. The pairing works especially well in spaces with plenty of natural light.
In north-facing rooms, Extra White maintains its brightness while allowing Drift of Mist to show its subtle warmth. This combination gives your space a clean, contemporary look.
For a more dramatic effect, use Extra White on all trim, doors, and ceiling moldings. The stark contrast between the two shades creates architectural interest and makes your wall color stand out more prominently.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster offers a softer approach than Extra White when paired with Drift of Mist. This creamy white has just enough warmth to complement the gray without competing with it.
In rooms with limited natural light, Alabaster trim prevents the space from feeling too cold or sterile. The subtle warmth in both colors creates a harmonious, welcoming environment.
This combination works beautifully in traditional or transitional spaces. Try Alabaster on baseboards, crown molding, and window casings for a sophisticated look that isn’t too stark.
Many designers love this pairing for living rooms and bedrooms where a cozy, inviting atmosphere is the goal.
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound strikes the perfect balance between bright and warm when paired with Drift of Mist. This versatile white has a slight gray undertone that creates a subtle, refined relationship with your wall color.
In spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, Snowbound trim looks crisp without the harshness of a pure white. The gentle contrast allows cabinetry and fixtures to stand out.
You’ll find this combination particularly effective in south-facing rooms where the natural light brings out the warmth in both colors. The pairing creates a soft, airy feeling throughout your space.
For a cohesive look, consider using Snowbound on built-in shelving or furniture pieces in the same room as your Drift of Mist walls.
Real World Examples of Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 in Different Spaces
Drift of Mist adapts beautifully to various rooms and lighting conditions, shifting from a soft gray to a warmer neutral depending on the space it occupies.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Drift of Mist creates a welcoming atmosphere that works with many design styles. This versatile color appears slightly warmer in rooms with southern exposure and cooler in north-facing spaces.
With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) that keeps spaces feeling open, it’s perfect for smaller living areas that need to feel larger. You’ll notice it pairs beautifully with both light and dark furniture.
Many homeowners use Drift of Mist on living room walls with white trim for a subtle contrast that feels modern yet timeless.
Try pairing it with natural wood elements and greenery to enhance its soft, airy quality. The color creates an excellent backdrop for artwork and decorative elements without competing for attention.
Bedrooms
Drift of Mist transforms bedrooms into peaceful retreats. The color’s subtle warmth promotes relaxation while maintaining enough brightness to keep the space from feeling dreary.
In master bedrooms, you’ll find it creates a sophisticated neutral backdrop for luxurious bedding and décor. The gray undertones help create a sense of calm that’s perfect for sleep spaces.
Many designers pair Drift of Mist with soft textiles in cream, blush, or sage green to create layered, inviting bedroom designs.
In children’s rooms, it provides a versatile foundation that grows with changing tastes and styles. You can easily update accessories without needing to repaint as preferences change.
Morning light brings out warmer aspects of this color, while evening light emphasizes its cooler gray properties.
Kitchens
Kitchens painted with Drift of Mist feel clean and bright without the harshness of pure white. The color works exceptionally well on cabinets, creating a soft contrast against darker countertops.
As seen in examples from designers, white quartz countertops paired with Drift of Mist cabinets create a subtle tonal variation that adds depth to kitchen designs.
You’ll find this color particularly effective in kitchens with limited natural light, as it reflects available light without appearing too stark or clinical.
For open-concept homes, Drift of Mist provides continuity between kitchen and living spaces while maintaining visual interest. It pairs beautifully with stainless steel appliances and brushed nickel hardware.
Consider using it on kitchen walls with white cabinets for a gentle contrast that feels fresh and contemporary.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms benefit from Drift of Mist’s ability to adapt to changing light conditions. In spaces with natural light, it appears as a soft, airy neutral that enhances the sense of cleanliness.
You’ll find it works well with both cool and warm tile selections, making it versatile for various bathroom designs. Its subtle warmth prevents the space from feeling too sterile or cold.
Many homeowners choose Drift of Mist for smaller bathrooms to maximize light reflection and create a sense of spaciousness. It pairs beautifully with marble and other natural stone elements.
The color’s muted quality makes it an excellent choice for powder rooms, where it creates an elegant backdrop without overwhelming the small space.
In bathrooms with cooler lighting, expect Drift of Mist to display more of its gray undertones.
Home Offices
Home offices painted with Drift of Mist promote focus and productivity without feeling too stark or distracting. The color’s neutral profile creates a professional backdrop for video calls.
You’ll appreciate how it shifts subtly throughout the day, appearing slightly warmer during morning hours and cooler in afternoon light. This variation helps maintain visual interest in a space where you spend many hours.
Pair it with wood furniture to bring out the color’s warmer aspects, or with black and white accessories for a more contemporary feel.
Designers often recommend Drift of Mist for home offices because it works well with both traditional and modern office furniture. The color’s versatility allows you to change your office style without needing to repaint.
Use accent colors in accessories to personalize the space while maintaining its professional quality.
Exteriors
On home exteriors, Drift of Mist creates a soft, sophisticated appearance that stands out from typical white houses without being too bold. It works particularly well with dark trim colors and natural stone accents.
You’ll notice the color appears lighter in direct sunlight and slightly deeper in shaded areas, creating natural dimension across your home’s exterior.
Many homeowners choose Drift of Mist for exterior siding with contrasting dark shutters or doors for a timeless look.
The color performs well in various geographical locations, from cloudy northern climates to sunny southern regions. Its adaptability to different lighting conditions makes it a reliable exterior choice.
Consider Drift of Mist for exterior trim and soffits paired with a darker main color for subtle contrast that highlights architectural details.
Comparing Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 to Similar Colors
When choosing the perfect gray-beige (greige) paint color, it helps to see how Drift of Mist compares to other popular Sherwin Williams options. Each color has subtle differences in undertones, light reflectance values, and how they appear in different lighting conditions.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 vs Agreeable Gray SW 7029
Drift of Mist and Agreeable Gray are both popular greige colors, but they have distinct differences. Drift of Mist has a slightly cooler undertone with hints of green, while Agreeable Gray leans warmer with more beige influence.
In north-facing rooms, Drift of Mist might appear more gray, whereas Agreeable Gray maintains its warmth. Agreeable Gray has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 60, making it slightly darker than Drift of Mist.
You’ll notice Agreeable Gray feels cozier and more traditional, while Drift of Mist gives a more modern, airy feel. They pair differently with trim colors too – Drift of Mist works beautifully with crisp whites, while Agreeable Gray complements softer whites.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 vs Gossamer Veil SW 9165
Gossamer Veil is like Drift of Mist’s slightly darker sibling. Both share similar undertones, but Gossamer Veil has a lower LRV, making it appear a bit more saturated on your walls.
When you place them side by side, you’ll notice Gossamer Veil has more depth and can anchor a space better than the airier Drift of Mist. In bright rooms, Drift of Mist might wash out slightly, while Gossamer Veil holds its color better.
Both colors have subtle green-gray undertones, but they show up differently depending on your lighting. In artificial light, Gossamer Veil tends to reveal more of its greige qualities, while Drift of Mist stays lighter and more versatile.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 vs Light French Gray SW 0055
Light French Gray offers a true gray alternative to Drift of Mist’s greige character. While Drift of Mist carries those beige-green undertones, Light French Gray is a cooler, cleaner gray.
You’ll find Light French Gray looks more sophisticated and less chameleon-like than Drift of Mist. It doesn’t shift as much between different lighting conditions, maintaining its cool gray presence.
In spaces with lots of wood tones or warm accents, Drift of Mist creates a softer blend, while Light French Gray provides more contrast. For a modern, clean aesthetic, Light French Gray works wonderfully, whereas Drift of Mist brings a softer, more organic feel to your space.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 vs Crushed Ice SW 7647
Crushed Ice is lighter and brighter than Drift of Mist, with a higher LRV. While Drift of Mist sits comfortably in the greige family, Crushed Ice leans more toward a silvery, cool gray.
In smaller spaces, Crushed Ice can make the room feel larger and more open. Drift of Mist, however, provides more color definition while still keeping things light.
You’ll notice Crushed Ice has subtle blue undertones that can show up in certain lighting, while Drift of Mist maintains its green-beige undertones. For trim pairings, both work well with white, but Crushed Ice creates a crisper contrast than the softer Drift of Mist.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 vs On The Rocks SW 7671
On The Rocks is a lighter gray option compared to Drift of Mist. It has less beige influence and reads as a soft, clean gray with cool undertones.
When you use On The Rocks in a space with northern exposure, it remains bright without taking on a blue cast. Drift of Mist, meanwhile, will show more of its complex greige personality in the same light.
For a more minimal, contemporary look, On The Rocks delivers a cleaner aesthetic. Drift of Mist works better if you want a bit more warmth and depth while still keeping the overall feel light and airy.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 vs Silver Mist SW 7621
Silver Mist brings a different character altogether, with its distinctive blue-green undertones compared to Drift of Mist’s neutral greige base. It’s more colorful while still being a sophisticated neutral.
In bright rooms, Silver Mist’s blue-green qualities become more apparent, while Drift of Mist stays more consistently neutral. This makes Silver Mist a bolder choice for spaces where you want a hint of color.
You’ll find Silver Mist pairs beautifully with coastal decor or spaces where you want a subtle spa-like feeling. Drift of Mist, by comparison, is more versatile across different design styles and color schemes.
Complementary Colors to Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166
Drift of Mist pairs beautifully with a variety of other paint colors thanks to its versatile warm gray tone. This soft neutral creates a perfect backdrop for both bold and subtle companion colors.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 with Pewter Green SW 6208
Pewter Green creates a calming, nature-inspired palette when paired with Drift of Mist. This muted sage green adds depth while maintaining a serene atmosphere in your space.
You’ll find this combination works particularly well in living rooms and bedrooms where you want to create a relaxing retreat. The coolness of Pewter Green balances the subtle warmth of Drift of Mist.
Try using Drift of Mist on your main walls with Pewter Green as an accent wall behind a bed or fireplace. This pairing also works beautifully in kitchens with Drift of Mist cabinets and a Pewter Green island.
For accessories, consider natural materials like wood and woven textures to enhance this earthy combination.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 with Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze adds dramatic contrast and sophistication when paired with Drift of Mist. This deep, rich brown-gray creates a grounding effect against the lighter neutral.
You can use this bold combination in dining rooms, home offices, or any space where you want to create visual interest. The warmth in both colors helps them blend seamlessly.
Try Drift of Mist on walls with Urbane Bronze on trim, doors, or built-in shelving for a modern twist on classic color schemes. This pairing also works well for exterior applications.
Add gold or brass accents to enhance the richness of this color combination. Metal finishes will pop beautifully against both tones.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 with Naval SW 6244
Naval brings classic elegance and bold contrast when combined with Drift of Mist. This deep navy blue creates a timeless look that works in traditional and contemporary spaces alike.
You’ll find this combination especially effective in bedrooms, dining rooms, and studies. The crispness of Drift of Mist helps balance the depth of Naval.
Consider using Naval for furniture pieces against Drift of Mist walls, or paint your kitchen cabinets Naval with Drift of Mist as a backsplash color. For a dramatic effect, try Naval on a ceiling with Drift of Mist walls.
Accessorize this pairing with silver or chrome finishes for a cool, sophisticated vibe. White accents will also pop beautifully against this combination.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 with Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray creates a subtle, sophisticated layered look when paired with Drift of Mist. This combination offers a gentle contrast while maintaining a cohesive, neutral palette.
You can use this pairing throughout your home for a unified look with visual interest. The similar undertones make these colors naturally harmonious.
Try Drift of Mist in larger, open spaces with Repose Gray in adjoining rooms or hallways. This creates definition without stark transitions. For trim and doors, either color works beautifully.
Add colorful art or textiles to this neutral foundation to create visual focal points. The subdued background makes accent colors truly shine.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 with Network Gray SW 7073
Network Gray adds depth and warmth when combined with Drift of Mist. This medium-toned gray creates a sophisticated, contemporary look that’s both inviting and elegant.
You’ll find this combination particularly effective in living rooms, entryways, and home offices. The contrast is noticeable without being overwhelming.
Consider using Network Gray for built-ins or accent walls with Drift of Mist as your primary wall color. This pairing also works beautifully for exterior combinations.
Add natural elements like wood and stone to enhance the organic feel of this color scheme. Black accents will create sharp definition against both colors.
Drift of Mist by Sherwin Williams SW 9166 with Anonymous SW 7046
Anonymous creates a rich, dramatic contrast when paired with Drift of Mist. This deep taupe-gray adds substantial depth while maintaining the warm undertones that complement Drift of Mist.
You can use this combination to create visual interest in large, open spaces. The contrast helps define different areas without requiring physical dividers.
Try Drift of Mist for upper cabinets with Anonymous for lower cabinets in kitchens. This creates a grounded look that’s still light and airy. In bathrooms, Anonymous vanities pop beautifully against Drift of Mist walls.
Incorporate natural textiles and greenery to soften this strong color combination. The contrast between light and dark creates a perfect backdrop for plant life.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.