Iron Ore (SW 7069) by Sherwin-Williams is a deep charcoal paint color that brings sophistication to any space. This versatile neutral has become increasingly popular for both interior and exterior projects because of its perfect balance between pure black and dark gray. It has cool undertones that give it a bit of personality and depth compared to other dark neutrals.
This color works well in many lighting situations, though it may appear darker in rooms with less natural light. With a low Light Reflective Value, Iron Ore creates a bold statement when used on walls, but also shines as an accent on doors, cabinets, or exterior trim. Many designers love pairing it with crisp whites for contrast or softer neutrals for a more subtle look.
Key Takeaways
- Iron Ore SW 7069 is a deep charcoal color with cool undertones that works well for both interior and exterior applications.
- Lighting significantly affects how this color appears, making it more dramatic in low-light areas and softer in bright spaces.
- You can pair Iron Ore with whites for high contrast or other neutrals for a sophisticated, coordinated color scheme.
What Color Is Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069?
Iron Ore SW 7069 is a deep, rich charcoal paint color with subtle undertones that give it character beyond a basic black. It’s popular for both interior and exterior projects, offering dramatic contrast without the harshness of pure black.
Color Family
Iron Ore belongs to the neutral color family with slight green-yellow undertones according to color analysis. It sits in the Green-Yellow (GY) hue family, which explains why it feels more dynamic than a flat gray or black. This deep charcoal shade works beautifully as an accent color for doors, cabinets, and furniture.
You’ll notice Iron Ore appears almost black in low-light settings but reveals its charcoal depth in well-lit spaces. Many designers choose it for its versatility and ability to create contrast without feeling too harsh. When paired with whites and light neutrals, Iron Ore creates a sophisticated, modern look that’s become increasingly popular in contemporary home design.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Here are the specific color codes for Iron Ore SW 7069:
Hex Code: #58595B
RGB Values: R:88, G:89, B:91
LRV (Light Reflectance Value): 6
The low LRV of 6 confirms that Iron Ore absorbs most light, making it a very dark shade. This means the color will appear nearly black in rooms with limited natural light. You’ll want to consider lighting carefully when using this color on walls or large surfaces.
Using Iron Ore in spaces with good lighting helps bring out its subtle depth and prevents the room from feeling too closed in. Its dark nature makes it excellent for creating focal points or adding drama to specific architectural elements in your home.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 Undertones
Understanding the undertones of Iron Ore SW 7069 can help you use this color more effectively in your home. This deep, sophisticated charcoal has some tricky undertones that change depending on where you use it.
When used on exteriors, Iron Ore often shows a very slight green undertone. This isn’t always noticeable, but it’s something to watch for if you’re planning to paint your home’s exterior.
Iron Ore falls into the “cool” undertone family. It’s considered a neutral color with black undertones that give it depth and richness. This makes it versatile for many spaces.
How does it compare to similar colors? Both Iron Ore and Peppercorn are neutral gray colors, but the main difference is in their intensity and depth, not necessarily their undertones.
Iron Ore Color Details:
- Color Family: Black
- Undertone: Cool
- Light Reflective Value (LRV): Low
You’ll notice this color appears best in well-lit spaces when used indoors. The cool undertones can make a space feel sophisticated and grounded.
Want to test if Iron Ore will work in your space? Try a sample on different walls and check how it looks throughout the day as lighting changes.
How Does Lighting Affect Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069?
Lighting plays a huge role in how Iron Ore appears on your walls. This deep charcoal color can shift dramatically depending on the light source and time of day.
Natural Lighting
In bright, natural daylight, Iron Ore reveals its true charcoal nature. The color appears softer and shows more of its subtle undertones. Morning light tends to bring out slightly cooler tones in Iron Ore.
In south-facing rooms with lots of warm light, Iron Ore looks more like a rich dark gray. North-facing rooms make it appear darker and more intense, sometimes almost black.
During sunset, the warm golden light can soften Iron Ore’s appearance, making it feel cozier. The color changes throughout the day as the sun moves, giving your space different moods.
Evening light causes Iron Ore to deepen significantly, creating a cozy, intimate feeling in your space.
Artificial Lighting
Under warm artificial lights (like incandescent or warm LEDs), Iron Ore softens and can reveal subtle green undertones that aren’t visible in other lighting conditions. The warmth helps balance the coolness of this charcoal shade.
Cool LED or fluorescent lighting makes Iron Ore appear more stark and true to its deep charcoal nature. These lights can sometimes make it look almost black.
Task lighting focused directly on an Iron Ore wall creates dramatic shadows and highlights, emphasizing texture. This can make the color feel richer and more dimensional.
Dimmer switches give you control over how dark and moody Iron Ore appears in the evening. At low light levels, it creates a sophisticated, intimate atmosphere.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Iron Ore SW 7069 has an LRV of 6, making it a very dark, sophisticated charcoal shade that absorbs most light in a space.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It measures how much light a color reflects and how much it absorbs. The scale ranges from 0 to 100.
A value of 0 means the color absorbs all light (pure black), while 100 means it reflects all light (pure white). The higher the LRV, the lighter the color appears and the more it brightens a space.
LRV helps you understand how a paint color will affect your room’s brightness. Dark colors with low LRVs absorb light, making spaces feel cozier but potentially smaller. Light colors with high LRVs reflect light, making rooms feel larger and brighter.
When choosing paint, LRV helps you predict how the color will look on your walls and how it might change your room’s feel.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 LRV Range
Iron Ore has an LRV of 6, placing it firmly in the dark range of the scale. This low value means it absorbs 94% of light that hits it!
This deep charcoal shade is nearly black but retains enough color to avoid feeling like a true black. Its cool undertones give it depth and sophistication.
Because of its low LRV, Iron Ore can make small rooms feel smaller or cozier depending on your lighting. It works beautifully in well-lit spaces where natural light can showcase its rich depth.
You’ll find Iron Ore particularly striking as:
- An accent wall in bright rooms
- Exterior trim or doors
- Cabinetry with adequate lighting
- A dramatic statement in spaces with plenty of windows
When using Iron Ore, balance it with lighter elements to prevent spaces from feeling too dark or closed-in.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 Coordinating Colors
Iron Ore SW 7069 is a rich, deep charcoal color that works beautifully with several coordinating colors. These pairings can create balanced and stylish combinations for your home’s interior or exterior.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White is an excellent partner for Iron Ore when you want a clean, crisp contrast. This bright white has minimal undertones, making it a versatile neutral that won’t compete with Iron Ore’s depth.
When you pair these colors, you create a modern, sophisticated look. Use Iron Ore on an accent wall or cabinetry with Pure White on surrounding walls for a dramatic effect that doesn’t feel overwhelming.
This combination works wonderfully in kitchens where you might have Iron Ore kitchen islands or lower cabinets with Pure White uppers. The contrast helps define spaces while maintaining visual harmony.
For exterior applications, Iron Ore trim against Pure White siding creates a timeless, elegant appearance that stands out from the crowd.
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray offers a softer contrast with Iron Ore compared to bright whites. This popular light gray has subtle warm undertones that complement Iron Ore’s depth perfectly.
You’ll find this pairing creates a sophisticated, layered look that feels cohesive and intentional. Use Repose Gray on main walls with Iron Ore as an accent color on doors, window frames, or furniture pieces.
This combination works exceptionally well in living spaces and bedrooms where you want a calm but interesting visual experience. The colors play off each other without competing.
For a three-color scheme, add white trim to spaces featuring Iron Ore and Repose Gray for a beautifully balanced design that feels current yet timeless.
Agreeable Gray SW 7029
Agreeable Gray is a warm-toned greige that partners wonderfully with Iron Ore. Its balanced beige and gray undertones create a soft counterpoint to Iron Ore’s dramatic depth.
When you use these colors together, you get a grounded, organic feel that works in both traditional and contemporary spaces. Use Agreeable Gray on walls with Iron Ore on built-ins, doors, or as an accent wall.
This combination feels especially harmonious in gathering spaces like family rooms or dining areas. The warmth of Agreeable Gray softens Iron Ore’s intensity while still allowing its rich character to shine.
For a cohesive color story throughout your home, use Iron Ore as your consistent accent with Agreeable Gray as your primary neutral. Add natural wood tones to complete this earthy, inviting palette.
Trim Colors for Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069
Choosing the right trim color can make Iron Ore pop while creating a balanced, sophisticated look for your home. White and off-white trim colors offer crisp contrast against this deep, near-black shade.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White is a true, bright white that creates maximum contrast with Iron Ore. This pairing works wonderfully when you want a bold, modern look. The stark difference between the dark Iron Ore and crisp Extra White creates a dramatic effect that’s eye-catching and elegant.
For exterior projects, this combination can define architectural details beautifully. Your door trim, window frames, and fascia will stand out against Iron Ore siding or accent walls.
In interior spaces, Extra White trim with Iron Ore walls creates a clean, contemporary aesthetic. This pairing works especially well in rooms with plenty of natural light, as the brightness of Extra White prevents the space from feeling too dark or closed-in.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster offers a softer approach than pure white. This warm off-white has subtle yellow undertones that create a more relaxed contrast with Iron Ore. The result is elegant but not as stark as using a brighter white.
This combination feels more traditional and cozy while still providing enough contrast to make architectural details pop. Alabaster trim with Iron Ore walls creates a sophisticated, lived-in feeling that works beautifully in both traditional and transitional homes.
For kitchen cabinets, consider Iron Ore on lower cabinets with Alabaster uppers and trim. This creates visual interest while keeping the space balanced and bright.
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound provides a happy medium between Extra White and Alabaster. It has slight gray undertones that complement Iron Ore’s depth beautifully. This pairing creates a cohesive, modern look with just enough contrast.
The subtle gray in Snowbound makes it feel cooler than Alabaster but softer than Extra White. This makes it particularly versatile in different lighting conditions.
In bathrooms and bedrooms, Snowbound trim with Iron Ore accent walls creates a spa-like, relaxing atmosphere. The combination feels current without being trendy or harsh.
For exterior applications, Snowbound trim with Iron Ore siding creates a sophisticated, timeless look that increases curb appeal without feeling too severe.
Real World Examples of Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069
Iron Ore (SW 7069) brings sophistication to many different spaces with its deep, cool charcoal tone that works beautifully in well-lit areas or as bold accents.
Living Rooms
Iron Ore can transform your living room into a cozy yet sophisticated space. Try painting an accent wall behind your fireplace to create a stunning focal point. The dark color makes artwork and light-colored furniture stand out beautifully.
For a more subtle approach, use Iron Ore on built-in bookcases or entertainment centers. The deep charcoal creates a perfect backdrop for displaying books and decorative items.
Consider these popular combinations:
- Iron Ore walls with warm wood tones
- Iron Ore trim with light neutral walls
- Iron Ore fireplace surround with white mantel
The color works especially well in living rooms with plenty of natural light, as it absorbs brightness without making the space feel cave-like.
Bedrooms
In bedrooms, Iron Ore creates a cocoon-like atmosphere that promotes rest. You might paint all walls for maximum drama or just the wall behind your headboard as an accent.
The dark color pairs beautifully with:
- Crisp white bedding for contrast
- Gold or brass fixtures for warmth
- Soft textiles in light colors
Many homeowners find that Iron Ore helps electronic screens seem less intrusive in the bedroom. The dark walls absorb the blue light instead of reflecting it.
For kids’ rooms, consider Iron Ore on one wall to create a dramatic backdrop for colorful furniture or decor. Teens especially appreciate the sophisticated vibe it brings to their spaces.
Kitchens
Iron Ore kitchen cabinets make a bold statement while remaining timeless. The color works particularly well on lower cabinets or islands while keeping upper cabinets light.
For a less permanent commitment, paint just your kitchen island in Iron Ore. This creates a striking centerpiece without overwhelming the space.
The color pairs beautifully with:
- Marble or light quartz countertops
- Brass or gold hardware
- Stainless steel appliances
Many kitchens benefit from Iron Ore on custom range hoods or as a backsplash color. The dark tone helps hide cooking splatters while adding architectural interest.
When using this dark color, be sure your kitchen has adequate lighting to prevent the space from feeling too dim.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms gain instant drama and luxury with Iron Ore walls. The dark color creates a spa-like atmosphere, especially when paired with white fixtures and natural elements.
Consider using Iron Ore on:
- Vanity cabinets with light countertops
- Shower accent walls in larger bathrooms
- Wainscoting or lower half of walls
The contrast between Iron Ore and white porcelain creates a crisp, high-end look. Add metallics like chrome, brass, or gold for additional interest.
In powder rooms, which are typically used for short periods, you can go bold with Iron Ore on all walls. The small space can handle the drama, and guests will be impressed by your design courage.
Home Offices
Your home office can benefit from Iron Ore’s focus-inducing properties. The color absorbs light rather than reflecting it, reducing glare on computer screens.
Paint an accent wall behind your desk to create a professional backdrop for video calls. The dark color helps you stand out and looks polished on camera.
Other effective uses include:
- Built-in bookshelves painted Iron Ore
- Desk or furniture pieces refinished in this color
- Interior door painted this deep charcoal
Iron Ore pairs well with natural wood desks and leather office chairs. Add plants and warm lighting to prevent the space from feeling too stark.
The color’s businesslike appearance helps create separation between work and home life, especially important in multi-purpose rooms.
Exteriors
Iron Ore truly shines on home exteriors. You can use it as an all-over color for modern homes or as an accent on traditional styles.
Popular exterior applications include:
- Front doors for instant curb appeal
- Shutters and trim against lighter siding
- Modern farmhouse exteriors with white trim
- Garage doors for subtle contrast
The color reads as a soft black outdoors but doesn’t appear as harsh as a true black would. This makes it more versatile and forgiving on different architectural styles.
Iron Ore looks striking with natural stone elements and landscaping. It also weathers beautifully over time, maintaining its rich color without fading dramatically.
Comparing Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 to Similar Colors
Iron Ore (SW 7069) is a deep, sophisticated charcoal that walks the line between gray and black. When comparing it to other dark Sherwin Williams colors, you’ll notice subtle but important differences in warmth, depth, and undertones.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 vs Peppercorn SW 7674
Iron Ore and Peppercorn are both popular dark grays, but they have distinct personalities. Iron Ore leans warmer with subtle brown undertones while Peppercorn has cooler blue-gray undertones.
Peppercorn appears slightly lighter than Iron Ore and feels more obviously gray. This makes Peppercorn more versatile in spaces where you want dark drama without the intensity of near-black.
In natural light, Iron Ore can feel more imposing while Peppercorn softens a bit more. If you’re hesitant about going too dark, Peppercorn offers a more approachable alternative while still delivering depth.
For exteriors, both colors make strong statements, but Iron Ore creates more contrast with white trim.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 vs Grizzle Gray SW 7068
Grizzle Gray sits one shade lighter than Iron Ore in the same color family. This relationship creates perfect coordination when you need depth variation in a space.
When used side by side, Iron Ore appears significantly darker and more dramatic. Grizzle Gray has the same warm undertones but reveals them more clearly due to its lighter value.
You might choose Grizzle Gray for larger wall spaces where Iron Ore would feel overwhelming. They pair beautifully in two-tone applications like cabinets and islands or exterior siding and trim.
In rooms with limited natural light, Grizzle Gray remains visible while Iron Ore can absorb light and appear nearly black.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 vs Gauntlet Gray SW 7019
Gauntlet Gray offers a significantly lighter alternative to Iron Ore while maintaining warm undertones. This medium-dark gray has more visible brown notes that emerge clearly in most lighting conditions.
When comparing the two, Iron Ore feels more contemporary and dramatic. Gauntlet Gray presents a more classic, versatile option that works in traditional and transitional spaces.
You might choose Gauntlet Gray for entire rooms where Iron Ore would be too intense. Iron Ore makes a stronger statement on accent walls or exterior trim.
In north-facing rooms, Gauntlet Gray maintains its warmth better than Iron Ore, which can appear cooler and more neutral.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 vs Black Fox SW 7020
Black Fox differs from Iron Ore by displaying much stronger brown undertones. While Iron Ore reads as a near-black with subtle warmth, Black Fox clearly presents as a very dark brown.
In certain lighting, Black Fox can appear more rustic and earthy compared to the more sophisticated urban feel of Iron Ore. This makes Black Fox excellent for spaces with natural wood and leather.
You’ll notice Black Fox appears slightly lighter than Iron Ore in most situations. It also changes more dramatically with lighting conditions, showing its brown nature clearly in bright natural light.
For exteriors, Black Fox pairs beautifully with warm stone and brick while Iron Ore creates sharper contrast.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 vs Tricorn Black SW 6258
Tricorn Black is Sherwin Williams’ true black, making it darker and more neutral than Iron Ore. While Iron Ore reveals itself as a very dark charcoal in good light, Tricorn Black remains consistently black.
Iron Ore offers more dimension and softness compared to the starker Tricorn Black. This makes Iron Ore more forgiving on large surfaces and in varying light conditions.
When used for exterior trim or doors, Tricorn Black creates maximum contrast while Iron Ore provides a slightly softer look.
For modern interiors, Tricorn Black creates dramatic moments but can feel harsh in large applications where Iron Ore maintains visual interest.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 vs Urbane Bronze SW 7048
Urbane Bronze brings distinctive green-brown undertones that set it apart from Iron Ore’s more neutral charcoal appearance. This gives Urbane Bronze an earthier, more organic feel.
In different lighting, Urbane Bronze shifts more noticeably than Iron Ore, sometimes appearing almost olive-toned in warm light. Iron Ore stays more consistent throughout the day.
You might choose Urbane Bronze when connecting interior spaces to natural landscapes. It pairs beautifully with wood tones and natural materials.
For cabinetry, both colors create rich depth, but Urbane Bronze feels more traditional while Iron Ore leans contemporary. They work well together in spaces that bridge these styles.
Complimentary Colors to Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069
Iron Ore (SW 7069) pairs beautifully with several colors that enhance its deep, sophisticated charcoal tone. The right complementary colors can either create striking contrast or harmonious balance when used with this rich, dark neutral.
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 with Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige creates a warm, balanced contrast with Iron Ore’s deep charcoal tones. This pairing works wonderfully in open floor plans where you want to define separate spaces without losing cohesion.
For exteriors, try Iron Ore as the main color with Accessible Beige trim for a modern yet timeless look. The warm undertones in Accessible Beige soften Iron Ore’s intensity without competing with it.
In interior spaces, this combination creates a soothing environment that feels both contemporary and comfortable. You can use Iron Ore for statement walls or cabinetry with Accessible Beige for surrounding walls.
Perfect rooms for this combo:
- Living rooms
- Kitchens
- Home offices
- Exterior color schemes
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 with Shoji White SW 7042
Shoji White offers a crisp, clean contrast that makes Iron Ore pop without creating harsh visual tension. This off-white has subtle warm undertones that complement Iron Ore’s depth.
In bathrooms, try Iron Ore vanities against Shoji White walls for a spa-like feel that still has character. The softness of Shoji White keeps the dark Iron Ore from feeling too heavy or overwhelming.
For kitchens, Iron Ore cabinets with Shoji White walls create a striking yet livable space. Add brass or gold hardware to warm up the combination even further.
Best applications:
- Two-tone kitchen cabinets
- Bathroom vanities with contrasting walls
- Wainscoting combinations
- Modern farmhouse designs
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 with Natural Choice SW 7011
Natural Choice’s subtle warmth creates a sophisticated partnership with Iron Ore. This creamy off-white has enough depth to stand up to Iron Ore without competing for attention.
In bedrooms, Natural Choice walls with Iron Ore accent furniture or trim creates a restful retreat with just enough contrast. The combination feels grounded yet airy.
For dining rooms, consider Iron Ore wainscoting with Natural Choice above for a traditional look with modern appeal. This pairing works especially well in spaces with abundant natural light.
Ideal spaces:
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
- Entryways
- Built-in bookcases (Iron Ore) against Natural Choice walls
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 with Natural Tan SW 7567
Natural Tan brings earthy warmth that beautifully balances Iron Ore’s cool undertones. This combination creates spaces that feel both sophisticated and welcoming.
For living areas, Iron Ore accent walls paired with Natural Tan create depth without darkness. The tan softens the intensity of Iron Ore while maintaining visual interest.
In home offices, Natural Tan walls with Iron Ore built-ins or furniture pieces create a productive environment that doesn’t feel stark or clinical. This combination works especially well with natural wood accents.
Great applications:
- Home offices
- Living rooms
- Hallways
- Built-in shelving (Iron Ore shelves, Natural Tan background)
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 with Meadowlark SW 7522
Meadowlark’s soft green tones create a refreshing contrast with Iron Ore’s depth. This unexpected pairing brings the outdoors in while maintaining sophistication.
In kitchens, Meadowlark walls with Iron Ore cabinets create a space that feels both current and timeless. The green softens the intensity of the dark charcoal without diminishing its impact.
For bedrooms, this combination creates a soothing retreat with character. Try Iron Ore furniture pieces against Meadowlark walls for a refined look that doesn’t feel too heavy.
Perfect pairings:
- Kitchens
- Sunrooms
- Bedrooms
- Reading nooks
Iron Ore by Sherwin Williams SW 7069 with Pewter Cast SW 7673
Pewter Cast’s soft gray tones create a sophisticated monochromatic look when paired with Iron Ore. This combination works wonderfully in spaces where you want depth without stark contrast.
For bathrooms, Pewter Cast walls with Iron Ore cabinetry create a spa-like retreat that feels contemporary yet timeless. The subtle difference between these colors adds dimension without visual tension.
In open floor plans, use Iron Ore as an accent with Pewter Cast as the main color for a cohesive look that still has visual interest. This pairing works especially well in modern and transitional homes.
Ideal applications:
- Bathrooms
- Open concept living spaces
- Media rooms
- Modern exteriors
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.