Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams (SW 7745) offers a rich, earthy green that feels grounded and timeless. This deep shade mixes green, gray, and brown tones, so it adds warmth and depth but won’t take over your space.
Want a cozy living room or a bold kitchen island? Maybe you’re thinking about a front door that stands out. Muddled Basil brings character and stays surprisingly versatile.
Watch it shift with the light. In rooms filled with sun, you’ll see more warmth and green. In dimmer spaces, it turns moodier, with soft gray undertones coming forward.
It’s got a low Light Reflectance Value (LRV 9), so it absorbs light and helps set a dramatic, intimate mood.
Pair it right and the color really comes alive. Crisp whites offer strong contrast. Warm neutrals keep things calm, and slate blues or golden hues pull out its natural depth.
With the right combos, Muddled Basil can swing from quiet sophistication to a bold statement, depending on your mood and style.
Key Takeaways
- Muddled Basil is a deep, earthy green with warm undertones
- Lighting shifts the color’s vibe throughout the day
- Strong contrasts and natural tones make the best pairings
What Color Is Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745?
Muddled Basil is a deep, earthy green with warm undertones, so it feels natural and grounded. You’ll spot hints of green, gray, yellow, and brown—giving you a color that works in cozy interiors or outdoors.
Color Family
Muddled Basil technically sits in the yellow color family, but it lands as a muted green with brown and gray undertones. That’s what keeps it earthy instead of loud or flashy.
In bright, south-facing rooms, the green gets warmer and more inviting. If you put it in a darker or north-facing space, it shifts cooler and grayer.
It doesn’t bounce much light back, so it creates a moody, intimate vibe. You can pair it with warm neutrals, crisp whites, or even slate blues for a little contrast.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Muddled Basil has some specific values if you want to get technical:
- Hex Code:
#5A5243 - RGB: R: 90, G: 82, B: 67
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 9
The hex and RGB codes tell you it’s a dark, muted shade, balanced between green and brown. That low LRV of 9? It means the color soaks up most light instead of reflecting it back.
Muddled Basil grounds a space and adds depth—great for walls, cabinets, or exterior trim. It works best when you’re after a cozy or dramatic feel, not something bright and breezy.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 Undertones
Look at Muddled Basil closely and you’ll see it’s not just a basic green. It blends green, gray, yellow, and brown, which gives it an earthy, soft feel.
In sun-filled rooms, the color leans warmer. You might spot more of those golden-green tones, which make the space feel a bit more inviting.
In low-light or north-facing rooms, the undertones cool down. The gray and brown start to show up more, giving you a deeper, muted look.
Here’s a quick look at the undertones you might see:
| Undertone | What You’ll Notice |
|---|---|
| Green | Natural, earthy base |
| Gray | Softer, muted edge |
| Yellow | Warmth in sunny light |
| Brown | Depth and richness |
These mixed undertones mean the color shifts as the day goes on. Morning light might pull out the green, while evening shadows bring out more gray and brown.
This shifting quality keeps Muddled Basil flexible. Pair it with crisp whites for contrast, or go with warm neutrals like beige and tan to highlight its natural warmth.
How Does Lighting Affect Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745?
This deep green changes a lot depending on the light in your room. Sometimes it feels warmer, sometimes cooler or more muted. It really depends on the daylight and the artificial bulbs you use.
Natural Lighting
Natural light shifts all day, and Muddled Basil reacts to those changes. In east-facing rooms, the morning sun makes it feel fresher and a bit brighter. If you’ve got a west-facing room, you’ll see deeper, richer tones in the late afternoon and evening.
South-facing rooms get steady, warm sunlight, so the green pops and feels warmer. In north-facing rooms, the cooler light brings out the gray undertones, making the color look more subdued.
Light intensity keeps changing, so you might notice Muddled Basil looking more lively in the morning, then warmer and earthier as the day winds down. Testing a sample on different walls is a smart move before you commit to painting the whole space.
Artificial Lighting
Bulbs matter, too. Warm incandescent or soft white bulbs highlight the earthy, golden undertones and make the green feel extra cozy. That’s perfect if you want a relaxed, comfortable vibe.
If you use cooler LED or daylight bulbs, you’ll see more gray, so the color feels muted and modern. That can be nice if you want a more balanced, toned-down look.
The finish you pick makes a difference. A matte finish softens the color under artificial light, while a satin or semi-gloss can make it look a bit richer and more defined. Try a few bulb types in your space and see what feels right.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 LRV 9 (Light Reflectance Value)
This color doesn’t reflect much light, so it ends up looking rich, deep, and a little moody on the walls. Understanding its LRV helps explain why it changes in bright rooms vs. darker ones.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It measures how much visible light a paint color bounces off a surface. The scale runs from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white).
Higher LRV colors reflect more light, so they look brighter. Lower LRV colors absorb more light and look deeper and darker.
Think of LRV as a quick way to guess how a color will act in your home. A color above 70 will open up and brighten a room, while something under 20 feels more enclosed or dramatic.
Designers use LRV to balance spaces. Dark colors with low LRVs do best in rooms with plenty of natural light. Lighter colors with higher LRVs can help small or dim spaces feel bigger.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 LRV Range
Muddled Basil’s LRV of 9 puts it squarely in the dark color zone. It soaks up most of the light.
In a south-facing room with strong sunlight, it’ll look warmer and a bit lighter, with the green shining through. In a north-facing or low-light room, it leans cooler, grayer, and more muted.
With a low LRV, you’ll get a cozy, intimate feeling—not something bright or open. It’s great for accent walls, cabinets, or anywhere you want depth and richness.
Pairing it with bright white trim or lighter neutrals gives you contrast and keeps the room from feeling too heavy. That balance lets you enjoy the bold color without it taking over.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 Coordinating Colors
Pairing Muddled Basil with the right colors really helps balance its deep, earthy green. Light neutrals soften it, warm beiges ground it, and rich dark shades add contrast for a dramatic touch.
Dover White SW 6385
Need a clean contrast? Dover White SW 6385 is a warm off-white with a creamy undertone. It’s not as harsh as a bright white, so it won’t feel too sharp next to Muddled Basil. Instead, you get a welcoming balance that feels easy on the eyes.
It’s great for trim, ceilings, or cabinetry. You’ll notice it brightens the room without clashing with the depth of Muddled Basil.
When you use them together, you get a grounded green and a light neutral that lifts the space. If you want a reliable soft white to pair with darker tones, check out Dover White SW 6385.
Balanced Beige SW 7037
Balanced Beige SW 7037 is a flexible neutral that sits quietly next to Muddled Basil without fighting for attention. Its mix of warm and cool undertones lets it blend with a lot of colors, making it a safe choice for walls if you want a softer background.
The beige adds warmth, complementing the earthy green and making the room feel calm and inviting. It skips the yellow or orange tones, so it doesn’t feel dated.
Try Balanced Beige on the walls with Muddled Basil on an accent wall, cabinets, or trim. You’ll get depth without losing that light, approachable vibe. Curious about undertones and uses? Here’s more on Balanced Beige SW 7037.
Black Fox SW 7020
If you want bold contrast, Black Fox SW 7020 is a solid pick. It’s not jet black—it’s a deep charcoal with brown undertones, which gives it a bit of warmth and softness. That makes it easier to pair with Muddled Basil than a stark black.
With an LRV of 7, Black Fox is very dark, so use it in small doses—think interior doors, accent walls, or built-in shelves. Against Muddled Basil, it creates a moody, modern look that still feels surprisingly welcoming.
The brown undertones tie in with the green and earthy base of Muddled Basil. This combo works especially well if you want drama but don’t want to lose comfort. Want to see how it changes in different lighting? Take a look at Black Fox SW 7020.
Trim Colors For Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745
When you’re picking trim for Muddled Basil, soft, warm whites are your best bet. They highlight its earthy undertones and balance out the depth of this dark green. The right trim color finishes the look and keeps the space feeling polished and inviting.
Natural Choice SW 7011
Natural Choice shows up as a soft off-white with gentle beige undertones. Its LRV sits at 73, so it bounces back a fair amount of light but never feels harsh.
This makes it a solid partner for the moody depth of Muddled Basil. Instead of harsh contrast, Natural Choice brings a touch of warmth, letting the transition between trim and wall feel smooth, especially in bedrooms or living areas.
If you’re after trim that feels welcoming and not glaring, Natural Choice SW 7011 won’t let you down. It keeps things calm and soft while still brightening up the room’s edges.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster stands out as one of Sherwin Williams’ most popular whites. With an LRV of 82, it reflects even more light than Natural Choice but still manages to stay gentle and warm.
This balance stops the trim from looking too stark when you pair it with Muddled Basil. Alabaster gives you a subtle contrast that feels fresh but never shouts for attention.
It’s especially nice in kitchens, dining rooms, or entryways—places you want to feel clean but not cold. Choosing Alabaster SW 7008 for trim gives you flexibility and a timeless vibe that works for both traditional and modern styles.
Dover White SW 6385
Dover White is warmer than both Natural Choice and Alabaster. Its creamy undertones add a hint of gold, which pairs well with the earthy green-brown mix in Muddled Basil.
This trim color softens the look and brings a touch of warmth. If you want the space to feel cozy and classic, Dover White is a solid pick.
Since Dover White isn’t as bright, it blends more gently with Muddled Basil. It’s a great choice for traditional interiors or exteriors where you want a subtle, inviting finish.
Real World Examples Of Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 In Different Spaces
This deep, earthy green shines when you match it with the right lighting, finishes, and accents. Depending on the space, it can add warmth, contrast, or a grounded, natural vibe.
Bathrooms
Muddled Basil in a bathroom? Total spa retreat. The dark green feels soothing and works well with things like stone, wood, and brushed brass.
With good natural light, the green comes through warmer. In lower light, it goes muted and gray—perfect for a moody, intimate feel.
Try pairing it with crisp white tile or gold fixtures for balance. A vanity in Muddled Basil against white tile? That’s a clean, cozy look.
Woven baskets, wood shelves, or soft beige towels help soften the contrast and make the room feel more inviting.
Bedrooms
Paint bedroom walls with Muddled Basil and the space instantly feels restful, almost cocoon-like. It’s perfect for a cozy retreat, not so much for a super-bright room.
Daylight brings out the green, while evenings make it richer and more muted. That flexibility is pretty handy.
Pair with light bedding in cream or pale gray, and throw in some warm wood furniture for a natural touch. If a full room feels too much, try an accent wall behind the bed for just enough depth.
Front Doors
Muddled Basil on a front door adds personality without going overboard. The earthy green looks great with brick, stone, or neutral siding.
In sunlight, it pops; in shade, it’s more muted and sophisticated. Pair the door with white trim for crisp contrast, or go with bronze hardware for a classic touch.
If you have shutters, painting them to match ties the whole look together. It’s a simple way to create a coordinated exterior.
Home Offices
Muddled Basil grounds a home office and helps with focus. The deeper tone cuts down on glare and distractions, which is a real plus for long workdays.
Cover all the walls for a moody vibe, or just use it behind the desk for a video call backdrop. Pair with light wood desks, tan leather chairs, and brass lamps for warmth, or mix in black accents and white shelving for a modern look.
Plants? Always a good idea—they play up the green undertones and keep things lively.
Houses
On exteriors, Muddled Basil works as a main color or as an accent on shutters and trim. Its earthy tone blends right in with outdoor surroundings.
The color pairs nicely with stone foundations or wood siding. If you go with it as your main exterior color, a lighter roof balances things out.
Painting shutters or porch ceilings in Muddled Basil adds character without making the house feel too dark. Lighting is huge—sun brings out the green, shade mutes it.
Kitchen Cabinets
Muddled Basil is a bold choice for kitchen cabinets or islands. The deep green adds sophistication and warmth, but never feels stuffy.
It pairs well with white countertops, marble backsplashes, or brass hardware. For a farmhouse look, try wood butcher block tops and matte black pulls.
If your kitchen’s a bit dim, use Muddled Basil just on the island or lower cabinets. Pair with white uppers to keep things light. Open wood shelving or natural stone keeps the look fresh and highlights the earthy undertones.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Muddled Basil brings a cozy, welcoming feel. Go all-in on every wall for drama, or stick to an accent wall for just a hint of depth.
Pair with neutral sofas and add wood coffee tables, woven rugs, and brass lighting to warm things up. If there’s a fireplace, painting the surround in Muddled Basil makes it a real focal point.
Natural light shifts the mood throughout the day, so it’s smart to test swatches first. That way, you know it’ll feel right both day and night.
Comparing Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 To Similar Colors
Muddled Basil SW 7745 sits as a deep green with earthy undertones, somewhere between warm and cool. Compare it to other Sherwin-Williams greens, and you’ll spot differences in depth, saturation, and undertone that totally change a room’s vibe.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 vs Rosemary SW 6187
Muddled Basil runs darker and more muted. Rosemary SW 6187 feels fresher, more herbal, and has a bit more light reflectance, so it’s brighter on walls.
Muddled Basil creates a grounded, moody look, while Rosemary feels lively and modern—great for bright spaces. Rosemary’s softer edge makes it easier for large walls, while Muddled Basil feels right for accent walls, cabinets, or trim when you want contrast.
Want more on Rosemary SW 6187? Check out its undertones and uses in Rosemary by Sherwin Williams SW 6187.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 vs Sage SW 2860
Sage SW 2860 is lighter and softer than Muddled Basil. Sage has a silvery, gray undertone, making it feel airy and subtle.
Muddled Basil is richer and more saturated. If you want a color that fades into the background, Sage is your friend—great for bedrooms and bathrooms.
Muddled Basil stands out more and adds weight. It pairs well with warm neutrals and wood, while Sage looks best with cooler whites and grays.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 vs Artichoke SW 6179
Artichoke SW 6179 sits close to Muddled Basil but leans heavier on brown undertones, which gives it a rustic, warm feel. Muddled Basil stays greener and feels a bit fresher.
On cabinets, Artichoke brings farmhouse vibes, while Muddled Basil feels more versatile—modern or traditional, it works. In natural light, Artichoke can look almost olive-brown, but Muddled Basil keeps a true green tone.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 vs Ripe Olive SW 6209
Ripe Olive SW 6209 is a lot darker than Muddled Basil, with an almost black-green drama. Muddled Basil is dark but shows more green, so it’s easier to use in big spaces.
For a statement wall or bold trim, Ripe Olive is the way to go. It looks great with crisp whites and metallics. Muddled Basil is softer, more flexible, and works on both walls and cabinets without feeling too heavy.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 vs Oakmoss SW 6180
Oakmoss SW 6180 brings more warmth and richness than Muddled Basil, thanks to golden undertones. It’s got a mossy, organic vibe, while Muddled Basil feels cooler and more muted.
Oakmoss shines in spaces where you want energy and warmth, like dining rooms. Muddled Basil is more neutral and fits anywhere—kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms—without taking over.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 vs Basil SW 6194
Basil SW 6194 is lighter and has a fresher, more traditional green feel. Muddled Basil is deeper and more muted, which makes it feel a bit more sophisticated.
Basil brightens up rooms with lots of light and creates a cheerful mood. Muddled Basil is better for depth and coziness, especially on accent walls, built-ins, or kitchen cabinets when you want an earthy, grounded tone.
Complementary Colors To Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745
Pairing Muddled Basil with warm, earthy shades brings out the best in it. Rich oranges, deep golds, and spicy reds highlight the green’s depth and keep the palette feeling grounded and inviting.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 With Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay brings a warm, terracotta orange that plays off the earthy green of Muddled Basil. The contrast is bold but still feels grounded and natural.
I think this combo works best in living rooms or dining areas when you want things cozy and inviting. Cavern Clay brings energy, while Muddled Basil keeps everything calm and steady.
Natural wood finishes and neutral fabrics really let these colors shine. If you’re leaning toward a rustic or Southwestern vibe, these two together just nail that timeless look.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 With Copper Harbor SW 6634
Copper Harbor throws in a rich copper-orange that wakes up Muddled Basil’s green. The orange undertones highlight the depth, so the pairing feels lively but still balanced.
I’d try this pair in a kitchen. Copper Harbor could make cabinets or a backsplash pop, while Muddled Basil grounds the walls. It’s a recipe for a warm, inviting space.
Add in some bronze or brass accents, and suddenly the copper tones sing. This mix feels both sophisticated and naturally warm—kind of the best of both worlds.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 With Downing Straw SW 2813
Downing Straw brings a golden-brown that softens the earthy green of Muddled Basil. The vibe here is more grounded and steady, less about bold energy.
These two fit right in with traditional or historic-inspired rooms. Downing Straw works for trim, doors, or cabinetry, while Muddled Basil can cover the walls for a balanced backdrop.
Pair them with natural stone or warm wood floors, and the whole space feels timeless and pretty connected to nature, honestly.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 With Spicy Hue SW 6342
Spicy Hue jumps in with a rich, reddish-orange, creating bold contrast with deep green. The result? Lively and energetic, but the earthy tones keep it from going overboard.
Try using Spicy Hue for accents—maybe textiles, a sofa, or a feature wall—while Muddled Basil keeps the base chill. The balance is key so it’s not too much.
This duo feels right for kitchens or family rooms where you want warmth and vibrancy. Cream or beige accents can help soften the look if things get too intense.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 With Sociable SW 6359
Sociable has this muted, brownish-orange thing going that subtly complements Muddled Basil. Instead of big contrast, you get a warm, earthy harmony.
I’d use these together in bedrooms or offices—places where you want comfort but not too much drama. Sociable can go on an accent wall or furniture, and Muddled Basil anchors everything.
Layer in soft fabrics and warm wood, and the cozy factor goes way up. It’s understated, but there’s still style for days.
Muddled Basil by Sherwin Williams SW 7745 With Persimmon SW 6339
Persimmon bursts with bold, red-orange energy. When you pair it with Muddled Basil, the contrast is honestly pretty striking—it’s a combo that’s hard to ignore.
If you’re looking to add some personality, this pairing does the trick. Try using Persimmon in small ways, like on accent pillows, a piece of art, or maybe just one statement wall if you’re feeling adventurous.
Muddled Basil steps in to mellow out the Persimmon, so the room doesn’t end up feeling too intense. I find this duo especially fun in dining rooms or entryways—spaces where you want a bit of drama without going overboard.
Sometimes I’ll mix in some beige or cream to bring everything together and keep things from feeling chaotic.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.