Picking the right white paint? Honestly, it can be a headache with all those choices out there. Origami White by Sherwin Williams (SW 7636) stands out as a versatile off-white with cool violet undertones and an LRV of 76, working beautifully in just about any room. It brings more warmth than stark whites but still keeps things looking clean and fresh.
Pure whites sometimes feel cold or even a little sterile, but Origami White adds subtle depth to your walls—without drifting into cream or yellow territory. You’ll see how this popular shade shifts in different lighting and which trim colors really make it pop.
We’ll dig into how it compares to other whites and which bold accent colors play nicely with its soft undertones. If you’re painting your whole place or just updating a corner, knowing how Origami White behaves in real spaces can make a difference.
You’ll get a sense of its light-reflecting superpowers, plus see how it looks in kitchens, bedrooms, and living rooms, all mixed in with different design styles.
Key Takeaways
- Origami White is an off-white with cool violet undertones and an LRV of 76, creating a clean but cozy vibe.
- This flexible color plays well with soft white trims and pairs up beautifully with grays, blues, and greens.
- It tends to look warmer in south-facing rooms and shows off more violet undertones in north-facing spaces.
What Color Is Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636?
Origami White is a warm, creamy off-white with soft yellow undertones, landing it in the light near-neutral category. It has specific color codes and technical specs that help you know what you’re getting.
Color Family
This color sits in the white family, but don’t expect a true white. Its creamy base and subtle yellow undertones give it a bit of richness and depth.
It reads as an off-white, not a harsh, bright white. The yellow undertones make it feel more inviting, less clinical.
Even though Sherwin Williams mentions “cool violet undertones,” most folks find Origami White leans warm. The yellow hue classification backs that up.
You can use it as a neutral base or pair it with bold accents for a cohesive look. It’s flexible, which is always a plus.
The warmth in Origami White works wonders in rooms that don’t get much sunlight. It won’t go gray or dingy the way some cooler whites do in darker spots.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
If you’re into the technical side, here’s a quick breakdown. The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) tells you how much light bounces off the color.
Origami White scores a 76 LRV, so it reflects a good chunk of light. That helps open up your space and keeps things feeling welcoming.
With a Value of 9.00 and Chroma of 0.61, it lands in the “Light Near Neutral” zone, not true white.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| LRV | 76 |
| Value | 9.00 |
| Chroma | 0.61 |
| Hue Family | 4.26 Y (Yellow) |
Those numbers mean Origami White has enough color to avoid looking flat or boring. The yellow hue at 4.26 Y confirms that cozy undertone.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 Undertones
Origami White brings warm undertones that set it apart from a lot of other whites. The result? Your rooms feel cozier and more inviting.
The paint leans toward the yellow side of the wheel. You’ll especially notice this warmth in natural daylight as it shifts throughout the day.
Some paint pros say you’ll see hints of subtle gray undertones mixed in. That gives Origami White a bit more dimension than a flat white.
Key undertone characteristics:
- Primary: Warm yellow base
- Secondary: Light gray hints
- Overall effect: Creamy, soft appearance
The warm undertones make it feel less stark than cooler whites. Your walls come off gentle and welcoming, not cold.
These undertones play nicely with other warm colors. You can pair Origami White with beiges, soft grays, and earth tones without much fuss.
In rooms with lots of sunlight, the yellow base stands out more. In darker spaces, you might see the gray undertones pop a bit.
Unlike some whites with cool violet undertones, Origami White keeps things on the warmer side. If you’re after comfort over crispness, it’s a solid pick.
The undertones let you use this paint as a main wall color or for trim. It’s flexible and doesn’t look too plain.
How Does Lighting Affect Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636?
Lighting really changes how Origami White shows up. Natural light can wash out its warmth, while artificial lighting either boosts or tones down its cozy vibe. The paint’s LRV of 76 helps it bounce light all over the place.
Natural Lighting
Direct sunlight hits Origami White and can wash away the warm tan and gray undertones. In south-facing rooms, the color looks more neutral and less warm, especially during sunny afternoons.
North-facing rooms are where this paint really shines. The softer, indirect light lets those warm undertones come through, so your walls get that creamy, cozy feeling.
East and west-facing rooms give you a bit of everything. Morning light in the east keeps things subtle, while afternoon light from the west makes the undertones more noticeable.
Since Origami White reflects most of the natural light it gets, your room feels brighter and more open, even when you see those warm undertones.
Artificial Lighting
Artificial lighting can shift Origami White’s look at night or in darker rooms. Warm LED bulbs and incandescent lights really bring out the tan and beige undertones.
If you go with cool white LED lights, the paint looks more neutral and crisp. The warm undertones fade a bit under these lights.
Fluorescent lighting flattens the color and can add a slight gray cast—probably not what you want if you’re after warmth.
Table lamps and accent lights add variety. Warm-toned lights highlight the creamy side, while cool-toned spotlights make certain spots look whiter and less warm.
With its high LRV, Origami White works well under most artificial lighting, bouncing light around and helping your space feel open.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 LRV 76 (Light Reflectance Value)
Origami White’s LRV of 76 puts it squarely in the off-white category. This number gives you a sense of how bright or dark it’ll look on your walls.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value—it’s basically a measure of how much light a paint color reflects back into your room.
The scale runs from 0 to 100. Zero means the color soaks up all the light (think black), and one hundred means it bounces it all back (think pure white).
Most paint colors land somewhere in between. Higher LRV means a brighter room, while lower numbers make things feel darker.
LRV Scale Breakdown:
- 0-30: Dark colors
- 31-50: Medium colors
- 51-70: Light colors
- 71-82: Off-white colors
- 83-100: True white colors
Picking colors with similar LRV numbers gives you a calm, even look. If you want contrast, go for colors with very different LRV values.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 LRV Range
With an LRV of 76, Origami White sits right in the off-white range. It reflects a good amount of light, but it’s not as blinding as true whites.
Your room will feel airy and light with this LRV. It’s bright enough to make small spaces feel bigger, but you won’t get that stark, cold vibe.
It’s a great choice for rooms lacking natural light. The LRV of 76 helps bounce what light you do have, so darker rooms don’t feel closed in.
How Origami White’s LRV Compares:
- Pure White SW 7005: LRV 84 (brighter)
- Snowbound SW 7004: LRV 83 (brighter)
- Origami White SW 7636: LRV 76
- Eider White SW 7014: LRV 72 (darker)
This LRV works well with higher-number trim colors. The contrast can really highlight your home’s details.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 Coordinating Colors
SW Origami White pairs up beautifully with deeper blues like Naval, warm grays such as Repose Gray, and sophisticated neutrals like Pewter Cast. These combos bring out Origami White’s warmth and add some visual interest.
Pewter Cast SW 7673
Pewter Cast is a sophisticated gray that really complements Origami White’s warm undertones. This medium gray has a touch of brown, so it doesn’t feel too cold.
The mix creates a timeless look—works for both traditional and modern spaces. With an LRV around 57, Pewter Cast gives you enough contrast against Origami White’s 76 LRV.
Try Pewter Cast on accent walls, or use it for kitchen islands and bathroom vanities. The warm undertones in both colors help your home feel cohesive.
If you want to add depth without going overboard, use Pewter Cast for trim or built-ins.
Naval SW 6244
Naval SW 6244 brings a gorgeous contrast to Origami White’s soft warmth. This deep navy blue was Sherwin Williams’ Color of the Year in 2020, and you can see why.
The bold difference between Naval’s richness and Origami White’s lightness adds instant character. Naval’s LRV is just 4, so it’s perfect for accent walls or cabinetry.
Try this combo in bedrooms—Naval on an accent wall, Origami White everywhere else. Or use it in kitchens, with Naval cabinets against Origami White walls.
The cool blue in Naval balances out Origami White’s warmth, creating a color scheme that’s both cozy and a little bit fancy.
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray SW 7015 shares those warm undertones with Origami White, so they naturally vibe together. Both colors lean beige, blending easily for a seamless neutral palette.
With an LRV of 58, Repose Gray lands right in the sweet spot between light and medium. It’s subtle—just enough contrast, nothing too wild.
Try using Repose Gray in nearby rooms to keep things flowing, but with a little twist. Open floor plans especially benefit from this combo, since you get color variety without any jarring transitions.
Both shades react pretty similarly to different lighting. They keep that cozy warmth in north-facing rooms and look even brighter if you’ve got southern sunlight pouring in.
Trim Colors For Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636
Choosing the right trim for Origami White makes a big difference. The top three white trim picks each bring their own level of brightness and warmth, so you can find the perfect match for this creamy off-white wall color.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White adds a gentle contrast to Origami White walls. It’s soft and clean, so it won’t fight for attention with your main color.
The difference is there—Pure White comes off a bit brighter and cooler. That helps frame windows, doors, and baseboards with a little extra definition.
This pairing feels right at home in bedrooms and living rooms. Pure White by Sherwin Williams SW 7005 trim brings in freshness, but never looks harsh.
You’ll probably notice Pure White doesn’t have as much yellow as Origami White. That keeps trim looking crisp, but still warm and welcoming overall.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White steps up the contrast compared to Pure White when you put it next to Origami White walls. You’ll get sharper, more defined edges on your trim and moldings.
The brightness gap is pretty clear here—Extra White is much whiter and cooler. This combo shines in kitchens and bathrooms, honestly.
Extra White doesn’t really carry undertones, so it stands out against Origami White’s warmth. Your crown molding and door frames pop a lot more.
This look feels classic, maybe a bit modern too. Brighter trim can even make a room feel bigger and airier.
High Reflective White SW 7757
High Reflective White gives you the boldest trim contrast with Origami White. It’s super bright, so it makes architectural details really jump out.
The difference is eye-catching—High Reflective White is much cooler and brighter than Origami White. It works best in rooms with loads of natural light, otherwise it might be a bit much.
This pairing is dramatic and modern, if that’s your thing. The high contrast draws attention to trim and keeps the space interesting.
In small rooms, though, use this combo with caution. Too much contrast in a dark or low-ceiling space can feel a little overwhelming.
Real World Examples Of Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 In Different Spaces
Origami White is one of those colors that just plays well with others. Pair it with different whites or accent shades, and you can set any kind of mood in your home.
Bathrooms
Origami White brings a soft, airy elegance to bathrooms. Its subtle warmth keeps the space from feeling stark, pairing beautifully with marble or quartz countertops, polished nickel fixtures, and light wood vanities. It works well for both modern and traditional bath designs.
Bedrooms
In bedrooms, Origami White creates a calm, restful atmosphere. It pairs nicely with warm wood furniture, neutral bedding, and soft accent colors like sage green or dusty blue. Its off-white tone adds depth compared to a pure white, making the room feel more inviting.
Front Doors
Origami White can be an unexpected yet charming choice for a front door, especially when paired with darker trim or earthy siding. It delivers a fresh, welcoming look that works well with brick, stone, or wood exteriors.
Home Offices
For home offices, Origami White offers a clean yet cozy backdrop that works well with both natural and artificial lighting. It pairs beautifully with black or bronze metal accents, wood desks, and greenery for a balanced, productive space.
Houses
On exteriors, Origami White provides a warm, timeless look that works across architectural styles. It pairs well with black window frames, natural stone, and rich wood accents, making it versatile for both modern and classic homes.
Kitchen Cabinets
Origami White on kitchen cabinets creates a soft, creamy look without feeling yellow. It pairs perfectly with brushed gold or matte black hardware, white or gray countertops, and subway tile backsplashes for a polished, timeless kitchen.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Origami White offers a warm, light-filled backdrop that complements a variety of styles. It works well with layered neutrals, natural textures like jute and linen, and accent colors from muted greens to deep blues.
Comparing Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 To Similar Colors
Origami White’s warm, off-white feel (LRV 76) stands out compared to the coastal gray-green of Sea Salt, the crisp brightness of Stardew, or the earthy vibe of Cavern Clay. It’s interesting to see how Origami White’s gentle warmth plays off cooler blues and grays like Smoky Blue and Thunder Gray.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 vs Sea Salt SW 6204
Sea Salt brings a totally different personality to the table. Origami White comes in at LRV 76 with warm, neutral undertones, while Sea Salt sits at 64 and leans hard into gray-green.
Key Differences:
- Color Family: Origami White’s off-white; Sea Salt is gray-green
- Undertones: Origami White has taupe warmth; Sea Salt is more blue-green
- Light Reflection: Origami White bounces more light thanks to its higher LRV
Sea Salt is great for coastal or spa-inspired spaces, especially paired with whites and blues. Origami White works as a more flexible neutral background.
Lighting in your room will shift these colors a bit. Sea Salt might look bluer in a north-facing space, while Origami White stays reliably warm in most conditions.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 vs Stardew SW 9138
Stardew is way brighter and crisper than Origami White. With an LRV around 84, Stardew is a true white, while Origami White hangs out in the off-white camp.
When you put them side by side, it’s obvious. Stardew looks fresh and clean with barely any undertones, while Origami White shows more depth and warmth.
Practical Applications:
- Trim Work: Stardew makes a great trim color against Origami White walls
- Small Spaces: Stardew helps rooms feel bigger and brighter
- Traditional Styles: Origami White fits cozier, classic interiors better
Stardew reflects more light, so it’s perfect for dark rooms or anywhere you want extra brightness. Origami White is softer and gives a more laid-back feel.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 vs Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay brings bold, earthy warmth that stands out against Origami White’s subtlety. With an LRV of 58, Cavern Clay is darker and richer by a mile.
They serve different purposes. Cavern Clay is your accent or statement wall color, while Origami White is more of a main wall or neutral background.
Design Considerations:
| Aspect | Origami White | Cavern Clay |
|---|---|---|
| Warmth Level | Subtle | Bold |
| Best Use | Main walls, trim | Accent walls |
| Room Size | Any size | Medium to large |
Cavern Clay’s terracotta undertones bring drama and a sense of coziness. Origami White keeps things calm and versatile. You could totally use them together—Cavern Clay as an accent, Origami White everywhere else.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 vs Smoky Blue SW 7604
Smoky Blue brings in cool undertones that really stand out against Origami White’s warmth. With an LRV around 60, Smoky Blue looks darker and more dramatic next to the gentle Origami White.
The temperature gap between these two is pretty noticeable. Origami White’s warmth makes a space feel cozy and inviting. Smoky Blue, on the other hand, sets a calmer, more sophisticated mood with its blue-gray vibe.
Room Impact:
- North Rooms: Smoky Blue can feel too chilly, while Origami White adds some welcome warmth.
- South Rooms: Both work, but the mood shifts depending on your pick.
- Bedrooms: Smoky Blue helps you unwind; Origami White stays more neutral.
Smoky Blue pops with white trim and warm wood accents. Origami White plays nicely with both warm and cool colors, so you get flexibility. Honestly, your preference for warm or cool tones should steer the decision.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 vs Thunder Gray SW 7645
Thunder Gray lands much deeper on the color scale, with an LRV around 63. That creates a bold contrast with Origami White’s light, airy vibe.
Thunder Gray brings a dramatic, sophisticated energy to a room. Its gray undertones, tinged with blue, lean modern and urban. Origami White, meanwhile, keeps things softer and a bit more traditional.
Style Compatibility:
- Modern: Thunder Gray feels right at home in contemporary spaces.
- Traditional: Origami White fits classic interiors better.
- Transitional: Either could work, depending on what else you’ve got going on.
Thunder Gray needs some thought when it comes to lighting and room size. It can make smaller spaces feel a bit cramped. Origami White, though, opens things up and fits just about anywhere.
If you’re into two-tone looks, these two can actually work together. Thunder Gray on lower cabinets with Origami White above keeps things interesting and balanced.
Complementary Colors To Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636
Origami White teams up beautifully with both cool and warm accent shades, making spaces feel balanced and inviting. Here are five complementary colors that set totally different moods, from breezy to sophisticated.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 With Sea Salt SW 6204
Sea Salt adds a coastal freshness to Origami White’s warmth. Together, they create a relaxing vibe that feels clean but still welcoming.
The soft green-blue of Sea Salt balances Origami White’s yellow undertones. The combo just feels like ocean and sand—pretty dreamy, honestly.
Best uses for this pairing:
- Bedrooms for a calming retreat
- Bathrooms for spa vibes
- Living rooms with a coastal touch
I’d use Origami White on the main walls and pop Sea Salt onto an accent wall. That adds some depth, but it’s not overpowering.
You could flip it, though—Sea Salt on most walls, Origami White on trim and ceilings. Both options work.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 With Stardew SW 9138
Stardew brings in sophisticated gray-blue notes that play nicely with Origami White’s warmth. This duo fits right into modern or traditional homes.
The cool vibes in Stardew help balance out Origami White, keeping things both fresh and grounded.
This combo works especially well in:
- Home offices—great for focus and calm
- Kitchens if you want a clean, modern look
- Dining rooms for a touch of elegance
Try Origami White on three walls and Stardew as the focal wall. That way, you get visual interest without going overboard.
It’s also a solid choice for lower kitchen cabinets in Stardew and uppers in Origami White. Super clean look.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 With Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay adds a layer of earthy warmth that boosts Origami White’s cozy factor. The pairing feels modern but still timeless.
Terracotta undertones in Cavern Clay mesh with Origami White’s warmth, making the space feel inviting and a bit more sophisticated.
Perfect rooms for this duo:
- Living rooms for cozy hangouts
- Bedrooms that feel restful
- Entryways for a warm welcome
Let Origami White be your main color and add Cavern Clay for accents. That way, things stay light but get some character.
Maybe try Cavern Clay on an accent wall behind a bed or sofa, with Origami White everywhere else to keep the room bright.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 With Smoky Blue SW 7604
Smoky Blue gives a calming contrast to Origami White’s warmth. The two together make a space feel peaceful and put-together, without feeling cold.
Muted blue tones in Smoky Blue help balance Origami White, so you get a relaxing, refined look—never harsh.
This pairing shines in:
- Master bedrooms for restful sleep
- Bathrooms that feel spa-like
- Reading nooks for quiet moments
I’d paint the main walls in Origami White and use Smoky Blue on built-ins or cabinets. That adds depth but keeps things airy.
You could also go all in with Smoky Blue in a powder room, using Origami White trim for a sharp, small space design.
Origami White by Sherwin Williams SW 7636 With Thunder Gray SW 7645
Thunder Gray brings a modern edge to the soft warmth of Origami White.
Together, they create rooms that feel contemporary but still have that classic, timeless vibe. There’s something about this duo that just works.
The neutral gray in Thunder Gray grounds the lighter feel of Origami White.
You end up with a balanced look that fits almost any design style.
Top applications for this combination:
- Open floor plans that need a sense of flow
- Home offices craving a bit of professional polish
- Kitchens aiming for that modern farmhouse touch
Try painting the kitchen island in Thunder Gray and surrounding it with Origami White cabinets. The contrast adds just the right amount of visual weight.
Or, if you want something different, paint lower walls in Thunder Gray and keep Origami White above a chair rail. It brings a little extra sophistication to dining rooms or hallways without feeling too formal.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.