Looking for a paint color that feels calm but not boring? Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 could be just what you need.
Quietude is a soft blue-green with a hint of gray, creating a balanced, soothing vibe for almost any room. It works in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living areas—anywhere you want a relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll notice this color shifts depending on light and surroundings. In bright daylight, it looks fresh and airy.
Under softer light, it turns cozy and muted. Pair it with natural wood, crisp whites, or deeper accents to show off its character.
This color doesn’t overwhelm, but it still adds enough personality to make a room feel inviting. Whether you’re after a peaceful retreat or a modern look, Quietude gives you flexibility without being fussy.
Key Takeaways
- Quietude is a soft blue-green with gray undertones
- Lighting changes how Quietude looks throughout the day
- It pairs well with both light and dark accent colors
What Color Is Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212?

Quietude SW 6212 blends green and blue with a muted touch, making it easy to use in lots of spaces. It feels calm and balanced, so you can use it for interiors or exteriors.
Color Family
Quietude sits in the blue-green family, but it leans a bit more green depending on your lighting. In natural light, you might catch a gentle blue undertone.
In dimmer spaces, the green-gray side stands out more. This color falls in the mid-tone range.
It’s not too dark, so it won’t take over a room, but it has enough depth to contrast with lighter trim or white ceilings.
You can pair Quietude with natural materials like wood, stone, or woven textures. It works with both warm and cool accents, so you can go for crisp whites or muted taupes.
If you want a calm, spa-like setting, this shade delivers that effect without being too pastel or bold.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Sherwin Williams lists Quietude SW 6212 with these values:
- Hex: #A9B9B1
- RGB: (169, 185, 177)
- LRV: 48
The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 48 means this color reflects about half the light it gets. It’s right in the middle—not too dark, not too washed out.
In bright rooms, Quietude can look lighter and more blue. In spots with less natural light, it shifts toward a muted green-gray.
This adaptability makes it a safe bet if you want a color that gently changes with the light.
Using the hex and RGB codes helps you match fabrics, finishes, or digital designs to the exact shade.
Real World Examples Of Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 In Different Spaces
Sherwin Williams Quietude SW 6212 fits right into calm, lived-in spaces where you want balance between color and neutrality. Its soft blend of green, blue, and gray adapts to different rooms, finishes, and lighting.
Bathrooms

Try Quietude in bathrooms for a spa-like feel that doesn’t turn cold. The blue-gray undertones help it look clean and fresh, especially with white trim or marble counters.
In small bathrooms, Quietude reflects enough light to keep things open. In bigger spaces, it adds depth when you pair it with natural stone or brushed nickel fixtures.
Best pairings:
- White subway tile
- Light gray grout
- Chrome or brushed nickel hardware
Bedrooms

Quietude works well in bedrooms because it encourages rest. The muted green with blue undertones feels soft, especially in north-facing rooms where cooler light brings out its calm side.
If your bedroom gets lots of sun, the color leans a bit greener, adding warmth without being too bright. Light wood furniture or linen bedding keeps things airy.
Tips for bedrooms:
- Use matte or eggshell finish for softer walls
- Pair with beige or cream textiles for warmth
- Add navy or charcoal accents for contrast
Front Doors

Painting your front door in Quietude adds a welcoming touch that stands out without being too bold. The color looks great against white or light gray siding, giving a soft pop that feels inviting.
In bright sunlight, you’ll see more green. In shade, the blue-gray comes forward, so the door’s color shifts a bit as the day goes on.
Good trim colors:
- Pure White SW 7005
- Alabaster SW 7008
- Repose Gray SW 7015
Home Offices

If you want a workspace that feels calm but not boring, Quietude fits the bill. The gray undertones keep it from distracting you, while the green-blue mix gives a refreshing backdrop.
It pairs nicely with wood desks, bookcases, and neutral rugs. Try adding black or dark gray accents, like a chair frame or lamp base, to ground the space.
Why it works in offices:
- Promotes focus without feeling sterile
- Works under artificial and natural light
- Matches both modern and traditional furniture
Houses

Quietude works on the exterior of a house for a subtle, coastal-inspired look. On siding, it reads as a soft green-blue that blends well with the landscape.
It looks especially nice with white trim and darker roofing. In bright sun, it lightens up, while in shade it turns cooler and more muted.
Exterior combinations:
Feature | Recommended Pairing |
---|---|
Trim | White or Cream |
Shutters | Navy or Charcoal |
Stonework | Light Gray or Beige |
Kitchen Cabinets

Quietude is a nice alternative to white or gray cabinets if you want color that’s not too bold. On cabinets, it reads soft and muted, working in both modern and traditional kitchens.
Pair it with white countertops and a light backsplash for a bright, clean look. For more warmth, try butcher block counters or brass hardware.
Cabinet finish ideas:
- Satin for durability and easy cleaning
- Matte for a softer, modern look
Living Rooms

In living rooms, Quietude acts as a backdrop that doesn’t overpower your furniture or décor. Its mid-level Light Reflectance Value (LRV 48) means it won’t wash out in bright rooms or feel heavy in dim ones.
It pairs well with natural textures like linen, jute, or rattan. Navy throw pillows or a charcoal rug add depth and keep things from feeling too light.
Living room accents:
- Warm wood coffee tables
- Cream or beige sofas
- Matte black lighting fixtures
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 Undertones
When you look at Quietude SW 6212, you’ll see it’s not just plain green. It has soft blue and gray undertones that make the color feel calm and balanced.
In bright, south-facing rooms, you’ll notice more of the green side, giving a fresh and slightly warmer look. In north-facing or dimmer rooms, the color shifts cooler, leaning toward blue-green.
The gray undertone keeps Quietude from looking too bold or saturated. This makes it easier to use in lots of spaces.
Here’s a quick breakdown of how it behaves:
Lighting | Appearance |
---|---|
Bright / South-facing | Warmer, greener |
Low light / North-facing | Cooler, more blue-green |
Mixed lighting | Balanced, soft green with gray |
Because of these undertones, Quietude plays well with neutral colors and gentle contrasts. Pair it with whites for a clean look, or with muted grays and tans for a softer palette.
You’ll see Quietude shift a bit throughout the day, but it always keeps its soothing green base with those subtle blue-gray notes.
How Does Lighting Affect Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212?
This soft blue-green changes depending on the type and direction of light. In brighter spaces it feels lighter and more open.
In dimmer or cooler light, it leans more muted and subdued.
Natural Lighting
Natural sunlight changes how Quietude looks during the day. In north-facing rooms, you’ll see the color looking cooler, with gray undertones showing more.
This makes the shade feel calm but a bit muted. In south-facing rooms, steady sunlight brightens Quietude, pulling out more green and blue tones.
The color feels fresher and more lively, especially around midday. For east-facing rooms, morning light warms the walls, making Quietude look softer and warmer.
By afternoon, the shade cools as light fades, giving you two moods in one space. In west-facing rooms, golden evening light enhances the warmth, creating a cozy look.
Artificial Lighting
The bulb you use really changes how Quietude appears. Under warm incandescent bulbs, the color leans softer and warmer—great for relaxed spaces.
With cool LED or fluorescent bulbs, the blue-gray undertones pop out. This gives the paint a crisper, cooler look that can feel fresh in kitchens, bathrooms, or offices.
If you want balance, try neutral white bulbs. These show Quietude in a more true-to-sample way, making it easier to pair with trim, furniture, and flooring.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 LRV 48 (Light Reflectance Value)
This paint color reflects a moderate amount of light, so it works in both bright and dim spaces. Its balance of depth and softness helps you create a calm look without the walls feeling heavy or washed out.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It measures how much visible light a color reflects, running on a scale from 0 to 100.
Zero is pure black, and 100 is pure white. LRV basically shows how light or dark a color will look once it’s on your walls.
A higher LRV means the color bounces more light. Lower LRV shades absorb more, making spaces feel different.
When you’re picking paint, LRV actually matters. A higher number can make a room feel brighter and more open.
Lower LRVs create a cozier, more grounded vibe. By checking the LRV, you can guess how a color will behave in different lighting and avoid those “why does it look like that?” moments.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 LRV Range
Quietude has an LRV of 48, which lands it right in the light-to-medium range. It reflects about half the light in a room, so it won’t feel super dark or overly pale.
In a well-lit room, Quietude shows off its softer green side and comes across fresh and inviting. In dimmer spaces, it leans cooler, and those blue-gray undertones step forward.
This mid-range LRV makes Quietude work in lots of spaces. It fits bedrooms, bathrooms, and smaller living areas—adding color but keeping things comfortable.
Try pairing it with lighter trims or deeper accents. You’ll get contrast without making the space feel busy.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 Coordinating Colors

Pairing Quietude with the right shades helps your space feel balanced and connected. Some colors highlight its soft green-blue vibe, while others add contrast so rooms don’t fall flat.
Rainwashed SW 6211
Rainwashed is a lighter, softer sibling to Quietude. It mixes blue, green, and a touch of gray, so it shifts depending on the light.
In bright spaces, Rainwashed reads more green. In cooler light, it can look a bit blue.
You can use Rainwashed SW 6211 in spots that connect to Quietude-painted rooms. It keeps the palette consistent but adds a subtle shift in tone.
It’s great for bedrooms, bathrooms, or hallways where you want an airy look. Pair it with clean white trim for extra freshness.
If you’re into layering, try Rainwashed on the walls and Quietude on cabinets or accent furniture. Together they give a soft, coastal-inspired feel without going overboard.
Spare White SW 6203
Spare White is light and neutral, with just a hint of gray. It doesn’t fight with Quietude’s color, instead giving a simple backdrop that lets your main shade shine.
This works well for trim, ceilings, or neighboring walls. Spare White creates a contrast that feels fresh but not harsh.
It’s got enough softness to blend with Quietude’s cool undertones. In open floor plans, Spare White balances out stronger tones and ties everything together.
It’s a solid pick if you want clean lines and a calm finish. Accent colors really pop against it.
Retreat SW 6207
Retreat is a deeper green with clear blue-gray undertones. It’s richer and moodier than Quietude, so it’s a strong accent option.
Try Retreat SW 6207 on cabinetry, feature walls, or built-ins. It grounds a room, while Quietude keeps things open and balanced.
This combo works in living rooms, offices, or dining spaces where you want drama but still want to relax. Retreat can anchor a palette, with Quietude softening the overall mood.
Add a light neutral like Spare White on trim for a finished, layered look.
Trim Colors For Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212

Getting the trim color right makes Quietude’s blue-green tones feel balanced and intentional. Clean, versatile whites usually work best—they highlight the calming undertones without clashing or feeling too harsh.
Pure White SW 7005
If you want trim that’s crisp but not cold, Pure White SW 7005 is a smart pick. It has a hint of warmth, so it avoids looking sterile but still gives a clean edge against Quietude.
This shade fits both modern and traditional spaces. It frames doors, windows, and baseboards without pulling attention from the wall color.
Since it’s slightly softened, Pure White pairs nicely with Quietude’s muted undertones. The result? A fresh, polished look that feels inviting, not sharp.
Check out more about Pure White SW 7005 if you want a trim color that’s versatile but gentle.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White SW 7006 is a brighter, cooler trim option. It’s a sharp, clean white that creates a stronger contrast than Pure White.
If you want Quietude to pop, Extra White will do the trick. It works especially well in coastal or modern interiors where you’re after a crisp, airy vibe.
This shade emphasizes Quietude’s blue undertones and keeps the look fresh. In dim lighting, though, Extra White can feel a bit stark, so it’s best in rooms with lots of natural light.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 is a softer, warmer white that offers a relaxed contrast with Quietude. Instead of a sharp edge, it gives a gentle transition that feels cozy and calm.
This trim works if you want a softer, less formal look. Alabaster’s warmth complements Quietude’s cool undertones, making a balanced mix that’s comfortable for bedrooms, bathrooms, or living spaces.
With its high light reflectance, Alabaster helps brighten rooms without looking harsh. If you’re after a warm but airy effect, Alabaster SW 7008 is a dependable trim choice that softens Quietude’s cool edge and keeps the space light.
Comparing Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 To Similar Colors

Quietude sits in the blue-green family with a soft gray undertone. When you compare it to nearby shades, you’ll spot differences in depth, undertones, and how each one reacts to light.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 vs Rainwashed SW 6211
Rainwashed is the lighter neighbor to Quietude. Both have a blue-green base, but Rainwashed leans bluer, looking fresher and airier.
Quietude carries more green and gray, so it feels calmer and more grounded. If you want to brighten up a space without much depth, Rainwashed might be your pick.
Quietude works better when you want more color presence. Rainwashed reflects more light, so it appears softer in bright rooms, while Quietude holds its color even with strong natural light.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 vs Sea Salt SW 6204
Sea Salt is often called a chameleon color—it shifts between green and blue depending on the light. Compared to Quietude, Sea Salt is lighter, softer, and more muted.
Quietude has more visible color and feels a bit stronger on the walls. Sea Salt comes off more subtle and airy, especially in rooms with sunlight.
If you’re into coastal style, Sea Salt leans that way more easily. Quietude strikes a balance between color and neutrality without going too pale.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 vs Retreat SW 6207
Retreat is darker and moodier than Quietude. Quietude sits at a light-medium depth, while Retreat is medium-dark with stronger green tones and muted gray.
Choose Retreat if you want a bold, dramatic backdrop. It’s great for accent walls or cabinetry, or in cozy rooms that can handle a deeper color.
Quietude works better where you want color that’s soft and not too heavy. Retreat sometimes feels too dark in low-light rooms, while Quietude stays more flexible.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 vs Aloof Gray SW 6197
Aloof Gray is much more neutral than Quietude. While Quietude clearly brings blue-green, Aloof Gray reads as a soft gray with just a hint of green.
Pick Aloof Gray if you want a wall color that fades into the background. Quietude, though, adds personality and a subtle touch of color.
Aloof Gray is good if you want flexibility with decor. Quietude works better if you want to sneak in color without overwhelming the space.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 vs Oyster Bay SW 6206
Oyster Bay is deeper and more muted than Quietude. It leans hard into green with a gray undertone, giving it a richer, more grounded look.
Oyster Bay feels heavier and more dramatic, especially in dim light. Quietude stays softer and fresher, so it’s easier to use in more rooms.
If you want a sophisticated green-gray that’s calm but bold, Oyster Bay is a strong pick. Quietude gives you a lighter, more balanced take from the same family.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 vs Halcyon Green SW 6213
Halcyon Green is darker and more saturated than Quietude. Both have a blue-green base, but Halcyon Green leans more teal, so it’s stronger and more defined.
Halcyon Green shines on accent walls, cabinetry, or exteriors where you want a bold statement. Quietude is softer and more subdued, making it easier to use in whole rooms.
If you want calm but colorful, Quietude is a better fit. Halcyon Green works if you’re after a deeper, more dramatic blue-green.
Complementary Colors To Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212

Pairing Quietude with warm earth tones gives you a balanced look that’s calm and inviting. Its soft greens and blues work especially well with rich oranges, browns, and copper shades for contrast that doesn’t overwhelm.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 With Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay brings a warm, terracotta vibe that really pops against the cool undertones of Quietude. When you put these two together, the muted green-blue of Quietude gently tones down Cavern Clay’s boldness.
This combo creates a look that feels balanced and grounded. It’s great for living rooms or dining areas if you’re after a cozy, stylish atmosphere.
Cavern Clay shines on accent walls or big furniture pieces. Quietude is a solid pick for your main walls.
- Quietude (SW 6212): cool, calming green-blue with gray undertones
- Cavern Clay (SW 7701): warm, earthy terracotta with orange notes
Pair these with wood tones and neutral fabrics for a natural, timeless feel. Honestly, it just works.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 With Renwick Golden Oak SW 2824
Renwick Golden Oak brings a rich, golden-brown that plays nicely with Quietude’s cool balance. The wood-like warmth adds depth, making the green-blue shade stand out.
This duo fits best in traditional or rustic spaces where you want a real connection to wood and stone. Quietude looks great on walls, and Renwick Golden Oak is perfect for trim, cabinetry, or furniture.
The golden tones pull out the cooler side of Quietude. The room feels warm, yet never heavy—just inviting and balanced.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 With Smoky Topaz SW 6118
Smoky Topaz is a deep, earthy brown with a hint of red underneath. Paired with Quietude, it creates a rich, approachable contrast.
Go for this pairing if you want a bit of drama. Smoky Topaz works on accent walls or furniture, while Quietude softens everything else.
The cool green-blue of Quietude keeps Smoky Topaz from getting too intense. Add in textures like linen, leather, or stone, and you’ve got a grounded, layered palette.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 With Copper Mountain SW 6356
Copper Mountain has a warm, reddish-brown tone with a metallic edge. It brings energy and warmth next to the calm of Quietude.
This combo works especially well in kitchens or dining areas where you want comfort with a bit of vibrancy. Copper Mountain pops on cabinetry, accent walls, or décor, while Quietude keeps things balanced.
The soft green-blue keeps Copper Mountain from taking over the space. The copper shade adds a lively, welcoming feel—honestly, it’s a fun mix.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 With Armagnac SW 6354
Armagnac is a bold orange-brown that instantly warms up a room. When you pair it with Quietude, you get a nice blend of cool and warm tones.
Try this if you want a more energetic look but still crave Quietude’s calming effect. Armagnac is great for accent walls, doors, or standout furniture, while Quietude grounds the space.
The contrast between muted green-blue and rich orange creates a palette that feels dynamic, especially in rooms with lots of natural light. It’s not for everyone, but it’s definitely memorable.
Quietude by Sherwin Williams SW 6212 With Spiced Cider SW 7702
Spiced Cider brings a warm, rusty orange vibe that just seems to click with the cool undertones of Quietude. Together, they make any space feel cozy and inviting, but still somehow fresh and modern.
I’ve seen this duo work great in bedrooms and living rooms. You could even try it outside for something a little different.
Spiced Cider pops as an accent on doors, trim, or even a piece of furniture. Meanwhile, Quietude lays down a soft, calming backdrop on the walls.
If you put these two shades side by side, Spiced Cider’s warmth really brings out the peacefulness in Quietude. I especially love how this combo looks with natural wood, unfussy fabrics, and some muted metallic touches.

Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.