Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams (SW 6209) brings a deep, earthy green that feels both timeless and modern. This shade is a dark green with blue-gray undertones, giving you a bold alternative to black while still keeping warmth and character in your space.
With an LRV of 6, this color absorbs light and creates a rich, dramatic backdrop. It works in classic and contemporary designs, which is pretty impressive for a green.
You can add depth to walls, highlight built-ins, or make a statement on doors and exteriors with Ripe Olive. Watch how it shifts with lighting—bright spaces pull out its green, but low light brings out charcoal vibes.
Pair it with crisp whites, soft neutrals, or earthy accents to build a balanced look that feels custom and inviting. I genuinely think it’s hard to go wrong with this one if you’re after a grounded yet stylish paint color.
Key Takeaways
- Ripe Olive is a deep green with subtle blue-gray undertones
- Lighting changes how bold or muted the color appears
- It pairs well with whites, neutrals, and earthy accents
What Color Is Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209?
Ripe Olive (SW 6209) sits in that sweet spot—softer and more natural than black, but richer than most greens. Its depth and undertones let it shift depending on lighting and what’s around it.
Color Family
Ripe Olive belongs to the green color family, but it doesn’t come off as bright or grassy. It leans into an earthy, muted tone that feels grounded and calm.
Unlike many olives that go yellow, this one rocks blue-gray undertones. That cooler base makes it feel more sophisticated and less warm than the usual olive greens.
In bright, south-facing rooms, you’ll see more green. In darker, north-facing spots, it can look almost black or charcoal. If you’re after a color that changes with the light but stays neutral, this is a flexible choice.
Because it’s so deep, Ripe Olive gives you contrast without the harshness of pure black. It brings color, but still feels refined and subtle.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Sherwin Williams Ripe Olive SW 6209 comes with specific color values that help you get a sense of its vibe.
- Hex Code:
#44483D - RGB: 68, 72, 61
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 6
The RGB mix leans a little more green than red or blue, but everything’s close enough to create that muted, earthy look.
With an LRV of 6, this shade is seriously dark. It soaks up most light, so in dim conditions, it can look almost black. In brighter light, you’ll notice more of the green and gray undertones coming forward.
This combo of depth and subtle undertones gives it a strong but adaptable personality.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 Undertones
When you look at Ripe Olive, you’ll spot more than just green. It picks up gray undertones that soften the color and make it easier to use. That grounded feeling comes through without being too harsh.
In some lighting, there’s a hint of blue-gray that sneaks in. These cooler undertones keep things from getting too warm or muddy. That balance lets it fit in both modern and traditional spaces—pretty versatile, honestly.
Because the color has a low Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 6, it absorbs most light and can look very dark. In dim spaces, it might seem almost black, but in brighter rooms, the green stands out more.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you might see:
| Undertone | Effect on the Color |
|---|---|
| Gray | Adds softness and balance |
| Blue-gray | Creates a cooler, calming feel |
| Olive | Keeps the color earthy and natural |
These undertones really depend on your lighting and surrounding colors. If you’re not sure, try a swatch on your wall first—it’s worth it to avoid surprises.
How Does Lighting Affect Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209?
This deep green shade changes a lot depending on the light in your space. In brighter conditions, its earthy green tones come out. In low light, it can read as charcoal or even black.
Natural Lighting
Ripe Olive, with its LRV of 6, absorbs most light. If you’ve got south-facing windows, the color shows off its warm, green depth. The sunlight really helps bring out those olive tones and keeps it from feeling too heavy.
In north-facing rooms, things shift cooler. The blue-gray undertones step forward, and the color can almost turn black. If you’re after a true green, you’ll want a good amount of daylight.
East- and west-facing light changes throughout the day. Morning light softens the color, while evening light deepens it again. Honestly, testing swatches on different walls is the best way to see what you’re working with.
Artificial Lighting
Your bulbs make a big difference. Warm white bulbs (2700K–3000K) pull out the earthy, olive side and soften the cool undertones. This makes things feel cozy—perfect for bedrooms or living rooms.
With cool white or daylight bulbs (4000K–5000K), the color leans into its gray-blue side. It feels more modern and dramatic, but you might lose some of that green richness.
If you want balance, try layering lighting. Mix overhead, floor, and table lamps to control how the color looks in different spots. This helps you show off the depth of Ripe Olive without letting it get too flat or dark.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 LRV 6 (Light Reflectance Value)
This color is a deep green with a very low light reflectance value. It absorbs more light than it reflects, so it usually looks darker and richer in most spaces.
What Is LRV?
Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is a number from 0 to 100 that shows how much light a paint color reflects.
- 0 = pure black (absorbs all light)
- 100 = pure white (reflects all light)
Most paint colors fall somewhere between 3 and 93. No paint is a true black or pure white, after all.
When you’re picking a color, LRV tells you how bright or dark it’ll look in your space. Higher LRV means the color reflects more light and feels lighter. Lower LRV means it absorbs more light and feels darker.
Knowing a paint’s LRV helps you plan for natural light. A low LRV color in a north-facing room can look much darker than the same color in a sun-filled south-facing room.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 LRV Range
Ripe Olive has an LRV of 6, putting it in the very dark range. It reflects very little light and will usually look bold, dramatic, and sometimes almost black in low-light conditions.
You’ll notice it absorbs light rather than bouncing it back into the room. In bright natural light, its earthy green tones come out more. In dim spaces, it can shift toward a charcoal-like look.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Color | LRV | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| SW Tricorn Black | 3 | True black |
| SW Ripe Olive | 6 | Very dark green |
| SW Pewter Green | 14 | Medium-dark green |
Ripe Olive feels best in spaces where you want a cozy, grounded look. Accent walls, cabinetry, or exteriors—anywhere you want depth and richness—are great spots for it.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 Coordinating Colors
This deep green works best with shades that balance its richness. Light neutrals, soft beiges, and warm accents help highlight its depth while keeping your space comfortable and inviting.
Alabaster SW 7008
Pairing Ripe Olive with Alabaster SW 7008 gives you a clean, balanced look. Alabaster is a soft white with warmth, so it doesn’t feel stark next to the dark green. It lightens things up and keeps Ripe Olive from feeling too heavy.
Alabaster’s high Light Reflectance Value (LRV) means it bounces plenty of light. Use it for trim, ceilings, or even big wall areas where you want brightness. By combining Ripe Olive on accent walls or cabinetry with Alabaster on the rest, you get contrast that’s crisp but not harsh.
If you want to see how Alabaster behaves in different spaces, check out Alabaster by Sherwin Williams SW 7008.
Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige SW 7036 is a warm neutral that blends beige with subtle gray undertones. When you pair it with Ripe Olive, it softens the bold green and creates a grounded, natural palette. This combo feels calm and works well in living rooms, bedrooms, or open spaces.
Accessible Beige has enough warmth to keep things inviting, but the gray undertones prevent it from looking yellow or dated. Use it on walls with Ripe Olive as an accent for cabinetry, doors, or furniture.
It’s a good choice if you want a neutral background that doesn’t compete with Ripe Olive but still adds depth. You can learn more about Accessible Beige SW 7036 to see how it fits into your home.
Copper Mountain SW 6356
Copper Mountain SW 6356 brings warmth and energy when you pair it with Ripe Olive. This rich terracotta tone leans into earthy reds and oranges, making it a natural partner for deep green. Together, they create a palette inspired by nature that feels bold and balanced.
You might use Copper Mountain on accent pieces—doors, furniture, or decor—while keeping Ripe Olive on walls or cabinetry. This pairing shines in spaces where you want warmth and contrast without relying just on neutrals.
The combination also highlights the undertones in Ripe Olive, bringing out its earthy depth and adding a welcoming touch.
Trim Colors For Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209
When you use a deep shade like Ripe Olive, the trim color really shapes the mood of the room. Picking the right white can either sharpen the contrast or soften the edges for a more relaxed vibe.
High Reflective White SW 7757
Sherwin Williams’ High Reflective White is their brightest white, with almost no noticeable undertones. It gives a crisp, clean edge next to the dark, earthy green of Ripe Olive.
If you want a sharp contrast that highlights both walls and trim, this one’s a solid pick. It especially pops in modern spaces where bold lines and a fresh finish matter.
This pairing looks great on doors, baseboards, and crown molding. The clean edge of High Reflective White keeps Ripe Olive from feeling too heavy, especially in smaller rooms.
It bounces more light around, which helps balance the low light reflectance value (LRV) of Ripe Olive. That’s handy if you’re worried about the room feeling too dark.
Alabaster SW 7008
Sherwin Williams Alabaster is a softer, creamier white. With warm undertones, it gives your trim a more natural and inviting look.
If cozy and welcoming is the goal, Alabaster fits the bill. It doesn’t create a stark contrast but blends gently with Ripe Olive while still standing out.
Alabaster works well in traditional or transitional homes where you want warmth without going yellow. It’s also a favorite trim choice because it plays nicely with other colors in the same space, not just Ripe Olive.
It’s a great option if you want your trim to feel less formal and more welcoming. Alabaster softens the depth of Ripe Olive while keeping a balanced, timeless style.
Shoji White SW 7042
Shoji White sits somewhere between white and beige—a warm neutral with subtle greige undertones. That makes it more complex than your standard white, honestly.
You can dig deeper into Shoji White by Sherwin Williams SW 7042 if you’re curious about what makes it tick.
When you pair Shoji White with Ripe Olive, you get a softer, more muted contrast. Instead of a bold edge, the trim color feels grounded and calming.
This combo works well in spaces where you want depth but not harshness. Shoji White also ties together other warm neutrals, making it easy to coordinate with flooring, furniture, or cabinetry.
If you want a trim color that feels less stark than bright white but lighter than cream, Shoji White hits that sweet spot. It’s a versatile companion for Ripe Olive, for sure.
Real World Examples Of Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 In Different Spaces
This deep green can look almost black in low light, but in brighter settings, it shows off its earthy warmth. It’s surprisingly versatile—use it for accents, cabinetry, or whole walls depending on the mood you’re after.
Bathrooms
Using Ripe Olive in a bathroom brings a cozy, stylish vibe. On the walls, it sets a moody backdrop that pairs well with brass or matte black fixtures.
White tile or marble helps balance the depth of the color. Painting a vanity in Ripe Olive keeps the room from feeling too dark and adds character.
If your bathroom gets natural light, the green undertones really come alive and the space feels calm, almost spa-like. In smaller bathrooms, try it just on cabinetry or an accent wall to avoid closing things in.
Bedrooms
Ripe Olive works well in bedrooms if you want a restful, grounded space. Paint all four walls and you’ll get a cocoon-like effect that’s calming, especially with soft bedding in neutral tones.
If you like things lighter, use Ripe Olive as an accent behind the headboard. It draws attention to the bed and makes it the room’s focal point.
Pairing it with warm wood furniture softens the darker tone. In low light, it leans closer to black, but in daylight, the green shows more—so the room changes subtly throughout the day.
Front Doors
Painting your front door in Ripe Olive gives your entry a bold but classic look. The color’s dark enough to feel sophisticated, but the green keeps it from looking flat.
It pairs nicely with light siding like cream, beige, or off-white. For brick homes, Ripe Olive’s earthy tone complements red or brown brick without clashing.
Brass or brushed nickel hardware can make the door stand out more. Since it’s dark, it also hides dirt and scuffs well—which is practical for a busy front entrance.
Home Offices
In a home office, Ripe Olive creates a focused, grounded atmosphere. Darker walls reduce glare, which can make screen time easier on your eyes.
The color provides a professional backdrop for video calls. Pair it with lighter trim and shelving to keep things from feeling too heavy.
A white desk or natural wood furniture balances out the depth. If you’re not ready to commit to all four walls, try Ripe Olive behind built-in shelves or on cabinetry for a pop of richness without overwhelming the space.
Houses
On exteriors, Ripe Olive offers a striking alternative to black or charcoal. It looks deep and dramatic in shade but flashes more green in sunlight.
The color pairs well with warm whites, taupes, and terracotta accents. For a modern look, combine it with natural wood tones on doors or porch details.
In snowy climates, Ripe Olive stands out against white surroundings. In greener landscapes, it blends in naturally. It’s flexible enough for different styles of homes.
Kitchen Cabinets
Ripe Olive is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets because it adds depth without feeling too harsh. In bright kitchens, it can look nearly black and give a sleek, modern impression.
In softer lighting, the green undertones become more visible and add warmth. Pair the cabinets with light countertops like quartz or marble to balance the darkness.
Brass or gold hardware works especially well, bringing out the earthy richness of the color. If you want to avoid an all-dark kitchen, use Ripe Olive only on lower cabinets or an island, and keep upper cabinets white or a lighter neutral for contrast.
Living Rooms
Ripe Olive brings a cozy, stylish feel to living rooms. Painting all the walls in this shade makes the space feel intimate, especially when you pair it with light trim and neutral furniture.
For a more balanced look, use Ripe Olive on a fireplace wall or built-in shelving. It draws attention to architectural features without overwhelming the room.
It goes nicely with camel-colored leather, natural wood tones, and soft textiles. Depending on the lighting, the color can shift from deep green to almost black, giving your living room a dynamic, layered look.
Comparing Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 To Similar Colors
Ripe Olive SW 6209 is a deep green with gray undertones, making it versatile for both interiors and exteriors. If you compare it to other greens, you’ll spot differences in undertones, depth, and light reflectance that can help you decide what fits your space best.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 vs Greenblack SW 6994
Greenblack SW 6994 is much darker than Ripe Olive. Where Ripe Olive shows off a green-gray character, Greenblack leans closer to a soft black with just a hint of green.
If you want a color that almost reads as black but still nods to nature, Greenblack is the stronger option. Ripe Olive can also look nearly black in low light, but it keeps more visible green tones.
Greenblack works well for trim, doors, and modern exteriors. Ripe Olive feels warmer and more approachable for larger wall spaces.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 vs Evergreen Fog SW 9130
Evergreen Fog SW 9130 is lighter and softer than Ripe Olive. While Ripe Olive is bold and moody, Evergreen Fog blends gray and green for a calming, approachable look.
Evergreen Fog has a higher Light Reflective Value (LRV), so it reflects more light and feels brighter in a room. Ripe Olive absorbs light, creating a cozier and more dramatic effect.
Evergreen Fog is a good choice if you want a neutral backdrop that still has color. Ripe Olive works better for accent walls, cabinetry, or places where you want depth and contrast.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 vs Privilege Green SW 6193
Privilege Green SW 6193 is richer and slightly warmer than Ripe Olive. It carries more traditional green undertones, while Ripe Olive leans toward gray for a more muted look.
This makes Privilege Green feel lively and vibrant, especially in rooms with natural light. Ripe Olive, on the other hand, feels more grounded and modern, especially paired with brass or copper accents.
If you want a classic green that feels timeless, Privilege Green might be your pick. For a moodier, more contemporary vibe, Ripe Olive is the better choice.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 vs Dried Thyme SW 6186
Dried Thyme SW 6186 is a softer, more muted green compared to Ripe Olive. It has a calming, natural feel and works well on all four walls without overwhelming the space.
Ripe Olive is deeper and more dramatic, often chosen for accent areas or cabinetry. Dried Thyme fits bedrooms, living rooms, or kitchens where you want a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.
Both pair beautifully with natural wood tones and warm neutrals. For stronger contrast, go with Ripe Olive. If you want subtlety and comfort, Dried Thyme will serve you better.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 vs Shade-Grown SW 6188
Shade-Grown SW 6188 is close to Ripe Olive in depth, but the undertones set them apart. Shade-Grown leans brown, while Ripe Olive leans gray.
This gives Shade-Grown an earthier, almost tree bark vibe. Ripe Olive feels cooler and more modern. Both have low LRVs, so they absorb light and can look nearly black in dim settings.
If your space has lots of wood tones, Shade-Grown blends right in. If you want a cleaner, foggy undertone that works well with crisp whites and metals, Ripe Olive is the winner.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 vs Rock Garden SW 6195
Rock Garden SW 6195 is a bold, jewel-toned green that feels more saturated than Ripe Olive. Where Ripe Olive is muted with gray undertones, Rock Garden shows off a deeper, more vibrant green.
This makes Rock Garden stand out more in spaces with bright light. Ripe Olive, by contrast, creates a softer, moodier atmosphere.
If you want a color that brings energy and richness, Rock Garden is the better fit. For a more understated and versatile dark green, Ripe Olive works best.
Complementary Colors To Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209
Ripe Olive really shines next to warm, earthy shades that highlight its depth and balance out those cool undertones. Try mixing it with rich browns, golden hues, or muted reds—these colors bring out its natural character in an easy, inviting way.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 With Copper Harbor SW 6634
When you pair Ripe Olive with Copper Harbor SW 6634, the result feels warm and grounded. Copper Harbor, a deep rustic orange with brown undertones, plays off the cool green of Ripe Olive in a way that just works.
This combo feels like autumn leaves set against evergreen trees—pretty cozy, right? Use Ripe Olive on walls or cabinetry, then add Copper Harbor through accent furniture, trim, or maybe even some textiles.
For a dining room, try Ripe Olive walls and bring in Copper Harbor with upholstered chairs or a rug. In the kitchen, Ripe Olive cabinets with Copper Harbor backsplash tiles or bar stools can make the space feel both cozy and stylish.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 With Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay SW 7701 brings a rich terracotta vibe that plays nicely with Ripe Olive. Its warm, earthy red-orange tone softens the darker green, making a room feel more relaxed and welcoming.
If you’re after a desert-inspired palette, this pairing is a solid choice. Use Ripe Olive as your main color and let Cavern Clay pop as an accent—or switch it up, depending on what the space needs.
In the living room, Ripe Olive walls with Cavern Clay throw pillows or a statement chair add depth without going overboard. Toss in some natural wood and soft fabrics to pull it all together.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 With Sociable SW 6359
Mixing Ripe Olive with Sociable SW 6359 gives you a palette that feels strong but not too much. Smoky Topaz, a muted reddish-brown, brings warmth and contrast to the cool green.
This duo fits right into traditional spaces if you’re after something timeless. Use Ripe Olive on cabinetry or built-ins, then let Sociable show up in trim, doors, or maybe an accent wall.
Add cream or beige as a neutral to keep things from getting too dark. That way, the bold shades stand out without making the room feel heavy.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 With Downing Straw SW 2813
Downing Straw SW 2813 brings a warm golden color that really complements Ripe Olive. Those golden undertones brighten up the deep green, so the palette feels elegant yet inviting.
This pairing works in kitchens, dining areas, or entryways—anywhere you want a mix of warmth and depth. Try Ripe Olive on lower cabinets and Downing Straw on walls or trim to balance things out.
Natural wood finishes or brass accents can take the look up a notch. These touches highlight both colors and make the design feel cohesive.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 With Spiced Cider SW 7702
Pairing Ripe Olive with Spiced Cider SW 7702 gives you a bold, earthy palette. Spiced Cider, a rich burnt orange, adds energy and warmth against the cool depth of Ripe Olive.
This combo feels right at home in cozy spaces like dens or studies. Use Ripe Olive as your main wall color, and let Spiced Cider pop up in textiles, rugs, or accent furniture.
If you want to tone things down a bit, throw in a lighter neutral like cream or beige. It softens the contrast and makes the palette more versatile for different spaces.
Ripe Olive by Sherwin Williams SW 6209 With Sashay Sand SW 6051
Sashay Sand SW 6051 brings a soft, muted red with earthy undertones to the table. Pair it with Ripe Olive and you end up with a palette that feels warm and grounded, but it never goes overboard.
This combo works well for bedrooms or living rooms if you’re after a calm, stylish vibe. Try putting Ripe Olive on feature walls, then weave Sashay Sand into textiles, artwork, or maybe a few smaller furniture pieces.
Natural textures—think linen, leather, or wood—really help these two shades play nicely together. Suddenly the whole space feels more inviting, balanced, and honestly, just a bit cozier.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.