Picking the right green paint can totally change your space. Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 is a deep, rich green that brings a calming, forest-like vibe into your home.
This versatile color creates a sophisticated and grounding atmosphere. It works beautifully in just about any room, honestly.

With its earthy undertones and a low light reflectance value of 8, Shade-Grown offers a dramatic but soothing presence. If you want a cozy, natural environment that feels both modern and timeless, you’ll probably love this color.
Whether you’re eyeing it for an accent wall or an entire room, understanding how Shade-Grown acts in different lighting can really help you decide. This paint pairs well with a bunch of trim options and coordinating colors, so you can get some pretty stunning design combos.
Key Takeaways
- Shade-Grown SW 6188 is a deep forest green with earthy undertones that creates a natural, calming atmosphere
- The color has a low light reflectance value of 8, making it appear darker and more dramatic in most lighting conditions
- This versatile green pairs well with neutral trim colors and works effectively in both small and large spaces
What Color Is Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188?

Shade-Grown SW 6188 is a deep, rich green paint that really captures the feeling of dense forest canopies. This dark green hue has earthy undertones and some technical color values that define how it looks.
Color Family
Shade-Grown sits in the green color family. It’s a dark, sophisticated green inspired by nature’s lush forests.
This paint color has deep, earthy undertones that make a room feel calm. The shade looks like the rich greens you’d spot under a thick forest canopy, with sunlight peeking through the leaves.
You’ll probably notice this green has more depth than most medium greens. It’s darker and more complex than a basic forest green, and it just works if you want to bring a bit of nature inside.
The earthy quality sets it apart from brighter greens. It feels grounded and natural, not flashy or artificial.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Technical specs help you match and understand Shade-Grown’s exact look. These codes make it easier to get the right color for your project.
Color Values:
- Hex Code: Not specified in available sources
- RGB Values: Not specified in available sources
- LRV (Light Reflectance Value): Not specified in available sources
If you’re working with designers or contractors, these codes are super helpful. They keep color accuracy in check across different materials and lighting.
The LRV tells you how much light a color bounces back. Darker shades like Shade-Grown usually have a lower LRV.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 Undertones
Shade-Grown SW 6188 has earthy undertones that make it a rich, deep green. These natural undertones give it that signature forest-like feel.
The earthy base stops the green from looking too bright or fake. Instead, you get a sophisticated color that feels grounded and real.
Key undertones include:
- Earthy brown notes
- Natural forest tones
- Deep, rich green base
These undertones make Shade-Grown perfect for a cozy atmosphere. The earthy notes help it work with warm neutrals like beige and taupe.
The undertones also keep the green from feeling cold or sterile. You’ll notice how the earthy base makes rooms feel welcoming and comfortable.
When light hits Shade-Grown, the undertones shift a bit. In bright light, you might see more of the earthy brown come out. In softer light, the deep green base stands out more.
The natural undertones make this color work in lots of rooms. Dining room? Study? It still brings that grounded feeling.
These undertones set Shade-Grown apart from other greens. The earthy notes add depth and richness that plain greens just don’t have.
How Does Lighting Affect Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188?
Shade-Grown SW 6188 shifts a lot depending on your lighting. Natural light from different directions changes the mood, and artificial bulbs can make this deep green look warmer or cooler.
Natural Lighting
The direction your room faces matters. North-facing rooms get cooler, indirect light, so Shade-Grown appears more muted and subdued.
South-facing rooms pull in warm, direct sunlight. That brings out the vibrant side of Shade-Grown, making it look brighter and a bit more lively.
East-facing rooms start with strong morning light, so the color appears lively early on. Later, the light cools and softens.
West-facing rooms have gentle light in the morning, so the color looks subdued at first. In the afternoon and evening, it warms up and gets more vivid.
The amount of natural light you get also matters. Bright rooms show off the color’s richness, while darker rooms make Shade-Grown feel deeper and more dramatic.
Artificial Lighting
Light bulbs can totally change how Shade-Grown looks. Incandescent bulbs give off warm, yellowish light, making the color look richer and deeper.
Fluorescent lighting has a cooler, bluish tone. That makes Shade-Grown look more muted and brings out any gray undertones.
LED bulbs come in a bunch of temperatures. Warm LED lights (2700K-3000K) make the color feel extra cozy. Cool LEDs (4000K-5000K) keep things more neutral.
Halogen lights are bright and white, kind of like natural sunlight. They show the truest version of Shade-Grown.
Think about your main lighting before you commit. The wrong bulbs might make the color look flat or too dark.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 LRV 8 (Light Reflectance Value)
Shade-Grown SW 6188 has an LRV of 8. That’s pretty dark, so it reflects very little light and can really affect how your room feels.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. Basically, it measures how much light a paint color bounces back into the space.
The scale runs from 0 to 100. Zero means no light reflected (think pure black). One hundred means all the light is reflected (pure white).
Colors with higher LRV numbers can make rooms look brighter. Lower LRV colors absorb more light, making spaces feel darker.
LRV ranges:
- 0-20: Very dark colors
- 21-50: Medium colors
- 51-100: Light colors
LRV helps you pick colors for different rooms. Spaces with lots of daylight can handle darker colors better than dim rooms.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 LRV Range
Shade-Grown’s LRV is 8, so it’s definitely in the very dark range. It reflects only 8% of the light that hits it—so yeah, it’s moody.
This green will soak up most of the light in your room. You’ll want plenty of lighting to keep things from feeling too dim.
The dark vibe works great as an accent wall. It adds depth without making the whole space feel closed in.
Consider your room’s natural light before you go all in. North-facing rooms get less sun, so this color might feel heavy. South-facing rooms can handle the darkness better.
Use lighter colors nearby to balance out the low LRV. White trim or light furniture can really help brighten things up if you go with this dark green.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 Coordinating Colors

Shade-Grown looks awesome with warm neutrals like Natural Linen and crisp whites like Alabaster. Cooler greens like Retreat also work for a monochromatic look. These combos help balance the richness of this earthy green.
Natural Linen SW 9109
Natural Linen is a warm neutral that sets off Shade-Grown’s deep green tones. This soft beige has greige undertones that play well with the earthy qualities of Shade-Grown.
You can use Natural Linen by Sherwin Williams on nearby walls for a cozy, grounded vibe. Its warm undertones keep your space from turning too cool next to the deep green.
This combo works especially well in dining rooms and studies. Natural Linen softens Shade-Grown’s boldness but keeps things interesting.
Try Natural Linen on three walls and Shade-Grown as an accent. Or flip it—use Shade-Grown on most walls and Natural Linen for the trim.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster is a crisp, clean white that makes Shade-Grown stand out. This popular white has warm undertones, so it avoids a harsh contrast with the green.
The high Light Reflectance Value of Alabaster by Sherwin Williams helps brighten spaces where Shade-Grown might otherwise feel dark.
Use Alabaster for trim, doors, or ceilings when you’ve got Shade-Grown on the walls. The white defines architectural details and keeps the room from feeling gloomy.
You could also paint built-ins or cabinets in Alabaster against Shade-Grown walls. That adds depth and really highlights your furniture.
Retreat SW 6207
Retreat is a cooler green that pairs nicely with Shade-Grown for a monochromatic look. This mid-toned green has blue-gray undertones, which balance out Shade-Grown’s earthy warmth.
Use Retreat by Sherwin Williams in nearby rooms or on accent pieces if Shade-Grown is your main color. The two greens flow together but still give you some variation.
This combo works well in open floor plans where you want color continuity. Retreat can handle more wall space since it’s lighter than Shade-Grown.
Try Retreat in hallways or powder rooms that connect to Shade-Grown spaces. You can even use both colors in the same room on different features.
Trim Colors For Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188

White trim colors create a stunning contrast with Shade-Grown’s deep forest green. Here are three whites with different undertones that complement the rich, earthy green beautifully.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White brings a crisp, clean look when you pair it with Shade-Grown. Subtle warm undertones keep it from looking too stark against those deep green walls.
This combo creates a fresh, modern vibe in any room. Trim stands out clearly but doesn’t clash harshly.
Pure White by Sherwin Williams SW 7005 works especially well in bedrooms and living rooms. It balances out the richness of Shade-Grown.
Best uses with Shade-Grown:
- Crown molding
- Door frames
- Window trim
- Baseboards
This combination fits both traditional and contemporary styles. You’ll get a look that feels timeless—never tired or trendy.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White gives you the brightest contrast with Shade-Grown. This pure white barely has any undertones, so trim looks bold and dramatic.
Your room feels larger and brighter with this pairing. The white bounces light around more than the other options.
It works best in rooms with good natural light. In dim spaces, it can feel a bit harsh against dark green walls.
Key benefits:
- Maximum brightness
- Clean modern appearance
- Makes rooms feel larger
- Works with any decor style
This combo really highlights architectural details. Moldings and trim become instant focal points.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster offers the warmest trim choice for Shade-Grown. Creamy undertones soften the whole look.
The pairing feels cozy and inviting, never stark. Your space gets a more relaxed, comfortable atmosphere.
Alabaster shines in rooms with warm lighting. It complements natural wood and brass fixtures beautifully.
Perfect for:
- Dining rooms
- Bedrooms
- Home offices
- Cozy living spaces
The warm undertones in Alabaster really bring out the earthy side of Shade-Grown.
Real World Examples Of Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 In Different Spaces
This deep forest green just works in so many rooms. You can use it to create calm, natural spaces that feel both modern and timeless.
Bathrooms

Shade-Grown can turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat. Deep green pairs perfectly with white fixtures and natural materials.
Paint all four walls for a cozy vibe, or just an accent wall behind the vanity. It looks fantastic with brass or gold fixtures.
Popular combinations include:
- White subway tile with Shade-Grown walls
- Natural wood vanities against green paint
- Marble countertops for contrast
This color suits both small powder rooms and big master baths. It hides water spots better than lighter paint. Guests will feel relaxed in this calming space.
Bedrooms

Your bedroom becomes a peaceful sanctuary with Shade-Grown on the walls. The color helps you rest and brings a touch of nature inside.
Try it behind your headboard for a subtle statement. The deep green creates a focal point without being too much. It works with both light and dark furniture.
Bedding colors that work well:
- Cream and white linens
- Soft pink or blush accents
- Natural linen textures
- Gold or brass accessories
This color looks great in master bedrooms and guest rooms. It pairs beautifully with plants and natural wood furniture.
Front Doors

Shade-Grown makes your front door stand out in the best way. Rich green welcomes guests and adds character to your home’s exterior.
The color works on lots of home styles. It looks classic on colonials and fresh on modern houses. Your door will pop against light siding or brick.
Best exterior combinations:
- White or cream house paint
- Natural stone or brick
- Black or dark bronze hardware
- Seasonal wreaths and plants
Use exterior paint for durability. The color stays rich, even in direct sunlight.
Home Offices

Your home office feels calm and focused with Shade-Grown walls. This color reduces eye strain and helps you concentrate.
Paint one accent wall behind your desk for impact. The green background makes video calls look more professional. It works with traditional or modern office furniture.
Office elements that pair well:
- Natural wood desks and shelving
- Warm brass desk lamps
- Plants and greenery
- Cream or white trim
The color keeps your workspace from feeling sterile. You’ll actually want to spend time in this productive space.
Houses

Shade-Grown works beautifully as exterior house paint. Your home gets a sophisticated, natural look that stands out from the usual colors.
Use it on siding, shutters, or trim for different effects. It pairs well with neutrals like cream, white, and gray. The color looks rich in sun or shade.
Exterior color schemes:
- Shade-Grown siding with white trim
- Cream house with green shutters
- Stone or brick with green accents
- Natural wood with green details
Your house will photograph beautifully against landscaping. The curb appeal really goes up.
Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets in Shade-Grown create a stunning focal point. This color makes your kitchen feel custom and high-end.
Paint upper cabinets, lower cabinets, or the kitchen island. The green works with many countertop materials. It looks especially good with natural stone and wood.
Kitchen combinations that work:
- White quartz countertops
- Brass or gold cabinet hardware
- Natural wood open shelving
- White or cream subway tile backsplash
The color hides fingerprints and daily wear surprisingly well. Small kitchens feel cozy, and big kitchens feel grounded.
Living Rooms

Your living room becomes an elegant retreat with Shade-Grown paint. This color creates a cozy atmosphere for relaxing or entertaining.
Paint all the walls for drama, or use it as an accent. It works with lots of furniture styles and colors. The space just feels more expensive.
Living room pairings:
- Cream or beige sofas and chairs
- Natural jute or wool rugs
- Warm wood coffee tables
- Brass or copper light fixtures
Add plants to boost the natural vibe. The color looks great with artwork and family photos.
Comparing Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 To Similar Colors

Shade-Grown SW 6188 stands out among dark greens with its LRV of 8 and cool blue-gray undertones. If you want to pick the perfect green, it helps to see how it stacks up against similar shades.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 vs Laurel Woods SW 7749
Laurel Woods SW 7749 offers a lighter alternative to Shade-Grown, with an LRV of 15. It’s nearly twice as light-reflective.
The undertones are pretty different. Laurel Woods leans warmer and brown, while Shade-Grown has a cool blue-gray base.
Lighting Impact:
- Laurel Woods appears brighter in low light
- Shade-Grown looks deeper and more dramatic
- Both colors work well in natural daylight
Laurel Woods works better in smaller spaces where Shade-Grown might feel too dark. You can use it in bedrooms or bathrooms without overwhelming the room.
For exteriors, both colors look beautiful. Laurel Woods gives a softer forest green vibe, and Shade-Grown feels bold and dramatic.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 vs Billiard Green SW 0016
Billiard Green SW 0016 is much darker than Shade-Grown, with an LRV of just 4. It’s one of the deepest greens Sherwin Williams makes.
The color characteristics show clear differences. Billiard Green has deep forest undertones, while Shade-Grown keeps its blue-gray influence.
Key Differences:
- Light Reflection: Billiard Green reflects half the light of Shade-Grown
- Mood: Billiard Green feels more traditional and formal
- Versatility: Shade-Grown works in more design styles
Billiard Green works best as an accent color or in rooms with lots of natural light. It creates a rich, sophisticated look in dining rooms or libraries.
Test both colors in your space. Billiard Green can look almost black in dim lighting, while Shade-Grown keeps more of its green personality.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 vs Rookwood Dark Green SW 2816
Rookwood Dark Green SW 2816 has an LRV of 6, so it’s just a bit darker than Shade-Grown. The difference is subtle but you can see it in most lighting.
This Historic Color Collection shade has earthy brown undertones. They contrast with Shade-Grown’s cooler blue-gray base.
Rookwood Dark Green gives off a more traditional, historic feel. It pairs well with warm metals like brass and copper.
Best Uses:
- Rookwood Dark Green: Traditional homes, libraries, formal spaces
- Shade-Grown: Modern designs, contemporary spaces, versatile applications
The warmer undertones in Rookwood Dark Green make it feel cozier. Shade-Grown stays a bit more sophisticated and contemporary.
You might prefer Rookwood Dark Green if your home leans traditional. Shade-Grown is great for cleaner, modern looks.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 vs Hunt Club SW 6468
Hunt Club SW 6468 is a bit brighter, with an LRV of 11. That makes it easier to use in interiors where Shade-Grown could feel heavy.
These greens have different undertone profiles. Hunt Club has subtle yellow undertones that warm up the color.
Hunt Club feels more vibrant and energetic, while Shade-Grown brings muted sophistication. That really changes the mood of a room.
Room Applications:
- Hunt Club: Living rooms, kitchens, active spaces
- Shade-Grown: Bedrooms, bathrooms, accent walls
Both work well outside, too. Hunt Club gives a fresher, lively look, while Shade-Grown brings classic elegance.
The yellow undertones in Hunt Club make it pair better with warm color schemes. Shade-Grown plays nicely with both warm and cool palettes.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 vs Pewter Green SW 6208
Pewter Green SW 6208 has an LRV of 12. It’s lighter and reflects more light than Shade-Grown, so you’ll notice a difference in how each color feels in your rooms.
The undertones set them apart. Pewter Green carries more gray, while Shade-Grown leans blue-gray.
Visual Characteristics:
Feature | Shade-Grown | Pewter Green |
---|---|---|
LRV | 8 | 12 |
Feel | Sophisticated | Earthy |
Undertones | Blue-gray | Gray |
Pewter Green feels muted and subdued. It brings a calming, earthy mood wherever you use it.
Both look great on kitchen cabinets. Pewter Green gives a softer look, while Shade-Grown brings more drama and depth.
Pewter Green works in larger spaces without making them feel too dark. Shade-Grown shines best as an accent or in rooms with plenty of natural light.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 vs Andiron SW 6174
Andiron SW 6174 is much darker than Shade-Grown, with an LRV of 3. It’s easily one of Sherwin Williams’ deepest greens.
The intensity of Andiron sets a bold, dramatic tone. Shade-Grown feels more versatile and less heavy.
Andiron’s black undertones can make it look almost charcoal in some lighting. Shade-Grown keeps its green personality visible, no matter the light.
Usage Recommendations:
- Use Andiron sparingly as an accent color
- Try Shade-Grown for larger painted areas
- Both work for exterior trim and doors
Lighting and room size matter with Andiron. It can swallow small or dimly lit spaces.
Shade-Grown gives you more flexibility for interiors. You can use it on walls, cabinets, or even furniture and still get a balanced look.
Complementary Colors To Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188

Shade-Grown plays well with warm neutrals that balance its rich green. These combos make a room feel grounded and pretty inviting.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 with Antique White SW 6119
Antique White brings a soft, vintage charm to Shade-Grown’s deep forest vibe. Together, they create a classic look that fits traditional or modern spaces.
Antique White’s warm undertones pair perfectly with Shade-Grown’s earthy feel. This combo stands out in bedrooms and living rooms where coziness matters.
Best applications for this pairing:
- Shade-Grown accent walls with Antique White elsewhere
- Antique White trim with Shade-Grown walls
- Kitchen cabinets in Shade-Grown, Antique White backsplash
The contrast is gentle, not jarring. They blend well, adding depth without overwhelming the space.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 with Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster offers a crisp, clean backdrop that lets Shade-Grown’s green really pop. This white has enough warmth to avoid harshness, so rooms stay bright and airy.
The LRV difference between the two colors draws the eye. Alabaster’s versatility makes it a favorite for pairing with bold shades like Shade-Grown.
Try Alabaster on ceilings and trim with Shade-Grown on the walls. This keeps rooms open and brings in a dramatic splash of color.
Lighting considerations:
- North-facing rooms get a boost from Alabaster’s warmth
- South-facing rooms handle the contrast easily
- LED lighting works well with both colors
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 with Canvas Tan SW 7531
Canvas Tan and Shade-Grown together create an earthy, sophisticated palette. Both colors have natural undertones that connect your space to the outdoors.
This combo shines in open floor plans. Canvas Tan’s warm beige bridges areas, while Shade-Grown adds depth and interest.
Use Canvas Tan for your main walls, then bring in Shade-Grown for accents. Think built-ins, kitchen islands, or bathroom vanities in the deeper green.
Room combinations that work:
- Living room walls in Canvas Tan, Shade-Grown built-ins
- Bedroom with Canvas Tan walls, Shade-Grown headboard wall
- Bathroom vanity in Shade-Grown with Canvas Tan walls
Canvas Tan’s neutral vibe lets you swap out accessories whenever you want.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 with Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige by Sherwin Williams is the warm neutral that balances Shade-Grown’s cool green. This pairing feels sophisticated and still welcoming.
Accessible Beige’s greige undertones work smoothly with Shade-Grown’s earthy side. The combo makes rooms look a bit bigger but keeps them cozy.
Popular design approaches:
- Accessible Beige on main walls, Shade-Grown accent wall
- Shade-Grown cabinets with Accessible Beige walls
- Two-tone furniture using both colors
This pairing photographs well and appeals to buyers if you’re thinking about resale. Both colors feel current, but not trendy in a way that’ll go out of style.
You can easily swap out decor seasonally and still keep the look fresh.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 with Creamy SW 7012
Creamy SW 7012 brings gentle yellow undertones that warm up Shade-Grown’s cool green. It’s a fresh, inviting combo that doesn’t shout for attention.
Creamy’s soft off-white keeps the contrast from getting harsh. The difference is enough to define spaces, but not so much that it feels stark.
Creamy looks especially nice on trim and ceilings when Shade-Grown is on the walls. The warm undertones help everything flow together throughout your home.
Design tips for this pairing:
- Use Creamy on woodwork for a custom feel
- Alternate the colors in adjoining rooms
- Add brass or gold hardware to play up the warmth
This combo photographs beautifully in natural light and keeps its appeal all day long.
Shade-Grown by Sherwin Williams SW 6188 with Natural Choice SW 7011
Natural Choice SW 7011 brings in subtle beige undertones that help create an organic, calming palette when paired with Shade-Grown.
Both colors feel grounded and natural together. There’s a quiet harmony in the way they interact.
The soft warmth of Natural Choice takes the edge off Shade-Grown’s intensity. If your home has a lot of natural wood, this combo just fits.
You can use these colors in equal amounts throughout your home. Natural Choice stands up well in busy areas, while Shade-Grown turns heads in focal spots.
Best rooms for this pairing:
- Open concept living areas
- Master bedroom suites
- Home offices and studies
- Dining rooms with natural wood furniture
The LRV difference gives spaces just enough definition without any harsh lines. It feels like someone really thought it through.

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