Trying to find that perfect warm neutral that just works anywhere? Sherwin Williams Shiitake SW 9173 is a super versatile mushroom beige with brown undertones that brings a cozy, sophisticated vibe to your space. People keep coming back to this color when they want something warmer than gray, but not as in-your-face as old-school beige.
Shiitake’s LRV is 51, which means it lands right in the middle—neither too light nor too dark. It feels balanced in both small and large rooms.
This color shifts throughout the day as the light changes, sometimes warmer, sometimes cooler. It plays nicely with crisp whites, rich blues, and honestly, just about anything you throw at it.
If you’re thinking about painting living room walls, kitchen cabinets, or even exterior trim, it’s worth knowing Shiitake’s quirks. I’ll walk you through coordinating colors and real-life examples so you can use this lovely neutral with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Shiitake is a warm mushroom beige with brown undertones and an LRV of 51, so it’s flexible for almost any space.
- It pairs well with whites, grays, blues, and earth tones—lots of options for mixing and matching.
- Lighting really changes Shiitake’s look—warmer in natural light, cooler under artificial bulbs.
What Color Is Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173?
Shiitake SW 9173 falls between gray and tan, giving you a warm beige that feels earthy but not muddy. It’s got just enough warmth to feel inviting, and enough depth to look interesting on the wall.
Color Family
Shiitake sits in the beige family, but you’ll hear people call it mushroom beige or soft taupe, too. It doesn’t lean too cool or too warm—right in the sweet spot.
This neutral brings in undertones of green, red, and gray. That complexity gives Shiitake its earthy, sophisticated edge.
If you want a beige that’s grayer and a bit more modern (not so yellow), Shiitake is a solid pick. It feels updated and versatile.
The name comes from shiitake mushrooms, which is pretty fitting given its natural, organic vibe. It’s a great way to bring a grounded, calming feel into your rooms.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Let’s talk numbers. Shiitake has a Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 51, so it reflects a moderate amount of light.
Key Color Information:
- LRV: 51
- Classification: Medium-light neutral
- Undertones: Green, red, and gray
With an LRV of 51, Shiitake lands right in the middle—not too bright, not too dark. Rooms feel comfortable and balanced with it on the walls.
That moderate LRV means Shiitake fits both well-lit and dimmer spaces. It keeps things open but still gives you some color depth.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 Undertones
Shiitake SW 9173 leans into warm brown and beige undertones that give it an earthy feel. These undertones help the color look welcoming in most rooms.
It’s actually part of the yellow hue family if you check the color wheel. So, there’s a whisper of yellow mixed in with those browns and beiges.
The brown undertones really stand out here, making Shiitake feel natural and warm. That’s probably why so many people gravitate toward it.
Beige undertones soften the look, so it never feels too heavy or dark.
Key undertones in Shiitake:
- Brown (primary)
- Beige
- Yellow (subtle)
These undertones blend together for a balanced neutral. That’s what makes Shiitake so easy to pair with both warm and cool colors.
Depending on your lighting, you might notice different undertones at different times. Natural light tends to pull out the beige, while warm bulbs bring out the brown.
The yellow undertones are very faint. Most folks won’t spot them unless they’re comparing paint chips side by side.
How Does Lighting Affect Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173?
Shiitake’s taupe undertones shift, sometimes cooler, sometimes warmer, depending on your light source. With an LRV of 51, it reflects a fair amount of light but always keeps its earthy depth.
Natural Lighting
North-facing rooms tend to make Shiitake look cooler and more gray. That steady, soft light pulls out its subtle side.
South-facing rooms bring out Shiitake’s warmer beige notes. You’ll see those taupe undertones get a little golden as the sun moves through the day.
East-facing rooms show Shiitake at its warmest early in the morning. You might catch a hint of yellow as the sun comes up.
West-facing spaces really amp up Shiitake’s earthy tones in the afternoon and evening. That golden hour light makes it feel extra inviting.
On cloudy days, Shiitake shifts grayer. In bright sunshine, it looks warmer and more balanced.
Artificial Lighting
LED bulbs in warm white (2700K-3000K) boost the beige qualities in Shiitake. If you use cool white LEDs, the color can look a bit grayer and less cozy.
Incandescent bulbs really bring out Shiitake’s warmest tones, making it feel golden and snug.
Fluorescent lights tend to flatten Shiitake out, stripping away some of its natural depth and warmth.
Dimmer switches let you adjust the vibe—lower light brings out more taupe, higher light feels brighter and softer.
Recessed lighting gives you even coverage, so Shiitake shows its true, balanced self. Track lights can cast shadows, making some spots look darker.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 LRV 51 (Light Reflectance Value)
Shiitake SW 9173 has an LRV of 51. That means it’s a medium-light shade, reflecting about half the light that hits it. The LRV really shapes how this color shows up in your room and what lighting you’ll need.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It’s basically a measure of how much light a paint color bounces back into a room.
The LRV scale runs from 0 to 100. Black is 0, reflecting nothing. White is 100, reflecting everything.
Most colors land somewhere in the middle. Higher LRV means lighter and brighter; lower LRV means darker and more light-absorbing.
Knowing the LRV helps you predict how a color will look in your space and how it’ll play with your other colors.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 LRV Range
Shiitake’s LRV of 51 hits that middle zone. It’s a medium-light color that feels just right in most rooms.
With LRV 51, Shiitake reflects about half the light, so it never feels too dark or too washed out.
Colors in the LRV 50-60 range are great for main living areas. They balance light and warmth, and you can use Shiitake in both sunny and dim rooms.
In south-facing rooms, Shiitake might look a little lighter and warmer. In north-facing rooms, it may feel a touch cooler and deeper.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 Coordinating Colors
Shiitake looks fantastic with crisp whites, soft greens, and deep blues. These combos let you set the mood, whether you want something calm or a bit more dramatic.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster is a classic partner for Shiitake—timeless, soft, and never too stark. This warm white contrasts just enough with Shiitake’s beige undertones.
Try Alabaster on trim or ceilings, with Shiitake on the walls. It’s especially nice in living rooms and bedrooms when you want it cozy but still bright.
Both colors share similar undertones, so they blend easily. Alabaster’s LRV of 82 bounces a lot more light, giving you a nice contrast.
This duo works in both modern and traditional spaces. I think it looks best with natural woods or brass hardware.
Retreat SW 6207
Retreat brings in a calming, sage green that pairs perfectly with Shiitake’s earthy side. It creates a nature-inspired palette that feels peaceful and grounded.
Paint an accent wall in Retreat and keep Shiitake on the others, or use Retreat in nearby rooms for a gentle flow.
Both colors have similar light-reflecting qualities, so neither one overwhelms the other. It’s a balanced, sophisticated combo that never feels boring.
Retreat and Shiitake are especially nice in bedrooms, baths, or offices if you want that spa-like calm.
Naval SW 6244
Naval is a deep navy that makes Shiitake pop. The contrast brings out Shiitake’s warmth and adds a touch of drama.
Try Naval on an accent wall or built-ins, with Shiitake on the main walls. You can also go bold with Naval on exterior doors or shutters if Shiitake is outside.
The light-dark contrast adds interest without clashing. Naval’s richness balances Shiitake’s softness beautifully.
This pairing works in dining rooms, libraries, or entryways—anywhere you want a little wow factor. It’s both welcoming and elegant.
Trim Colors for Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173
The right trim color makes Shiitake’s warm beige stand out and gives your room a polished finish. These three whites are the best bets for highlighting Shiitake’s subtle warmth.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White is clean and crisp, and it sets off Shiitake’s warmth really well. With almost no undertones, it’s a go-to for trim.
Pairing Pure White with Shiitake gives you a fresh, modern feel. The white helps show off those subtle yellow hints in Shiitake, but keeps things from getting too warm.
Pure White shines in rooms with plenty of natural light. You’ll get clear definition between walls and trim, which always looks sharp.
This combo feels timeless and works for both traditional and modern styles. Pure White keeps everything looking light and balanced, never heavy.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White gives you a slightly softer contrast than Pure White but still delivers clean definition. It has a hint more warmth, so it blends naturally with Shiitake’s beige base.
When you pair these colors, your rooms feel more cohesive. Extra White avoids harsh contrast, so the space feels calm and unified—no jarring edges.
This combo shines in bedrooms and living rooms if you want a laid-back vibe. The subtle difference between wall and trim colors adds gentle visual interest.
Extra White lets Shiitake’s true color show through without overpowering it. You’ll notice both colors working together instead of fighting for attention.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster brings a cozy warmth to your trim but still stands out against Shiitake walls. Its creamy undertones play nicely with Shiitake’s beige.
These two feel like natural partners thanks to their shared warmth. The pairing creates a welcoming, inviting mood throughout your home.
Alabaster’s great when you want trim softer than bright white. You get depth and dimension without things feeling stark or cold.
This combo works in kitchens, dining rooms, and family spaces—anywhere you want comfort. Together, they create a look that’s both sophisticated and timeless (at least, that’s how it feels to me).
Real World Examples of Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 in Different Spaces
Shiitake really works in all sorts of rooms, from kitchen cabinets to front doors. You’ll see this warm beige pop up in cozy bathrooms, classy living rooms, and inviting entryways.
Bathrooms
Try Shiitake on the walls to make your bathroom feel more like a spa. It works in both tiny powder rooms and large master baths, honestly.
White fixtures and trim look clean against Shiitake. Marble countertops and subway tile pair especially well.
In fancier bathrooms, Shiitake grounds the space. You can use it with dark wood vanities or lighter cabinets, depending on your style.
This color handles different lighting pretty well. Natural light brings out the warmth, while artificial light can make it look a bit more taupe.
Bedrooms
Shiitake creates a calm, restful vibe in bedrooms. You can use it as your main wall color or just for an accent wall.
Pair Shiitake with white bedding for a crisp look. Cream or off-white linens highlight the warmth even more.
This color works in master bedrooms and guest rooms without being too bold or distracting. It’s just… easy to live with.
Wood furniture looks great with Shiitake. Dark wood gives you contrast; light wood keeps things feeling open and airy.
Try it in closets too—it gives your storage a boutique feel, which is kind of fun.
Front Doors
Shiitake makes a fantastic front door color. It’s warm and welcoming but doesn’t scream for attention.
The color looks good with all sorts of exteriors—brick, stone, siding, you name it.
Pair a Shiitake door with darker shutters for a classic look. Black or bronze hardware really sets off the warm tones.
This door color works all year. It’s cozy in the colder months and neutral enough for bright spring and summer flowers.
Plus, Shiitake front doors photograph well for home listings. It’s a crowd-pleaser and feels on-trend.
Home Offices
Your home office gets a calming upgrade with Shiitake. The color helps you focus without making things feel cold or sterile.
Try it as an accent wall behind your desk, or go all in and paint every wall for a cocoon effect.
White built-in shelves pop against Shiitake. Dark wood desks look especially sharp, too.
This neutral fits both modern and traditional office styles. It’s pretty flexible.
Lighting matters here. Add task and ambient lights so the space doesn’t end up too dim.
Houses
Some folks use Shiitake for their whole house color scheme. It really helps rooms flow together.
Open floor plans look especially good with Shiitake throughout. It ties kitchen, living, and dining spaces into one story.
You can mix it up by using Shiitake on some walls and lighter colors elsewhere. That keeps the space from feeling heavy.
White trim adds contrast and keeps things fresh when you use Shiitake everywhere.
Natural light changes how Shiitake looks. South-facing rooms show more beige, while north-facing ones might read a bit grayer.
Kitchen Cabinets
Shiitake cabinets create a warm, inviting kitchen. Use it on uppers, lowers, or both.
Try Shiitake on your island and white on the other cabinets for a focal point. It’s a nice way to add some interest.
The color pairs with all kinds of countertops:
- White quartz for crisp contrast
- Marble for a touch of luxury
- Butcher block to amp up the warmth
Shiitake works with lots of hardware finishes. Brass and bronze look warm; black hardware feels modern.
Living Rooms
Shiitake walls make living rooms feel cozy and inviting. The color is sophisticated but not stuffy.
Try it on an accent wall behind the sofa for some depth. It changes the whole vibe, honestly.
It goes well with all kinds of furniture. Light sofas pop, dark ones give you a layered look.
Mix up your throw pillows—blues and greens add contrast, creams and whites keep it neutral.
Area rugs help define the space with Shiitake walls. Pick a rug with some of the wall color in it for a pulled-together look.
Comparing Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 to Similar Colors
Shiitake’s warm beige and brown undertones put it close to a few other neutrals, but each has its own quirks. Knowing the differences helps you pick what works for your space and lighting. Let’s break it down a bit.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 vs Accessible Beige SW 7036
Shiitake has an LRV of 51. Accessible Beige sits at 58, so it reflects more light and looks brighter in your room.
Shiitake shows up as a warm stone gray with brown undertones. Accessible Beige leans more true beige, with a bit of gray in the mix.
Shiitake’s brown undertones make it feel earthy and grounded. Accessible Beige feels fresher and more airy, thanks to its higher light reflection.
| Color | LRV | Undertones | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shiitake | 51 | Brown | Cozy spaces, bedrooms |
| Accessible Beige | 58 | Gray | Open areas, main living spaces |
Accessible Beige brightens up north-facing rooms. Shiitake works well in south-facing rooms where you want to soften strong sunlight.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 vs Natural Linen SW 9109
Natural Linen looks lighter and creamier than Shiitake. Its LRV is about 60, so it’s definitely brighter.
Shiitake’s brown undertones give it more depth. Natural Linen has a subtle yellow undertone, making it softer and more delicate.
If you want that mushroom-like earthiness, go with Shiitake. Natural Linen is better for a gentle, fabric-soft wall color.
Natural Linen pairs nicely with whites and pastels. Shiitake works better with deeper colors like navy, forest green, or charcoal gray.
In rooms with little natural light, Natural Linen brightens things up. Shiitake adds warmth without making small spaces feel crowded.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 vs Nomadic Desert SW 6107
Nomadic Desert brings more golden undertones than Shiitake’s brown base. Both fit in southwestern or desert-inspired spaces.
Shiitake feels more muted and sophisticated. Nomadic Desert leans yellow and orange, so it’s sunnier and a bit bolder.
Nomadic Desert is a touch brighter on walls. Shiitake gives you stronger contrast with white trim and molding.
Nomadic Desert pairs well with terracotta and warm oranges. Shiitake works better with cool accents like sage green or soft blue.
For modern farmhouse looks, Shiitake is usually more flexible. Nomadic Desert fits rustic or southwestern styles better.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 vs Dumpling SW 9616
Dumpling has a softer, almost powdery look compared to Shiitake. Its gray undertones make it feel cooler.
Shiitake’s brown base gives it more presence. Dumpling is lighter and more ethereal on walls.
Both work as main wall colors. Dumpling needs bolder accents so it doesn’t feel bland, while Shiitake stands up on its own.
The texture vibe is different, too. Shiitake suggests stone or wood, while Dumpling feels like soft fabric or old plaster.
For kitchens with white cabinets, Dumpling is a gentler choice. Shiitake adds more character and pairs better with wood tones.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 vs Modern Gray SW 7632
Modern Gray feels cooler than Shiitake. It’s got more true gray and skips the warm brown undertones.
Shiitake gives rooms a cozier, more intimate feeling. Modern Gray looks cleaner and a bit more contemporary.
The undertones change how your furniture looks. Shiitake highlights wood and natural materials. Modern Gray works better with metal and modern pieces.
Modern Gray’s LRV is a bit higher, so it makes rooms feel more open compared to Shiitake’s warmth.
For offices or modern homes, Modern Gray is a safe bet. Shiitake fits traditional or transitional styles better, in my opinion.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 vs Realist Beige SW 6078
Realist Beige is more neutral and straightforward than Shiitake. It doesn’t have those rich brown undertones that make Shiitake pop.
Shiitake brings more personality. Realist Beige is a safe, predictable background color.
Shiitake feels warmer and cozier, while Realist Beige stays neutral in temperature.
Realist Beige lets your furniture and art take center stage. Shiitake adds its own design element, which can be a good thing if you want character.
For resale, Realist Beige appeals to more buyers. But if you want to show off your own style, Shiitake creates memorable spaces.
Complementary Colors to Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173
Shiitake pairs beautifully with blues, from deep navy to soft powder blue. These combos create balanced spaces that manage to feel both warm and sophisticated.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 with Waterloo SW 9141
Waterloo brings a deep, rich blue that pops against Shiitake’s warm taupe. This combo works really well in living rooms or bedrooms if you’re chasing drama without going overboard.
The vibe feels modern yet kind of timeless. Waterloo’s boldness plays off Shiitake’s softness in a way that just works.
Try Shiitake on your main walls and use Waterloo for an accent wall. That way, you get a focal point but the space won’t feel too dark.
Best applications:
- Master bedrooms
- Home offices
- Dining rooms
White or cream trim can brighten things up. Brass or gold hardware? Always a win with these two.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 with Smoky Azurite SW 9148
Smoky Azurite brings a sophisticated blue-gray that feels right at home with Shiitake’s earthy vibe. Together, they create spaces that feel calm and grounded.
Since neither color shouts for attention, they play nicely together. It’s a low-key combo that just feels peaceful.
Bathrooms and powder rooms love this pairing. The colors bring a spa-like calm that’s hard to beat.
Popular room combinations:
- Shiitake on walls, Smoky Azurite on vanity
- Smoky Azurite on lower walls, Shiitake above
- Both colors in tile work
Natural wood accents really lift this palette. Toss in some plants if you want a pop of green.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 with Naval SW 6244
Naval brings out that classic navy blue, which stands out against Shiitake’s neutral warmth. You get a combo that just never seems to date.
The look feels preppy and polished. It fits in just as well in formal spaces as it does in casual ones.
Use Naval as an accent or go all-in with a feature wall. Shiitake takes the edge off Naval’s depth, and Naval gives Shiitake a bit more dimension.
Design tips:
- Use white trim to define both colors
- Add brass fixtures for warmth
- Include natural textures like jute or linen
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 with Slate Tile SW 7624
Slate Tile brings a blue-gray tone that really complements Shiitake’s neutral base. The result? Sophisticated spaces with just enough color variation.
They share similar undertones, so they feel harmonious together. Both colors keep things calm and grounded.
Kitchens and bathrooms look great with this combo. The scheme feels clean and classic—never boring, though.
Kitchen applications:
- Shiitake on walls, Slate Tile on island
- Slate Tile cabinets with Shiitake walls
- Both colors in backsplash tiles
Stainless steel or black hardware fits right in. White countertops will keep the look bright and fresh.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 with Moody Blue SW 6221
Moody Blue gives you a rich, saturated blue that stands out against Shiitake’s warmth. This pairing feels cozy but packs a little drama too.
If you want impact, this is a good route. Moody Blue brings personality, and Shiitake keeps the mood balanced.
Try Moody Blue on built-ins or furniture. Shiitake on the walls makes a great backdrop for those blue details.
Accent ideas:
- Blue kitchen island with taupe walls
- Blue front door with taupe exterior
- Blue bedroom accent wall
Warm lighting really flatters both shades. Copper or bronze fixtures? They look especially sharp here.
Shiitake by Sherwin Williams SW 9173 with Distance SW 6243
Distance brings in this soft, muted blue that gently contrasts with Shiitake. The vibe? Calm, a little spa-like, and honestly, just easy on the eyes.
Both colors settle a space. They seem to work best in bedrooms or bathrooms, where you want a bit of peace.
You could split the colors evenly or let one take the lead. Either way, you’ll get a peaceful look—nothing jarring or too much.
Balanced applications:
- Alternating stripes or patterns
- Two-tone furniture pieces
- Coordinated textiles and accessories
This combo really shines with white trim and natural wood accents. Silver or brushed nickel hardware also feels right at home here.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.