If you want a paint color that feels calm yet bold, Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 delivers just that. This deep blue-gray with a hint of slate creates a grounded vibe that works in both modern and classic spaces.
Its cool undertones and rich depth make it versatile for walls, accents, or even exteriors. You’ll notice the color shift with the light—sometimes it’s more blue, other times the gray stands out.
With a low light reflectance value of 23, it absorbs light and adds dimension. Pair it with soft whites for a crisp look, or use warmer tones for a cozier style.
Key Takeaways
- Storm Cloud is a deep blue-gray that feels balanced and versatile
- Lighting changes how the color appears in different spaces
- It pairs well with both warm neutrals and soft contrasting shades
What Color Is Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249?
Storm Cloud is a muted blue-gray that feels calm and balanced. It’s deep enough to add contrast in brighter spaces.
You’ll see cooler undertones, but lighting and nearby colors can shift your perception. In natural light, the blue stands out, while in low light the gray takes over.
Color Family
Storm Cloud lands in the blue-gray family, leaning more blue with clear gray undertones. This mix gives it a moody yet adaptable look.
Because it’s not too bright, it works with both warm and cool shades. Try it with crisp whites for contrast, or with soft grays for a layered effect.
Warm neutrals like beige or greige also balance its cooler base. In different rooms, the amount of light you get will change how Storm Cloud feels.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
Storm Cloud comes with specific color data to help you match it across design tools. Its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is 23, so it absorbs more light than it reflects.
This makes it a darker color that adds depth without feeling too heavy. Here are the key codes:
| Code Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Hex | #717C86 |
| RGB | (113, 124, 134) |
| LRV | 23 |
The low LRV explains why it looks richer on walls. The RGB mix shows a balance of cool blue and soft gray.
Real World Examples Of Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 In Different Spaces
This deep blue-gray works best when you balance it with the right lighting, trim, and materials. It can feel bold in one room and calm in another, depending on how you use it.
Bathrooms
Try Storm Cloud in bathrooms for a spa-like feel. The cool undertone pairs well with crisp white tile, marble, or black hardware.
This combo gives a clean but moody look. If your bathroom is small or lacks natural light, the color might feel heavy.
Add bright trim, mirrors, or light fixtures to balance it. For a modern style, use matte black fixtures; for a softer look, go with brass or brushed nickel.
Bedrooms
Storm Cloud works nicely in bedrooms if you want a cozy, restful space. Its depth makes it great for accent walls behind the bed or for an entire room if you like darker tones.
Layering soft bedding in cream, beige, or light gray keeps things from feeling too dark. Warm wood furniture or gold accents add some needed warmth.
If your bedroom is small, paint just one wall for mood without closing in the space. That way, you get the vibe without the cave effect.
Front Doors
Painting your front door in Storm Cloud makes a strong first impression. The blue-gray pops against both light and dark exteriors.
On white or cream siding, the color stands out as a bold accent. With darker siding, it blends in but still adds depth.
Pair the door with matte black or brass hardware for a polished finish. Satin or semi-gloss sheens work best here for weather resistance and color pop.
Home Offices
Storm Cloud can help set a focused, calm mood in a home office. The blue undertone feels steady and professional, which might make it easier to concentrate.
If your office gets good natural light, use it on all four walls. In smaller or dim spaces, try it on one feature wall behind your desk.
Pair with white trim and lighter wood tones for balance. Metallic accents like chrome desk lamps or brass brackets keep things lively.
Houses
On exteriors, Storm Cloud creates a modern, grounded look. It works as a main siding color or as an accent on shutters and trim.
Because it has a low LRV (23), it absorbs plenty of light and appears darker outside, especially in shade. Pair it with lighter colors like white trim, natural stone, or light wood to keep things balanced.
Kitchen Cabinets
Storm Cloud looks beautiful on kitchen cabinets if you want bold but not black. It pairs well with white countertops, subway tile, and either stainless steel or brass hardware.
Use it on lower cabinets for depth, keeping uppers lighter in white or cream. This keeps the kitchen feeling open while still using a strong color.
If you want all your cabinets in Storm Cloud, make sure your kitchen gets enough natural light. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are best for durability and easy cleaning.
Living Rooms
In living rooms, Storm Cloud sets a calm, modern tone. It looks especially good if you’ve got high ceilings, big windows, or an open layout.
Pair with white trim for contrast and lighter furniture to keep things balanced. Textures like linen, leather, or wood can soften the paint’s coolness.
For a layered look, add accent colors like navy, dusty mauve, or forest green. These tones complement the blue-gray base without overwhelming the room.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 Undertones
Storm Cloud isn’t just a simple blue. It carries gray undertones that soften the color and give it a grounded, muted look.
This balance keeps it from feeling too bright or overwhelming. In some lighting, the gray undertones stand out, making the color feel more slate-like.
In brighter spaces, the blue comes through clearer and can even look a bit cooler. Sometimes, you might catch hints of green or lavender depending on what’s around and the light.
These subtle shifts make Storm Cloud flexible and interesting, but never wild or unpredictable. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you might notice:
| Lighting Condition | How It Looks |
|---|---|
| Bright natural light | More blue, cooler tone |
| Low or artificial light | Deeper gray, moody feel |
| Paired with warm accents | Blue softens, gray stands out |
| Paired with cool accents | Blue appears stronger |
These undertones help you use Storm Cloud in both modern and traditional spaces. Once you get how the gray and blue interact, planning your room’s palette feels way less risky.
How Does Lighting Affect Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249?
This blue-gray shade can look more blue, more gray, or even darker depending on the light in your space. Both natural and artificial light change the undertones and depth.
Natural Lighting
In natural light, Storm Cloud often shows more blue. Morning light, which is cooler, makes it look crisp and airy.
Afternoon sunlight warms it up a touch and softens the gray. If your room faces north, expect the color to lean cooler and moodier.
South-facing rooms bring out a lighter, more balanced look with stronger daylight. The amount of natural light matters too—bright, open spaces make Storm Cloud feel lighter and more approachable.
In smaller or shaded rooms, it gets deeper and a bit more intense. Using it on an accent wall near a window lets you see the shifting tones throughout the day.
Pair with warm whites or soft neutrals to balance cooler undertones when natural light is limited.
Artificial Lighting
Artificial light changes Storm Cloud differently. Warm bulbs (yellow-toned) bring out the gray, making the color feel muted and cozy.
Cool bulbs (white or daylight) emphasize the blue, which can make the space feel fresher but also a bit chilly. Lighting placement matters too—overhead lights spread the color evenly, while lamps or sconces create shadows that deepen the tone.
If you want a softer look, use warm LED bulbs with a lower color temperature. For a sharper effect, use cooler LEDs.
Testing different bulbs in your space is honestly the only way to know how Storm Cloud will look at night. That flexibility means you can adjust the vibe of your room without repainting.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 LRV 23 (Light Reflectance Value)
This color has a medium-dark depth that absorbs more light than it reflects, giving you a moody, grounded look. Its LRV rating helps you predict how it’ll behave in different lighting and how it stacks up against lighter or darker shades.
What Is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It measures how much visible light a color reflects, running from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white).
Think of it as a brightness scale. Higher LRV means the paint reflects more light and makes a room feel brighter.
Lower LRV means it absorbs more light, creating a darker, cozier feel. Designers and homeowners use LRV to guess how a paint color will look in different spaces.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 LRV Range
Storm Cloud has an LRV of 23, so it sits on the darker side of the spectrum. It reflects about a quarter of the light that hits it, usually reading as a rich, muted blue-gray in most rooms.
In bright natural light, you’ll spot its slate undertones more easily. When the lighting drops, it deepens and leans a bit more gray.
This color is versatile, but honestly, it’s worth testing in your own space since lighting changes everything. Compared to lighter grays with LRVs in the 60–70 range, Storm Cloud feels much more dramatic and grounding.
It really shines as an accent wall, exterior color, or backdrop for lighter trim and furnishings.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 Coordinating Colors
Pairing Storm Cloud with the right shades helps balance its depth and brings out its blue-gray character. Lighter neutrals soften the look, while darker tones add contrast and drama.
Repose Gray SW 7015
You can use Repose Gray SW 7015 if you want a soft backdrop that doesn’t compete with Storm Cloud. This shade is a light gray with subtle warm undertones, so it feels inviting rather than chilly.
Repose Gray works especially well in open layouts. It creates a smooth transition between rooms, letting Storm Cloud stand out on accent walls or cabinetry.
When you pair them, Storm Cloud adds depth and richness, while Repose Gray keeps everything balanced. The contrast is gentle, making it perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or hallways if you’re after a calm but modern vibe.
Peppercorn SW 7674
Peppercorn SW 7674 is a deep charcoal gray that brings bold contrast to Storm Cloud. It’s not as harsh as black, so it plays nicely in both modern and traditional rooms.
If you use Storm Cloud on walls, Peppercorn pops on trim, doors, or built-in shelving. The darker shade grounds the space and gives it a more polished finish.
Pairing Storm Cloud with Peppercorn works well in dining rooms, offices, or entryways when you want a sophisticated atmosphere. Both have cool undertones, so they blend smoothly but still offer strong contrast.
Silver Strand SW 7057
Silver Strand SW 7057 is a soft gray with a hint of blue-green. It feels lighter and more airy compared to Storm Cloud, so it’s a good pick if you want contrast without going too dark.
This pairing works well in spaces where natural light shifts throughout the day. Silver Strand reflects more light, while Storm Cloud absorbs it, giving your room some depth and variety.
When you combine Storm Cloud with Silver Strand, you get a layered look that feels cohesive but not flat. It’s especially nice in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living areas when you’re after a calm, relaxed vibe.
Trim Colors For Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249
When you use Storm Cloud on your walls, the trim color you choose can really shift the mood of the room. Lighter whites keep things fresh and balanced, while warmer tones soften the contrast and make Storm Cloud feel more inviting.
Pure White SW 7005
If you want a trim that feels clean without being too sharp, Pure White SW 7005 is a smart choice. It has a subtle softness, so it doesn’t look harsh next to the depth of Storm Cloud.
This shade works well if you like a crisp look that’s still approachable. It highlights architectural details like crown molding or baseboards without stealing the spotlight from the wall color.
Because Pure White leans neutral, it pairs nicely with both warm and cool accents in your furniture and décor. You can read more about Pure White SW 7005 to see why it’s considered one of the most versatile whites.
Use it if you want trim that feels bright, polished, and timeless, while letting Storm Cloud stay center stage.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White SW 7006 is the brightest, sharpest option here. It delivers a strong contrast that makes Storm Cloud look deeper and more dramatic.
This pairing is best if you love modern or contemporary styles. The cool undertone of Extra White keeps everything looking crisp, especially in rooms with a lot of natural light.
Because it’s so bright, Extra White can sometimes feel a bit stark in low-light spaces. If your room doesn’t get much sunlight, the contrast might feel stronger than you expect.
Choose this trim if you want a bold, high-contrast look that really emphasizes clean lines and makes Storm Cloud stand out.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster SW 7008 brings warmth to the cooler side of Storm Cloud. With its soft, creamy undertones, it creates a gentler contrast that feels more relaxed than a bright white.
This trim color is a good option if you want to soften Storm Cloud without losing definition. It works especially well in bedrooms, living rooms, or any space where you want a calm, welcoming atmosphere.
Because it reflects plenty of light, Alabaster can brighten up darker spaces while keeping things cozy. You can learn more about Alabaster SW 7008 to see why it’s such a popular warm white.
Pair it with Storm Cloud if you want a softer, more traditional feel that balances depth with comfort.
Comparing Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 To Similar Colors
Storm Cloud SW 6249 sits in the blue-gray family, but its depth and undertones shift depending on lighting. Some shades lean cooler or darker, while others bring more warmth or vibrancy, so you’ve got options depending on the mood you want.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 vs Granite Peak SW 6250
Granite Peak SW 6250 is darker and more saturated than Storm Cloud. Where Storm Cloud feels balanced between blue and gray, Granite Peak leans more toward a bold navy-gray.
If you want a softer look, Storm Cloud works better since it has a lighter Light Reflectance Value (LRV 23) compared to Granite Peak’s lower LRV. Granite Peak absorbs more light, so it appears heavier on walls.
Storm Cloud fits well in living rooms or bedrooms where you want calmness. Granite Peak, on the other hand, suits accent walls, cabinetry, or exteriors where a strong statement is desired.
| Color | LRV | Tone | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storm Cloud SW 6249 | 23 | Blue-gray | Calm walls, versatile spaces |
| Granite Peak SW 6250 | 14 | Navy-gray | Bold accents, exteriors |
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 vs Gale Force SW 7605
Gale Force SW 7605 is deeper and moodier than Storm Cloud. It carries more green undertones, which give it a teal-like appearance in certain lighting.
Storm Cloud stays more neutral, leaning into blue-gray without strong green influence. This makes it easier to pair with both warm and cool neutrals.
Gale Force is striking in dining rooms, offices, or exteriors where you want drama. Storm Cloud is more versatile and works better if you want a sophisticated but softer backdrop.
| Color | Undertone | Depth | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storm Cloud SW 6249 | Slate blue-gray | Medium-dark | Balanced interiors |
| Gale Force SW 7605 | Blue-green | Darker | Bold accents, dramatic rooms |
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 vs Needlepoint Navy SW 0032
Needlepoint Navy SW 0032 is a classic, rich navy blue. Compared to Storm Cloud, it has far less gray influence and appears more traditional.
Storm Cloud feels more modern because of its muted gray base. It shifts subtly between blue and gray depending on lighting, while Needlepoint Navy stays consistently deep blue.
If you want a timeless navy for trim, doors, or furniture, Needlepoint Navy is the stronger choice. For walls that feel soft yet moody, Storm Cloud gives you more flexibility.
- Storm Cloud → Softer, gray-balanced, versatile walls
- Needlepoint Navy → Bold, true navy, timeless accents
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 vs Distance SW 6243
Distance SW 6243 is lighter and more airy than Storm Cloud. It leans toward a denim blue with less gray, which makes it feel brighter and more casual.
Storm Cloud, with its lower LRV, reads richer and more grounded. It creates contrast in bright spaces, while Distance feels better in smaller rooms where you want a lighter blue that doesn’t overwhelm.
Distance pairs well with whites and soft neutrals for a fresh look. Storm Cloud pairs nicely with warm whites and muted earth tones for a more sophisticated feel.
| Color | LRV | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| Storm Cloud SW 6249 | 23 | Grounded, moody |
| Distance SW 6243 | 30 | Brighter, casual |
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 vs Serious Gray SW 6256
Serious Gray SW 6256 is closer to a true gray with only a hint of blue. Storm Cloud, by contrast, shows much stronger blue undertones.
If you want a color that reads mostly gray with subtle depth, Serious Gray is the safer option. Storm Cloud will always bring more noticeable blue, especially in natural light.
Serious Gray works well in modern, minimalist spaces where you want neutrality. Storm Cloud is better when you want color presence without going too bold.
- Storm Cloud → Blue-gray, more color impact
- Serious Gray → Neutral gray, understated look
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 vs Smoky Blue SW 7604
Smoky Blue SW 7604 is a softer, medium blue with less gray influence than Storm Cloud. It feels more colorful and cheerful, especially in daylight.
Storm Cloud, while still blue, has that slate-gray base that tones it down. This makes it more versatile for both traditional and modern interiors, while Smoky Blue leans more casual and relaxed.
Smoky Blue works well in bedrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms where you want a friendly, inviting feel. Storm Cloud is better suited for living rooms, offices, or exteriors where you want depth and sophistication.
| Color | Undertone | Mood |
|---|---|---|
| Storm Cloud SW 6249 | Blue-gray | Sophisticated, grounded |
| Smoky Blue SW 7604 | Medium blue | Relaxed, inviting |
Complementary Colors To Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249
Pairing Storm Cloud with warm, earthy tones brings balance and contrast. These combinations really pull out the depth of the blue-gray, while adding some much-needed warmth and interest to your space.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 with Armagnac SW 6354
When you mix Storm Cloud with Armagnac SW 6354, you get a striking blend of cool and warm. Storm Cloud’s blue-gray feels calm and steady, while Armagnac’s orange-brown kicks in with energy and warmth.
This combo works especially well in living or dining areas if you’re after a cozy, sophisticated vibe. Try Armagnac accents—maybe throw pillows or a feature wall—to keep Storm Cloud from looking too heavy.
Natural wood furniture ties these two shades together nicely. The palette ends up feeling inviting and grounded, which is always a win.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 with Copper Harbor SW 6634
Pairing Storm Cloud with Copper Harbor SW 6634 gives you a bold contrast. Copper Harbor’s deep burnt orange pops against the coolness of Storm Cloud.
This duo feels right if you want to highlight details or add a bit of drama. Picture Storm Cloud walls with Copper Harbor trim—it really frames a space.
If you want something softer, just bring in Copper Harbor with décor like rugs, lamps, or artwork. The warm orange makes Storm Cloud’s blue undertones stand out even more.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 with Wheat Penny SW 7705
Wheat Penny SW 7705 is a coppery brown that pairs nicely with Storm Cloud. Together, these two make a palette that’s warm but not overwhelming at all.
This mix feels perfect for bedrooms or offices where you want comfort and a bit of style. Wheat Penny adds warmth, but doesn’t overpower Storm Cloud’s steady vibe.
Try Wheat Penny as an accent wall or in furniture finishes. It works well with leather, brass, or terracotta, making everything feel cohesive and inviting.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 with Pueblo SW 7711
Combine Storm Cloud with Pueblo SW 7711 and you’ll get a grounded, earthy look. Pueblo is a muted terracotta that balances Storm Cloud’s coolness with gentle warmth.
This pairing works in kitchens, entryways, or even outdoor spaces. Pueblo highlights cabinetry, doors, or trim while Storm Cloud sits quietly in the background.
Adding natural textures—think clay pots, woven baskets, or stone—pulls everything together. The palette feels natural and balanced, but it’s not shouting for attention.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 with Cavern Clay SW 7701
Cavern Clay SW 7701 is a warm, desert-inspired shade that plays really well with Storm Cloud. The earthy orange-brown stands out against Storm Cloud’s blue-gray, and the whole look feels inviting.
This combo works in living spaces where you want a little modern coolness mixed with rustic warmth. Storm Cloud walls with Cavern Clay accents can make a room feel stylish, but still comfortable.
Bring in Cavern Clay through textiles, pottery, or accent furniture. It looks especially cohesive when you add wood or stone—nature just makes these colors work together.
Storm Cloud by Sherwin Williams SW 6249 with Renwick Golden Oak SW 2824
Pairing Storm Cloud with Renwick Golden Oak SW 2824 gives you a classic, timeless look. Renwick Golden Oak brings in a warm golden-brown tone that softens Storm Cloud’s cool edge.
This combo works especially well for traditional interiors. If you want to highlight wood details, you’re in luck—Golden Oak trim, cabinetry, or flooring meshes naturally with Storm Cloud walls.
Try adding metallic accents like brass or bronze to boost the warmth of Renwick Golden Oak. The whole vibe feels rich and welcoming, with a touch of balance that’s hard to beat.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.