Urbane Bronze (SW 7048) by Sherwin-Williams has become one of the most talked-about paint colors since it was named Color of the Year in 2021. This deep, rich brownish-gray brings a touch of nature indoors with its earthy undertones that create a feeling of warmth and welcome in any space. Urbane Bronze offers a perfect balance of sophistication and comfort, making it versatile enough for both modern and traditional homes.
This stunning neutral works well in various lighting conditions, though it tends to appear darker in rooms with less natural light. You might notice slight green undertones in certain settings, which adds to its organic appeal. Urbane Bronze pairs beautifully with natural materials like woven wicker, wood finishes, and textiles that enhance its connection to the outdoors.
When used on walls, cabinets, or as an accent color, Urbane Bronze creates a grounding effect that can transform ordinary spaces into cozy, refined environments. Its depth provides a perfect backdrop for lighter trim colors like Modern Gray or creamy whites that help brighten and balance its rich intensity.
Key Takeaways
- Urbane Bronze SW 7048 is a versatile brownish-gray neutral that was Sherwin-Williams’ 2021 Color of the Year, offering sophistication while remaining grounded in nature.
- The paint color changes appearance based on lighting conditions, appearing darker in rooms with less natural light and showing subtle green undertones in certain settings.
- Pair Urbane Bronze with lighter neutrals for trim and natural materials like wood and wicker to create a balanced, welcoming space that feels both modern and timeless.
What Color is Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048?
Urbane Bronze SW 7048 is a deep, earthy tone that blends brown, gray, and subtle bronze undertones to create a sophisticated neutral with remarkable depth.
Color Family
Urbane Bronze SW 7048 belongs to the warm greige family, sitting at the intersection of brown and gray with distinct bronze undertones. It’s often described as a brownish-gray or deep earthy brown that feels rooted in nature. This versatile neutral leans toward the darker end of the spectrum, making it perfect for creating dramatic spaces or serving as an accent color.
Unlike purely cool grays, Urbane Bronze carries warmth that makes spaces feel cozy and inviting. The color’s natural inspiration gives it a timeless quality that works well in both modern and traditional settings. When Sherwin Williams named it their 2021 Color of the Year, they highlighted its ability to convey “warmth and welcome” while maintaining a minimalist appeal.
Color Codes (Hex, RGB, LRV)
The specific color values for Urbane Bronze SW 7048 help you understand its exact shade and how it might appear in different lighting conditions:
Hex Code: #6A6159
RGB Values: R:106, G:97, B:89
Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 8
With an LRV of 8, Urbane Bronze is considered a dark color that absorbs more light than it reflects. This low LRV means it will appear deeper and richer in small spaces or rooms with limited natural light. In bright, sun-filled areas, you’ll notice more of its subtle undertones and dimension.
The color’s darkness makes it excellent for creating contrast when paired with lighter neutrals. You can use Urbane Bronze as an accent wall, exterior trim color, or even on cabinetry to add sophistication to your space.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 Undertones
Urbane Bronze has a wonderful greige base with noticeable green undertones. This makes it a complex, sophisticated color that shifts slightly depending on lighting conditions.
When you look at Urbane Bronze in different spaces, you might notice how it changes. Sometimes it appears more brown, while other times the gray or green elements become more prominent.
The green undertone gives this color its connection to nature. It feels earthy and grounded, perfect for creating calm spaces in your home.
This color works beautifully in rooms where you want to feel connected to the outdoors. The natural undertones create a tranquil feeling that many find soothing.
Light affects how you’ll see the undertones. In bright spaces, the gray might stand out more. In dimmer areas, the brown and green elements often become richer and more noticeable.
The balanced undertones help Urbane Bronze avoid feeling too cool or too warm. Instead, you get a neutral that brings sophistication to any space while maintaining a nature-inspired vibe.
How Does Lighting Affect Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048?
Lighting dramatically changes how Urbane Bronze appears in your space, shifting from deep and moody to warmer and more vibrant depending on the light source and time of day.
Natural Lighting
In south-facing rooms, Urbane Bronze warms up considerably. The afternoon western light brings out richer brown undertones, making the color appear slightly lighter and more inviting. You’ll notice it feels less gray and more bronze in these warm-light situations.
North-facing rooms tell a different story. Here, Urbane Bronze deepens and leans into its cooler tones. The color appears more dramatic and may even look darker than expected.
Time of day matters too! Morning light tends to bring out Urbane Bronze’s neutral qualities, while evening light enhances its depth and richness. This versatility makes it perfect for spaces where you want a color that evolves throughout the day.
Artificial Lighting
Warm bulbs (2700K-3000K) complement Urbane Bronze beautifully. They highlight the bronzy brown undertones and create a cozy, inviting atmosphere. This lighting choice is perfect for living rooms or bedrooms where you want to enhance the color’s warmth.
Cool white bulbs (3500K-4100K) push Urbane Bronze toward its cooler side. The color appears more gray and sophisticated under this lighting, making it excellent for modern spaces.
LED lighting can sometimes flatten Urbane Bronze’s dimension. To preserve its rich character, try using multiple light sources at different heights rather than relying on a single overhead fixture.
Dimmer switches give you control over how the color presents itself. At full brightness, you’ll see more detail in the color, while dimmed lighting creates a more dramatic, enveloping effect.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 LRV (Light Reflectance Value)
Urbane Bronze has a low LRV, making it a deep, rich color that absorbs more light than it reflects.
What is LRV?
LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value. It measures how much light a color reflects versus absorbs. The scale runs from 0 to 100.
A value of 0 means the color absorbs all light (pure black), while 100 reflects all light (pure white). Most colors fall somewhere in between.
LRV is super helpful when choosing paint colors! It helps you understand how dark or light a color will appear in your space.
Colors with lower LRVs create cozier, more intimate spaces. Higher LRV colors make rooms feel larger and brighter.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 LRV Range
Urbane Bronze has an LRV of about 8.0-8.31. This is quite low on the scale, confirming it’s a dark, rich color.
Because of this low LRV, Urbane Bronze absorbs most of the light that hits it. This gives it depth and makes it perfect for creating dramatic focal points.
You’ll find this color appears darker in rooms with little natural light. In bright spaces, you’ll see more of its brownish-gray undertones.
Color Specifications:
- LRV: 8.0-8.31
- RGB Values: 86, 81, 75
- HEX Code: #56514B
When using Urbane Bronze, you might want to balance it with lighter colors to prevent spaces from feeling too dark.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 Coordinating Colors
Urbane Bronze pairs beautifully with several colors that enhance its rich, deep tone while creating balanced and visually appealing spaces. The right coordinating colors can help you achieve the perfect contrast or harmony in your design.
Pure White SW 7005
Pure White creates a striking contrast when paired with Urbane Bronze. This crisp, clean white has no undertones that might clash with the warm depth of Urbane Bronze.
You’ll find this combination particularly effective for trim work where Urbane Bronze walls meet Pure White moldings and door frames. The dramatic contrast can define architectural features in your space.
For a modern look, try using Urbane Bronze as an accent wall with Pure White on the remaining walls. This approach gives you the drama of the darker color without overwhelming the room.
In kitchens, Pure White cabinets against an Urbane Bronze island or accent wall creates a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere.
Repose Gray SW 7015
Repose Gray offers a soft, neutral partner for Urbane Bronze that creates a calming, cohesive color scheme. This versatile light gray has subtle warm undertones that complement Urbane Bronze’s depth.
When you use these colors together, you create a layered neutral palette that feels sophisticated and grounded. Try Repose Gray on main walls with Urbane Bronze for accent furniture or architectural details.
This pairing works wonderfully in open floor plans where you want connected spaces to feel cohesive but distinct. The colors share a similar warmth that helps them blend seamlessly.
In bedrooms, Repose Gray walls with Urbane Bronze on the bed wall creates a cozy, restful retreat that isn’t too dark or heavy.
Agreeable Gray SW 7029
Agreeable Gray and Urbane Bronze create a warm, inviting palette that feels both modern and timeless. Agreeable Gray is a popular greige (gray-beige) that shares undertones with Urbane Bronze but in a much lighter form.
You’ll notice how these colors flow naturally together in adjoining spaces. Use Agreeable Gray in main living areas and Urbane Bronze in dining rooms or studies for a cohesive look throughout your home.
For furniture pieces, Urbane Bronze provides a striking accent against Agreeable Gray walls. Consider painting built-ins or furniture in Urbane Bronze for a custom, designer look.
This combination also works beautifully in exterior applications, with Agreeable Gray siding and Urbane Bronze for shutters, doors, or trim details.
Trim Colors for Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048
Choosing the right trim color to pair with Urbane Bronze creates stunning contrast and highlights architectural details in your space. White trims work particularly well against this rich gray-brown shade, adding crispness and definition.
Extra White SW 7006
Extra White is a bright, clean white that creates sharp contrast when paired with Urbane Bronze. This pairing works wonderfully for modern and contemporary spaces where you want a bold, dramatic look.
The stark white trim makes Urbane Bronze appear even richer and more saturated on your walls. This combination is perfect for window trim, door casings, and baseboards when you want architectural details to stand out boldly.
Extra White stays true to its color in different lighting conditions, making it reliable throughout the day. For rooms with Urbane Bronze accent walls, Extra White trim helps balance the deeper tone and prevents the space from feeling too dark or heavy.
Alabaster SW 7008
Alabaster offers a softer approach to trim with Urbane Bronze. This warm white has subtle creamy undertones that create a more harmonious and less stark contrast than brighter whites.
Your window trim in Alabaster will frame views beautifully while complementing the earthy qualities of Urbane Bronze. The softness of Alabaster makes this pairing ideal for traditional, farmhouse, or transitional spaces where you want sophistication without harshness.
Alabaster’s warmth adds a welcoming quality to rooms painted in Urbane Bronze. This combination creates an elegant, timeless look that works especially well in living rooms and bedrooms where you want a cozy yet refined atmosphere.
Snowbound SW 7004
Snowbound strikes a perfect middle ground with its slightly warm white tone that isn’t quite as creamy as Alabaster nor as bright as Extra White. This versatile trim color pairs beautifully with Urbane Bronze in various lighting conditions.
You’ll notice Snowbound has the slightest hint of gray undertones, creating a subtle connection with the gray notes in Urbane Bronze. This makes for a sophisticated pairing that feels intentional and cohesive.
For window trim and architectural details, Snowbound provides definition without overwhelming the rich depth of Urbane Bronze. This combination works wonderfully in spaces where you want a balanced, contemporary look that isn’t too stark or too soft.
Real World Examples of Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 in Different Spaces
Urbane Bronze shows its versatility across many areas of the home, creating different moods depending on the space and lighting conditions.
Living Rooms
Urbane Bronze creates a cozy, grounded feeling in living rooms. Many homeowners use it as an accent wall behind the fireplace or TV to create a focal point. The brownish-gray tone works beautifully with natural elements like wood beams and stone.
When paired with cream-colored sofas and gold accents, the color creates a sophisticated look that’s both modern and timeless. In rooms with lots of natural light, Urbane Bronze walls provide contrast without feeling heavy.
For a bolder approach, some designers use this color on all walls in living rooms with high ceilings, balancing the depth with lighter furniture and plenty of texture.
Popular Living Room Pairings:
- Light oak floors
- Cream or white upholstery
- Brass or gold lighting fixtures
- Green plants for contrast
Bedrooms
In bedrooms, Urbane Bronze creates a cocoon-like atmosphere that promotes rest. The deep tone makes the space feel intimate and peaceful when used on all walls.
Many people use this color on just the headboard wall for a dramatic backdrop that anchors the bed. The earthy quality of Urbane Bronze works wonderfully with natural bedding materials like linen and cotton in neutral tones.
For a more luxurious feel, pair it with velvet headboards in emerald green or navy blue. The color also works well with both warm and cool lighting, maintaining its rich character throughout the day and evening.
Kitchens
Urbane Bronze makes a stunning statement on kitchen cabinets. The color brings sophistication to modern kitchens, especially when paired with white quartz countertops and gold hardware.
For a more subtle approach, many homeowners use it on just the island cabinetry, creating a grounding centerpiece in the kitchen. The color’s brownish undertones complement wood floors beautifully, creating a cohesive look.
In commercial kitchen spaces, Urbane Bronze adds a professional, high-end feel without seeming too dark or heavy. The color also hides fingerprints and cooking splatters better than lighter options.
Kitchen Applications:
- All cabinetry for a dramatic look
- Lower cabinets only with white uppers
- Kitchen island base
- Pantry door
- Range hood accent
Bathrooms
Bathrooms painted in Urbane Bronze feel like luxurious spa retreats. The color creates a calming backdrop for white fixtures and natural materials like marble and wood.
Many homeowners use this color on vanity cabinets paired with brass hardware and light countertops. The contrast creates a sophisticated, high-end look that feels both modern and timeless.
For smaller powder rooms, Urbane Bronze on all walls creates a jewel-box effect, especially when paired with good lighting and a statement mirror. The color’s depth makes the space feel intentional and designed.
In larger bathrooms, using this color on an accent wall behind a freestanding tub creates a focal point that enhances the relaxation experience.
Home Offices
Home offices benefit from Urbane Bronze’s ability to create focus and reduce visual distractions. The color feels professional without being cold or corporate.
Many people paint just the wall behind their desk to create a zoom-worthy backdrop for video calls. The neutral brown-gray tone looks sophisticated on camera and provides good contrast for your face.
When paired with wood furniture and leather accents, Urbane Bronze creates a study-like atmosphere that encourages productivity. The color also works well with both traditional and modern office furniture styles.
Adding plants and natural elements helps soften the space and prevents it from feeling too dark or heavy.
Exteriors
Urbane Bronze has become increasingly popular for exterior applications. As a main house color, it creates a strong, grounded presence that stands out from the typical grays and beiges.
Many homeowners use it on front doors for a sophisticated entryway that makes a statement without being too bold. The color looks particularly striking against white trim and natural stone elements.
For modern homes, Urbane Bronze siding with black window frames creates a contemporary look that feels both current and timeless. The color changes throughout the day with the sunlight, revealing more of its brown undertones in bright conditions.
On commercial exteriors, Urbane Bronze offers a sophisticated alternative to black, providing depth and character while still appearing professional.
Comparing Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 to Similar Colors
Urbane Bronze is a rich, earthy color that brings warmth and depth to any space. Let’s look at how it compares to other popular Sherwin Williams shades to help you find your perfect match.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 vs Peppercorn SW 7674
Urbane Bronze and Peppercorn are both deep, sophisticated colors, but they have noticeable differences. Urbane Bronze leans more brown with warm undertones, while Peppercorn has stronger blue-gray undertones.
In natural light, Urbane Bronze feels more earthy and grounded. Peppercorn appears cooler and slightly more modern.
When you’re deciding between these two, think about your existing decor. Urbane Bronze pairs beautifully with warm woods and brass accents. Peppercorn works better with cooler metals like chrome or silver.
For trim colors, both work well with crisp whites, but Urbane Bronze also complements creamy off-whites due to its warmth.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 vs Grizzle Gray SW 7068
Urbane Bronze and Grizzle Gray share a similar depth, but Grizzle Gray has more true gray in its composition. Urbane Bronze contains those distinctive brown undertones that give it more warmth.
In rooms with northern exposure, Grizzle Gray can feel slightly cooler. Urbane Bronze maintains its warmth even in cooler light.
For exterior applications, both provide a rich, dramatic look. Urbane Bronze tends to pair better with natural stone and wood elements.
When coordinating with other colors, Grizzle Gray works well with blues and greens like Evergreen Fog SW 9130. Urbane Bronze plays nicely with terracottas and warm neutrals.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 vs Gauntlet Gray SW 7019
Gauntlet Gray is significantly lighter than Urbane Bronze. It’s a medium-dark gray with subtle warm undertones, while Urbane Bronze is deeper with more prominent brown notes.
If you’re looking for drama and boldness, Urbane Bronze delivers more impact. Gauntlet Gray offers a softer approach that’s less commanding.
In smaller spaces, Gauntlet Gray might be the better choice as it won’t make the room feel as closed in. Urbane Bronze is perfect for creating accent walls or for larger rooms where you want coziness.
Both colors work well with Evergreen Fog SW 9130, creating different but equally pleasing combinations.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 vs Black Fox SW 7020
Black Fox is Urbane Bronze’s slightly darker cousin. Both colors share brown undertones, but Black Fox leans more into the dark brown territory while Urbane Bronze has more gray influence.
In direct sunlight, Black Fox can look almost chocolatey. Urbane Bronze maintains its complex gray-brown balance.
For cabinets and furniture, both colors create a striking look. Black Fox might show dust and fingerprints more readily due to its darker nature.
When paired with whites, Black Fox creates more contrast. Urbane Bronze offers a slightly softer transition, making it versatile for various design styles from modern to traditional.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 vs Tricorn Black SW 6258
Tricorn Black is a true, deep black while Urbane Bronze is a dark gray-brown. This makes them dramatically different in application and feel.
Using Tricorn Black creates high-contrast, modern spaces. Urbane Bronze delivers rich depth without the starkness of black.
For exterior trim and doors, both make a statement. Tricorn Black is more dramatic and contemporary, while Urbane Bronze feels more natural and timeless.
When you’re pairing with brighter colors, Tricorn Black can sometimes feel harsh. Urbane Bronze offers more flexibility and forgiveness in color schemes.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 vs Iron Ore SW 7069
Iron Ore is darker than Urbane Bronze with stronger charcoal undertones. Urbane Bronze has more warmth and brown influence in its composition.
In shadowy areas, Iron Ore can appear almost black. Urbane Bronze retains its brownish character even in lower light.
For accent pieces like kitchen islands or fireplace surrounds, both create focal points. Iron Ore creates more drama, while Urbane Bronze offers a softer, earthier statement.
When coordinating with Evergreen Fog SW 9130, Urbane Bronze creates a more harmonious, nature-inspired palette. Iron Ore creates a stronger contrast with more visual tension.
Complementary Colors to Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048
Urbane Bronze pairs beautifully with several colors that enhance its rich, earthy tone. These complementary shades create balanced, harmonious spaces whether you’re using Urbane Bronze as an accent or main color.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 with Accessible Beige SW 7036
Accessible Beige creates a warm, inviting partnership with Urbane Bronze. This neutral beige has subtle warm undertones that complement the deep brown-gray of Urbane Bronze perfectly.
When you combine these colors, you get a sophisticated palette that works in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. Accessible Beige softens the boldness of Urbane Bronze, creating balance in your space.
Try using Accessible Beige on main walls with Urbane Bronze as an accent wall or trim. This combination works especially well in spaces with natural light, where the contrast between light and dark creates visual interest without overwhelming the room.
For furniture, consider natural wood tones that bridge these two colors. Textiles in cream or taupe will complete the look.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 with Shoji White SW 7042
Shoji White offers a soft, creamy contrast to Urbane Bronze’s deep tones. This off-white has warm undertones that prevent the pairing from feeling stark or cold.
The combination creates a modern yet timeless look for your home. Shoji White brightens spaces while Urbane Bronze adds depth and drama. This pairing works beautifully in open floor plans where you want visual separation without jarring transitions.
For the best results, use Shoji White on ceilings and most walls, with Urbane Bronze as an accent on architectural features, doors, or furniture. The contrast highlights unique elements in your home.
Add metal accents in brushed brass or copper to enhance the warmth of this color scheme. Natural elements like woven baskets or stone complement these colors beautifully.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 with Natural Choice SW 7011
Natural Choice provides a subtle, warm neutral that works harmoniously with Urbane Bronze. This soft off-white has yellow undertones that create a gentle contrast with Urbane Bronze’s depth.
You’ll find this combination creates a cozy, grounded feeling in living spaces. Natural Choice lightens rooms while maintaining warmth, preventing Urbane Bronze from feeling too heavy or dark.
For a balanced look, paint larger walls with Natural Choice and use Urbane Bronze for accent walls, trim, or furniture pieces. This approach creates interest without overwhelming your space.
The pairing works especially well in rooms with lots of natural textures like wood, leather, and natural fibers. Add plants to bring life to this earthy color scheme.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 with Natural Tan SW 7567
Natural Tan brings a warm, sandy hue that complements Urbane Bronze beautifully. This pairing creates a rich, earthy palette reminiscent of natural landscapes.
When you combine these colors, you create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere perfect for gathering spaces. Natural Tan softens the intensity of Urbane Bronze while enhancing its earthy qualities.
Try using Natural Tan for main living areas with Urbane Bronze as an accent on built-ins, doors, or furniture. This combination works well in spaces with natural light that highlights the subtle variations between these colors.
Add texture through natural materials like jute rugs, wooden furniture, and stone accents. Greenery brings these earth-inspired colors to life, completing your design.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 with Meadowlark SW 7522
Meadowlark offers a surprising yet beautiful complement to Urbane Bronze. This soft, muted green creates a nature-inspired palette when paired with the deep bronze.
Your space will feel calming and balanced with this combination. Meadowlark adds a fresh, organic quality while Urbane Bronze grounds the space with its rich depth.
For best results, use Meadowlark in areas where you want to create a sense of openness and Urbane Bronze where you want definition or focus. This might mean Meadowlark on main walls with Urbane Bronze on built-ins or furniture.
Natural light enhances this pairing, bringing out the subtle undertones in both colors. Add natural elements like wood, stone, or plants to reinforce the organic feel of this color scheme.
Urbane Bronze by Sherwin Williams SW 7048 with Pewter Cast SW 7673
Pewter Cast creates a sophisticated, monochromatic look when paired with Urbane Bronze. This lighter gray with subtle warm undertones complements the deeper Urbane Bronze beautifully.
You’ll achieve a timeless, elegant atmosphere with this combination. The colors share similar undertones but differ in depth, creating subtle contrast rather than stark differences.
Try using Pewter Cast on walls with Urbane Bronze on trim, doors, or built-ins for a cohesive look. This pairing works exceptionally well in home offices, dining rooms, or bedrooms where you want a serene, unified feel.
Add interest through textures rather than additional colors. Consider velvet, linen, or wool textiles and metallic accents in silver or champagne to enhance this refined color scheme.
Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.