Eider White SW 7014- Paint Color Review

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A little color reality check will be kicked off with the fact that only 1 in 4 people feel confident in picking the right shade of white. Is it surprising: it is right? Eider White SW 7014 is a color that perfectly suits anyone walking through the paint aisle.

This off-white is not your average shade because it stands out with a special charm and elegance. It walks the line between gray and off-white and adds a hint of—dare we say—mystery. Imagine representing an effortlessly cool persona infused with a soft edge, and as you get ready to dive deep into everything Eider White has to offer, let’s roll into this exciting adventure together.

What Color Is Sherwin Williams Eider White?

Hint: It’s not really “white-white.”

Eider White is a light grayish-white with undertones that can shift, and that’s what makes it fascinating. Is it a soft, cozy white? A warm gray? The answer is: it’s a bit of both, depending on the lighting, surroundings, and even the other colors in the room. If you’re thinking it might be a predictable choice, think again. It’s the shade for someone who wants white walls but wants some character, too.

Eider White’s LRV: What These Mean for Your Space

Understanding LRV: Why It Matters

In the world of paint, LRV, or Light Reflectance Value, is a crucial metric that can give you a good idea of how light or dark a color will appear. Essentially, LRV is a scale from 0 to 100, where 0 is pitch black (absorbing all light) and 100 is pure white (reflecting all light). Eider White’s LRV comes in at 73, placing it on the lighter side of the scale but not as bright or reflective as a true white or stark off-white.

With an LRV of 73, Eider White is a soft, light neutral that can help brighten spaces without creating the “blinding white” effect. It reflects enough light to open up a room but it has enough depth to keep it from feeling sterile or overly bright. This makes it a versatile option for those who want a light, airy feel with a hint of sophistication.

Here’s how the LRV of 73 plays out in different spaces:

• Small or Dark Rooms: Eider White can help make smaller rooms feel a bit more open, but keep in mind that it’s not as reflective as some brighter whites. In dimly lit rooms, the color might come across as a soft gray rather than a bright off-white. If you want a true brightening effect, consider pairing it with ample lighting.
• Bright, Open Spaces: In naturally bright or open spaces, Eider White really shines. Its LRV makes it light enough to enhance the airiness of the room, while its subtle undertones prevent it from looking washed out in direct sunlight. In these settings, it creates a calm, grounded feel without being overpowering.

Is Sherwin Williams Eider White a Warm or Cool Paint Color?

Great question! Eider White can be a bit of a chameleon when it comes to warmth versus coolness, and that’s part of what makes it intriguing. Its complexity lies in its undertones—soft, subtle, and ever so slightly shifting depending on the light. Let’s break it down so you can decide if it leans warm or cool for your space.

Warm with a Cool Twist

Eider White is technically classified as a warm gray, but with a unique twist. Unlike traditional warm grays that veer into beige or creamy territory, Eider White stays closer to a soft, gray-based white. It has the faintest hints of lavender or pink undertones, giving it a slight “cooling effect” in certain lighting conditions. So, while it sits on the warmer side of white-gray, those undertones can make it lean cooler when natural or artificial light hits it a certain way.

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When to Use Eider White for Warmth or Coolness

So, is Eider White warm or cool? The lighting of your room will give you that anwer. But I can say that its subtle undertones give it versatility across both warm and cool spaces. Here’s how to leverage it depending on your design goals and lighting situation:

• For a Warm, Inviting Feel: Eier may be the perfect option for you if you want a warm, cozy vibe but don’y want any yellow showing up. It offers a warm gray base that feels inviting and approachable, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or any space where warmth is desired.
• For a Balanced, Neutral Look: I like Eider White’s versatility. Lighting permitting, it shines in spaces where you want a color that’s neither too warm nor too cool. But its ability to adapt to various lighting conditions makes it a safe choice for open, multi-use spaces where a balanced, neutral tone is needed.
• For a Cooler, Sophisticated Tone: In spaces with cool lighting or northern exposure, Eider White reveals its cooler side, making it suitable for modern or minimalist designs where you want a hint of warmth but with a cooler, slightly more refined finish.

In Summary: A Color with Warmth and Cool Potential

I’d say Eider White has a complex personality. But it is a warm light gray at heart. It’s great because holds the ability to shift subtly based on its lighting, giving it a unique balance between warmth and coolness. It’s more of a “soft warm” that adapts to your room’s vibe—warm and inviting in brighter settings and slightly cool in dimmer or northern-facing spaces.

So, if you’re torn between a warm and cool neutral, Eider White just might be your perfect middle ground. It’s flexible, subtle, and adds that touch of sophistication with its barely-there undertones. Perfect for those who want a warm, versatile color that can “play cool” when needed!

Undertones: The Real MVPs

The first thing to understand about Eider White is its undertones. They’re a little sneaky! Here’s how they show up:

1. A Soft Gray Undertone: Eider White features a gentle gray undertone that keeps it grounded while presenting a soft appearance. This undertone helps it avoid the stark look that some whites can have in brighter spaces: it softens the overall appearance. This gray influence keeps the space feeling modern and flexible, so it is perfect for both contemporary and customary settings.
2. A Touch of Lavender or Pink (No Joke!): The big surprise with Eider White is the potential hint of lavender or pink. It’s faint, but if you look closely in certain lights, there’s a bit of a cool pink tone that sneaks in. This doesn’t mean your walls will look pink, but it does give Eider White a unique depth that stands out when compared to other off-whites. It’s something to consider if you’re pairing it with blues or other cool tones, as this can bring out the lavender a bit more.
3. The Warm-Cool Balancing Act: Depending on the light, Eider White can look warmer or cooler. In rooms with natural, soft lighting, it leans toward a warmer, inviting gray. But in a north-facing room or a space with a lot of blue tones, you might notice it take on a cooler, crisper look. This quality makes it an adaptable choice but also means you’ll want to test it before committing, especially if you’re looking for a specific feel in your room.

Natural and Artificial Lighting: A Big Deal

Lighting is where Eider White truly reveals its versatility (or its trickiness). Let’s break it down room by room to see how it behaves.

• North-Facing Rooms: North-facing light is cooler and can sometimes make colors look a bit stark. Eider White’s gray undertone works well here, as it adds a hint of warmth without veering too cold. If you’re using it in a north-facing room, you might notice the subtle lavender undertone a bit more, so be sure it complements any existing color schemes.
• South-Facing Rooms: In south-facing rooms, where the light is warmer, Eider White tends to show its best self. The warmer light brings out a gentle warmth in Eider White, making it feel airy and cozy at the same time. If you want a soft, inviting space that isn’t overwhelmingly bright, south-facing rooms will let Eider White shine naturally.
• Artificial Lighting: Light bulbs can alter Eider White’s appearance, so it’s essential to choose carefully. Incandescent bulbs, which emit a warm glow, can make Eider White appear warmer. Fluorescent bulbs, which I do not recommend, might accentuate its cooler side, bringing out any gray or lavender undertones. LED lighting falls somewhere in between and is generally a safe bet if you want a more balanced look.

Is Eider White a Good Exterior Paint Color?

You might be wondering if Eider White’s subtle charm can translate well to an exterior setting. After all, exterior colors are a whole different ballgame—they’re exposed to intense sunlight, varying weather conditions, and generally larger surfaces than what you find inside. So, let’s dive into whether it’s a good fit for outdoor use.

How Eider White Reacts to Natural Light Outdoors

When it comes to outdoor use, it’s Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 73 is high enough to keep it bright without being blinding. This makes it a viable choice for exteriors, especially if you want something softer than a stark white but still light enough to brighten your home’s facade. However, the outdoors has a way of emphasizing certain undertones, so it’s worth considering how it’s gray and subtle lavender-pink undertones will react to natural light:

• Bright Sunlight: In direct, bright sunlight, Eider White can look almost like a soft, slightly warm off-white. The gray undertones keep it from appearing too harsh, while the lightness of the color will reflect sunlight, keeping it relatively cool and crisp. This makes it an excellent choice if you want a light, airy exterior without the intensity of pure white.
• Shaded or Cloudy Conditions: On cloudy days or in shaded areas, Eider White may lean into its gray and lavender undertones, giving it a slightly cooler cast. This variation can add depth and interest to your home’s exterior, though it’s essential to consider your surroundings. If you live in a heavily shaded area, the color may appear closer to a light gray than a warm white.

Pairing Eider White with Exterior Accents

This is adaptable color which makes it ideal for pairing with a variety of exterior accents. Whether you prefer a modern farmhouse look with black trim or a more traditional style with natural wood or stone accents, Eider White provides a neutral canvas that can adapt to different styles.

Here are some accent options to consider:

• Black or Charcoal Trim: For a high-contrast look, black or charcoal trim (like Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black or Iron Ore) pairs beautifully with Eider White. This combination gives an exterior a modern, crisp edge and allows it’s softness to stand out against the bold trim.
• Natural Wood or Stone Elements: Natural wood accents or stonework can bring warmth and texture to Eider White’s cool neutrality. It’s versatility complements both warm-toned stone or wood, creating a cohesive look that feels grounded and inviting.
• Muted Greens and Blues: For a softer, more coastal-inspired look, try accent colors in muted greens (like Sherwin Williams Sea Salt) or soft blues. Colors like this can bring out Eider the warmth and add that tranquil, beachy feel to your exterior.

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Durability and Maintenance Considerations

While a gorgeous option for the exterior, light colors like Eider White can be a double-edged sword. The plus side is that they don’t fade quite like darker colors, meaning it’s appearance will stay relatively consistent over time.

However, light shades can show dirt more quickly, especially in high-traffic or exposed areas. If you live in a region with a lot of rain, dust, or pollen, this is a colro that may require occasional cleaning to maintain its fresh look. Fortunately, a good exterior paint finish and an annual wash should keep it looking sharp.

Is Eider White Right for Your Exterior?

I think it is an excellent choice for exteriors if you’re after a light, neutral color with just enough warmth to avoid feeling stark. Its versatility make is able to adapt to a variety of design styles, everything from modern to classic, while the subtle gray undertones provide depth and sophistication. Just keep in mind its undertone variations in shaded areas and its maintenance requirements in dirt-prone regions.

It’s a solid exterior choice that offers a sophisticated, adaptable look with a hint of warmth. Whether paired with bold black trim or natural stone accents, it brings a classic, timeless appeal to outdoor spaces without overpowering the overall design.

What Are the Best Trim Colors to Go with Eider White?

Choosing the right trim color to complement Eider White can elevate its soft, versatile look, creating just the right contrast or harmony depending on the mood you’re aiming for. Here are a few top choices to consider:

• Pure White (Sherwin Williams SW 7005): If you want a crisp, clean look, Pure White offers just enough brightness to contrast with Eider White’s warmth without overpowering it. It’s a classic choice that gives definition while maintaining a soft, seamless flow.
• High Reflective White (Sherwin Williams SW 7757): For an even sharper contrast, High Reflective White is one of Sherwin Williams’ brightest whites. It makes Eider White feel richer and more grounded, creating a striking and modern look.
• Alabaster (Sherwin Williams SW 7008): For a subtle, warm pairing, Alabaster is a beautiful option. This creamy white has a gentle warmth that complements Eider White’s undertones, giving a soft, cohesive feel—perfect for a relaxed, traditional vibe.
• Agreeable Gray (Sherwin Williams SW 7029): For those looking for a tone-on-tone approach, Agreeable Gray provides a slight contrast without stepping too far from Eider White’s warmth. This pairing works well in modern, monochromatic designs, adding depth while keeping it neutral.

Each of these trims can bring out a different side of Eider White, so choose based on whether you want a clean, bright contrast or a soft, complementary warmth.

WHATS THE BEST WAY TO SAMPLE?

Complementary Colors for Eider White

A cohesive color palette enhances Eider White’s strengths. Here are some pairing ideas to help you create a harmonious look.

What is the Benjamin Moore Paint Color Equivalent to Eider White?

If you’re a fan of Eider White but want a similar color in the Benjamin Moore line, Classic Gray (OC-23) is one of the closest matches. Classic Gray shares the soft, warm-gray tone with just a hint of warmth. It’s also a very light, subtle neutral, though it leans slightly less gray than Eider White and has a touch more warmth.

Another option is Balboa Mist (OC-27), which has similar undertones and offers a warm gray that works well in both bright and shaded spaces. While Balboa Mist is a tad darker, it delivers a similar neutral elegance, making it a great alternative for those looking for a bit more depth.

I need to note, if you are thinking about color matching, please get a sample of the color first. This will ensure you like the color, and it is what you were expecting.

Comparing Eider White to Similar Colors

Eider White is unique, but there are a few comparable colors worth mentioning. Let’s look at some of its “competitors” to see how it stacks up.

Eider White vs Repose Gray

Both of these colors are both popular light neutrals, but they differ in tone and feel, making each one suited for different design needs.

• Color and Undertones: Eider White (SW 7014) has a light gray base with subtle lavender-pink undertones, giving it a soft warmth that can lean slightly cool in certain lighting. Repose Gray (SW 7015), however, has a greige base with very subtle purple undertones, creating a warmer and more consistent gray that feels grounded and balanced in almost any lighting condition.
• Lightness and Depth: Eider White has an LRV of 73, making it slightly lighter and more delicate than Repose Gray, which has an LRV of 58. This difference makes Eider White feel brighter and airier, while Repose Gray has more depth and can look richer on walls, especially in larger spaces.
• Best Uses: Eider White is ideal for rooms where you want a light, soft look that isn’t too stark but provides warmth and versatility. Repose Gray works well if you’re looking for a neutral with more presence; it’s great for open living areas, bedrooms, or any space where a grounding neutral is desired.

In essence, go with Eider White for a light, airy feel, and choose Repose Gray if you prefer a slightly deeper, warmer gray that adapts well in most lighting conditions. Both are beautiful choices, offering subtle sophistication to any room!

Benjamin Moore Classic Gray vs Eider White

These colors are both light, versatile neutrals, but they have subtle differences that give each its own charm.

• Color and Undertones: Eider White (SW 7014) has a soft gray base with lavender-pink undertones that add a hint of warmth while sometimes appearing cool in low-light areas. Classic Gray (BM OC-23), by contrast, is a warm, beige-gray without any noticeable undertones, making it a true, soft greige that stays consistently warm and neutral in all lighting.
• Brightness and Depth: Eider White has an LRV of 73, making it light and airy but not as bright as Classic Gray, which has an LRV of 74.5. Classic Gray may feel a touch brighter and even softer on walls, especially in spaces with ample natural light, while Eider White’s slight undertones can add more character in shaded rooms.
• Best Uses: Eider White works beautifully as a subtle neutral with depth, ideal for spaces where you want a hint of warmth but still a light, airy feel. Classic Gray is a great option for rooms that have consistant lighting. Which will allow the color not shift in tone, creating a seamless and soothing backdrop.

My opinion? Go for Eider White if you want a hint of undertone for added dimension, and go with Classic Gray for a more consistent, warm greige. Both are excellent options for a clean, soft look that complements any decor style!

eider white vs snowbound

These two colors are both popular, soft neutrals in the Sherwin Williams family, but they each have their own unique character and undertones that set them apart.

• Color and Undertones: Eider White (SW 7014) has a warm gray base with subtle lavender-pink undertones, giving it a soft, slightly warm appearance that can shift toward cool in certain lights. Snowbound (SW 7004), on the other hand, is a crisp, cool white with a faint hint of gray, making it feel a touch cooler and cleaner than Eider White. Snowbound has less warmth, so it’s ideal if you want a cooler, purer white without veering into blue or icy tones.
• LRV Difference: Eider White has an LRV of 73, making it a light color but not as bright or reflective as Snowbound, which has an LRV of 83. Snowbound’s higher LRV means it will bounce more light around the room, giving it a slightly brighter and airier feel.
• Best Uses: Eider White is excellent for rooms where you want a soft, versatile neutral that won’t look stark but has subtle depth, working well in various lighting conditions. Snowbound, with its crisp, clean finish, is perfect for spaces where you want a brighter, more classic white—especially on trim, ceilings, or modern, minimalist walls.

In short, if you’re after a warmer, more adaptable gray-white, go with Eider White. For a brighter, cooler, and crisper look, Snowbound is a perfect choice.

Eider White vs. Agreeable Gray

Both of these colors are beautiful, versatile neutrals, but they offer distinct looks that can make one a better fit than the other depending on your space.

• Color and Undertones: Eider White (SW 7014) is a light grayish white with soft lavender-pink undertones, giving it a subtle warmth that can lean slightly cool in shaded spaces. Agreeable Gray (SW 7029), however, is a true warm greige. It has beige undertones mixed with gray, making it feel consistently warm and welcoming without any cool shift.
• Depth and Lightness: Eider White is lighter and airier with an LRV of 73, whereas Agreeable Gray has a slightly deeper tone with an LRV of 60. This makes Eider White feel brighter and better suited for lighter, more open spaces, while Agreeable Gray offers a bit more depth and presence, ideal for creating a cozy, enveloping feel.
• Best Uses: Eider White is perfect if you want a very light neutral with a bit of warmth for open or smaller rooms where brightness is essential. Agreeable Gray is a great choice if you’re after a warmer, richer neutral for living rooms, bedrooms, or spaces that need a bit more depth.

I think, go with Eider White for a fresh, airy look or with Agreeable Gray for a warmer, grounding tone. Both are incredibly versatile, but their subtle differences can give you just the vibe you’re after!

Eider White vs. Pure White

Both of these colors are two popular off-whites from Sherwin Williams, each offering a different feel that can impact the atmosphere of a room.

• Color and Undertones: Eider White (SW 7014) has a light gray base with subtle lavender-pink undertones, giving it a soft warmth that can lean slightly cool in certain lighting. Pure White (SW 7005), by contrast, is a true, neutral white with only the faintest hint of warmth, making it a brighter, more classic white that works well in nearly any lighting without any noticeable undertone shift.
• Brightness and LRV: Eider White has an LRV of 73, making it light but not as reflective as Pure White, which has an LRV of 84. Pure White will feel brighter and crisper on walls or trim, especially in spaces with ample natural light, while Eider White offers a slightly softer, more nuanced look.
• Best Uses: Eider White is an excellent choice if you want a soft, warm neutral that offers depth and subtlety, ideal for walls in both traditional and modern settings. Pure White is a better choice for a bit of a brighter, cleaner look—perfect for trim, ceilings, or anywhere you want a crisp, timeless white that can blend seamlessly with other colors.

In summary, choose Eider White for a softer, warmer feel, or opt for Pure White if you want a bright, versatile true white that enhances a clean, fresh look. Both colors have their own charm and can beautifully complement various styles.

Sherwin Williams Eider White vs. Crushed Ice

These two soft, neutral grays from Sherwin Williams, but each brings a different undertone and vibe to a space.

• Color and Undertones: Eider White (SW 7014) has a warm gray base with subtle lavender-pink undertones, which can lean slightly cool in certain lighting. Crushed Ice (SW 7647), on the other hand, is a more neutral gray with soft beige undertones that keeps it looking warm but without any pink or purple undertones. This makes Crushed Ice a bit more versatile if you’re looking to avoid any color shift toward cool in different lighting.
• Depth and LRV: Eider White has an LRV of 73, making it slightly lighter and airier than Crushed Ice, which has an LRV of 66. This makes Eider White feel brighter and softer, while Crushed Ice has a bit more depth, showing up as a true light gray that grounds a space.
• Best Uses: Eider White is ideal if you want a lighter, softer gray that adds a hint of warmth with subtle undertones, perfect for open spaces and smaller rooms where light is important. Crushed Ice, on the other hand, offers a slightly deeper gray with warmth and works well in rooms where you want a true neutral without a cool shift.

In short, go with Eider White for a soft, airy look with character, or choose Crushed Ice if you prefer a grounded, warm gray that stays true to its neutral roots. Both bring a unique personality to a room without overwhelming it.

Final Thoughts: Is Eider White Right for You?

I have to say I am a fan of Eider White SW 7014. This color is a jack-of-all-trades for those who love a white with depth and a few surprises.

It’s ideal for rooms where you want a hint of softness but can’t commit to stark white. Plus, with its adaptability, it has the magic touch of feeling unique in every room. Eider White is a choice that rewards creativity, careful lighting, and a willingness to embrace its complexity.