Sherwin Williams Big Chill SW 7648

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There’s something about a perfect neutral. It’s like that friend who always knows exactly what to wear, always fits in anywhere, but never fades into the background. That’s Big Chill (SW 7648) from Sherwin Williams—a cool, versatile shade of gray with just enough personality to stand out without overpowering a room. Big Chill strikes a fine balance between warm and cool, giving it the ability to harmonize in spaces with natural light, artificial light, and everything in between.

But let’s dive deeper, shall we? Big Chill might seem like just another gray on the swatch, but it’s a chameleon of sorts. Its cool undertones mean it can flex with the room’s vibe, giving you endless possibilities for pairing, styling, and adding depth. Let’s unpack what makes this paint color one of the most sought-after shades for modern and classic spaces alike.

Why Big Chill? The Case for Choosing This Shade

Let’s face it—gray is still having a moment. From kitchens to bathrooms to living rooms, it’s the go-to for anyone craving elegance without the drama. But with all the gray options out there, what makes Big Chill so, well, chill?

• It’s Neutral but Not Boring: Big Chill is the Goldilocks of grays. It’s not too warm, not too cool, but just right. It avoids that overly stark, sterile look of some grays, and the overly beige tones of others. It sits comfortably in the middle, making it adaptable for a variety of decor styles.
• Cool Undertones with a Friendly Vibe: Big Chill has subtle blue undertones, but they’re mellow enough to avoid the dreaded “cold gray” vibe. These undertones give it that crisp, fresh feel without making your home feel like a high-tech lab.
• Perfect for Open Floor Plans: This color is a master of cohesion. This is the color that can seamlessly connect your living room, kitchen, dining area, and hallways. It’s subtle enough not to overwhelm yet distinct enough to make a space feel pulled together.

What color is Sherwin Williams Big Chill?

Ah, the million-dollar question: what exactly is Big Chill? It’s a shade that sits right in the middle of the gray spectrum, and yet, it has its own unique charm that makes it stand out. It’s a modern, cool, and nuanced color that manages to toe the line between light gray, blue, and soft neutral tones. If you’re looking for a cool, neutral gray with a touch of personality, I think this might be just the color for you.

Big Chill’s LRV: Why It Matters

When it comes to choosing a paint color, Light Reflectance Value, or LRV, is a critical factor that can impact how a color appears in different spaces. Big Chill’s LRV of 62 means it’s a fairly light color, though not so bright that it loses its grounding as a gray. Let’s break down what this LRV means and how it can help you decide if Big Chill is the right choice for your room or exterior.

What Is LRV?

LRV, or Light Reflectance Value, is a measurement of how much light a paint color reflects. The scale goes from 0 to 100:

• 0 represents pure black, a color that absorbs all light and reflects none.
• 100 represents pure white, a color that reflects the maximum amount of light.

The higher the LRV, the lighter and brighter the color will appear, while a lower LRV means a color will absorb more light and look darker.

LRV of 62: What It Means for Your Space

Big Chill’s LRV of 62 makes it a light to mid-range gray. This LRV places it in a sweet spot: light enough to feel airy and bright in most spaces yet deep enough to give a room character without feeling washed out. Here’s what to keep in mind with an LRV in this range:

• Natural Light: In rooms that are blessed with plenty of natural light, Big Chill will appear brighter and fresher. Its LRV allows it to reflect just enough light to keep spaces feeling open without turning too pale. The cool blue undertones of Big Chill will subtly come forward in bright, natural light, giving the room a crisp, modern look.
• Artificial Light: In rooms with less natural light, Big Chill may look slightly darker and more muted. Its LRV is low enough to give it depth, so it won’t go flat under artificial lighting, but it might appear more subdued in dim spaces. This can be ideal for rooms where you want a cozy, soft effect without sacrificing the elegance of a cool gray.
• Perfect for Smaller Spaces: Big Chill’s moderate LRV makes it a superb choice for smaller rooms where you want a light, open feeling without pure white or very pale shades. Bathrooms, guest rooms, and even hallways can benefit from Big Chill, as it adds a hint of depth and elegance without closing in the space.
• Exterior Considerations: When used on exteriors, Big Chill’s LRV allows it to reflect a moderate amount of sunlight, helping it maintain its color integrity throughout the day. It won’t look too washed out in bright sunlight, but it will also hold its color well in shaded areas, which is ideal for creating an even, cohesive look across the entire exterior.

Why LRV Is Important

Big Chill’s LRV of 62 strikes a balance that works for both light and moderately lit rooms. If you’re concerned about a color looking too dark, LRV can be a great guide: the higher the LRV, the more you can count on the paint to keep a room light and open. With an LRV of 62, Big Chill is versatile—it’s light enough for open, airy spaces but grounded enough to create cozy depth in rooms with limited lighting.

In short, Big Chill’s LRV makes it a flexible, adaptable gray that can shift to fit your space’s lighting, whether you’re going for an open, fresh interior look or a polished, refined exterior.

Big Chill’s Undertones: The Subtle Details That Make a Big Difference

One of the best things about Big Chill is its understated undertones, which give it that special “something” while keeping it comfortably neutral. But understanding these undertones can help you make informed choices when designing your space around Big Chill, so let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

• Cool Blue Undertones: Big Chill leans toward the cooler end of the spectrum, with faint blue undertones that make it feel fresh and contemporary without crossing into an icy or sterile vibe. These blue undertones help Big Chill maintain a crisp, clean appearance, especially in well-lit rooms with natural sunlight. It’s the kind of coolness that makes a space feel light and airy, perfect for creating a modern, open atmosphere.
• A Dash of Soft Gray: Unlike some grays with heavy green or purple undertones, Big Chill keeps things simple with a pure, almost silvery-gray essence. This keeps it looking sophisticated and smooth across a range of lighting conditions. You’ll get that soft, versatile gray that doesn’t lean heavily in any one direction, making it a true “chameleon” shade that complements various design styles.
• No Overpowering Warmth: While some grays can verge on taupe or greige with warm beige undertones, Big Chill sticks to a more neutral-cool palette. This lack of warm undertones gives it an edge if you’re aiming for a color that won’t clash with cooler design elements like marble, stainless steel, or even cooler-toned woods. However, it also means that, depending on your lighting, Big Chill could look quite cool or even slightly blue, especially in shadowed areas or rooms with predominantly cool lighting.

How THE Undertones Interact with Different Colors and Textures

• With Natural Woods: The blue undertones in Big Chill play beautifully against warm wood tones, balancing out richer woods like oak, walnut, or cherry. If you’re looking to avoid an overly cool look, Big Chill’s soft blue undertones can provide a sophisticated contrast without feeling stark.
• With White or Light Trim: Big Chill looks best paired with crisp, clean whites or slightly warm whites that bring out the purity of its gray tone. A white like Sherwin Williams Pure White or Alabaster can soften its coolness without compromising its elegance, helping you achieve a beautifully balanced aesthetic.
• With Metallics and Glass: Big Chill pairs wonderfully with chrome, nickel, or stainless steel finishes, enhancing the clean, modern vibe. Its cool undertones can also give depth to spaces with reflective surfaces like glass and mirrored furniture, adding dimension without overwhelming the room.
• With Earthy or Bold Colors: If you want to add some warmth or contrast, pair Big Chill with earthy tones like muted greens or terracotta. Big Chill’s blue undertones balance these warm accents beautifully, providing a grounded yet fresh palette.

Understanding Big Chill’s undertones gives you a more nuanced approach to designing around it. It’s not just “another gray”—it’s a color that adapts and complements in a way that feels intentional and effortlessly stylish. So, when you bring Big Chill into your home, you’re not just choosing a gray; you’re choosing a shade with subtle, refined undertones that elevate the whole room.

The Science of Light: How Big Chill Reacts to Different Lighting

Big Chill’s versatility is rooted in its unique way of adapting to different types of light. Lighting changes everything in a paint color, and Big Chill is no exception. Here’s how it plays with light in various settings:

• Natural Light: In spaces drenched with natural light, Big Chill shows off its true colors. It leans into its cool undertones without looking icy. Morning light might bring out a subtle freshness, while afternoon sunlight gives it a warmer, almost silvery vibe.
• Artificial Light: Under warm artificial light, Big Chill gains a cozy, almost inviting quality. The blue undertones take a back seat, and the color feels more balanced. This makes it a solid choice for rooms that rely on lamps or overhead lighting.
• North-Facing Rooms: North-facing rooms can make colors appear cooler, and that’s where Big Chill shines. It doesn’t look overly gray or washed out; instead, it adapts to the lighting, keeping a balanced and pleasant tone.

Room-by-Room Guide to Using Big Chill

Big Chill’s flexibility makes it such a great option for just about any room (granted, you sample it first). Here’s how it works its magic in different spaces:

Living Room

In a living room, Big Chill brings a sense of calm and sophistication. It goes beautifully with both modern and traditional decor styles. For example, pair it with navy accent pillows, a plush white sofa, or warm wooden furniture. It’s a color that creates the perfect canvas to allow you to layer colors and textures.

Pro Tip: Try adding a statement piece in navy or deep teal to play off Big Chill’s subtle blue undertones.

Kitchen

Big Chill is an ideal backdrop for kitchens that want a touch of sophistication without feeling overly formal. Its cool tone works beautifully with stainless steel appliances, marble countertops, and even brass accents. It’s also neutral enough to work with bolder cabinet colors like navy, sage green, or even deep charcoal.

Pro Tip: Pair Big Chill with white trim or a contrasting island in a deeper shade, like Sherwin Williams Iron Ore, for a stunning, high-contrast look.

Bedroom

Bedrooms painted in Big Chill feel restful, clean, and uncluttered. This color lets your bedding and decor shine without overwhelming the senses. Try pairing it with soft linens, natural wood tones, and perhaps a few earthy greens for a touch of nature-inspired calm.

Pro Tip: Want to create a bit of drama? Big Chill pairs beautifully with accent walls in darker, moodier colors like Sherwin Williams Slate Tile.

Bathroom

Big Chill’s subtle coolness is refreshing in a bathroom setting. It pairs exceptionally well with white tile, chrome fixtures, and even warm brass for a chic, spa-like vibe. Its cool undertones make it feel clean and invigorating—a great choice for spaces that are all about freshness.

Pro Tip: Big Chill can also work as a backdrop for bold tile choices. Think geometric patterns or classic subway tile in white or marble.

Is Big Chill a Good Exterior Paint Color?

Absolutely! Big Chill isn’t just an interior star—it can be a fabulous choice for exteriors as well. With its balanced coolness and versatility, Big Chill brings a refreshing, modern touch to home exteriors, giving your house a clean, sophisticated curb appeal that stands out without feeling flashy. Let’s look at why Big Chill works well outside and what you should consider before painting your exterior with this shade.

• A Crisp, Fresh Look for Exteriors: Big Chill’s cool, neutral undertones look striking against the natural landscape. Its subtle blue undertones provide a refreshing contrast with greenery, making it a particularly good choice if your home is surrounded by trees or lush landscaping. It has enough depth to avoid looking washed out in bright sunlight while remaining neutral enough to blend with other colors.
• Complimentary with Stone and Brick: Big Chill works beautifully with natural materials, especially stone, brick, and slate. It enhances the textures of these materials, providing a clean, neutral background that lets the stone or brick’s natural colors and patterns shine. Big Chill’s cool tones especially complement gray stone and red brick, giving the exterior a balanced, cohesive look.
• How It Reacts to Exterior Lighting: Outdoor lighting plays a huge role in how Big Chill will look on your exterior. The shade can appear lighter or darker depending on the time of day and the angle of the sunlight. In full sunlight, Big Chill will look fresh and light, almost silvery. In shaded or indirect light, it can take on a slightly darker, more pronounced gray tone. This variability can add depth and interest to your home’s exterior.
• Pairs Well with Classic White or Black Accents: Big Chill is a fantastic base color if you want to incorporate contrast with trim, shutters, or doors. Classic white trim or bright white window frames create a sharp, clean contrast that makes Big Chill pop, giving your home an elegant, timeless look. For a modern twist, consider black accents for doors, shutters, or even garage doors. Black pairs especially well with Big Chill’s cool undertones, creating a striking, contemporary look.
• Great for Coastal or Modern Farmhouse Styles: Big Chill’s fresh, cool look makes it an ideal choice for coastal homes, where it can mirror the tones of the sky and sea without looking too beachy. It’s also right at home on modern farmhouse exteriors, especially when paired with white or charcoal trim and rustic wood details.

Things to Consider

• Consider Your Climate: Cool grays like Big Chill may look extra crisp in cooler, northern climates or areas with lots of sunlight. In warmer climates, however, it may appear slightly cooler than expected, so think about how the color interacts with your home’s natural surroundings.
• Sample Before Committing: Just as with interiors, sampling Big Chill on an exterior wall is essential. Exterior colors tend to appear lighter than they do on swatches due to the amount of natural light, so testing it on a few areas will help you decide if it’s the perfect fit.
• Pairing with Landscaping: Big Chill’s cool, neutral hue provides a great backdrop for landscaping. It won’t compete with vibrant flowers or green shrubbery but instead offers a subtle, sophisticated frame for your garden.

Final Verdict on Big Chill for Exteriors

Big Chill is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a refined, contemporary exterior that feels clean and cohesive. It’s sophisticated enough to add curb appeal without screaming for attention. Whether you’re going for a coastal-inspired look, a modern farmhouse vibe, or simply want a fresh, cool gray to elevate your home’s exterior, Big Chill has the versatility and style to deliver. Just add some contrasting trim, and you’ve got yourself a standout exterior.

How to Sample Big Chill Before Committing

Sampling a color as nuanced as Big Chill is crucial. You need to see how it behaves in your specific lighting before fully committing. Here are the best ways to do it:

• Samplize Peel-and-Stick Samples: If you prefer not to mess with paint cans, Samplize offers peel-and-stick paint samples that you can move around the room. This is a great way to see how Big Chill interacts with your decor.
• Paint Test Patches in Different Areas: Brush some samples on a few different walls to see how it looks at different times of the day. Remember, lighting changes everything, so take note of how it looks in morning light versus evening light.
• Observe with Your Decor: Bring in pieces of furniture or decor that you plan to have in the room. Big Chill might look completely different next to a bright orange chair versus a navy sofa.

My preferred method of sampling paint colors is using Samplize. Let me tell you why.

Complementary Colors: How to Make Big Chill Pop

To bring out the best in Big Chill, you’ll want to pair it with colors that enhance its cool, refined charm. Here are a few foolproof combinations:

• White Dove (OC-17) – This warm white has a softness that complements Big Chill’s coolness without feeling stark. Use it for trim, cabinetry, or ceilings.
• Anchors Aweigh (SW 9179) – Big Chill loves a rich, navy blue accent. Whether it’s a rug, a piece of furniture, or even an accent wall, this color combo is timeless.
• Repose Gray (SW 7015) – If you’re looking for a bit of depth but want to stay within the gray family, Repose Gray is a bit darker and pairs beautifully with Big Chill, especially in open floor plans.
• Green Sprout (SW 7728) – This muted green adds a natural, earthy vibe that works well in living spaces and bedrooms. It brings a touch of warmth that complements Big Chill’s cool undertones.

Big Chill in Different Finishes: What Works Best?

Choosing the right finish is key to making Big Chill shine. Here’s a breakdown of where each finish works best:

• Matte or Flat: Perfect for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or living rooms. Matte finishes give Big Chill a velvety, soft appearance that feels sophisticated.
• Eggshell: A bit more durable than matte, eggshell works well in living rooms, dining rooms, and even bedrooms. It has a slight sheen that makes Big Chill look polished.
• Satin: Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas. Satin finishes are more durable and cleanable, making them perfect for spaces that need a little extra protection.
• Semi-Gloss: Best for trim, moldings, and cabinetry. Semi-gloss gives Big Chill a slight shine, making it a standout choice for details and woodwork.

WAIT! Before you start painting make sure you have the best painting tools to make your job easier. It will take hours off your painting time!

What is the Benjamin Moore Equivalent to Big Chill?

If you’re in love with Big Chill but are loyal to Benjamin Moore or can’t easily access Sherwin-Williams, you might be wondering if there’s a close equivalent in Benjamin Moore’s lineup. Thankfully, Benjamin Moore offers a few grays that share similar vibes, though each has its own unique nuances. Let’s dive into some of the closest Benjamin Moore options to Big Chill and discuss the potential pros and cons of trying to color match.

Benjamin Moore Colors Similar to Big Chill

While no color is an exact match, a few Benjamin Moore shades come close to capturing the cool, fresh neutrality of Big Chill:

• Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (OC-52): Gray Owl is one of the closest alternatives to Big Chill. It has a light, cool-gray appearance with subtle blue and green undertones, similar to Big Chill’s faint blue undertone. However, Gray Owl can lean slightly warmer depending on the lighting, making it a good choice if you want a comparable shade that’s versatile but might feel a bit less “cool” in some spaces.
• Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray (HC-170): Stonington Gray is another popular Benjamin Moore shade that aligns with Big Chill’s cool, neutral aesthetic. Like Big Chill, Stonington Gray has a delicate balance of gray and blue undertones, though it can sometimes read a touch darker. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a slightly moodier, yet still very versatile, cool gray.
• Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray (HC-171): Wickham Gray is another great alternative. It’s a soft gray with similar cool undertones, though it can sometimes read slightly more green in certain lighting conditions. Wickham Gray is a lighter choice, making it perfect for areas where you want the freshness of Big Chill but with a bit more lightness.

Is It Good to Color Match Big Chill in Benjamin Moore?

Here’s the thing about color matching: It’s a bit of a gamble. While paint stores can mix custom colors based on samples, the results might not be exact. Different paint brands use unique formulas, pigments, and bases, which can affect how the final color looks on your walls. Here’s what to keep in mind if you’re considering color matching:

• Lighting Will Impact Color Matching: Big Chill’s cool undertones may appear slightly different when replicated in another brand due to differences in pigment composition. The blue undertones, which are subtle in Big Chill, may come out stronger or more muted in a color-matched mix, especially in certain lighting.
• Sample, Sample, Sample: If you’re set on using Benjamin Moore paint but want Big Chill’s look, definitely do a test swatch of the color-matched sample in your space before committing. Compare it side by side with a sample of Big Chill from Sherwin-Williams to check for subtle differences. In many cases, they’ll be close enough, but if you’re particular about tone, this is a critical step.
• Consider Benjamin Moore’s Closest Matches: Sometimes, the best approach is to go with a Benjamin Moore color that’s already formulated to have similar qualities, like Gray Owl or Stonington Gray. These shades are well-loved for their versatility and cool undertones and may be just as satisfying as Big Chill, without the risks that come with custom color-matching.

Is Color Matching Worth It?

Color matching Big Chill in Benjamin Moore paint is possible, but there are some trade-offs. For many, the slight differences won’t be noticeable, and a color match may work beautifully, especially if you love the convenience of using a single brand. However, if you’re a perfectionist when it comes to tone, sticking with the original Big Chill or choosing a similar Benjamin Moore shade like Gray Owl might be your safest bet.

In short: color matching can get you close, but for the truest version of Big Chill, Sherwin-Williams is your go-to. Otherwise, explore those Benjamin Moore alternatives for an effortlessly cool, Big Chill-inspired look.

Color Comparisons: Big Chill vs. Popular Sherwin Williams Grays

If you’re considering Big Chill but curious about how it stacks up against some of Sherwin Williams’ other popular grays, you’re in good company! Each gray has its own unique personality, undertones, and effects, so let’s dive into side-by-side comparisons with other popular Sherwin Williams grays: Repose Gray, Crushed Ice, On the Rocks, and Light French Gray.

SW Big Chill vs. Repose Gray (SW 7015)

• Overall Tone: Big Chill and Repose Gray are both neutral grays, but they have distinct personalities. Big Chill leans slightly cooler, while Repose Gray has a touch more warmth.
• Undertones: Repose Gray has subtle warm undertones, with a slight mix of brown and taupe, which can make it feel cozier than Big Chill. Big Chill’s undertones are cooler, with a faint hint of blue that feels refreshing.
• Light Reflectance Value (LRV): Repose Gray has an LRV of 58, while Big Chill’s is 62. This means Big Chill will generally look a bit lighter and brighter than Repose Gray, especially in spaces with ample natural light.
• Where to Use: Repose Gray works beautifully in areas where you want a warm, versatile gray. Big Chill, on the other hand, might be the better choice if you’re looking for a cooler, more modern gray that feels airy and fresh.

Big Chill vs. Crushed Ice (SW 7647)

• Overall Tone: Crushed Ice is another soft, neutral gray that’s similar to Big Chill in terms of lightness but has a more balanced temperature.
• Undertones: While Big Chill has cool blue undertones, Crushed Ice is a bit warmer, with faint beige undertones. This makes Crushed Ice feel slightly softer and less “crisp” than Big Chill.
• Light Reflectance Value (LRV): Crushed Ice has an LRV of 66, making it just a tad bit lighter and more reflective than Big Chill, which has an LRV of 62. Crushed Ice might appear just a touch brighter in rooms with lower lighting.
• Where to Use: Crushed Ice works well in spaces where you want a balanced, slightly warm neutral that still feels fresh and modern. Big Chill is better if you’re aiming for a more distinctly cool-gray aesthetic.

Big Chill vs. On The Rocks (SW 7671)

• Overall Tone: On The Rocks is another cool gray, similar in spirit to Big Chill, but it’s a bit deeper and moodier.
• Undertones: Both Big Chill and On The Rocks have cool undertones, but On The Rocks leans more toward a true gray, with less of a blue tint than Big Chill. This gives On The Rocks a more neutral appearance in most lighting.
• Light Reflectance Value (LRV): On The Rocks has an LRV of 62, the same as Big Chill. Both will have a similar brightness, but On The Rocks may feel a bit more grounded or “grayed out” due to its more balanced undertones.
• Where to Use: On The Rocks is ideal for spaces where you want a cool gray that feels more subdued and sophisticated. Big Chill, by comparison, might feel lighter and a bit more airy, especially in rooms with natural light.

Light French Gray (SW 0055) VS. Big Chill

• Overall Tone: Light French Gray is another sophisticated, neutral gray that leans cool, similar to Big Chill, though it tends to feel slightly more intense.
• Undertones: Light French Gray has subtle blue undertones, just like Big Chill, but they’re a touch more noticeable, giving Light French Gray a more defined “cool” appearance.
• Light Reflectance Value (LRV): Light French Gray has an LRV of 53, making it a bit darker and more grounded than Big Chill, which has an LRV of 62. This makes Light French Gray a good choice if you want a slightly deeper gray that still feels fresh.
• Where to Use: Light French Gray is ideal for creating a calm, cool atmosphere with a bit more depth. If you prefer a brighter, lighter effect, Big Chill might be the better option, especially in smaller rooms and spaces with less natural light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Big Chill

• Avoid Using in Low Light Without Contrast: Big Chill can appear a bit too cool in low-light spaces if it doesn’t have a contrasting color to bring it to life. Pair it with crisp white trim or a warm accent to avoid a washed-out look.
• Beware of Oversaturation: Painting every wall in a large space with Big Chill can sometimes feel overwhelming. Try using it as an accent or in combination with other complementary grays to add depth and variety.
• Pairing with Strong Cool Tones: Big Chill already has cool undertones, so pairing it with overly cool colors (like stark blues) can make the room feel chilly. Stick to warm or balanced accent colors to maintain harmony.

Follow these helpful painting tips and avoid these mistakes to get the job done right!

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Big Chill?

Big Chill is for the homeowner who craves simplicity with a side of elegance. It’s versatile, adaptable, and always looks refined without being fussy. It’s also a safe bet for those who want a neutral that isn’t too warm or too cold. If you love the idea of a cool gray with a whisper of personality, Big Chill is a top contender.

Whether you’re going for a minimalist modern look, a cozy farmhouse aesthetic, or something in between, Big Chill has the adaptability to make your space feel curated, calm, and, most importantly, your own.

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