Choosing the perfect paint color can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with seemingly similar shades like Benjamin Moore Alabaster and Sherwin-Williams Alabaster. While both boast a popular "alabaster" name and a creamy off-white hue, subtle differences exist that significantly impact the final look in your space. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which alabaster is right for your home.
What are the Key Differences Between Benjamin Moore Alabaster and Sherwin-Williams Alabaster?
The most significant difference lies in their undertones and how they react to different lighting conditions. Benjamin Moore Alabaster leans slightly warmer, with subtle hints of beige or yellow, while Sherwin-Williams Alabaster tends to appear cooler, with a touch of gray or even a hint of green depending on the light. This seemingly minor variation can dramatically alter the overall feel of a room. Benjamin Moore's version often feels cozier and more inviting, while Sherwin-Williams' can feel more modern and crisp.
How Do They Look in Different Rooms?
The impact of each paint color will vary depending on the room's size, lighting, and surrounding décor.
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In a North-Facing Room: A north-facing room, which receives less direct sunlight, might find Sherwin-Williams Alabaster looking slightly washed out, whereas Benjamin Moore Alabaster's warmer undertones could add needed warmth.
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In a South-Facing Room: A south-facing room bathed in sunlight might highlight the subtle yellow undertones in Benjamin Moore Alabaster more prominently, while Sherwin-Williams Alabaster could maintain a brighter, cleaner appearance.
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With Warm Wood Tones: Benjamin Moore Alabaster often pairs beautifully with warm wood tones, creating a harmonious and traditional aesthetic.
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With Cool Gray Accents: Sherwin-Williams Alabaster complements cool gray accents and modern furniture styles, resulting in a contemporary and sophisticated look.
Which Alabaster is Better for Trim?
Both shades work well for trim, but the choice depends on your overall design scheme. Benjamin Moore Alabaster's warmer tones might create a more traditional and classic trim look, while Sherwin-Williams Alabaster’s cooler tones offer a crisper, more contemporary feel against walls painted in a warmer or cooler shade.
Does the LRV Matter? (Light Reflectance Value)
The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is a crucial factor in choosing paint colors. It indicates the percentage of light reflected by the paint, influencing the brightness and overall feel of the space. While the exact LRV can vary slightly depending on the paint finish, both Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams Alabaster have relatively high LRVs, making them suitable for spaces needing ample light. However, the slight undertone differences will impact how bright they appear. Check the individual paint can for the precise LRV before making your decision.
What are the Best Complementary Colors for Each Alabaster?
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Benjamin Moore Alabaster: Complements well with soft blues, greens, browns, and warm grays. It acts as a beautiful neutral backdrop for these colors to shine.
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Sherwin-Williams Alabaster: Pairs well with cool grays, blues, and greens, creating a more modern and sophisticated palette.
Which Alabaster is More Popular?
Both shades enjoy significant popularity, frequently topping lists of favorite neutral paint colors. The "better" choice depends entirely on your personal preferences and the specific aesthetic you're trying to achieve in your home.
Should I Get Samples Before I Decide?
Absolutely! Ordering paint samples is crucial before committing to an entire room. Paint colors appear differently in various lighting conditions and with varying wall textures. Applying samples to your walls allows you to observe how the color interacts with your existing décor and lighting throughout the day. This step will prevent costly mistakes and ensure you make the best decision for your space.
By considering these factors and testing samples, you can confidently choose the alabaster shade that best suits your style and home. Remember, the “best” alabaster is subjective and depends entirely on your individual design preferences and the overall look you want to create.
