Peppercorn is a popular neutral paint color by Sherwin-Williams. It’s a light gray with warm undertones that work well in a variety of settings from traditional to modern. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the undertones of Peppercorn SW 7674 so you can determine if it’s the right light gray for your next paint project.
What are Undertones?
When it comes to paint colors, undertones refer to subtle hues that affect the overall look and feel of the color. Most paint colors have undertones of gray, brown, red, yellow, blue or green. These undertones are what make each color unique and give it more dimension and interest than a flat, single-tone color.
The undertones present in a color can create different moods and aesthetics. For example, grays with violet undertones read as chic and modern. Browns with red or orange undertones feel traditional and elegant. Yellow-based colors come across as cheerful and bright. So it’s important to pay attention to undertones when selecting a paint color.
Peppercorn SW 7674 Undertones
The Sherwin-Williams color Peppercorn has noticeable undertones of brown and yellow-beige. The warm brown gives it an earthy, approachable look while the yellow-beige adds brightness and flair. Together, these undertones create a versatile, welcoming light gray that works with a variety of design styles.
Here are some key things to know about the undertones present in Peppercorn:
- Yellow-beige undertones add warmth and luminosity
- Brown undertones provide an organic, natural look
- Absence of violet tones keeps it from reading too cool or stark
- Just a hint of green neutralizes it slightly
- The warmth enhances wood tones and natural materials
Overall, the blend of undertones makes Peppercorn an approachable, livable gray with character and subtle depth. It’s not a flat, one-dimensional gray but rather an inviting, transitional neutral with personality.
How Lighting Affects Peppercorn’s Undertones
The undertones of any paint color can shift slightly depending on the lighting conditions. Natural and artificial light can bring out different undertones in a color.
In the case of Peppercorn SW 7674, here is how the lighting affects its undertones:
- Natural daylight – The warm yellow-beige undertones become most prominent.
- Soft white artificial light – The light brown undertones are most noticeable.
- Cool fluorescent light – Can make Peppercorn read slightly more green/gray.
- Incandescent light – Warms up the brown undertones.
- LED light – The yellow undertone comes through more strongly.
As you can see, the warm yellow and brown undertones in Peppercorn become most apparent in natural daylight or under lamps with a warm light. Cooler lighting can subdue the warmth slightly. So be sure to view paint swatches at different times of day to get an accurate read on the undertones.
Peppercorn in Different Rooms
One of the benefits of Peppercorn SW 7674 is its versatility. The warm, inviting undertones work beautifully in nearly any room of the home. Here are some rooms where Peppercorn really shines:
Living Rooms
The cozy yellow and brown undertones make Peppercorn an excellent choice for living room walls. It creates a warm, welcoming backdrop for furniture and decor. Pair it with textures like wood, leather, and nubby fabrics to bring out its earthiness even more. The undertones give the living room a casual, livable feel.
Bedrooms
Use Peppercorn to create a soothing, restful bedroom retreat. The neutral gray takes on a soft, cozy effect in the bedroom, while still feeling timeless and sophisticated. Accent with linen bedding and natural fiber rugs to complement the warm undertones.
Bathrooms
Peppercorn works great in bathrooms, especially when paired with marble, travertine or porcelain tile. The yellow-beige undertones liven up the space and prevent an all-gray palette from feeling dreary or cold. For a spa-like effect, accent with creamy off-whites and chrome or nickel finishes.
Kitchens
The versatile undertones of Peppercorn allow it to work in a range of kitchen styles. From cozy cottage to sleek contemporary, it provides a pleasing neutral backdrop. Play up the yellow undertones with brass hardware or the brown tones with antique bronze. Wood countertops also pick up on the warmth beautifully.
Home Offices
Use Peppercorn to paint a home office for a look that is focused yet friendly. The neutral gray color keeps the space feeling orderly but the warm undertones prevent it from seeming sterile. Add in natural elements like a wood desk, plants and rattan bins to complement the undertones.
Design Styles that Showcase Peppercorn
Peppercorn SW 7674 can adapt to work with different design aesthetics. Here are some of the most complementary design styles that really make the warm undertones shine:
Transitional
The transitional look blends traditional and contemporary elements, which is why Peppercorn is an ideal transitional paint color. It feels timeless and classic yet also relevant for modern homes. Use it to create a harmonious bridge between old and new design elements.
Modern Farmhouse
Peppercorn’s warm, inviting personality is perfect for the cozy modern farmhouse style. It provides the light and neutral backdrop the look demands but adds a contemporary edge thanks to the subtle complexity of the undertones. Pair with reclaimed wood furniture and elegant rustic touches.
Scandinavian
The yellow undertones give Peppercorn the brightness needed to work in pared-back Scandinavian spaces. While the color is neutral, it has enough interest and warmth to keep an all-white Scandinavian room from feeling sterile. Use on walls or cabinetry.
Industrial
Lean into the brown undertones of Peppercorn for an on-trend industrial vibe. The earthy neutral gray complements exposed brick, metal pipes, concrete floors and reclaimed wood beautifully. Plus the yellow undertone adds liveliness.
Traditional
Peppercorn provides a fresh take on traditional design by blending gray and brown undertones. Use it on walls, trim, cabinetry or furniture for an updated traditional look. The soft neutral gray gives a lighter, more casual feel than darker paint colors.
Combining Peppercorn with Other Colors
| Color Family | Colors to Pair with Peppercorn |
|---|---|
| Neutrals | Cream, beige, tan, warm white |
| Grays | Graphite, charcoal, silver, pewter |
| Blues | Navy, denim, sky blue |
| Greens | Sage, olive, moss green |
| Yellows | Gold, mustard, ochre |
| Reds | Terracotta, rust, brick red |
Peppercorn’s warm, versatile undertones allow it to coordinate beautifully with a wide range of colors. Sticking with a neutral color scheme will have a soothing, cohesive effect. But you can also liven up Peppercorn with rich shades like navy, olive or gold. For a bold accent, bring in a dark color like charcoal or black.
Home Exteriors with Peppercorn Siding or Trim
In addition to using it inside, Peppercorn SW 7674 can also upgrade the exterior of your home. Here are some great ways to work it into your home’s exterior:
- Paint the front door Peppercorn for a welcoming pop of color
- Use it on garage doors or shutters for subtle contrast against brick
- Freshen up window boxes and planters using Peppercorn
- Add curb appeal by painting the trim or accents Peppercorn
- For a bold look, paint horizontal siding boards alternating white and Peppercorn
The warm undertones of Peppercorn help it stand out against common exterior materials like stone, brick and wood siding. It provides subtle visual interest without overpowering the architecture. For shingle-style homes, use Peppercorn to paint the shakes for a contemporary update.
Conclusion
Peppercorn SW 7674 is such a popular Sherwin-Williams color because it manages to be versatile and cozy at the same time. The prominent yellow-beige and brown undertones give it a universally appealing look and feel. This light gray adapts well to any design style from modern to farmhouse. And it works beautifully in nearly any interior or exterior space thanks to its warm, welcoming personality. So if you’re searching for the perfect neutral with just the right amount of complexity, Peppercorn is an excellent choice!
