I’ll break down the key differences between Sherwin-Williams Creamy and Alabaster in this blog.
You set out to pick a simple white paint—only to realize white isn’t so simple after all. Some feel too stark, others too yellow, and now you’re torn between two favorites: Sherwin-Williams Creamy (SW 7012) and Alabaster (SW 7008).
Both are warm, inviting whites, but they create very different looks. So, which one is right for your space?
Sherwin Williams Creamy (SW 7012)
As the name suggests, Creamy has a soft, buttery warmth that adds coziness without feeling too yellow.
It leans into its warm undertones, making it a great choice for traditional and farmhouse-style homes.
Because it has a slightly higher depth of color than Alabaster, it pairs well with wood tones and warm neutrals without looking stark.
Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)
Alabaster is a well-balanced white with warmth but without obvious yellow undertones.
It has a softness that prevents it from feeling too stark, making it one of the most versatile whites.
Its slightly higher LRV means it reflects more light, making spaces feel airy and open. This is a great choice if you want a white that feels warm yet clean.
LRV Comparison
Alabaster (LRV 82) reflects slightly more light, making it the brighter of the two. This means it can help small or dimly lit rooms feel more open and airy.
Creamy (LRV 81) is just a notch lower but has more warmth, which can make spaces feel cozier rather than starkly bright.
While their brightness levels are nearly identical, the undertones and how they react in different lighting conditions can make all the difference.
North-Facing Rooms: Which Works Best?
North-facing rooms receive cool, indirect light, which can make some whites appear gray or muted.
Alabaster holds up well in these spaces since its soft warmth counteracts the cooler lighting. However, in dim north-facing rooms, it may look a bit more neutral than warm.
Creamy, with its subtle yellow undertones, adds warmth that can help balance out the cool light. If you want a cozier feel, Creamy is the better pick.
South-Facing Rooms: Which Stands Out?
South-facing rooms get warm, golden light throughout the day, enhancing any warm undertones in color.
Alabaster will look warm but still balanced, as it doesn’t lean too yellow. It will feel soft and inviting without looking overly creamy.
Creamy will appear even warmer in this lighting, which can sometimes emphasize its yellow undertones more than expected. If you prefer a crisp but soft look, Alabaster might be the safer choice.
RGB Breakdown
- Creamy (SW 7012) → R: 242 | G: 234 | B: 220
- Alabaster (SW 7008) → R: 237 | G: 234 | B: 224
Warm vs. Cool: Which One Feels Cozier?
Creamy (Warm-Toned White) has subtle yellow and beige undertones, making it a definitively warm white. It gives rooms a soft, cozy, and slightly buttery appearance.
Alabaster (Soft Warm White) is still warm but more neutral in comparison. It has a touch of greige in its undertones, making it feel more muted and adaptable.
VOC Comparison
Sherwin-Williams offers both Creamy (SW 7012) and Alabaster (SW 7008) in their low-VOC and zero-VOC formulas, depending on the paint line you choose.
Alabaster and Creamy in Emerald, Harmony, and SuperPaint (Zero VOC): If you opt for Emerald, Harmony, or SuperPaint, you’ll get a zero-VOC formula, making either color a great choice for health-conscious homeowners.
Alabaster and Creamy in Duration and Cashmere (Low VOC): If you choose Duration or Cashmere, the VOC levels will be low but not entirely zero.
Coordinating Colors
Both Sherwin-Williams Creamy (SW 7012) and Alabaster (SW 7008) are warm, inviting whites, but they pair best with different colors based on their undertones. Here are 10 coordinating colors for each:
Sherwin-Williams Creamy (SW 7012)
- Kilim Beige (SW 6106)
- Accessible Beige (SW 7036)
- Nomadic Desert (SW 6107)
- Softened Green (SW 6177)
- Cocoa Whip (SW 9084)
- Natural Linen (SW 9109)
- Rookwood Sash Green (SW 2810)
- Hopsack (SW 6109)
- Retreat (SW 6207)
- Inkwell (SW 6992)
Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008)
- Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
- Repose Gray (SW 7015)
- Sea Salt (SW 6204)
- Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)
- Dovetail (SW 7018)
- Naval (SW 6244)
- Evergreen Fog (SW 9130)
- Autumn Orchid (SW 9157)
- Iron Ore (SW 7069)
- Greek Villa (SW 7551)
Where to Use Sherwin-Williams Alabaster?
I used Alabaster in my living room, and the way it brightened up the space while maintaining a soft, inviting feel was incredible.
Alabaster also works wonderfully in kitchens. I recently painted my cabinets with it, and they now have a timeless, clean, and bright look without feeling sterile.
In bathrooms, Alabaster offers a soft, spa-like feel that isn’t overpowering. I used it in a small guest bathroom, and it helped open up the space while giving it a clean, luxurious feel.
If you want your bedroom to be a serene retreat, Alabaster is one of the best whites to choose. I painted the walls in my bedroom with it, and the effect was soothing and peaceful.
Where to Use Sherwin-Williams Creamy ?
I’ve used Sherwin-Williams Creamy (SW 7012) in several spaces, and it always brings a cozy, inviting warmth without feeling overwhelming.
Creamy is fantastic in living rooms and kitchens. I’ve painted walls and cabinets with it, and it brings just the right amount of warmth, making the space feel welcoming and homey.
It pairs beautifully with earthy tones and natural materials, giving the room an organic, grounded vibe.
In bedrooms, Creamy adds a restful, serene vibe—perfect for creating a calming atmosphere.
I’ve found it works wonders in bathrooms as well, providing a spa-like feel without being too cold or sterile.
How to Choose between Alabaster and Creamy?
Choosing between Alabaster and Creamy? I’ve tested both, and trust me, they may look similar on a swatch, but once on the walls, the differences are clear. Here’s what I learned to help you decide.
Pick Alabaster (SW 7008) if you want a soft, fresh white. It’s clean, crisp, and leans neutral, making it perfect for bright, airy spaces. It won’t look too warm or too cool, just a balanced, timeless white that works with almost any décor.
Go with Creamy (SW 7012) if you want a warmer, cozier feel. It has subtle yellow undertones that add softness and warmth, making a space feel extra inviting. However, in rooms with a lot of natural light, it can appear more buttery, so keep that in mind.
Still unsure? Test both on your walls at different times of the day. Lighting plays a huge role, and what looks perfect in one home might feel too warm or too stark in another.
Conclusion
Both Sherwin-Williams Alabaster and Sherwin-Williams Creamy bring timeless elegance and warmth to your home. Alabaster offers a light, airy feel, while Creamy adds a cozy, inviting warmth.
Your choice depends on the atmosphere you want to create—whether it’s the fresh brightness of Alabaster or the comfort of Creamy, both colors are versatile and timeless. No matter which you choose, either will make your space feel like home.
FAQs
Which color is better for a north-facing room—Alabaster or Creamy?
Alabaster is likely the better choice for north-facing rooms, as it will reflect more light and brighten up the space. Creamy can work, but it’s warmer and may feel a bit heavier in spaces with less natural light.
Can I use Sherwin-Williams Alabaster in a modern design?
Definitely! Alabaster is a versatile color that can easily complement modern designs, especially when paired with sleek lines and minimalist decor. It provides a clean, fresh backdrop without feeling too sterile, which is perfect for contemporary spaces.
Can I mix Alabaster or Creamy with bold accent colors?
Both colors work wonderfully with bold accent colors. Alabaster pairs well with deep blues, blacks, or vibrant reds for a striking contrast, while Creamy complements rich tones like deep greens, burgundies, or warm golds for a cozy, balanced look.
Can Alabaster or Creamy be used for exteriors?
Yes, both colors can be used for exteriors! Alabaster works great on home exteriors, especially in areas where you want a light, clean look. Creamy can add a soft, welcoming touch to your exterior, creating a warm and inviting first impression for your home.
