Sherwin Williams Passive (SW 7064) Paint Color Review: Your Ultimate Guide to a Versatile Gray

Choosing the perfect paint color can feel like an overwhelming task, especially when navigating the endless shades of gray. If you’ve been tirelessly sifting through paint swatches, wondering which neutral will truly elevate your home, Sherwin Williams Passive (SW 7064) might just be the answer you’ve been searching for.

As a seasoned color consultant, I’ve had the privilege of guiding hundreds of homeowners and designers through their paint selection journeys. Time and again, Sherwin Williams Passive emerges as a top contender, consistently delivering that modern, clean, and sophisticated aesthetic so many desire. Its remarkable versatility makes it a go-to choice for a wide array of spaces and styles.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve deep into everything that makes SW Passive a truly special shade. You’ll gain an insider’s understanding of its unique undertones, how it interacts with different lighting conditions, and the best coordinating colors to create a cohesive design. We’ll explore real-life examples from various rooms, offering practical insights and expert tips to help you avoid common painting pitfalls.

Whether your project involves refreshing a single room or transforming your entire home, by the end of this article, you’ll possess all the knowledge needed to confidently determine if Sherwin Williams Passive is the ideal gray to bring your vision to life.

What Color Is Sherwin Williams Passive (SW 7064)?

Sherwin Williams Passive (SW 7064) is an exquisite mid-tone gray, perfectly positioned in that sought-after sweet spot – it’s neither too light to feel washed out nor too dark to make a room feel heavy. If I were to paint a picture with words, I’d describe Passive as the ethereal color of morning fog, just as the first rays of sun begin to pierce through, hinting at the day’s beauty without fully revealing it. It possesses a certain softness and depth that captivates and soothes.

What truly elevates this particular gray is its delicate balance of subtle blue-green undertones. These gentle whispers of color prevent Passive from ever appearing flat, cold, or boring, injecting a touch of life and character without being overtly noticeable. Most people won’t immediately pinpoint these undertones, but they’ll sense a pleasing complexity that makes the color feel richer and more inviting than a purely neutral gray.

One of the most captivating qualities of SW Passive is its dynamic nature; it’s a color that constantly shifts and evolves throughout the day. In the bright embrace of natural sunlight, it transforms into a soft, airy dove gray, bringing a sense of expansiveness and calm. As clouds gather or evening descends, Passive takes on a slightly deeper, more nuanced, and sometimes even moodier feel, yet it always retains its inherent elegance and serenity.

When considering any paint color, its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) is a crucial metric. Sherwin Williams Passive boasts an LRV of 60. This number indicates that Passive reflects a significant amount of light, helping to brighten spaces, while still maintaining enough saturation to provide noticeable depth and presence on your walls. It strikes a remarkable balance, skillfully navigating the territory between the starkness of a pure white and the intensity of a charcoal gray. This makes it an incredibly versatile choice for rooms of all sizes and orientations.

Think of it this way: if the world of classic gray paint colors were a spectrum, Passive comfortably occupies the ideal middle ground, offering just the right amount of everything – warmth, coolness, depth, and luminosity – without leaning too heavily in any one direction. It’s the perfect backdrop, allowing your furnishings and decor to shine.

Understanding Sherwin Williams Passive Undertones

Beyond the surface appeal of any paint color lies its undertones – the subtle hues that peek through and influence how the color truly appears in a space. As a color consultant, I’ve witnessed firsthand how these underlying notes can either harmonize or clash with a room’s existing elements, making or breaking a paint choice. With Sherwin Williams Passive, understanding its undertones is key to appreciating its enduring popularity and versatility.

Passive is characterized by its soft blue-green undertones. However, it’s vital to emphasize their subtlety; they are truly whispers rather than shouts. These undertones are beautifully balanced, contributing to Passive’s chameleon-like quality without ever dominating the primary gray. This means you won’t wake up one morning to find your walls looking distinctly blue or green, but rather a sophisticated gray with a refreshing, clean edge.

The beauty of these balanced undertones lies in their adaptability. In rooms bathed in cool, natural light (typically north-facing), you might notice a gentle hint of blue, lending a serene and slightly crisp feel to the space. Conversely, in warmer, south-facing rooms, those delicate green notes can subtly emerge, adding a touch of organic softness and warmth to the overall gray. This intelligent balance ensures that Passive avoids the dreaded purple or pink undertones that can plague other grays, maintaining its true, neutral-leaning character.

It’s important to remember that lighting, both natural and artificial, significantly impacts how undertones are perceived. Natural daylight tends to reveal Passive’s purest form, showcasing its harmonious balance. However, different types of artificial lighting can influence its appearance. Cooler-temperature bulbs (e.g., bright white LEDs) might subtly emphasize its blue side, enhancing its modern feel, while warmer-temperature bulbs (e.g., soft white incandescents or warm LEDs) can bring out the gentler, almost neutral side, fostering a cozier atmosphere. This variability underscores why I always recommend testing paint samples directly in your specific space, observing them at different times of day and under various lighting conditions.

Ultimately, the well-behaved nature of Passive’s blue-green undertones is a major asset. They are subtle enough that they won’t clash with your existing decor elements. Whether your home features warm wood tones, cool metal finishes, vibrant artwork, or muted textiles, Passive possesses the inherent ability to blend seamlessly while still holding its own as a sophisticated, anchoring color. It provides a contemporary foundation that welcomes a diverse range of styles and materials.

How Sherwin Williams Passive Looks in Different Lighting

Sherwin Williams Passive’s appeal is deeply intertwined with its fascinating interaction with light. This color is a true chameleon, adapting its character depending on the light source and time of day. Understanding these transformations is crucial for predicting how Passive will behave in your unique environment.

1. Natural Light

Natural light plays the most significant role in defining Passive’s appearance, bringing out its diverse qualities:

North-Facing Rooms: In spaces with north-facing windows, which receive cooler, more indirect light, Passive tends to embrace its cooler side. Here, the blue undertones become slightly more pronounced, contributing to a truly serene, sophisticated, and sometimes even slightly formal atmosphere. However, it never veers into feeling cold or unwelcoming; instead, it maintains a refreshing crispness that can be incredibly appealing in contemporary settings.
South-Facing Rooms: South-facing rooms are bathed in abundant, warm natural light. In these conditions, Passive softens beautifully. The strong, warm light gently diffuses its blue-green undertones, making the color appear lighter, airier, and more overtly neutral. This is often where homeowners fall deeply in love with Passive, as it creates an open, inviting, and effortlessly chic backdrop that feels both fresh and comforting.
East-Facing Rooms: In east-facing rooms, Passive will appear brighter and potentially reveal more of its green undertone in the morning light, as the sun rises. As the day progresses and the light shifts, it will gradually transition to a softer, more muted gray.
West-Facing Rooms: West-facing rooms experience warm, golden light in the afternoons and evenings. During these times, Passive can take on a beautiful warmth and depth, with its blue-green undertones becoming less noticeable, leaning towards a truer, soft gray.

2. Artificial Light

The type and temperature of artificial lighting also profoundly influence Passive’s perception:

LED Bulbs: Modern LED lighting offers a range of color temperatures. Cooler-temperature LEDs (4000K and above, often labeled “cool white” or “daylight”) will enhance Passive’s crispness and emphasize its modern edge, potentially bringing out its blue notes. Warmer-temperature LEDs (2700K-3000K, “soft white”) will make Passive feel cozier and more relaxed, allowing its gray purity to shine through with a gentle warmth.
Incandescent/Warm Bulbs: Traditional incandescent bulbs, or LED bulbs designed to mimic their warm glow, tend to soften Passive even further. They can temper its cooler undertones, making it appear as a more classic, comforting gray.
Evening Light: As the sun sets and artificial lights become the dominant source, Passive typically deepens slightly. This creates a calm, peaceful, and enveloping vibe, making it an ideal color for bedrooms and living areas where you desire a tranquil atmosphere for winding down.

To truly grasp how Sherwin Williams Passive will perform in your specific space, the most effective method is to paint a large sample board (at least 2×2 feet) and observe it throughout the day. Move it around different walls and corners, noting how the color shifts from morning to night, and under both natural and artificial light. This practical preview is invaluable for making an informed decision.

Best Coordinating Colors with Sherwin Williams Passive

One of Sherwin Williams Passive’s greatest strengths is its exceptional ability to harmonize with a wide palette of other colors. Its balanced, subtle undertones make it a friendly neighbor in the color wheel, getting along with almost everything. However, after witnessing it in countless homes, I’ve identified certain combinations that truly allow Passive to shine, creating a sophisticated and cohesive look.

1. Perfect White Pairings for Trim and Ceilings

When selecting whites to complement Passive, the goal is to create a crisp, clean contrast that enhances its cool gray character without feeling stark or overwhelming.

Pure White (SW 7005): This is my absolute top recommendation for trim, doors, and ceilings when paired with Passive. Pure White is a remarkably clean white that isn’t too warm or too cool. It provides a beautiful, bright contrast that feels fresh and modern, allowing Passive’s subtle depth to truly stand out without competing with it.
Extra White (SW 7006): If you prefer a slightly cooler, almost brilliant white, Extra White is an excellent choice. It creates a subtle yet sophisticated contrast that emphasizes Passive’s cool undertones, resulting in a very crisp and contemporary aesthetic that never feels harsh.
High Reflective White (SW 7757): For those seeking the absolute brightest, most pristine white available, High Reflective White is ideal. It offers a strong, clean contrast that can make Passive feel even more saturated and luxurious, perfect for a high-impact, minimalist design.

2. Accent Colors That Pop

Passive serves as an incredible neutral backdrop, allowing accent colors to truly sing. Its versatility means you can introduce both cool and warm accents for varied effects.

Navy Blue (e.g., Naval SW 6244 or Anchors Aweigh SW 9179): Navy is undeniably Passive’s best friend. The rich, deep blue of Naval or Anchors Aweigh creates a dramatic yet classic contrast. These blues enhance Passive’s subtle cool undertones, resulting in a sophisticated, timeless look perfect for accent walls, cabinetry, or upholstered furniture.
Soft Greens (e.g., Sea Salt SW 6204 or Comfort Gray SW 6205): To introduce a sense of calm and nature, soft greens like Sea Salt or Comfort Gray work beautifully. These colors share a gentle blue-green undertone with Passive, creating a harmonious and serene coastal or spa-like vibe without overwhelming the space. They provide a subtle, organic warmth.
Muted Teal (e.g., Riverway SW 6222): For a slightly bolder but still sophisticated accent, consider a muted teal. Riverway can pull out the green in Passive while adding a touch of serene depth, creating a very cohesive and refreshing palette.

3. Bold Partners for Dramatic Flair

Don’t shy away from pairing Passive with more assertive colors for a striking and intentional design statement.

Deep Charcoal or Black Accents (e.g., Iron Ore SW 7069 or Tricorn Black SW 6258): This is a designer secret: Passive looks absolutely stunning when contrasted with deep charcoal or crisp black. Iron Ore, a soft black, or Tricorn Black, a true black, can add incredible dramatic touches through elements like:
- Interior door frames and doors
- Window trim or mullions
- Statement light fixtures
- Cabinet hardware
- Accent furniture pieces
These dark accents provide a grounding effect and amplify Passive’s modern elegance.
Rich Deep Greens (e.g., Evergreen Fog SW 9130 or Secret Garden SW 6181): For something truly unexpected and sophisticated, deep, moody greens pair surprisingly well with Passive. Evergreen Fog, Sherwin Williams’ former color of the year, or a darker shade like Secret Garden can bring a rich, natural element into the space, especially effective in rooms where you want to evoke a sense of the outdoors or a luxurious, botanical feel. The green undertones in Passive subtly connect with these deeper greens.
Warm Woods and Metallics: Beyond paint, Passive is an excellent backdrop for natural materials. It beautifully complements the richness of warm wood tones (like oak or walnut) and enhances the gleam of cool metallics (such as brushed nickel or chrome), as well as warmer metals like brass or gold, adding a touch of luxury.

As a general rule of thumb, if you’re ever unsure about a coordinating color, gravitate towards hues that share Passive’s subtle blue-green undertones or are pure neutrals. These will naturally work together, creating a cohesive and polished look that feels effortlessly intentional rather than forced. Always sample your chosen pairings together to ensure they create the desired effect in your specific lighting conditions.

Real-Life Spaces Featuring Sherwin Williams Passive

The true magic of Sherwin Williams Passive comes alive when it’s applied to real walls in real homes. It’s one thing to see a swatch, and another entirely to witness how this versatile gray transforms living spaces. Let me share some compelling examples from projects where Passive worked its undeniable charm, proving its adaptability and enduring appeal.

1. Modern Open-Concept Living Rooms

I recently collaborated with a client on their expansive, open-concept living and dining area. With soaring 12-foot ceilings and generous natural light streaming in through large windows, the selection of wall color was paramount. We chose Passive for all the main walls, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. The color instilled an incredible sense of calm and spaciousness throughout the entire area. Against this serene backdrop, their charcoal gray sectional sofa provided a grounding anchor, while crisp white built-in shelving and architectural details truly popped, creating a modern, clean, and effortlessly chic aesthetic. The room felt inviting, sophisticated, and perfectly balanced, a testament to Passive’s ability to create a harmonious foundation for diverse elements.

2. Kitchen Success Stories

One of my favorite transformations involved a kitchen that felt somewhat dated. We decided to use Passive on the walls, pairing it with classic white shaker cabinets and a dark quartz countertop. The homeowner initially expressed concern that the gray might make the kitchen feel too cold or sterile. However, the opposite occurred: Passive beautifully balanced the warmth of the existing natural wood floors, preventing the space from feeling overwhelmed by too much warmth. Moreover, it provided a sophisticated, contemporary canvas that made the stainless steel appliances look perfectly integrated and intentional, as if they were designed to be there all along. The kitchen achieved a fresh, airy, and highly functional appeal, proving that Passive can be both practical and stylish in high-traffic areas.

3. Serene Bedrooms Done Right

A master bedroom project stands out as a prime example of Passive’s versatility in creating a restful sanctuary. The homeowners desired a sophisticated yet cozy retreat. We painted the walls in Passive, and the room came alive with a sense of understated luxury. We layered cream linen bedding, introduced a deep navy accent wall behind the bed for a touch of drama, and incorporated natural wood furniture. The interaction of light was particularly striking here: the soft morning light made the Passive walls glow with a gentle warmth, contributing to a tranquil awakening. As evening approached, the color deepened subtly, fostering a calm, peaceful vibe perfect for winding down. The room felt both contemporary and timeless, embodying true comfort and elegance.

4. Productive Home Office Spaces

Perhaps one of the more surprising yet highly effective applications of Passive I’ve encountered is in home offices. In a recent project, we painted all four walls of a dedicated home office in Passive. Paired with bright white trim and abundant natural light, the color created an ideal, professional, and calm background for virtual meetings and focused work. Unlike stark whites that can feel overly bright or distracting, Passive provided a soothing, unobtrusive presence that minimized visual clutter and promoted concentration. The space felt organized, productive, and inviting, demonstrating that a sophisticated gray can contribute significantly to a functional yet aesthetically pleasing workspace.

These real-life examples underscore that Sherwin Williams Passive is not just a theoretical “good color” but a practical, transformative choice that consistently delivers on its promise of modern elegance and versatility in a variety of settings.

Is Sherwin Williams Passive Right for Your Space?

After seeing Sherwin Williams Passive grace the walls of countless homes, I’ve gained a profound understanding that choosing the right paint color extends beyond mere aesthetic preference; it’s about finding a shade that perfectly harmonizes with your specific space, lighting, and existing decor. Let’s explore whether Passive is the ideal match for your home.

Passive Might Be Your Perfect Match If:

You Embrace a Modern or Transitional Style: Passive truly excels in homes with clean lines, minimalist sensibilities, and contemporary or transitional decor. Its understated elegance provides an amazing, sophisticated backdrop that allows your carefully chosen furniture, artwork, and architectural details to become the focal points. It creates a refined and uncluttered atmosphere.
You Have Ample Natural Light: This color absolutely glows in rooms that receive a good amount of natural light. Whether it’s north, south, east, or west-facing, sunlight beautifully interacts with Passive’s undertones, bringing out its best qualities and enhancing its airy feel. It truly maximizes the perception of light and space.
You Desire a Versatile Neutral: If you’re looking for a gray that can adapt to changing decor styles, different seasons, and varied color accents, Passive is an excellent choice. Its balanced nature means it won’t pigeonhole your design, allowing you the freedom to experiment with different furnishings and accessories over time.
You Appreciate Subtle Complexity: For those who want more than a plain gray but shy away from overtly colored walls, Passive’s gentle blue-green undertones offer just the right amount of nuanced character. It adds depth and interest without being distracting.

You Might Want to Think Twice If:

Your Home Leans Heavily Traditional with Warm Tones: While Passive is adaptable, if your home is predominantly decorated with very traditional, warm beige or tan furnishings, heavy ornate details, and lacks cooler elements, Passive might feel a bit disconnected. It could introduce a coolness that doesn’t quite gel with a purely warm, traditional palette, potentially creating a subtle clash rather than harmony.
You Have Very Limited Natural Light: In extremely dark rooms with minimal or no natural light, Passive, despite its LRV of 60, might lose some of its luminosity and could appear a bit heavier than desired. In such cases, you might consider a lighter gray or use Passive as an accent wall to avoid overwhelming the space. Proper artificial lighting becomes even more critical here.
You Dislike Any Hint of Coolness: If you absolutely prefer only warm, cozy tones and actively dislike any cool undertones in your colors, Passive’s blue-green leanings, however subtle, might not be for you. You might find yourself gravitating towards a greige (gray-beige) instead.

My Honest Advice: The Power of Sampling

The most crucial step in deciding if Passive is right for you is to grab a large sample. Don’t rely solely on small paint chips. Purchase a quart or a large stick-on sample and apply two coats to a substantial poster board or directly onto a discreet wall section. Live with it for several days, observing how it looks:

In the soft glow of morning light
During the bright intensity of midday
As the sun sets and casts warmer hues
Under your specific artificial lighting (both day and night)

Watch how the color shifts and interacts with your furniture, flooring, and existing textiles. This immersive experience is the only true way to understand how Passive will perform in your unique environment.

Ultimately, the “perfect” paint color isn’t about following trends; it’s about discovering what truly works in your specific space and, most importantly, what makes you feel at ease and at home. If Sherwin Williams Passive checks both these boxes for you, then you’ve found your ideal match.

Tips for Using Sherwin Williams Passive Effectively

After numerous projects involving Sherwin Williams Passive, I’ve gathered invaluable insights and practical tips that can help you maximize its potential and ensure a flawless finish. These guidelines go beyond simply choosing the color; they focus on the execution that makes all the difference.

1. Test Before You Commit—Seriously

This is arguably the most critical advice I offer my clients. Do not skip this step. Paint two full coats of Passive onto a large piece of white poster board (at least 2×2 feet). Small paint chips are notoriously misleading; they can never accurately convey the true depth and undertones of a color. Once your sample board is dry, move it around different walls in the room you plan to paint. Observe it throughout the day, in varying natural and artificial light. Pay attention to how it interacts with your flooring, furniture, and any existing decor. This simple, inexpensive step will save you from potential regret and costly repainting.

2. Proper Prep Work Is Non-Negotiable

I’ve witnessed countless beautiful paint color choices undermined by shortcuts in preparation. Passive, like many mid-tone grays, can subtly highlight imperfections on your walls more than darker colors might. Therefore, meticulous prep work is essential for a professional and smooth finish. Take the time to:

Fill Holes and Cracks: Use spackle or joint compound to fill any nail holes, dents, or minor cracks.
Sand Rough Spots: Lightly sand patched areas and any rough patches on the walls for a seamless surface.
Clean Walls Thoroughly: Wipe down walls with a mild cleaner (like TSP substitute) to remove dust, grime, and grease. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry completely.
Use a High-Quality Primer: A good quality primer is crucial, especially if you’re painting over a significantly darker or lighter color, or if you have patched areas. Primer creates a uniform base, promotes better adhesion, and helps Passive’s true color to emerge without blotchiness.
Tape Off Trim: Use painter’s tape to protect trim, windows, and ceilings for crisp, clean lines.

3. Lighting Matters—Strategically

Passive performs best with thoughtful lighting. If you have dark corners or areas that feel flat, consider installing additional lighting before painting. I’ve seen gloomy hallways transform into inviting passages simply by adding well-placed can lights or sconces. Remember that a layered lighting approach—combining overhead lights, task lighting (like table lamps or floor lamps), and accent lighting (like wall sconces or picture lights)—will allow Passive to showcase its depth and versatility at all times of the day and night.

4. Choose the Right Sheen (Finish)

The paint finish dramatically impacts how a color looks and performs. For most living spaces where Passive will be applied, a low-sheen finish is generally recommended:

Eggshell or Satin for Walls: Eggshell is my go-to recommendation for living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. It offers a soft, subtle sheen that beautifully reflects light, hides minor wall imperfections better than higher gloss finishes, and is still quite durable and easy to clean. Satin offers a slightly higher sheen and is excellent for hallways, kids’ rooms, or areas that require more frequent wiping.
Flat or Matte for Ceilings: These finishes absorb light and help to hide ceiling imperfections, making them appear smoother.
Semi-Gloss or Gloss for Trim and Doors: These higher sheen levels are durable, easy to clean, and provide a lovely crisp contrast against the walls, highlighting architectural details.
Satin or Semi-Gloss for Bathrooms/Kitchens: In high-moisture areas, a more durable, washable finish like satin or semi-gloss is preferable for walls to withstand humidity and frequent cleaning.

5. Master Your Painting Order

For consistent coverage and a professional result, consider your painting order. I often advise starting with your darkest wall (typically the one with the most window exposure) and working your way towards the lightest. This approach helps maintain consistent coverage and color perception as you progress. Always apply two full, even coats of paint. Passive, like many grays, truly needs both coats to achieve its full depth, richness, and accurate color representation. Don’t try to skimp with one thick coat; two thinner, even coats are always superior.

In Closing, Is Passive Worth the Hype?

Having navigated the vast and often perplexing world of paint colors for countless clients, I can unequivocally state that Sherwin Williams Passive (SW 7064) truly lives up to its widespread acclaim and popularity. It’s far more than just another gray on the swatch; it’s a remarkably versatile, balanced, and sophisticated neutral capable of transforming your space into a haven of modern elegance.

While no single paint color can claim to be the perfect solution for every conceivable situation, Passive comes remarkably close. Its unique blend of subtle blue-green undertones, coupled with its mid-tone LRV, allows it to adapt gracefully to diverse lighting conditions and a wide range of decorating styles. It offers a refreshing coolness without being stark and a gentle depth without feeling oppressive.

The key to achieving success with Sherwin Williams Passive in your home lies in a thoughtful approach: developing a deep understanding of how it might react within your specific environment, diligently testing the color on your walls, and dedicating time to proper surface preparation. These steps, though seemingly minor, are foundational to ensuring that Passive performs its best.

Resist the temptation to rush the process. Whether you’re embarking on painting a single accent wall or giving your entire residence a fresh new look, Passive has consistently proven itself to be a reliable, timeless choice. Its adaptable nature means it can grow with your evolving style and decor preferences for years to come.

If you find yourself drawn to Passive’s subtle sophistication, its clean modern appeal, and its inherently versatile character, then there’s an excellent chance it will serve your space beautifully. Trust your instincts, apply the expert tips we’ve shared, and prepare to delight in watching how this remarkable gray seamlessly brings your walls, and indeed your entire home, to life. After all, the most beautiful paint color is ultimately the one that fills you with a sense of peace and belonging every single time you walk through your door.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sherwin Williams Passive (SW 7064)

Is Sherwin Williams Passive warm or cool?

Sherwin Williams Passive is best described as a balanced gray that leans subtly cool, owing to its delicate blue-green undertones. However, it’s remarkably neutral. The coolness is gentle enough that Passive can beautifully integrate into both predominantly warm and cool color schemes, with its exact appearance being significantly influenced by your room’s natural and artificial lighting conditions, as well as surrounding decor elements.

What are the best trim colors to pair with Passive?

My top recommendation for trim, doors, and ceilings when paired with Sherwin Williams Passive is Pure White (SW 7005). It’s a clean, balanced white that provides a crisp, fresh contrast without being stark. Extra White (SW 7006) and High Reflective White (SW 7757) are also excellent choices, both offering slightly cooler and brighter contrasts, respectively, that beautifully complement Passive’s modern aesthetic.

Does Passive work in north-facing rooms?

Yes, Sherwin Williams Passive can work very well in north-facing rooms, but it’s important to anticipate that its cooler blue undertones will likely be more apparent in these spaces, which receive cooler, indirect light. To prevent the room from feeling too cold, I often recommend balancing Passive with warm lighting (e.g., bulbs in the 2700K-3000K range) and incorporating cozy decor elements like wood furniture, warm textiles, or brass accents. Always test the color carefully in north-facing rooms before committing.

How does Passive compare to Agreeable Gray?

While both are extremely popular Sherwin Williams grays, they belong to different color families. Passive (SW 7064) is a cooler gray with subtle blue-green undertones, giving it a more modern and crisp feel. Agreeable Gray (SW 7029), on the other hand, is a greige, meaning it has prominent warm, beige undertones. Agreeable Gray tends to read as a warmer, more traditional, and earthier neutral, while Passive offers a cleaner, more contemporary gray appearance.

Will Passive look too dark in a small room?

With an LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of 60, Passive reflects a good amount of light, meaning it typically won’t make a small room feel too dark or closed-in. However, in very small rooms with extremely limited natural light, or if you prefer a very airy feel, you might consider a lighter gray shade or use Passive on an accent wall. To ensure it feels right, balance Passive with proper, layered lighting and lighter-colored furnishings and textiles, which will help to keep the space feeling open and bright.