Are you trying to decide between Sherwin Williams Alabaster vs Benjamin Moore White Dove for your next painting project? Both of these light neutral paint colors are popular choices, but they do have some differences that may impact your decision.
One of the biggest differences between these two colors is in their undertones. Alabaster has creamy, beige tones, while White Dove appears slightly more yellow and even green, particularly under cool-toned LED lighting. Moreover, White Dove has a slightly more grayish hue when compared to Alabaster, which leans more towards beige. The sheen of the paint can also impact how the color appears, with higher sheens making the color appear lighter.
If you’re struggling to decide between these two colors, there are a few factors to consider. For example, the lighting in your space can impact how the colors appear, so it’s a good idea to test out samples in different lighting conditions. Additionally, the other colors and finishes in your space can impact how the paint color appears, so it’s important to consider the overall design scheme when making your decision.
Key Takeaways
- Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove are both popular white paint colors with some differences in undertones and hue.
- Alabaster has creamy, beige tones, while White Dove appears more yellow and even green under cool-toned LED lighting.
- The sheen of the paint can impact how the color appears, with higher sheens making the color appear lighter.
- Factors such as lighting and other colors in the space should be considered when choosing between the two paint colors.
- Both Alabaster and White Dove are versatile choices for walls, cabinets, trim, ceilings, exteriors, and accent walls.
- Other white paint options, such as Simply White, Swiss Coffee, Chantilly Lace, Cloud Cover, and Extra White, are also worth considering.
- Tools and resources, such as color visualization apps, peel-and-stick paint samples, websites like Houzz and Pinterest, and detailed information from paint manufacturers, can help in making an informed decision when choosing the perfect white paint color for a space.
Understanding Paint Colors
When it comes to choosing paint colors, it can be overwhelming to navigate the endless options available. Two popular choices are Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove. But what makes these colors different? Let’s take a closer look at paint colors and what factors affect their appearance.
Paint Colors
Paint colors are made up of different pigments that reflect light in specific ways. The colors we see are a result of the light that is reflected back to our eyes. The color of an object is determined by the wavelengths of light that are absorbed or reflected by its surface.
LRV (Light Reflective Value)
LRV stands for Light Reflective Value, which is a measure of how much light a color reflects. The LRV scale ranges from 0 to 100, with 0 being the darkest black and 100 being the brightest white. Colors with a high LRV will reflect more light and appear brighter, while colors with a low LRV will absorb more light and appear darker.
Alabaster and White Dove
Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove are both popular choices for white paint colors. Alabaster has creamy, beige tones to it, while White Dove reads a bit more yellow and even green, especially in cool-toned LED lighting. White Dove is slightly more gray compared to Alabaster which is more beige.
Color Depth
Color depth refers to the range of colors that a particular paint color can produce. Some colors have more depth than others, which means they can create more subtle variations in shades. When choosing a paint color, it’s important to consider its color depth and how it will look in different lighting situations.
Sherwin Williams Alabaster
If you’re looking for a soft, warm, and creamy white, Sherwin Williams Alabaster may be the perfect choice for you. This color has a warm undertone that adds a touch of warmth to any room. It’s a pure white with a slight yellow undertone, making it a great option for those who want a white that doesn’t feel too stark or cold.
One of the best things about Sherwin Williams Alabaster is its versatility. It works well in any room, whether you’re painting your living room, bedroom, or kitchen. It’s also a great choice for trim and ceilings, as it pairs well with other colors and doesn’t overpower them.
When it comes to sheen, Sherwin Williams Alabaster looks best in a flat or eggshell finish. These finishes help to highlight the warmth and softness of the color while also minimizing any imperfections in the walls. If you’re looking for a bit more shine, a satin finish can also work well.
Another great thing about Sherwin Williams Alabaster is how it looks in different lighting situations. In natural light, it appears light and airy, while in artificial light, it takes on a warm, cozy feel. This makes it a great option for rooms that don’t get a lot of natural light, as it can help to brighten them up.
In terms of chroma, Sherwin Williams Alabaster is a relatively low-chroma color. This means that it has a low level of saturation, which can make it feel more muted than other colors. However, this can also make it a great option for those who want a subtle, understated look.
Benjamin Moore White Dove
If you are considering Benjamin Moore White Dove for your next painting project, you should know that it is a soft and warm white color that has a creamy undertone. It is a popular choice among homeowners and designers alike because of its versatility and ability to work well with various design styles.
One of the things that make White Dove stand out is its ability to reflect natural light in a way that makes the room feel brighter and more spacious. This quality makes it an excellent choice for smaller rooms or spaces with limited natural light. Keep in mind that the amount of natural light in the room can affect the way the color appears, so it is essential to test the color in different lighting conditions before making a final decision.
Another thing to consider when using White Dove is the sheen level. The higher the sheen, the lighter the color will appear. If you want a brighter and more reflective look, you can choose a higher sheen level. However, keep in mind that a high sheen level can also highlight imperfections on the walls.
White Dove is a pure white color with a hint of warmth, which makes it an excellent choice for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It is also a popular choice for trim and molding because of its ability to complement other colors and finishes.
Comparison of Alabaster and White Dove
When deciding between Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove, it’s important to compare the undertones of each color. Alabaster has warm, creamy beige tones, while White Dove has cooler gray undertones with a hint of yellow. In cool-toned LED lighting, White Dove can even appear slightly green.
The sheen of the paint also plays a role in how the color appears. The higher the sheen, the lighter any color will appear. So, if you want a lighter look, choose a higher sheen.
In terms of natural light, both colors can look great. Alabaster can appear more beige in natural light, while White Dove can appear more gray. It’s important to consider the amount of natural light in the room when choosing between the two colors.
Here’s a quick comparison chart to help you decide:
| Comparison | Sherwin Williams Alabaster | Benjamin Moore White Dove |
|---|---|---|
| Undertones | Warm, creamy beige | Cool gray with a hint of yellow |
| Sheen | Lower sheen | Higher sheen |
| Natural Light | More beige | More gray |
Application and Use
When it comes to choosing between Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove, it’s important to consider the application and use of each color. Here’s what you need to know:
Walls
Both Alabaster and White Dove are popular choices for walls, as they are neutral and versatile. Alabaster has a warm undertone, while White Dove has a cooler gray undertone. If you’re looking for a warmer, creamier look, Alabaster may be the better choice. If you want a cooler, more modern look, White Dove may be the way to go.
Cabinets
Alabaster and White Dove are also popular choices for kitchen cabinets. Alabaster is a warm, creamy white that can give your kitchen a cozy, farmhouse feel. White Dove, on the other hand, is a cooler white that can give your kitchen a more modern, sleek look. Keep in mind that the sheen you choose can also impact the final look of your cabinets.
Trim and Baseboards
When it comes to trim and baseboards, both Alabaster and White Dove can work well. Alabaster can give your trim a warm, inviting look, while White Dove can create a crisp, clean look. It’s important to consider the other colors in the room when choosing between these two whites.
Ceiling
For ceilings, both Alabaster and White Dove can work well. Alabaster can create a warm, cozy feel in a room, while White Dove can make a room feel brighter and more spacious. Keep in mind that the sheen you choose can also impact the final look of your ceiling.
Exteriors
Alabaster and White Dove can both be used on exteriors, but it’s important to consider the other colors and materials in your home. Alabaster can look great on homes with warm brick or stone, while White Dove can look great on homes with cool gray or blue tones.
Accent Wall
If you’re considering an accent wall, both Alabaster and White Dove can work well. Alabaster can create a warm, cozy feel, while White Dove can create a clean, modern look. Keep in mind that the other colors in the room and the purpose of the accent wall should also be considered.
Other White Paint Options
If you’re still undecided between Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove, there are other white paint options you may want to consider. Here are some of them:
- Simply White by Benjamin Moore: This is a warm off-white that has a slight yellow undertone. It’s a great option if you want a white paint that’s not too stark or cool-toned.
- Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore: This is a popular off-white that has a warm, creamy undertone. It’s a good choice if you want white paint that’s not too yellow or beige.
- Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore: This is a cool-toned white that has a slight blue undertone. It’s a good option if you want a white paint that’s crisp and clean-looking.
- Cloud Cover by Benjamin Moore: This is a warm off-white that has a slight gray undertone. It’s a great option if you want white paint that’s not too yellow or beige.
- Extra White by Sherwin Williams: This is a pure white that has no undertones. It’s a good choice if you want a white paint that’s bright and crisp-looking.
- Revere Pewter by Benjamin Moore: This is a popular greige (gray-beige) paint that has warm undertones. It’s a good option if you want a paint color that’s not quite white but not too dark, either.
- Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore: This is another popular greige paint that has warm undertones. It’s a good option if you want a paint color that’s not quite white but not too dark, either.
- Agreeable Gray by Sherwin Williams: This is a popular greige paint that has warm undertones. It’s a good option if you want a paint color that’s not quite white but not too dark, either.
Keep in mind that the best white paint color for your space will depend on factors such as lighting, decor, and personal preference. It’s always a good idea to test out a few different paint colors before making a final decision.
Choosing the Perfect White Paint
When it comes to choosing the perfect white paint color for your home, it can be overwhelming. With so many shades of white and greige paint colors available, it’s important to find a true white that is classic, versatile, and perfect for your space.
One of the most popular true white paint colors is Sherwin Williams Alabaster. This amazing white paint color has warm undertones that create a cozy and inviting feel. It’s perfect for creating a neutral backdrop that allows other design elements to shine.
Another popular true white paint color is Benjamin Moore White Dove. This classic white paint color has yellow undertones that add warmth to any space. It’s a versatile shade of white that can work well in both traditional and modern spaces.
When deciding between Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove, it’s important to consider the other colors and design elements in your space. If you have warm wood tones or warm lighting, Sherwin Williams Alabaster may be the perfect white paint color for you. If you have cooler tones or cooler lighting, Benjamin Moore White Dove may be a better choice.
It’s also important to consider the finish of your white paint color. A matte or eggshell finish can create a soft and subtle look, while a high-gloss finish can add drama and sophistication.
When it comes to measuring your white paint color, it’s important to use the right tools. A gallon of paint can cover approximately 350 square feet (32.5 square meters) with one coat. Be sure to measure your walls accurately to determine how much paint you’ll need.
Tools and Resources
When it comes to choosing between Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove, there are several tools and resources available to help you make an informed decision.
One helpful tool is the Sherwin Williams ColorSnap® Visualizer app, which allows you to upload a photo of your space and see how different paint colors will look in it. Similarly, the Benjamin Moore Color Portfolio® app lets you visualize different paint colors in your space and even provides recommendations based on your color preferences.
If you’re hesitant to commit to a full paint job, consider using Samplize peel-and-stick paint samples. These samples are made with real paint and can be easily applied and removed from your walls without damaging them. This allows you to see how the colors look in your space without the commitment of a full paint job.
Websites like Houzz and Pinterest are also great resources for inspiration and ideas on how to use Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove in different spaces. You can browse through photos of real homes and see how these colors look in different lighting and with different decor styles.
For homeowners and designers looking for more data-driven information, both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore provide detailed information about the properties and characteristics of their paint colors on their websites. This includes information on the color’s hue, saturation, and lightness, as well as its recommended sheen and coverage.
It’s worth noting that both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore have named a white paint color as their “Color of the Year” in recent years. In 2016, Sherwin Williams named Alabaster as their Color of the Year, while Benjamin Moore named Simply White as their Color of the Year in 2015. This shows the enduring popularity of white paint colors in interior design.
When it comes to specific shades of white, both Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove are popular choices. While Alabaster has a creamy, beige undertone, White Dove is slightly more gray. It’s important to consider your space’s lighting and decor when choosing between these two colors.
In terms of sheen, both Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore recommend using a semi-gloss finish for trim and doors and an eggshell or satin finish for walls. This provides a nice balance between durability and ease of cleaning while still allowing the paint colors to shine.
FAQ: Alabaster VS White Dove
What are the differences between Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove?
Both Sherwin Williams Alabaster and Benjamin Moore White Dove are popular off-white paint colors. However, Alabaster has a slightly warmer undertone than White Dove. Additionally, White Dove has a higher Light Reflectance Value (LRV) than Alabaster, which means it reflects more light and appears brighter.
Which paint color, Alabaster or White Dove, has a warmer undertone?
Sherwin Williams Alabaster has a slightly warmer undertone than Benjamin Moore White Dove. If you want a paint color that feels cozier and warmer on the wall, Alabaster might be the better choice for you.
Can Alabaster and White Dove be used interchangeably?
While both paint colors are similar, they have different undertones and LRV values, so they may not appear identical on the wall. It’s always recommended to test a small area first to see how the paint color looks in your specific lighting situation.
Is there a noticeable difference in brightness between Alabaster and White Dove?
Yes, there is a noticeable difference in brightness between the two paint colors. Benjamin Moore White Dove has a higher LRV than Sherwin Williams Alabaster, which means it reflects more light and appears brighter.
What is the light reflectance value (LRV) of Alabaster compared to White Dove?
Sherwin Williams Alabaster has an LRV of 82, while Benjamin Moore White Dove has an LRV of 85. This means that White Dove reflects more light and appears brighter on the wall.
Which paint color, Alabaster or White Dove, is more versatile for different lighting situations?
Both paint colors are versatile and can work well in a variety of lighting situations. However, because of its higher LRV, Benjamin Moore White Dove may be a better choice if you have a darker room or want to brighten up a space. Sherwin Williams Alabaster may be a better choice if you want a cozier, warmer feel on the walls.
