When choosing the perfect white paint for your home, countless options are available in the market. Among these options, two shades have been gaining popularity and stealing the spotlight: High Reflective White and Extra White. Both of these shades promise to deliver a pristine, flawless white finish, but what sets them apart?
In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of High Reflective White and Extra White by Sherwin Williams, uncovering their unique qualities and helping you make an informed decision for your next painting project. We’ll also provide perfect color combinations for these colors.
High Reflective White
High Reflective White (SW 7757), as the name suggests, is a shade of white paint that boasts exceptional light-reflecting properties. It is designed to bounce light around a room, creating an illusion of space and brightness. If you have a smaller room or a space with little natural light, High Reflective White can work wonders by giving the impression of a more open and airy environment.
One of the key advantages of High Reflective White is its versatility. It is a blank canvas, allowing you to experiment with different color schemes and décor styles. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or a vibrant, eclectic design, this shade of white acts as a perfect backdrop that complements any aesthetic. It also works well in spaces where you want to highlight architectural details or artwork, as the reflective properties draw attention to these features.
Extra White
Extra White (SW 7006), on the other hand, is a shade that leans towards a purer, cooler tone of white. It offers a crisp, clean appearance that can add a touch of modern sophistication to any space. Extra White might be your ideal choice if you’re aiming for a sleek, contemporary look. Its cooler undertones can create a refreshing and calming atmosphere, making it an excellent option for bedrooms, bathrooms, and other areas where tranquility is key.
One of the distinguishing features of Extra White is its ability to make colors pop. When paired with vibrant or bold hues, Extra White acts as a stark contrast, enhancing the visual impact of the other colors in the room. This characteristic makes it a favorite among designers and homeowners looking to create a statement with their interior design choices.
High Reflective White vs Extra White: Know The Differences
The differences between High Reflective White and Extra White can be summarized as follows:
Light Reflectivity:
- High Reflective White is specifically formulated to have exceptional light-reflecting properties. It bounces light around the room, creating a sense of brightness and openness.
- Extra White, on the other hand, does not possess the same level of light reflectivity as High Reflective White.
Undertones:
- High Reflective White is a neutral shade of white without any distinct undertones. It serves as a blank canvas, allowing you to experiment with different color schemes and décor styles.
- Extra White, on the other hand, leans towards a purer, cooler tone of white. It has subtle blue or gray undertones, giving it a crisper and cooler appearance.
Versatility:
- High Reflective White is highly versatile and complements various design styles. Its neutral nature works well with minimalist and vibrant color schemes. It also serves as an excellent backdrop for highlighting architectural details and artwork.
- Extra White, with its cooler undertones, has a more modern and sophisticated vibe. It works particularly well in contemporary interiors and can create striking contrasts when paired with vibrant or bold colors.
Lighting Conditions:
- High Reflective White is particularly beneficial in rooms with limited natural light. Its light-reflecting properties can make a smaller space appear larger and more inviting. It is also a popular choice for ceilings as it can create an illusion of height and openness.
- Extra White can work in various lighting conditions but is especially suitable for spaces where a clean, crisp look is desired.
Ultimately, the choice between High Reflective White and Extra White depends on personal preference and the specific needs of your space. Consider factors such as lighting, desired ambiance, and complementary colors.
Table of differences
| Specification | High Reflective White | Extra White |
| Light Reflectivity | Exceptional | Moderate |
| LRV | 93 | 86 |
| RGB | 247, 247, 241 | 238, 239, 234 |
| Hex Value | #F7F7F1 | #EEEFEA |
| Undertones | Neutral | Cooler (subtle blue/gray) |
| Versatility | Highly versatile | Modern and sophisticated |
| Suitable Lighting | Limited natural light | Various lighting conditions |
| Complementary Colors | Works with any color scheme | Enhances vibrant/bold colors |
| Recommended Applications | Small spaces, ceilings | Contemporary interiors |
| Desired Effect | Openness, brightness | Clean, crisp look |
Both Colors may look the same, but they have different characteristics.
Color Combinations
Here are some color combinations that work well with both High Reflective White and Extra White:
Color Combinations with High Reflective White:
- High Reflective White and Navy Blue: The contrast between bright white and deep navy blue creates a classic and sophisticated look. Use navy blue as an accent color in furniture, accessories, or accent walls.
- High Reflective White and Pastel Pink: Pairing the crisp white with soft pastel pink adds a touch of femininity and elegance. This combination works well in bedrooms, nurseries, or any space where a delicate and calming ambiance is desired.
- High Reflective White and Charcoal Gray: The combination of bright white and charcoal gray creates a modern, sleek aesthetic. Use charcoal gray as an accent color in furnishings, textiles or as an accent wall to add depth and sophistication to the space.
Color Combinations with Extra White:
- Extra White and Bold Red: The clean and crisp appearance of Extra White pairs beautifully with bold red accents. The contrast between the bright white and vibrant red creates a unique and energetic atmosphere. Use red as an accent color in accessories, artwork, or statement furniture pieces.
- Extra White and Soft Gray: Pairing Extra White with soft gray creates a sophisticated and serene look. Combining the cool white and subtle gray tones creates a harmonious and calming ambiance. Use gray as the primary color for walls, furniture, or textiles, and use Extra White for trim or accents.
- Extra White and Navy Blue: The combination of Extra White and navy blue creates a classic and timeless color scheme. The bright white is a crisp backdrop, while navy blue adds depth and richness. Use navy blue for furniture, rugs, or accent walls, and incorporate Extra White through trim and accessories.
These color combinations can be adjusted and customized based on personal preference and the specific mood or style you want to achieve in your space.
Final Words
In conclusion, High Reflective White and Extra White are two compelling options for achieving a perfect white paint finish. High Reflective White’s light-reflecting properties can create a sense of openness and brightness in any space. At the same time, Extra White’s cooler undertones offer a clean, contemporary look that enhances other colors. By understanding their unique qualities and considering your specific requirements, you can confidently make an informed decision and transform your space. Remember, the perfect white paint can be the foundation for a stunning and inviting interior.
S. Pushon is a paint expert, self-taught artist, and currently working as an adviser in the paint industry as a Quality Improvement and Development Assistant.
An artist by heart, he draws remarkable art pieces and as a professional paint industry individual, he seeks the insight and shares with enthusiasts. Read more…
