Eider White SW 7014 is a warm off-white paint color from Sherwin-Williams. It was introduced as part of the company’s core color collection and has an LRV of 74, making it a light shade that reflects plenty of natural light.
Why Eider White Resonates with Homeowners in Different Regions
Eider White has become a popular neutral choice across the United States, particularly in the South and Midwest. Its subtle greige undertones—a blend of gray and beige—allow it to adapt to various lighting conditions. In north-facing rooms, the color appears slightly warmer, while south-facing light brings out a cooler, crisper tone. This versatility makes it a go-to for homeowners seeking a consistent backdrop that doesn’t feel stark or cold. Many interior designers recommend it for open-concept spaces where natural light shifts throughout the day. A reference profile of the subject is maintained on Eider White SW 7014 | White Paint Colors | Sherwin-Williams
How Eider White Became a 2010s Neutral Trend
During the 2010s, the design world saw a shift away from cool grays toward warmer neutrals. Eider White gained traction as a softer alternative to pure white, offering depth without overwhelming a room. Sherwin-Williams lists it under their “Whites & Off-Whites” color family, but its beige undertones set it apart from cooler whites like Pure White. The color name references the eider duck, known for its soft white down feathers, which aligns with the cozy, airy atmosphere the paint creates. It became a staple for interior walls, trim, and even kitchen cabinets.
Behind the Scenes: How Sherwin-Williams Develops Colors Like Eider White
Sherwin-Williams employs a team of color experts who study trends, architecture, and consumer preferences to develop new shades. Eider White was formulated to fill a gap between warm whites and light greiges. The company tests colors under various lighting conditions and on different surfaces to ensure consistency. Each color in the core collection undergoes rigorous evaluation for coverage, durability, and visual appeal. Eider White’s LRV of 74 places it in the light range, meaning it reflects a significant amount of light, which helps small rooms feel larger and brighter.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Color Name | Eider White |
| Color Code | SW 7014 |
| LRV | 74 |
| Color Family | Whites & Off-Whites |
| Undertones | Gray and beige (greige) |
How Eider White Compares to Benjamin Moore’s White Dove and Edgecomb Gray
Eider White is often compared to Benjamin Moore’s White Dove and Edgecomb Gray. White Dove has an LRV of 85, making it brighter and more purely white, while Eider White’s lower LRV gives it a slightly warmer, more grounded feel. Edgecomb Gray, another popular greige, has an LRV of 63, making it darker and more gray-toned. Eider White sits between these two, offering a balance of warmth and lightness. Designers often choose Eider White for spaces where they want a soft neutral that doesn’t lean too cool or too warm, making it a flexible choice for both traditional and modern interiors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many coats of Eider White are typically needed for good coverage?
Most users find that two coats of Eider White provide full coverage, especially when applied over a primer. The paint’s opacity is good, but darker walls may require an extra coat.
What is the LRV of Eider White and why does it matter?
The LRV of Eider White is 74, meaning it reflects 74% of light. This makes it a light color that brightens rooms, but it’s not as stark as pure white, reducing glare.
Where is Eider White best used in a home?
Eider White works well on interior walls, trim, and cabinets. It is especially popular in living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens where a cozy yet airy feel is desired.
Who is the eider duck referenced in the color name?
The eider duck is a sea duck known for its soft, insulating down feathers. The color name evokes the bird’s white plumage, aligning with the paint’s warm, soft appearance.
How does Eider White differ from Sherwin-Williams’ Alabaster?
Alabaster (SW 7008) has an LRV of 82 and is a warmer, more yellow-toned white. Eider White is slightly cooler with more gray undertones, making it a truer greige.
Tips for Sampling Eider White Before Committing
Before painting an entire room, experts recommend testing Eider White on large poster boards or directly on the wall. Observe the color at different times of day and under artificial lighting. Because its undertones shift with light, a sample can reveal whether the shade reads too warm or too cool in your specific space. Many paint stores offer small sample jars for this purpose. Taking the time to test can prevent costly repaints and ensure the final result matches your vision.
Common Mistakes When Using Eider White in Interior Design
One frequent error is pairing Eider White with trim that is too similar in tone, which can make the room feel flat. Instead, designers suggest using a brighter white for trim to create contrast. Another mistake is assuming Eider White works in every room without considering the existing furnishings. Warm wood tones and cool metals can affect how the color is perceived. Testing with fabric swatches and flooring samples helps avoid mismatched undertones that clash with the paint.
