If you’ve been searching for a paint color that feels soft, sophisticated, and effortlessly tranquil, Sherwin Williams Upward might be the answer. Chosen as the brand’s 2024 Color of the Year, this peaceful shade of blue-gray has quickly become a designer favorite for its modern versatility and timeless charm.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes sherwin williams upward so special — from its undertones and best uses to pairing suggestions and lighting effects. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use this color to elevate your home with calm confidence.
What Is Sherwin Williams Upward?
Sherwin Williams Upward (SW 6239) is a light, airy blue infused with gentle gray undertones. It’s often described as a “breezy sky blue” softened by a touch of silver, evoking feelings of clarity, relaxation, and openness.
Unlike brighter blues that demand attention, Upward whispers serenity. It’s that subtle, clear-day hue that pairs beautifully with both warm and cool design elements. This balance makes it versatile enough for bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, or even as an accent in more dynamic spaces.
In essence, sherwin williams upward is a mood — tranquil, thoughtful, and refreshingly optimistic.
Color Details and Technical Specifications
Understanding a color’s technical side helps you predict how it behaves in your home. Here’s what you should know about Sherwin Williams Upward:
- Color Code: SW 6239
- RGB Values: 191 / 201 / 208
- Hex Code: #BFC9D0
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 57
The LRV of 57 means it reflects a fair amount of light without feeling overly pale. It’s bright enough to make smaller rooms feel open, yet grounded enough to provide substance on the walls.
Its undertones are soft violet-gray, which gives it that silvery calm appearance in cooler light. In warmer spaces, the blue emerges a bit more distinctly.
Why Choose Sherwin Williams Upward?
You might wonder: with so many blues out there, why does sherwin williams upward stand out? Here’s what sets it apart.
1. It’s Calm and Centered
Upward’s biggest strength lies in its mood. It brings a sense of ease and relaxation to any room. Whether you’re creating a spa-like bathroom or a peaceful bedroom, the color has a quiet presence that never overwhelms.
2. Universally Adaptable
This shade adapts effortlessly to a variety of design styles — from coastal and modern farmhouse to Scandinavian minimalism and contemporary chic. It works well with white trim, natural woods, soft grays, or even deep navy accents.
3. Trendy Yet Timeless
While sherwin williams upward gained fame as the 2024 Color of the Year, it’s far from a fleeting trend. Its balanced tone ensures it will remain relevant for years to come — a subtle, classic color that feels current but not trendy.
4. Enhances Natural Light
With an LRV of 57, Upward reflects a comfortable amount of light, giving rooms a fresh, airy quality. It performs beautifully in both natural and artificial lighting, maintaining a consistent, soothing hue throughout the day.
Best Rooms and Uses for Upward
Sherwin Williams Upward is incredibly versatile, but it truly shines in certain areas of the home.
Bedrooms
Perfect for creating a restful retreat. Upward promotes calmness, making it ideal for winding down at the end of the day. Pair it with white bedding, light wood furniture, and soft linen textures for a spa-like sanctuary.
Bathrooms
The cool, clean nature of Upward makes it a natural fit for bathrooms. It complements white tiles, chrome fixtures, and marble countertops, transforming your space into a refreshing oasis.
Living Rooms
In shared spaces, Upward offers a gentle backdrop that allows furnishings and artwork to shine. It pairs beautifully with neutral upholstery, woven textures, and warm metallic accents.
Kitchens and Cabinets
If you want a subtle pop of color without overwhelming the space, Upward looks stunning on lower cabinets, kitchen islands, or built-in shelving. Pair it with crisp white countertops or warm brass hardware for an elevated touch.
Home Offices
Upward’s soothing quality helps improve focus and reduce visual clutter. It’s the perfect wall color for a calm, productive work environment.
Perfect Color Pairings and Design Ideas
When designing with sherwin williams upward, choosing the right complementary colors can make all the difference.
Neutral Companions
- Snowbound or Pure White: Crisp whites make Upward appear fresh and airy.
- Drift of Mist or Agreeable Gray: Soft grays highlight its serene nature without clashing.
- Tricorn Black: A touch of contrast that adds drama and sophistication.
Coordinating Colors
- Gale Force: A deeper navy for accent walls or furniture.
- Ethereal Mood: A muted teal that complements Upward’s tranquil vibe.
- Natural Linen or Shoji White: For warmth and texture balance.
Design Themes
- Coastal Retreat: Pair Upward with sandy beiges, woven jute rugs, and sea-glass accents.
- Modern Minimalist: Use it with matte black hardware, sleek white surfaces, and concrete tones.
- Scandinavian Simplicity: Combine it with pale wood floors, cozy textiles, and neutral artwork.
Lighting, Undertones, and Room Orientation
The way sherwin williams upward looks depends heavily on lighting and room direction.
- North-facing rooms: Natural light tends to be cool and soft, bringing out Upward’s gray undertone.
- South-facing rooms: Warm sunlight enhances its blue quality, giving it a breezier feel.
- East-facing rooms: Morning light creates a gentle brightness that softens throughout the day.
- West-facing rooms: Afternoon warmth balances the color, making it appear more neutral.
Under artificial light, especially warm bulbs, Upward may lean slightly violet-gray. Always test samples on multiple walls and observe how they change throughout the day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most beautiful color can fall flat if applied incorrectly. Here’s what to watch out for when using sherwin williams upward:
- Overusing in Warm-Toned Spaces: If your room features a lot of beige, terracotta, or honey oak, the coolness of Upward can feel out of place. Balance it with cooler neutrals.
- Skipping Lighting Tests: Upward’s undertones shift subtly depending on light. Always test before committing.
- Choosing Creamy Whites for Trim: Warm, yellow-based whites can clash with its blue-gray character. Stick to cooler, crisp whites.
- Using It on Large Exterior Surfaces: Outdoors, strong sunlight can make Upward look washed out. It works best for front doors, shutters, or porch ceilings rather than full siding.
Application Tips and Design Finishes
To make sherwin williams upward shine, consider these professional tips:
- Finish Choice:
- Walls: Eggshell or satin for subtle sheen.
- Trim: Semi-gloss in crisp white.
- Cabinetry: Durable satin or semi-gloss for cleanability.
- Pair with Texture: Add woven rugs, linen curtains, and natural wood for warmth.
- Accent Strategically: Consider pairing with navy, charcoal, or soft sage to add depth.
- Create Continuity: Paint adjacent rooms in coordinating tones for a cohesive flow.
Testing is key — apply large swatches and view them in daylight and artificial light to ensure you love the result.
Conclusion
Sherwin Williams Upward is more than just a color — it’s a feeling of calm, renewal, and clarity. Its soft blue-gray character fits seamlessly into a wide range of design styles, offering both elegance and comfort.
Whether you’re designing a serene bedroom, a sophisticated bathroom, or a bright living room, sherwin williams upward provides the perfect foundation. It balances freshness with subtlety, creating a space that feels light, modern, and endlessly inviting.
If you’re ready to transform your home with tranquility and timeless charm, Upward is a color that truly lives up to its name.
FAQ
Q1: What kind of color is Sherwin Williams Upward?
It’s a soft blue with subtle gray and violet undertones, designed to create calm, airy interiors.
Q2: Is Sherwin Williams Upward warm or cool?
Upward is a cool color. Its blue-gray base leans toward a refreshing and peaceful tone rather than warm or yellowish.
Q3: Does Sherwin Williams Upward look good with wood tones?
Yes, it pairs well with light, neutral, or gray-washed woods. Warm golden woods may contrast too sharply, so balance with cooler accents.
Q4: Can I use Upward on cabinets?
Absolutely. It looks especially elegant on kitchen islands or bathroom vanities paired with white or marble countertops.
Q5: What is the best trim color with Upward?
Crisp whites like Extra White, Pure White, or Snowbound work perfectly, providing a clean contrast that enhances its softness.
