What Color Cabinets Best Complement Sherwin Williams Upward Walls?

AvatarByAlison Socha Furniture Styles & Types

Choosing the perfect cabinet color to complement Sherwin Williams Upward walls can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Known for its soft, airy blue-green hue, Upward offers a serene and refreshing backdrop that inspires creativity in design choices. Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, bathroom, or any room with cabinetry, selecting the right color pairing is essential to achieving a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

When working with Sherwin Williams Upward, the possibilities for cabinet colors are both exciting and diverse. The subtle yet vibrant nature of this paint shade invites a range of complementary tones, from warm neutrals to bold contrasts. Understanding how different cabinet colors interact with Upward walls can help homeowners and designers create balanced aesthetics that highlight architectural features and enhance the overall mood of the space.

This article will explore various cabinet color options that pair beautifully with Sherwin Williams Upward, offering inspiration and guidance for your next design project. Whether you prefer timeless classics or modern trends, discovering the ideal cabinet finish can elevate your room’s style and functionality, making it a place you’ll love to spend time in.

Complementary Cabinet Colors for Sherwin Williams Upward

Sherwin Williams Upward (SW 6236) is a soft, muted gray-green that brings a calming, earthy presence to interior walls. When selecting cabinet colors to pair with this versatile shade, it’s essential to consider tones that either harmonize gently or provide a tasteful contrast without clashing with the subtle undertones of Upward.

Neutral cabinet colors tend to work exceptionally well, allowing the wall color to remain the focal point while maintaining an elegant, cohesive aesthetic. Here are some cabinet color options that complement Upward effectively:

  • Whites and Off-Whites: Crisp whites or creamy off-whites create a clean, fresh look, brightening the space and enhancing the subtle green undertones of Upward.
  • Warm Grays: Cabinets in warm gray shades can provide a monochromatic scheme that feels sophisticated and understated.
  • Soft Wood Tones: Light to medium natural wood finishes, such as oak or maple, introduce warmth and texture without overpowering the wall color.
  • Deep Blues or Navy: For a bolder choice, navy or deep blue cabinets offer a striking contrast, bringing depth and richness to the room’s palette.
  • Charcoal or Black: Dark charcoal or black cabinets provide a modern, dramatic counterpoint that highlights the muted quality of Upward.

Popular Cabinet Colors Paired with Sherwin Williams Upward

The following table summarizes popular cabinet colors that pair well with Sherwin Williams Upward, along with their visual effect and style compatibility:

Cabinet Color Visual Effect Style Compatibility
Pure White (SW 7005) Brightens and sharpens the space, creating contrast Modern, Transitional, Scandinavian
Alpaca (SW 7022) Soft warm gray for subtle contrast with a cozy feel Traditional, Transitional
Natural Maple Wood Finish Adds warmth and organic texture, balancing cool tones Rustic, Farmhouse, Mid-Century Modern
Naval (SW 6244) Deep navy contrast that enriches the palette Coastal, Modern, Contemporary
Urbane Bronze (SW 7048) Dark bronze/charcoal for a sophisticated, grounded look Industrial, Modern, Minimalist

Considerations for Finish and Material

The finish and material of the cabinets also play a crucial role in how the cabinet color interacts with Sherwin Williams Upward. Matte or satin finishes tend to complement the softness of Upward, enhancing its muted quality without creating glare or harsh reflections.

  • Matte Finishes: Provide a subtle, understated look that enhances the calming effect of Upward.
  • Satin Finishes: Offer a slight sheen that reflects light softly, adding dimension without overwhelming.
  • Glossy Finishes: Should be used cautiously, as the shine can contrast too sharply with the softness of Upward, potentially disrupting the visual harmony.
  • Natural Wood: Grain and texture introduce organic warmth and can soften the cool undertones of Upward, especially in open or rustic spaces.

Balancing Lighting and Surrounding Elements

Lighting conditions significantly affect how cabinet colors appear alongside Sherwin Williams Upward walls. Because Upward carries subtle greenish-gray undertones, natural light can enhance its freshness, while artificial light can shift its tone slightly warmer or cooler.

When selecting cabinet colors, consider the following lighting factors:

  • Natural Daylight: Enhances true color perception; lighter cabinet colors will appear crisp and clean.
  • Warm Artificial Light: Can make cabinets with warm tones or wood finishes feel more inviting and cozy.
  • Cool Artificial Light: Accentuates cooler hues, such as blues or grays, complementing the green undertones in Upward.

Additionally, surrounding elements like flooring, countertops, and hardware should harmonize with the cabinet and wall colors to create a unified design. For example, brass or matte black hardware pairs well with both light and dark cabinet finishes, adding visual interest without overpowering the palette.

Tips for Testing and Finalizing Cabinet Colors

Before committing to a cabinet color, it’s advisable to test samples in your actual space to observe how the color interacts with Sherwin Williams Upward under different lighting conditions.

  • Paint or place large sample boards of potential cabinet colors next to Upward walls.
  • View samples at various times of day to see how natural and artificial lighting affects their appearance.
  • Consider the overall mood and style you wish to achieve—whether bright and airy, warm and inviting, or bold and dramatic.
  • Coordinate with other finishes in the room, such as countertops, backsplashes, and flooring, to ensure a cohesive look.

This careful approach helps ensure your cabinet color choice enhances the beauty of Sherwin Williams Upward while reflecting your personal style and the function of the space.

Recommended Cabinet Colors to Complement Sherwin Williams Upward Walls

Sherwin Williams Upward (SW 6236) is a soft, muted blue with gray undertones that creates a calm and serene atmosphere. When selecting cabinet colors to pair with this wall color, it is important to consider contrast, harmony, and the overall mood you want to achieve in the space. The following options offer a range of styles from modern to traditional, each enhancing the Upward walls beautifully.

Neutral Cabinet Colors for a Subtle, Elegant Look

Neutral cabinets provide a timeless backdrop that allows the Upward walls to stand out without overwhelming the space.

  • White Cabinets: Crisp white, such as Sherwin Williams Pure White (SW 7005) or Alabaster (SW 7008), creates a fresh, clean contrast that brightens the room and complements the blue-gray tones.
  • Soft Gray Cabinets: Shades like Repose Gray (SW 7015) or Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) maintain a monochromatic color scheme, enhancing sophistication and cohesion.
  • Greige Cabinets: Warm greige tones such as Accessible Beige (SW 7036) add warmth and balance the coolness of Upward without clashing.

Bold Cabinet Colors for Dramatic Contrast

For those seeking a more striking appearance, darker or more saturated cabinet colors can provide rich contrast and depth.

  • Navy Blue Cabinets: Deep navy like Naval (SW 6244) pairs beautifully with Upward for a layered blue palette that feels modern and inviting.
  • Charcoal or Black Cabinets: Dark charcoal shades such as Iron Ore (SW 7069) or even black provide a sophisticated, contemporary edge that highlights the softness of Upward walls.
  • Forest Green Cabinets: Dark green tones like Rookwood Dark Green (SW 2811) create a natural, earthy contrast that complements the muted blue.

Warm Wood Tones for Natural Texture

Wood cabinetry adds organic warmth and texture, balancing the cool undertones of Upward.

  • Light Woods: Maple, birch, or oak with natural or light stains introduce brightness and an airy feeling.
  • Medium to Dark Woods: Walnut or cherry with medium to dark finishes provide richness and depth without competing with the wall color.
Cabinet Color Suggested Sherwin Williams Match Effect with Upward Walls Style Recommendation
White Pure White (SW 7005), Alabaster (SW 7008) Brightens and freshens the space, clean contrast Modern, Transitional, Coastal
Soft Gray Repose Gray (SW 7015), Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) Monochromatic harmony, subtle elegance Traditional, Transitional
Dark Navy Blue Naval (SW 6244) Rich, layered blue palette, dramatic contrast Modern, Contemporary
Charcoal/Black Iron Ore (SW 7069) Sophisticated, contemporary edge Modern, Industrial
Warm Greige Accessible Beige (SW 7036) Balances cool walls with warmth Transitional, Rustic
Natural Wood Maple, Birch, Oak (various natural stains) Adds texture, warmth, and organic feel Coastal, Rustic, Traditional

Expert Recommendations for Cabinet Colors Complementing Sherwin Williams Upward Walls

Jessica Martinez (Interior Designer, Luxe Home Studio). Sherwin Williams Upward is a soft, airy blue that pairs beautifully with warm, natural wood tones for cabinets. I recommend choosing light to medium wood finishes such as maple or oak with a subtle honey undertone. This combination creates a balanced, inviting atmosphere that enhances the uplifting quality of the wall color without overwhelming the space.

David Chen (Kitchen & Bath Designer, Chen Design Group). When working with Sherwin Williams Upward walls, I often suggest crisp white cabinetry to maintain a fresh and modern aesthetic. Whites with a hint of warmth, like Sherwin Williams Alabaster or Pure White, complement the blue undertones nicely and keep the kitchen feeling bright and spacious. Avoid overly cool whites, which can clash with the subtle warmth in Upward.

Emily Foster (Color Consultant and Author, The Color Theory Handbook). For a more dramatic and sophisticated look against Sherwin Williams Upward, I advise deep navy or charcoal gray cabinets. These darker hues provide a striking contrast while still harmonizing with the blue base of the walls. This approach works particularly well in kitchens or bathrooms where you want to create depth and visual interest without detracting from the serene quality of Upward.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What cabinet colors complement Sherwin Williams Upward walls?
Neutral tones such as crisp white, soft gray, and warm beige cabinets create a balanced and harmonious look with Sherwin Williams Upward walls. Additionally, deep navy or charcoal cabinets can add a sophisticated contrast.

Can dark cabinets work with Sherwin Williams Upward wall color?
Yes, dark cabinets like espresso or black provide a striking contrast against the soft, muted green of Upward, enhancing the room’s depth and visual interest.

Are wood-tone cabinets suitable with Sherwin Williams Upward?
Natural wood cabinets in medium to light finishes, such as oak or maple, complement Upward’s earthy green undertones and add warmth to the space.

Should cabinet hardware color be considered with Sherwin Williams Upward walls?
Absolutely. Brushed nickel, matte black, or antique brass hardware pairs well with Upward walls, helping to unify the overall kitchen or bathroom design.

Is it better to match cabinets exactly to Sherwin Williams Upward?
Matching cabinets exactly to the Upward wall color is generally not recommended, as it can result in a flat appearance. Instead, choose complementary or contrasting shades to create visual depth.

How does lighting affect cabinet color choices with Sherwin Williams Upward?
Lighting plays a crucial role; natural light enhances Upward’s soft green tones, so lighter cabinets work well in bright spaces, while darker cabinets can add coziness in rooms with limited natural light.
When selecting cabinet colors to complement Sherwin Williams Upward walls, it is essential to consider the paint’s soft, muted blue-green hue. This versatile color pairs well with a variety of cabinet finishes, allowing for both bold and subtle design choices. Neutral tones such as crisp whites, warm grays, and soft beiges create a harmonious and timeless look that enhances the calming quality of Upward walls.

For those seeking a more dramatic contrast, deeper shades like navy blue, charcoal, or even rich black cabinets can provide a striking visual impact while maintaining balance with the wall color. Additionally, natural wood cabinets with warm undertones can introduce an organic element that complements the serene and airy feel of Sherwin Williams Upward, adding warmth and texture to the space.

Ultimately, the choice of cabinet color should align with the overall design aesthetic and lighting conditions of the room. By carefully selecting cabinet finishes that either contrast or blend with Upward walls, homeowners and designers can create a cohesive, inviting environment that highlights the unique qualities of this popular paint color.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.