Sherwin-Williams® Cavern Clay (SW 7701) Kitchen Cabinets – Shaker, Slim Shaker, Raised, Slab

Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay SW7701 kitchen cabinets

Cavern Clay (SW 7701) At A Glance

LRV: 22 (medium-dark — warm and grounding without feeling heavy)

Undertone: Earthy terracotta with muted brown-red influence

Temperature: Warm

Best Kitchen Styles: Southwest, Modern Farmhouse, Organic Modern

Pairs Well With: Aged brass, cream or white quartz, natural wood flooring

Sherwin-Williams® Cavern Clay (SW 7701) is a warm, earthy terracotta that brings grounded richness and natural warmth to kitchen cabinetry. Its blend of clay, copper, and sunbaked orange tones creates a collected, artisan-inspired palette that feels modern and timeless at the same time.

Cavern Clay kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with matte black, brushed brass, or oil-rubbed bronze hardware, as well as white quartz, marble, butcher block, and warm natural wood flooring. This Sherwin-Williams color is especially striking in modern organic, Mediterranean, boho, and southwestern-style kitchens.

Why Homeowners Choose Stonecreek Cabinetry

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• Sherwin-Williams Finishes: Applied professionally.

• Built to Order: Customized specifically to fit your style and layout.

• Factory Direct Pricing: No dealer markups—quality cabinetry straight from our facility.

• Premium Construction: All-plywood boxes and solid wood face frames (No particle board).

• Soft-Close Standard: Full-extension drawers and doors for smooth, quiet use.

• Fully Assembled: Arrives ready for installation (No flat packs or cam-locks).

More about Cavern Clay (SW 7701)

Cavern Clay vs. Redend Point (SW 9081):
Redend Point is softer and more beige-forward, creating a lighter and more neutral backdrop. Cavern Clay is deeper and more saturated, delivering a stronger earthy presence on cabinetry. Cavern Clay is often chosen when Redend Point feels too subtle or muted.

Cavern Clay vs. Copper Harbor (SW 6634):
Copper Harbor leans brighter and more orange-red, creating a bolder, more energetic look. Cavern Clay stays grounded and restrained, with a natural clay-like quality that feels more architectural. Cavern Clay works well when Copper Harbor feels too vivid.

Cavern Clay vs. Balanced Beige (SW 7037):
Balanced Beige is neutral and understated, offering warmth without color saturation. Cavern Clay introduces rich pigment and depth, making it a statement choice rather than a background neutral. Cavern Clay is ideal when beige feels too safe.

Transitional kitchen design with Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay SW7701 cabinets

Earthy Terracotta with Warm, Sunbaked Depth

Sherwin-Williams® Cavern Clay (SW 7701) kitchen cabinets bring a rich, grounded warmth that feels inspired by natural clay and desert landscapes. The color is bold without being loud, offering depth and personality while remaining approachable. Cavern Clay is often chosen for kitchens that want warmth, character, and a design-forward statement.

The Undertones of Cavern Clay

Cavern Clay features strong red and brown undertones softened by earthy orange notes. In bright natural light, it feels warm and sunlit rather than heavy. Under lower or artificial lighting, the color deepens, taking on a cozy, enveloping quality.

Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design

Warm & Soft Whites

  • Creamy (SW 7012) softens Cavern Clay’s intensity while preserving warmth. The contrast feels balanced rather than stark. This pairing works well in kitchens that want bold cabinetry without overwhelming the space.
  • Alabaster (SW 7008) brightens the palette and keeps the space feeling open. Its gentle warmth complements Cavern Clay’s earthy tones. This combination feels classic and approachable.

Complementary Neutrals

  • Balanced Beige (SW 7037) reinforces Cavern Clay’s warmth while grounding the palette. The pairing feels cohesive and natural. It suits kitchens aiming for longevity and comfort.
  • Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) tempers Cavern Clay’s richness with a soft greige balance. This keeps the look from feeling too heavy. The combination works well in open-concept layouts.

Metallics & Hardware

  • Antique brass and aged bronze hardware enhance Cavern Clay’s earthy undertones. These finishes add richness and depth without competing visually. They pair especially well with traditional and Mediterranean-inspired kitchens.
  • Matte black hardware provides contrast while keeping the palette grounded. When used thoughtfully, it adds definition without overpowering the cabinetry.

Countertop Pairings

  • Warm quartz or marble with subtle veining balances Cavern Clay’s boldness. Lighter surfaces help reflect light and maintain openness. This pairing feels refined and intentional.
  • Concrete or stone-look countertops reinforce the color’s organic nature. These materials add texture and visual weight. The result feels modern yet earthy.

Flooring Recommendations

  • Medium to dark hardwood flooring complements Cavern Clay’s warmth. Wood tones add continuity and richness. This pairing feels natural and cohesive.
  • Stone or terracotta tile flooring enhances the color’s Mediterranean influence. The texture adds depth without visual clutter.

Applications in Cabinetry

  • Kitchen islands finished in Cavern Clay create a bold focal point. The warmth anchors the space visually. This is one of the most popular uses for the color.
  • Accent cabinetry allows Cavern Clay to add personality without dominating the kitchen. Used selectively, it feels intentional and design-forward.

Kitchen Style Applications

  • Mediterranean and Spanish-style kitchens benefit from Cavern Clay’s earthy warmth. Paired with natural stone and wood, it feels authentic and timeless.
  • Modern rustic kitchens use Cavern Clay to add depth and contrast. The color grounds clean lines with warmth and texture.
  • Bohemian-inspired kitchens embrace Cavern Clay for its expressive, artistic quality. It pairs well with layered materials and global influences.

Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style

  • Shaker and recessed panel doors balance Cavern Clay’s boldness with structure. Clean lines prevent the color from feeling overpowering.
  • Raised panel doors enhance the color’s traditional warmth. The added detail works well in classic or Mediterranean kitchens.

Other Spaces & Design Applications

  • Butler’s pantries and bars benefit from Cavern Clay’s dramatic warmth. The color adds richness and personality to smaller spaces.
  • Dining rooms and built-ins feel grounded and inviting when finished in Cavern Clay. It creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Lighting Considerations

Cavern Clay responds strongly to lighting conditions. Natural daylight keeps it warm and lively, while lower lighting deepens the color and enhances its earthy character. Balanced lighting helps prevent the space from feeling too dark.

Technical Details

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 25

An LRV of 25 places Cavern Clay in the mid-to-dark range. It offers depth while still reflecting enough light to remain comfortable in kitchens.

Design Tip

Use Cavern Clay kitchen cabinets when you want warmth and personality without sacrificing sophistication. Balance with lighter surfaces and natural materials for best results.

Alternative Colors to Consider

Sherwin-Williams Cavern Clay (SW 7701): FAQs

Is Cavern Clay red, orange, or brown?

Cavern Clay sits between red and brown, with muted terracotta undertones that keep it earthy rather than bright. It reads warm and grounded instead of vibrant.

Does Cavern Clay work for kitchen cabinets?

Yes, particularly for islands, accent cabinetry, or full kitchens with ample light. Pairing it with light countertops and warm metals helps maintain balance.

How does lighting affect Cavern Clay cabinets?

In bright natural light, Cavern Clay appears warmer and more terracotta. In lower or artificial light, the brown undertones deepen, giving it a richer, clay-like appearance.

MORE COLORS

We have over 200 custom colors to choose from

BROWSE COLORS

Disclaimer: Sherwin-Williams® and its color names (e.g., Alabaster SW 7008, Iron Ore SW 7069) are trademarks of The Sherwin-Williams Company. All finishes are applied using genuine Sherwin-Williams® paints. The Sherwin-Williams Company does not sponsor or endorse the products offered by Wholesale Cabinet Supply or Stonecreek Cabinetry.