Organic, Earthy Green with Warm Natural Depth
Sherwin-Williams® Clary Sage (SW 6178) kitchen cabinets bring a soothing, nature-inspired presence to the kitchen. The color offers a grounded elegance that feels soft and welcoming without being dull or overly muted. Its earthy personality brings warmth and balance to cabinetry, making it perfect for homes that value calm, natural design.
The Undertones of Clary Sage
Sherwin-Williams Clary Sage (SW 6178) blends muted green with warm beige and olive undertones, giving it a soft, organic character. In natural daylight, Clary Sage kitchen cabinets appear fresh and airy, while evening lighting warms the color into a mellow, comforting tone. This subtle shift helps the color feel adaptable across different spaces and lighting conditions.
Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design
Light Neutrals
- Creamy (SW 7012) – A warm, soft white that complements Clary Sage with gentle contrast, enhancing its cozy and welcoming qualities. This pairing is perfect for farmhouse or traditional kitchens seeking a timeless palette.
- Alabaster (SW 7008) – Adds a clean but soft brightness that highlights the natural warmth of Clary Sage. Ideal for homes wanting an elevated, effortless countryside aesthetic.
- Fleur de Sel (SW 7666) – A cool gray-white that brings balance and subtle freshness to the warm green tone. Works beautifully in transitional spaces blending classic and modern features.
Rich Accents
- Iron Ore (SW 7069) – Adds dramatic contrast and structure, grounding the softness of Clary Sage for a refined, upscale look. Ideal for two-tone kitchens or island accents.
- Dried Thyme (SW 6186) – A deeper, more olive-based green that enriches layered, organic palettes. This pairing enhances warmth and depth while staying cohesive.
- Evergreen Fog (SW 9130) – A muted gray-green that softens and harmonizes with Clary Sage for calm, spa-like color transitions.
Metallics and Hardware
- Brushed Brass: enhances the warm, earthy undertones of Clary Sage while adding a touch of timeless luxury. This combination works especially well in farmhouse and cottage kitchens.
- Matte Black: delivers crisp, modern contrast that sharpens the overall palette without overwhelming the cabinetry. Ideal for transitional or updated classic designs.
- Antique Bronze: deepens the natural aesthetic and pairs beautifully with wood tones and textured countertops, creating a warm, lived-in feel.
Countertop Pairings
- White Quartz: brightens the cabinetry and creates clean contrast that keeps the palette airy and modern. Its simplicity ensures the green remains the star of the design.
- Marble: adds natural movement and soft elegance that enhances the organic beauty of Clary Sage. Excellent for upscale farmhouse or European-inspired kitchens.
- Butcher Block: introduces warmth and natural character, further emphasizing Clary Sage’s comfortable, nature-infused feel.
Flooring Recommendations
- White Oak: brightens the room and enhances the organic, calming quality of Clary Sage. Perfect for modern farmhouse and Scandinavian-inspired designs.
- Walnut: enriches the palette with deep, warm tones that highlight the sage hue’s earthy roots. A strong choice for traditional kitchens with classic detailing.
- Light Gray Tile: introduces a cool counterbalance that complements the green while keeping the palette clean and modern.
Applications in Cabinetry
- Full Kitchens: create a warm, grounded aesthetic that feels inviting and sophisticated. Clary Sage is ideal for homeowners who want a nature-inspired retreat.
- Kitchen Islands: make for a beautiful, soft focal point that balances lighter perimeter cabinets with comforting, natural color.
- Accent Cabinets: bring subtle color to hutches, built-ins, or dining nooks, tying adjacent spaces together with an organic flow.
Other Spaces and Design Applications
- Laundry Rooms: introduce calm, soothing color that pairs well with crisp whites and natural textures. Helps transform utilitarian spaces into relaxing, cohesive rooms.
- Mudrooms: add warmth and natural character while offering practical durability and visual comfort.
- Bathrooms: make vanities feel spa-like and organic when paired with marble or bronze fixtures.
- Home Offices & Built-ins: bring calm focus and natural balance, providing a refined backdrop ideal for productivity.
Lighting Considerations
Sherwin-Williams Clary Sage (SW 6178) kitchen cabinets appear lighter and fresher in natural daylight and deepen slightly into a more olive-based tone in warm ambient lighting. These variations create warmth and nuance throughout the day.
Design Tip
Pair Clary Sage kitchen cabinets with brushed-brass hardware, white quartz countertops, and white-oak flooring to create a fresh, natural palette that feels timeless and inviting.
Similar Colors to Consider
Why Choose Sherwin-Williams Clary Sage Kitchen Cabinets?
Sherwin-Williams® Clary Sage (SW 6178) cabinetry blends organic comfort with timeless sophistication. Its soft, earthy undertones make kitchens feel grounded, peaceful, and beautifully connected to nature while remaining versatile enough for modern, farmhouse, and traditional designs.
