Soft Blue-Green with Airy, Spa-Like Calm
Sherwin-Williams® Rainwashed (SW 6211) kitchen cabinets offer a light, refreshing blue-green that feels calm, relaxed, and effortlessly inviting. The color sits gently between blue and green, creating a soft, washed appearance rather than a bold statement. Rainwashed is often chosen for kitchens that want a sense of openness, tranquility, and subtle personality.
The Undertones of Rainwashed
Rainwashed features a delicate blend of blue and green undertones with a noticeable gray influence. In bright natural daylight, it leans slightly greener and feels airy and fresh. Under cooler or artificial lighting, the blue undertones become more prominent, giving the color a serene, spa-like quality.
Technical Details
Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 59
An LRV of 59 places Rainwashed in the light-to-mid range. It reflects a healthy amount of light while still providing enough color depth to feel intentional rather than pastel.
Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design
Warm & Soft Whites
- White Duck (SW 7010) softens Rainwashed with gentle warmth. The pairing feels natural and balanced rather than crisp. This combination works especially well in relaxed, coastal-inspired kitchens.
- Alabaster (SW 7008) brightens Rainwashed while preserving softness. The contrast is subtle and comfortable. This pairing suits kitchens that want light without starkness.
Complementary Neutrals
- Repose Gray (SW 7015) anchors Rainwashed with quiet neutrality. The gray undertones connect naturally. This pairing works well in open-concept spaces.
- Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) adds warmth and balance. It prevents Rainwashed from feeling too cool. This combination feels approachable and versatile.
Metallics & Hardware
- Brushed nickel and polished chrome hardware enhance Rainwashed’s fresh, clean quality. These finishes reinforce the color’s spa-like feel. They work especially well in coastal and transitional kitchens.
- Soft brushed brass introduces warmth and contrast. When used sparingly, it adds elegance without overpowering the cabinetry.
Countertop Pairings
- White quartz or marble countertops keep the palette light and breathable. Subtle veining adds interest without competing visually. This pairing feels timeless and refined.
- Light gray or concrete-look surfaces complement the gray undertones in Rainwashed. These materials add subtle depth. The result feels modern and calm.
Flooring Recommendations
- Light oak or natural wood flooring warms the space and balances the cool undertones. Wood grain adds organic texture. This pairing works well in casual and coastal kitchens.
- Soft gray tile or stone flooring reinforces Rainwashed’s calm character. Lighter finishes help maintain an open, airy feel.
Applications in Cabinetry
- Full kitchen cabinetry finished in Rainwashed creates a serene, cohesive environment. The color feels light without appearing washed out. Proper lighting helps maintain balance.
- Kitchen islands benefit from Rainwashed as a subtle focal point. Paired with neutral perimeters, the look feels intentional and fresh.
Kitchen Style Applications
- Coastal kitchens rely on Rainwashed for its breezy, ocean-inspired character. Paired with natural textures, it feels relaxed and inviting.
- Transitional kitchens use Rainwashed to soften clean lines. Its muted undertones keep the space balanced and approachable.
- Modern cottage kitchens benefit from Rainwashed’s gentle personality. The color adds charm without feeling decorative.
Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style
- Shaker and slim shaker doors complement Rainwashed’s simplicity. Clean lines allow the color to remain the focal point. These profiles suit both classic and modern kitchens.
- Recessed panel doors enhance depth without visual heaviness. This pairing works well in transitional and cottage-style spaces.
Other Spaces & Design Applications
- Bathrooms and laundry rooms benefit from Rainwashed’s spa-like calm. The color feels fresh and clean in smaller spaces.
- Built-ins and mudrooms gain softness and character. Rainwashed keeps functional areas feeling light and welcoming.
Lighting Considerations
Rainwashed shifts noticeably with lighting. Natural daylight emphasizes its green undertones, while artificial or cooler light brings out more blue. Balanced, layered lighting helps maintain its intended soft, airy appearance.
Design Tip
Use Rainwashed kitchen cabinets when you want a calm, light color with personality. Pair with warm whites and natural textures to prevent the space from feeling cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rainwashed more blue or green?
Rainwashed sits directly between blue and green. Lighting determines which undertone becomes more noticeable.
Does Rainwashed work for full kitchens?
Yes, especially in well-lit kitchens. Its moderate LRV keeps it from feeling too pale or overpowering.
Alternative Colors to Consider
