Sherwin-Williams® Real Red (SW 6868) Kitchen Cabinets – Shaker, Slim Shaker, Raised, Slab

Sherwin-Williams Real Red SW6868 kitchen cabinets

Real Red (SW 6868) At A Glance

LRV: 16 (Dark — absorbs light and adds bold visual impact)

Undertone: True red with subtle blue balance

Temperature: Warm

Best Kitchen Styles: Traditional, Eclectic, Accent-Forward Designs

Pairs Well With: Polished chrome, warm wood tones, white or marble countertops

Sherwin-Williams® Real Red (SW 6868) is a bold, clean, high-impact red that brings vibrant energy and striking color to kitchen cabinetry. This pure warm red has no coral or pink influence, making it a true statement color with a modern, confident personality.

Real Red kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with black, brass, or chrome hardware, as well as white quartz, marble, and natural wood flooring. This Sherwin-Williams shade is ideal for contemporary, eclectic, retro-modern, and dramatic designer kitchens.

Double Shaker

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$4,639

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Avalon Raised Panel

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$4,639

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Shaker Style Cabinet Door A vector representation of a Stonecreek Clary Sage style door with separate drawer front and door.

Concord Shaker

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$4,449

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Slim Shaker Style Cabinet Door A vector representation of a thin-frame Shaker door in Creme.

Contour Slim Shaker

Basic 10 x 10 Kitchen:
$5,549

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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 Real Red (SW 6868)

Real Red vs. Fireweed (SW 6328):
Real Red is cleaner and more primary, while Fireweed leans deeper with noticeable berry undertones. Real Red feels more classic and graphic, whereas Fireweed reads richer and more expressive.

Real Red vs. Heartthrob (SW 6866):
Heartthrob is brighter and more playful, often reading lighter in strong daylight. Real Red stays grounded and saturated, making it better suited for cabinetry that needs long-term visual stability.

Real Red vs. Cavern Clay (SW 7701):
Cavern Clay leans earthy and muted with strong brown undertones, while Real Red is bolder and more traditional. Real Red works best when a true red statement is desired rather than a warm accent.

Transitional kitchen design with Sherwin-Williams Real Red SW6868 cabinets

True, Saturated Red with Classic Bold Energy

Sherwin-Williams® Real Red (SW 6868) kitchen cabinets deliver a pure, confident red that feels bold, intentional, and unmistakably classic. Unlike muted or brown-based reds, Real Red is saturated and vibrant, making it a statement color by design. It is typically chosen for kitchens that want personality, drama, and a strong visual identity.

The Undertones of Real Red

Real Red is a true primary red with minimal brown or blue influence. In bright natural light, it appears vivid and energetic without leaning pink. Under artificial lighting, the color deepens slightly, becoming richer and more dramatic while maintaining its clarity.

Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design

Warm & Soft Whites

  • Extra White (SW 7006) provides crisp contrast that keeps Real Red looking intentional and graphic. The sharp separation prevents the red from feeling heavy. This pairing works especially well in modern or contemporary kitchens.
  • Alabaster (SW 7008) softens Real Red slightly while preserving brightness. The warmth of Alabaster makes the pairing feel more approachable. This combination suits transitional and classic kitchens.

Complementary Neutrals

  • Iron Ore (SW 7069) grounds Real Red with dark, architectural contrast. The pairing feels bold but controlled. It works well for islands or accent cabinetry.
  • Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) tempers Real Red’s intensity. Its soft greige balance keeps the palette livable. This pairing suits kitchens that want color without overwhelm.

Metallics & Hardware

  • Polished chrome or stainless steel hardware reinforces Real Red’s classic, high-energy character. These finishes keep the look crisp and intentional. They are especially effective in modern and contemporary kitchens.
  • Matte black hardware adds structure and contrast. Used sparingly, it keeps the red from feeling decorative or playful.

Countertop Pairings

  • White quartz or solid-surface countertops provide clean contrast and visual relief. This pairing keeps the kitchen feeling balanced rather than overwhelming.
  • Concrete or dark stone countertops reinforce Real Red’s bold personality. These materials add weight and sophistication, especially in modern spaces.

Flooring Recommendations

  • Neutral tile or stone flooring helps ground the space visually. Softer finishes prevent competition with the cabinetry.
  • Medium-tone hardwood flooring adds warmth without clashing. Natural wood tones help soften the overall palette.

Applications in Cabinetry

  • Kitchen islands finished in Real Red create a strong focal point. This approach allows the color to shine without dominating the entire kitchen.
  • Accent cabinetry such as bar areas or pantries benefit from Real Red’s energy. Used selectively, it feels intentional rather than overwhelming.

Kitchen Style Applications

  • Modern kitchens use Real Red for bold contrast and clean visual impact. Paired with simple lines, the color feels architectural rather than decorative.
  • Contemporary kitchens embrace Real Red as a statement element. Balanced with neutrals, it creates a confident, design-forward space.
  • Retro-inspired kitchens use Real Red to evoke classic mid-century character. The color pairs well with graphic finishes and simple forms.

Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style

  • Slab doors allow Real Red to read clean and uninterrupted. This profile suits modern and contemporary kitchens.
  • Shaker doors provide structure that keeps the color grounded. This option works well in transitional applications.

Other Spaces & Design Applications

  • Bars and entertainment areas benefit from Real Red’s energetic presence. The color adds personality and visual interest.
  • Laundry rooms or mudrooms use Real Red as a playful accent. Balanced lighting and neutrals keep it practical.

Lighting Considerations

Real Red is highly responsive to lighting. Bright daylight keeps it vivid and energetic, while lower lighting deepens its tone. Balanced, even lighting helps maintain clarity and prevent oversaturation.

Technical Details

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 23

An LRV of 23 places Real Red in the mid-to-dark range. It absorbs light quickly, so adequate lighting is essential.

Design Tip

Use Real Red kitchen cabinets when you want a bold, unmistakable statement. Keep surrounding materials neutral to let the color remain intentional.

Alternative Colors to Consider

Sherwin-Williams Real Red (SW 6868): FAQs

Is Real Red too bold for kitchen cabinets?

Real Red is bold by nature, but it works well on islands, accent cabinetry, or statement kitchens when balanced with light surfaces and neutral surroundings.

Does Real Red look orange or pink?

No. Real Red is a true red with balanced undertones, avoiding strong orange or pink shifts in most lighting conditions.

Is Real Red better for full kitchens or accents?

Most homeowners use Real Red as an accent color, such as on an island or bar area, though it can work in full kitchens with careful design planning.

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.