Soft Coastal Green with Airy, Calming Presence
Sherwin-Williams® Sea Salt (SW 6204) kitchen cabinets offer a light, muted blend of green, blue, and gray that feels calm and refreshing without reading overly cool. This popular coastal-inspired color brings a sense of openness and ease to kitchen spaces, making it ideal for bright, welcoming interiors. Sea Salt is frequently chosen by homeowners who want subtle color without committing to a bold statement.
The Undertones of Sea Salt
Sea Salt features a delicate mix of green and blue undertones softened by a noticeable gray base. In bright natural light, the green influence becomes more apparent, giving the space a fresh, airy feel. In lower or artificial lighting, the gray undertones take over, allowing Sea Salt to read as a soft neutral.
Technical Details
Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 63
With an LRV of 63, Sea Salt reflects a generous amount of light, helping kitchens feel open and bright. This makes it especially well suited for smaller kitchens or spaces with limited natural light.
Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design
Soft Whites
- Alabaster (SW 7008) softens Sea Salt and adds warmth without overpowering its subtle color. This pairing creates a relaxed, welcoming look that feels timeless. It works especially well in coastal and transitional kitchens.
- Snowbound (SW 7004) introduces crisp contrast while maintaining a clean, airy feel. The slight warmth of Snowbound prevents the palette from feeling too cool. This combination suits modern farmhouse and light-filled kitchens.
Warm Neutrals & Greiges
- Accessible Beige (SW 7036) adds warmth and balance to Sea Salt’s cool undertones. Together, they create a soft, livable palette. This pairing works well in open-concept homes.
- Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) complements Sea Salt with gentle greige undertones. The combination feels cohesive and understated. It supports a calm, transitional aesthetic.
Metallics & Hardware
- Brushed nickel or satin chrome hardware reinforces Sea Salt’s fresh, coastal character. These finishes maintain a clean, light appearance. They are especially effective in beach-inspired and transitional kitchens.
- Soft brass or champagne bronze hardware adds warmth and subtle contrast. This pairing keeps the color from feeling too cool. It introduces a refined, designer-quality touch.
Countertop Pairings
- White quartz or marble countertops brighten Sea Salt and emphasize its airy quality. Subtle veining adds elegance without distraction. This pairing is one of the most popular choices.
- Light gray or warm-toned quartz surfaces create a soft, layered look. These materials reinforce the color’s calm nature. They work well in relaxed, coastal-inspired kitchens.
Flooring Recommendations
- Natural white oak or light hardwood flooring adds warmth and texture beneath Sea Salt cabinetry. The contrast keeps the space from feeling washed out. This pairing works across many kitchen styles.
- Light porcelain or stone-look tile enhances the coastal feel while adding durability. These surfaces keep the palette bright and cohesive. They are ideal for high-traffic kitchens.
Applications in Cabinetry
- Full kitchen cabinetry in Sea Salt creates a light, calming environment that feels open and welcoming. The color adds interest without overwhelming the space. It’s ideal for homeowners seeking subtle color.
- Kitchen islands or lower cabinets finished in Sea Salt provide a gentle focal point when paired with white perimeter cabinetry. This approach adds depth while maintaining brightness. It’s a popular coastal design strategy.
Kitchen Style Applications
- Coastal kitchens benefit from Sea Salt’s breezy, relaxed character. Paired with light woods and soft whites, it creates an effortless beach-inspired look. This is one of its most popular uses.
- Transitional kitchens use Sea Salt to soften hard lines and introduce gentle color. The muted tone bridges classic and modern elements. It feels timeless and approachable.
- Modern farmhouse kitchens rely on Sea Salt to add freshness without stark contrast. Combined with white cabinetry and natural textures, it feels calm and inviting.
Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style
- Shaker and slim shaker doors highlight Sea Salt’s versatility and timeless appeal. These profiles keep the look clean while adding subtle detail. They are the most popular choice.
- Flat-panel doors emphasize a more modern, minimal aesthetic. The smooth surfaces allow the color’s undertones to shine. This option works well in contemporary kitchens.
Other Spaces & Design Applications
- Bathroom and laundry cabinetry finished in Sea Salt feels spa-like and calming. The color performs well in varied lighting. It adds softness without feeling bland.
- Mudrooms and built-ins benefit from Sea Salt’s durability and subtle color. It hides wear better than white while maintaining brightness. This makes it practical and stylish.
Lighting Considerations
Sea Salt shifts noticeably depending on lighting. Natural light enhances its green undertones, while artificial lighting emphasizes its gray base. Balanced lighting helps maintain its intended airy appearance.
Design Tip
Use Sea Salt kitchen cabinets to create a calm, light-filled foundation and layer in warmth through wood tones and soft metals. This approach keeps the space relaxed yet intentional. It’s ideal for long-term livability.
Alternative Colors to Consider
