Sherwin-Williams® Smoky Salmon (SW 6331) Kitchen Cabinets – Shaker, Slim Shaker, Raised, Slab

Muted Warm Coral with Soft, Earthy Balance

Sherwin-Williams® Smoky Salmon (SW 6331) kitchen cabinets bring a warm, subdued coral tone that feels refined rather than playful. The color offers gentle warmth with a grounded, slightly dusty quality that keeps it from reading bright or trendy. Smoky Salmon is often chosen for kitchens that want warmth and personality without overwhelming the space.

The Undertones of Smoky Salmon

Smoky Salmon features a blend of red, peach, and subtle brown undertones softened by a muted, smoky base. In bright natural light, it appears warm and sunlit without becoming pink. Under artificial or lower lighting, the color deepens slightly, taking on a richer, earthier appearance.

Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design

Warm & Soft Whites

• Creamy (SW 7012) softens Smoky Salmon while reinforcing its warmth. The pairing feels cohesive and intentional rather than contrast-heavy. This combination works especially well in kitchens that want a welcoming, classic feel.
• White Duck (SW 7010) balances Smoky Salmon with gentle greige warmth. The contrast remains subtle and comfortable. This pairing suits kitchens aiming for softness and approachability.

Complementary Neutrals

• Balanced Beige (SW 7037) grounds Smoky Salmon and keeps the palette from feeling overly warm. The two colors work together to create a stable, timeless foundation. This pairing performs well in open-concept spaces.
• Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) introduces gentle contrast without cooling the space too much. Its greige balance helps Smoky Salmon feel more sophisticated. This combination feels natural and easy to live with.

Metallics & Hardware

• Brushed brass and antique bronze hardware enhance Smoky Salmon’s warmth and earthy undertones. These finishes add richness without competing with the color. They work especially well in traditional and transitional kitchens.
• Soft brushed nickel hardware provides balance and restraint. It keeps the palette from feeling too warm while maintaining a timeless look.

Countertop Pairings

• White quartz or lightly veined marble countertops provide contrast while keeping the space bright. Subtle veining adds texture without pulling focus from the cabinetry. This pairing feels refined and intentional.
• Warm stone or concrete-look surfaces reinforce Smoky Salmon’s earthy character. These materials add depth and prevent the color from feeling decorative.

Flooring Recommendations

• Light to medium hardwood flooring pairs naturally with Smoky Salmon’s warmth. Wood tones enhance the color’s organic feel. This combination keeps the kitchen grounded and cohesive.
• Neutral tile or stone flooring offers durability while balancing warmth. Softer finishes prevent visual competition with the cabinetry.

Applications in Cabinetry

• Kitchen islands finished in Smoky Salmon create a warm focal point without overwhelming the room. The color adds personality while remaining approachable. This application works especially well when paired with neutral perimeter cabinets.
• Accent cabinetry allows Smoky Salmon to add character selectively. Used thoughtfully, it feels intentional and design-forward rather than bold.

Kitchen Style Applications

• Transitional kitchens benefit from Smoky Salmon’s balance of warmth and restraint. The color softens clean lines while maintaining sophistication.
• Modern rustic kitchens use Smoky Salmon to introduce warmth and contrast. Paired with natural materials, it feels grounded and inviting.
• Eclectic or bohemian kitchens embrace Smoky Salmon for its expressive, artistic quality. It pairs well with layered textures and mixed finishes.

Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style

• Shaker and recessed panel doors balance Smoky Salmon’s warmth with structure. Clean lines keep the color from feeling ornamental.
• Raised panel doors enhance the color’s traditional warmth. The added detail works well in classic and transitional kitchens.

Other Spaces & Design Applications

• Butler’s pantries and bars benefit from Smoky Salmon’s warmth and personality. The color adds interest without dominating the space.
• Dining rooms and built-ins feel cozy and inviting when finished in Smoky Salmon. Its muted tone keeps the look refined.

Lighting Considerations

Smoky Salmon shifts subtly with lighting conditions. Natural daylight highlights its warm coral notes, while artificial lighting deepens its earthy undertones. Balanced lighting helps maintain its intended softness.

Technical Details

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 46

An LRV of 46 places Smoky Salmon in the mid-tone range. It provides warmth and depth without absorbing too much light.

Design Tip

Use Smoky Salmon kitchen cabinets when you want warmth and personality without leaning pink or trendy. Pair with soft whites and grounded neutrals for best results.

Alternative Colors to Consider

• Copper Harbor (SW 6634) – deeper with stronger red influence.
• Redend Point (SW 9081) – softer and more muted.
• Cavern Clay (SW 7701) – earthier and more terracotta-forward.