Sherwin-Williams® Urbane Bronze (SW 7048) Kitchen Cabinets – Shaker, Slim Shaker, Raised, Slab

Moody Brown with Sophisticated Bronze Depth

Sherwin-Williams® Urbane Bronze (SW 7048) kitchen cabinets deliver a rich, earthy tone that sits between deep brown, charcoal, and bronze. This complex color feels grounded and luxurious without reading overly dark or heavy. Urbane Bronze is often chosen by homeowners who want a dramatic cabinet color that still feels warm and approachable.

The Undertones of Urbane Bronze

Urbane Bronze features a blend of brown and gray undertones with subtle bronze warmth. In bright natural light, the brown influence becomes more noticeable, adding depth and softness. In lower or artificial lighting, the gray undertones emerge, giving the color a moody, modern character.

Technical Details

Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 8

With an LRV of 8, Urbane Bronze absorbs most available light while still allowing enough depth to show tonal variation. This makes it ideal for statement cabinetry when paired with lighter surrounding finishes.

Coordinating Colors for Kitchen Design

Soft Whites

• Alabaster (SW 7008) softens Urbane Bronze and highlights its warmth without dulling the color. This pairing feels inviting and balanced. It works especially well in transitional and organic-modern kitchens.
• Creamy (SW 7012) adds warmth and contrast while keeping the palette cohesive. The subtle creaminess prevents the space from feeling stark. This combination suits classic and farmhouse-inspired designs.

Warm Neutrals & Greiges

• Agreeable Gray (SW 7029) balances Urbane Bronze with gentle greige undertones. Together, they create a layered, sophisticated neutral palette. This pairing works well in open-concept homes.
• Accessible Beige (SW 7036) introduces warmth and softness alongside Urbane Bronze’s depth. The result feels grounded and livable. This combination is popular in transitional kitchens.

Metallics & Hardware

• Brushed brass or antique bronze hardware enhances Urbane Bronze’s natural warmth. These finishes reinforce the color’s richness and add a high-end feel. They are especially effective in classic and transitional kitchens.
• Matte black hardware creates a sleek, modern contrast. This pairing emphasizes the color’s moody character without competing undertones. It works well in contemporary designs.

Countertop Pairings

• White quartz or marble countertops brighten Urbane Bronze and provide clean contrast. Soft veining adds elegance and movement. This pairing keeps the cabinetry from feeling too heavy.
• Warm beige or taupe-toned stone surfaces reinforce the color’s earthy quality. These materials create a cohesive, grounded palette. They suit organic-modern and transitional kitchens.

Flooring Recommendations

• Natural oak or medium-toned hardwood flooring complements Urbane Bronze’s warmth and depth. The wood grain adds texture and balance. This pairing feels timeless and inviting.
• Warm stone or porcelain tile enhances durability while maintaining visual harmony. These surfaces ground the space without competing with the cabinetry. They’re ideal for high-traffic kitchens.

Applications in Cabinetry

• Kitchen islands or lower cabinets finished in Urbane Bronze create a striking focal point. This approach adds depth without overwhelming the space. It’s a popular choice for introducing darker tones.
• Full kitchen cabinetry in Urbane Bronze delivers a bold, enveloping look when paired with light countertops and adequate lighting. The result feels dramatic yet refined.

Kitchen Style Applications

• Modern kitchens benefit from Urbane Bronze’s clean, moody depth. Paired with minimal detailing, it feels architectural and intentional. The color adds richness without ornamentation.
• Transitional kitchens use Urbane Bronze to bridge classic warmth and modern contrast. It pairs well with mixed metals and layered textures. This keeps the design timeless.
• Organic-modern kitchens rely on Urbane Bronze to reinforce natural materials and earthy palettes. Combined with wood and stone, it creates a calm, grounded environment.

Recommended Cabinet Door Styles by Kitchen Style

• Shaker and slim shaker doors soften Urbane Bronze’s depth while maintaining structure. These profiles add subtle detail without distracting from the color. They are the most versatile option.
• Flat-panel doors emphasize a sleek, contemporary look. The smooth surfaces highlight the color’s tonal complexity. This option works best in modern kitchens.

Other Spaces & Design Applications

• Home offices and built-ins finished in Urbane Bronze feel rich and sophisticated. The color adds focus without distraction. It’s ideal for spaces that benefit from depth.
• Pantries and mudrooms gain durability and style from Urbane Bronze’s dark tone. With proper lighting, these spaces feel elevated rather than utilitarian.

Lighting Considerations

Urbane Bronze responds noticeably to lighting conditions. Natural light enhances its brown warmth, while artificial lighting emphasizes its gray undertones. Balanced lighting helps maintain its intended richness.

Design Tip

Use Urbane Bronze kitchen cabinets to create depth and contrast, then balance with lighter surfaces and warm materials. This approach keeps the space dramatic yet livable. It’s ideal for homeowners seeking a refined, designer-grade look.

Alternative Colors to Consider

• Iron Ore (SW 7069) – cooler charcoal alternative.
• Black Fox (SW 7020) – darker, richer brown-black.
• Greenblack (SW 6994) – near-black with green undertones.