Colorplan

Alabaster vs Pointing

Sherwin-Williams Alabaster SW 7008 compared with Farrow & Ball Pointing No.2003

Alabaster is a touch darker (LRV 82 vs 86) than Pointing. Both have a warm yellow undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.4) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Living room painted Alabaster on the left and Pointing on the right
Alabaster · Sherwin-WilliamsPointing · Farrow & BallPhoto: Pipcke / Unsplash

ΔE 1.4 · Very close

How different the two colors look. Under 2.5 is very hard to tell apart on a wall; over 5 is clearly different.

Which to choose

For a small or dim room, Pointing reflects more light (LRV 86).

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Side by side

AlabasterPointing
BrandSherwin-WilliamsFarrow & Ball
CodeSW 7008No.2003
LRV8286
Undertoneyellowyellow
FamilyWhiteWhite
HEX#EDEAE0#F3EFE3
Good forwhole-house walls, living roomstrim and doors, ceilings

Questions

What is the difference between Alabaster and Pointing?

Alabaster is a touch darker (LRV 82 vs 86) than Pointing. Both have a warm yellow undertone. They're close enough (ΔE 1.4) that most people won't see a difference on a wall, so one can usually stand in for the other.

Which is lighter, Alabaster or Pointing?

Pointing is lighter, with an LRV of 86 against 82.

How does Alabaster compare to Pointing in a north-facing room?

Alabaster may lean slightly gray in north light; check a sample on the north wall before committing. Pointing's warm undertone keeps it soft rather than gray in north light, which makes it a good white for north rooms.

Based on published color values. Screens vary, so always check a physical sample before buying.

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