In today’s post, I’m going to show you how to use Sherwin-Williams Granite Peak, a striking dark blue shade with hints of slate gray that brings a moody, refined feel to any space.
I recently used this color in my home office, and its unique blend of blue and slate gray has made it my go-to choice for clients who want a bold but sophisticated look.
With an LRV of 14, it knows how to make a statement.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know about this paint color that reminds me of mountain peaks against a stormy sky.
Sherwin-Williams Granite Peak: Color Profile
As I’ve worked with this color, I can tell you that Granite Peak (SW 6250) belongs to the blue-gray color family.
The color reminds me of the deepest part of a mountain lake, with rich dark blue as its main character and slate gray playing a supporting role.
The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 14 tells us this is a darker shade.
From my experience, this means it absorbs more light than it reflects, making it ideal for rooms that get plenty of natural sunlight. I often suggest this color to my clients who want to create a strong visual impact without going completely dark.
Looking at its makeup, Granite Peak shows its true colors in different lighting:
- Morning light brings out its blue tones
- Midday sun highlights the gray undertones
- Evening light deepens the overall color
I find that this color changes throughout the day, but always maintains its rich, grounded feeling.
The gray undertones help keep the blue in check, preventing it from feeling too bright or overwhelming.
Characteristics of Granite Peak
From my years working with paint colors, I can tell you that Granite Peak has some standout qualities.
Think of the blue-gray tones you see in storm clouds – that’s what this color brings to your walls.
Base Personality
I’ve noticed this color has a strong presence without being loud. It’s like that friend who commands attention just by walking into a room.
The deep blue foundation gives it strength, while the gray undertones add a sense of calm.
Light Play
Here’s something interesting I’ve learned about this color: it plays differently throughout the day.
In bright morning light, the blue tones step forward. As evening comes, the gray undertones become more noticeable. With an LRV of 14, it soaks up quite a bit of light rather than reflecting it back.
Mood Setting
When I use this color in homes, it creates a focused atmosphere. It’s not as heavy as black but carries enough weight to make a space feel grounded.
The color reminds me of mountain stones after rain – deep, rich, and naturally beautiful.
Temperature
Despite being a cool color, it doesn’t feel cold.
The gray mixed in helps balance the coolness of the blue, creating a comfortable middle ground that works in both sunny and shaded rooms.
Using Granite Peak in Interior Spaces
Living Rooms: Creating a cozy yet sophisticated space
I painted my client’s living room in Granite Peak last summer, and I was struck by how it made her space feel both welcoming and refined.
The color glowed softly in the evening light, making the room perfect for gatherings.
It paired beautifully with her tan leather sofa and brass light fixtures, creating a space that felt like a warm hug at the end of the day.
Mood Board Tips:
- Mix with cream-colored sofas and chairs
- Add natural wood coffee tables and shelving
- Include brass or gold light fixtures
- Layer with textured throws in camel and ivory
- Place warm-toned area rugs for contrast
Bedrooms: Crafting a tranquil retreat
In my own bedroom, I used Granite Peak on the main wall behind my bed.
The color helped me sleep better – it felt like being wrapped in a cozy blanket. The blue-gray tones shifted with the morning light, making waking up a gentle experience.
Mood Board Tips:
- Choose white or ivory bedding for contrast
- Add woven natural fiber baskets
- Include warm metal reading lamps
- Layer different textures in neutral shades
- Use natural wood bedroom furniture
Kitchens: Adding depth to cabinetry or islands
When I painted my friend’s kitchen island in Granite Peak, it became the star of her kitchen. The color looked stunning against her white cabinets and brought life to her cooking space.
Mood Board Tips:
- Pair with white upper cabinets
- Use brushed brass hardware
- Add warm wood cutting boards
- Include cream-colored bar stools
- Choose white quartz or marble countertops
Bathrooms: Evoking a spa-like atmosphere
I recently completed a bathroom project where Granite Peak transformed a basic space into a personal retreat.
The color felt perfect with the steam from hot showers, adding depth to the small room.
Mood Board Tips:
- Install white porcelain fixtures
- Add natural wood vanity
- Include woven baskets for storage
- Use cream-colored towels
- Choose brushed gold faucets and hardware
Comparing Granite Peak with Similar Colors
I’ve worked extensively with these colors, so let me break down how they compare. Here’s a detailed comparison table based on my experience with each shade:
| Color Name | LRV | Main Tone | Undertones | Best Used In | What Makes It Different |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granite Peak (SW 6250) | 14 | Dark Blue | Slate Gray | Living rooms, Studies, Bedrooms | Most balanced mix of blue and gray; feels calm yet strong |
| Storm Cloud (SW 6249) | 18 | Gray | Blue, Purple | Offices, Dining rooms, Exteriors | Lighter than Granite Peak; reads more gray than blue |
| Downing Slate (SW 2819) | 8 | Charcoal | Brown, Blue | Accent walls, Cabinets, Doors | Much darker; has warm brown notes |
| Naval (SW 6244) | 4 | Navy Blue | Black | Libraries, Feature walls, Built-ins | Deeper and more traditional navy; less gray influence |
| Cyberspace (SW 7076) | 6 | Blue-Black | Gray | Modern spaces, Trim, Doors | Darkest option; reads almost black in low light |
Expert Tips and Advice on Using Granite Peak
From my years of working with this color, I want to share some practical tips that will help you make the most of Granite Peak.
Paint Application Tips: I always tell my clients that prep work makes all the difference:
- Use a quality primer – this dark shade needs a good base
- Apply two full coats for even coverage
- Let each coat dry completely (I wait 4 hours between coats)
- Pick soft rollers for smooth walls
- Use natural bristle brushes for trim work
Lighting Considerations: Here’s what I’ve learned about how light affects this color:
- North-facing rooms: The color appears more gray
- South-facing rooms: The blue tones become more visible
- Natural daylight: Shows true color best
- LED lights: Can enhance the gray undertones
- Warm bulbs (2700K): Help balance the cool tones
Color Combinations: These pairings have worked well in my projects:
Main Colors:
- Pure white trim
- Warm cream walls
- Light beige accents
- Soft gray complementary walls
Accent Colors:
- Brass fixtures
- Natural wood tones
- Tan leather
- Ivory textiles
Common Mistakes to Avoid: From my experience, watch out for:
- Using in rooms with limited natural light
- Skipping the primer step
- Not testing in different lighting
- Pairing with cool white trim
- Using in small spaces without proper planning
Wrapping It Up
If you’re thinking about using Granite Peak in your home, I hope this guide has helped you understand its unique character.
This rich blue-gray shade can transform any room from ordinary to striking, as I’ve seen in countless client projects. Its 14 LRV and subtle gray undertones make it a versatile choice for various spaces.
Remember to always test your paint samples in different lighting before making your final decision.
Want to see how other homeowners have used Granite Peak? Leave a comment below sharing your thoughts or questions about this color.
And if you’re looking for more paint color guides, check out my other color reviews for more inspiration.