Reviewing Sherwin Williams Fleur de Sel (SW 7666)

After months of paint samples and second-guessing, I finally painted my living room with Fleur de Sel (SW 7666), and I couldn’t be happier.

If you’re looking at this shade, I know exactly what you’re going through – the stress of picking the perfect neutral that won’t feel too cold or too warm.

I’ve had this color on my walls for six months now, and I understand why so many people choose it. The soft gray brings a sense of calm to my space without making it feel impersonal.

During my search, I found that many grays can look too dark or industrial, but Fleur de Sel strikes just the right balance.

Before choosing Fleur de Sel, I tested several other grays. The main difference I noticed is its subtle blue-green hints that make it feel fresh without being obvious.

Unlike other grays that felt flat on my walls, this one has the depth that makes my art and furniture stand out beautifully.

I’ll talk about everything I’ve learned about this color, from how it looks in different lighting to what colors work best with it. By the end of this guide, you’ll know if it’s the right choice for your home.

How to Blend Fleur de Sel Sherwin Williams in Different Spaces?

After living with Fleur de Sel in multiple rooms of my house, I want to share my hands-on experience with this versatile color.

I’ll tell you exactly how it works in different spaces, based on what I’ve learned over the past eight months.

Using Fleur de Sel in Living Rooms

My living room was the first space I painted with Fleur de Sel, and it’s been a game-changer.

The color shifts beautifully throughout the day – in my morning light, it appears as a clean, bright gray, while the afternoon sun brings out subtle warmth.

I found it works especially well with my dark brown leather couch and white trim.

What surprised me most was how the color made my space feel bigger. I have a fairly small living room (about 15×12 feet), but the light-reflecting quality of Fleur de Sel helped open it up.

Tip: I made sure to test the paint on both the wall facing my windows and the darker corner – the color stays remarkably consistent.

Fleur de Sel in Bedrooms

After loving it in my living room, I decided to use Fleur de Sel in my bedroom too. The difference in lighting really shows the color’s range.

In my north-facing bedroom, it takes on a slightly cooler tone that’s perfect for rest. I paired it with crisp white bedding and navy blue accents, which created a calm, collected feeling.

The most noticeable effect was in the early morning – the color has a way of softening the harsh morning light without making the room feel dark.

I added sheer white curtains which work perfectly with the wall color to create a gentle, filtered light effect.

Using Fleur de Sel in Kitchens and Dining Areas

My kitchen was my most recent Fleur de Sel project, and it’s where I learned the most about this color.

Against my white cabinets, it creates just enough contrast to add interest without feeling stark.

The color looks amazing with both my stainless steel appliances and brass hardware – something I wasn’t sure would work at first.

What I really appreciate in the kitchen is how the color handles food smells and cooking steam. After six months of heavy cooking, the walls still look fresh and clean.

In my dining area, I noticed the color creates a sophisticated backdrop that makes both casual breakfasts and dinner parties feel special.

I used a pearl finish in the kitchen for easier cleaning, while I stuck with eggshells in other rooms.

Remember, good lighting makes a big difference with this color. I installed under-cabinet lighting in my kitchen, which helps show off the subtle undertones in the paint.

If your space doesn’t get much natural light, consider adding some strategic lighting before making your final decision.

Pairing Fleur de Sel Sherwin Williams with Other Colors

After experimenting with different color combinations in my home, I’ve found some fantastic pairings with Fleur de Sel.

I’ll share what worked best in my spaces and how I created different moods through color combinations.

Best Complementary Colors for Fleur de Sel

In my living room, I learned that Fleur de Sel works beautifully with both warm and cool tones.

My dark walnut wood floors create a rich base that grounds the space. I painted my trim with Pure White (SW 7005), which creates clean, crisp lines without harsh contrast.

For my built-in bookshelf, I used Naval (SW 6244) on the back panels, and the combination is stunning. The deep blue adds depth while Fleur de Sel keeps the overall feeling light and open.

I also noticed that my brass picture frames and aged bronze light fixbe elegant against these walls than they did with my previous paint color.

Accent Colors that Enhance Fleur de Sel’s Softness

Through trial and error, I found that soft accent colors bring out the best in Fleur de Sel.

In my home office, I added sage green throw pillows and a blush pink ceramic vase – these muted tones complement the wall color perfectly without competing for attention.

What really surprised me was how well charcoal gray textiles work with this color. My charcoal curtains create a subtle contrast that adds sophistication without feeling heavy.

For artwork, I found that black and white photographs look striking against these walls, while watercolor prints in soft blues and greens blend seamlessly with the overall palette.

Creating a Balanced Look with Fleur de Sel and Textures

The most important lesson I learned was how textures can transform this color. In my entryway, I paired the Fleur de Sel walls with a natural jute rug and woven basket storage.

The rough textures add warmth and keep the space from feeling too formal.

My favorite combination is in the dining room, where I mixed matte black metal chairs with a raw wood table. The contrast between smooth-painted walls and varied textures creates depth that changes throughout the day.

I also added a chunky knit throw-in cream color to my living room sofa – the texture stands out beautifully against the subtle wall color.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to mix metals with Fleur de Sel. My space includes brushed nickel, matte black, and warm brass finishes, and they all work together because the wall color acts as a neutral mediator.

This flexibility has made decorating so much easier than I expected.

Benefits of Choosing Fleur de Sel Sherwin Williams for Your Home

Lightening Up Small or Dark Spaces

I first tested Fleur de Sel in my narrow hallway, which used to feel like a dark tunnel.

The change was dramatic, the color’s light-reflecting properties made the space feel twice as wide.

In my small home office that gets minimal sunlight, this paint did something remarkable.

The walls seem to catch even the smallest amount of light and spread it around the room.

What really impressed me was how it handled the shadows in my north-facing study. Where other light grays I tested looked dull and flat, Fleur de Sel maintains its soft glow even in darker corners.

I found that adding a simple white lamp in the corner enhanced this effect even more. The walls almost seem to help bounce the light around the room.

Timeless and Versatile Design

One thing that made me hesitate about gray paint was wondering if it would feel dated quickly.

After updating my decor twice since painting, I can say that Fleur de Sel adapts beautifully to different styles.

My living room went from a modern farmhouse to a more contemporary one, and the walls still look perfect in both styles.

The subtle undertones in this color make it incredibly flexible. When I changed my bright coral pillows to deep green ones, the walls seemed to complement both equally well.

Even when I brought in my grandmother’s antique wooden chest, it looked like it had always belonged there.

This adaptability has saved me money because I don’t need to repaint when I want to update my decor.

How Fleur de Sel Enhances Natural Light?

The way this color works with natural light has been the biggest surprise. In my south-facing kitchen, the morning sun brings out soft warm notes that make the space feel cozy.

By afternoon, it takes on a cooler tone that keeps the room feeling fresh and clean. I’ve noticed that even on cloudy days, my rooms don’t feel gloomy like they did with my previous paint color.

What I love most is how it handles the changing seasons. During summer, it stays cool and fresh without looking stark. In winter, when the light is lower, it takes on a warmer quality that makes my home feel cozy.

I also found that my LED light bulbs work beautifully with this color – I use 3000K bulbs that create a warm, natural glow against the walls.

The paint’s finish makes a difference too. In most rooms, I chose an eggshell finish, which gives just enough sheen to reflect light without showing wall imperfections.

For my bathroom, I picked a pearl finish that handles moisture well while maintaining that beautiful light-reflecting quality.

Fleur de Sel Sherwin Williams in Different Design Styles

Classic and Traditional Spaces with Fleur de Sel

My formal dining room showcases how well Fleur de Sel works in traditional settings. I paired it with my mahogany dining set and crystal chandelier, and the result is stunning.

The color provides a fresh backdrop that makes my antique pieces stand out without overwhelming them.

What I love most is how it complements my crown molding and wainscoting.

The color has enough depth to highlight these architectural details but stays subtle enough to let them be the stars.

My oil paintings in gold frames look richer against these walls than they ever did before.

I found that adding velvet curtains in a deep blue created a perfect balance between classic and current styles.

Incorporating Fleur de Sel into Modern or Minimalist Rooms

The transformation of my home office into a modern workspace showed me another side of this color. Against my white desk and black metal shelving, Fleur de Sel creates a clean, professional background.

I added simple line drawings in black frames and a geometric rug in gray and white – the walls make these minimal elements feel intentional rather than sparse.

I learned that my matte black light fixtures and simple white blinds work perfectly with this color to create a focused workspace.

The walls provide enough visual interest without being distracting, which is exactly what I wanted for my minimalist setup.

Tip: I kept my desk accessories in clear glass and white to maintain a clean look.

Fleur de Sel in Coastal and Farmhouse Styles

My guest bedroom became my test space for a coastal-inspired retreat. The soft gray walls create a perfect foundation for my white shiplap accent wall and natural fiber rug.

I added light blue bedding and woven baskets, and the room feels like a peaceful beach cottage.

In my kitchen, I went with a modern farmhouse look. The Fleur de Sel walls complement my white cabinets and butcher block counters beautifully.

My black iron hardware and mason jar light fixtures stand out perfectly against the walls.

I hung some simple botanical prints in wooden frames, and the whole space feels both cozy and current.

What surprised me most was how the color shifts to support each style. In my modern office, it reads as crisp and clean.

In my farmhouse kitchen, it feels warm and welcoming. The key was choosing the right accessories – the paint adapts to match the mood of the furnishings and decor I paired with it.

How to Sample and Test Fleur de Sel in Your Home?

Ordering Paint Samples from Sherwin Williams

When I started my color testing journey, I found that getting the right samples made all the difference.

I went to my local Sherwin-Williams store and got both a sample can and paint chips. The sample size was perfect enough to paint several large squares on different walls without waste.

What worked best for me? I bought a sample quart in eggshell finish, which cost about $8. Make sure to mention you’re sampling Fleur de Sel (SW 7666) specifically.

I learned they can mix it in any finish, but eggshell gives you the most accurate representation of how the final paint will look.

I also picked up three paint chips to move around my house at different times of the day.

Testing the Color in Different Lighting Conditions

This step was crucial for my decision. I painted three 2×2 foot squares on different walls in my living room – one in direct sunlight, one in partial shade, and one in a darker corner.

My biggest learning was watching these test patches throughout the day:

Morning light (7-10 AM): The color appeared brightest and showed its subtle blue undertones
Midday (12-2 PM): It looked most true to the paint chip
Evening (4-7 PM): The color warmed up slightly and felt extra cozy

I also tested the paint under my different light bulbs. In my home, the 2700K warm bulbs made it feel slightly creamy, while my 4000K kitchen lights showed their true gray tones.

This testing helped me choose the right light bulbs for each room.

Using Paint Swatches to Visualize the Color in Your Home

Moving paint swatches around my house taught me so much about Fleur de Sel. I taped the swatches next to my trim color, furniture, and flooring to see how they worked together.

One trick I learned is that look at the swatch vertically and horizontally – it can look different depending on the direction.

I kept a paint swatch in my wallet for two weeks, which helped me:

Compare it to my existing decor items
Check how it looked next to my cabinet colors
Test it against different flooring options

The most valuable lesson I learned was to give myself time with the samples. I lived with my test patches for a full week before making my final decision.

This allowed me to see the color in every possible light and helped me feel completely confident in my choice.

Remember, if you’re using artificial light to check the color at night, try both your overhead lights and lamps.

I found the color looked slightly different under each.

This thorough testing process saved me from making an expensive mistake and helped me choose the perfect shade for my home.

How to Maintain Fleur de Sel Sherwin Williams Paint?

Having lived with Fleur de Sel walls for the past year, I’ve figured out the best ways to keep them looking fresh and clean.

I’ll share my practical maintenance tips that have helped preserve the beauty of this paint color.

Cleaning Tips for Fleur de Sel Walls

After some trial and error, I found the perfect cleaning routine for my Fleur de Sel walls. In my kitchen, where cooking splatters happen, I use a soft microfiber cloth with mild soap and water.

The key is being gentle – I learned that scrubbing too hard can create shiny spots on the paint.

My tested cleaning method:

I use a dry microfiber duster for weekly cleaning
For marks and smudges, I start with a barely damp cloth
In tougher spots, I mix a tiny drop of mild dish soap with warm water
I always follow with a clean, dry cloth to prevent water streaks

One thing I learned by accident is that Magic Erasers can dull the finish. After making this mistake in a small area, I now avoid abrasive cleaners completely.

For my kids’ crayon marks, I found that a slightly damp cloth with a drop of dish soap works just as well and keeps the paint looking perfect.

Choosing the Best Finish for Durability

My experience with different finishes taught me a lot about durability. I picked an eggshell finish for most rooms because it hits the sweet spot between easy cleaning and a natural look.

In my bathroom and kitchen, I went with a pearl finish for extra protection against moisture and splatters.

What I learned about each finish:

Eggshell Finish:

Perfect for living rooms and bedrooms
Hides wall imperfections well
Easy enough to clean with light wiping
Maintains the true color of Fleur de Sel

Pearl Finish:

Great for high-traffic areas
Stands up to regular cleaning
Slightly more reflective
Best for kitchens and bathrooms

I noticed that the finish makes a big difference in how the paint performs long-term.

In my entryway, where bags and coats often brush against the wall, the pearl finish has held up beautifully for over a year.

The eggshell finish in my living room still looks fresh but needs a bit more gentle care.

A helpful tip from my experience: keep a small amount of touch-up paint in the same finish. I store mine in a sealed glass jar with the paint name and finish written on top. This has been perfect for quick fixes after moving furniture or hanging new pictures.

Remember to avoid placing heavy furniture directly against freshly painted walls – I wait at least a week after painting.

This patience has helped my walls stay mark-free and beautiful for much longer than previous paint jobs.

Conclusion

After painting multiple rooms with Fleur de Sel and living with it through all seasons, I can say this color brings something special to a home.

This color works best if you want a light, clean look that stays warm and welcoming.

In my experience, it’s perfect for anyone who wants a flexible gray that plays well with both warm and cool colors.

I found it especially good for rooms that need to feel bigger and brighter.

Start small if you’re unsure – maybe try it in a bathroom or hallway first. Remember to test paint samples on multiple walls and watch how the color changes throughout the day.

Trust me, this extra step is worth it.

Ready to transform your space? Head to your local Sherwin-Williams store and grab some samples.

And if you’ve used Fleur de Sel in your home, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Fleur de Sel Different From Other Gray Paint Colors?

From my experience, Fleur de Sel stands out because of its balanced undertones. While many grays lean too blue or too beige, this shade maintains a neutral look in most lighting conditions.

In my home, it stays true to its color without shifting dramatically, making it more reliable than other grays I’ve tried.

How Many Coats of Fleur de Sel Do I Need?

In my recent painting project, I found that two coats give the best coverage. For overlight walls, I needed two thin coats, while covering darker colors required two full coats with a good primer first.

Make sure each coat dries completely. I waited 4 hours between coats for the best results.

Does Fleur de Sel Work Well in North-Facing Rooms?

Yes, it does. My north-facing office was the true test for this color. The paint brightens the space without looking cold or stark.

I noticed it maintains its warmth even on cloudy days, which was a pleasant surprise compared to other grays that looked flat and lifeless.

What Lighting Works Best With Fleur de Sel?

In my rooms with Fleur de Sel, I found that light bulbs between 2700K-3000K create the most pleasant effect.

My LED lights at 2700K bring out the warm undertones in the evening, while natural daylight shows its true color. Avoid bulbs over 4000K – they can make the color look too cool.

Can Fleur de Sel Be Used in Small Spaces?

Based on my small powder room makeover, Fleur de Sel works wonderfully in tight spaces. The color reflects light well, making my 5×7 bathroom feel more open.

I paired it with a large mirror and good lighting, and the space feels twice its size. The key is using the right finish – I chose pearl for better light reflection.