Why I Love Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme (SW 6186)

Why I Love Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme (SW 6186)


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Green is one of my favorite colors, so I love that it's having a moment in the paint and design world, and Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme has quickly become one of my favorite greens to recommend - it’s one of those rare greens that feels timeless, cozy, and just a little bit unexpected all at the same time. Whether you’re going for a nature-inspired feature wall, moody kitchen cabinets, or even an earthy exterior, this color delivers.

What Kind of Color Is Dried Thyme?

To me, Dried Thyme feels like a walk through a quiet forest after it rains—rich, grounded, and calming. It’s a muted, mid-tone green with just the right touch of gray to keep it from feeling too bright or overpowering. If you’re looking for a color that brings the outdoors in, without going full “forest green,” this is the one.

Dried Thyme’s Undertones: What You Really See in Real Life

I’ll be honest—this color surprised me the first time I used it in a client’s home. On the swatch, it looks like a pretty straight-forward deep sage green. But on the wall? You start to notice these subtle olive and gray undertones that make it feel even more sophisticated. Sometimes, depending on the light, I even catch a tiny hint of brown, which warms it up beautifully.

It doesn’t lean overly cool or overly warm—it kind of rides that perfect middle line that makes it incredibly versatile.

What’s the LRV of Dried Thyme?

Technically speaking, the LRV (Light Reflectance Value) of Dried Thyme is 21, which makes it a mid-to-deep tone that absorbs more light than it reflects. I find this makes it perfect for creating cozy, cocoon-like spaces—think bedrooms, dining rooms, or moody living areas.

Is Dried Thyme Warm or Cool?

I personally think of it as a neutral green. The gray undertones cool it down just enough to keep it from feeling heavy or overly warm, but those olive notes bring a touch of earthiness that keeps it from feeling sterile. Honestly, it’s one of those chameleon colors that adapts to your space depending on the light and what you pair it with.

How Lighting Changes This Color

Here’s what I’ve noticed after using Dried Thyme in all kinds of homes:

  • North-facing rooms: This is where Dried Thyme feels the most moody and dramatic, leaning deeper and grayer.

  • South-facing rooms: The natural warmth of the sunlight softens it, bringing out that gorgeous earthy green.

  • East-facing rooms: It feels a little more muted in the morning but warms up nicely as the day goes on.

  • West-facing rooms: The afternoon light makes it come alive, feeling richer and more inviting.

Where I Love Using Dried Thyme

  • Bedrooms – I’ve seen this color turn a simple bedroom into the ultimate cozy retreat.

  • Kitchens – Don’t even get me started on how good it looks on cabinets, especially with brass or matte black hardware.

  • Dining Rooms – It brings just the right amount of moodiness without feeling stuffy.

  • Living Rooms – Pair it with leather, natural wood, and some linen curtains… perfection.

  • Exteriors – Yes, this color works outside too! As a body color, it’s stunning with soft beige trim. It also works beautifully as an accent color (think shutters and keystones), or as a front door color. Because this green doesn't have heavy gray undertones (which can make some greens appear too cool in exterior applications), Dried Thyme stays pretty grounded outside.

Should You Use It on Trim or Doors?

I don’t typically recommend Dried Thyme for interior trim or doors unless you’re fully committed to a color-drenched, moody look (which I do love in the right space). That said, it’s perfect for cabinetry, wainscoting, or even an unexpected statement door in a farmhouse or cottage-style home.

My Go-To Style Pairings

  • Modern Farmhouse – Warm woods, creamy whites, and cozy textures.

  • Traditional – Classic trim, vintage-inspired decor, and rich accent colors.

  • Rustic/Cottage – Natural stone, reclaimed wood, and cozy layers.

  • Transitional – A mix of modern and traditional elements.

  • Mid-Century Modern – Clean lines, walnut wood tones, and retro accents.

Wood Tones That Really Work

  • Warm oaks and walnuts (you’ll thank me later)

  • Weathered driftwood or reclaimed wood

  • Rich espresso or dark-stained finishes for added drama

Furniture, Decor & Material Pairings

  • Neutrals: Creamy whites, soft beiges, and warm grays

  • Leathers: Camel, chocolate brown, or even black

  • Accent Colors: Rust, mustard, terracotta, and deep navy blues

  • Metals: Matte black, aged brass, or oil-rubbed bronze

  • Materials: Natural stone, brushed metals, linen, wool, and ceramic tile

Who Will Love Dried Thyme?

  • Nature lovers looking for something earthy but elevated

  • Anyone who wants a green that feels cozy, not bright or flashy

  • Homeowners with a mix of traditional and modern taste

When to Skip It

I probably wouldn’t recommend Dried Thyme for:

  • Dark, windowless rooms without proper lighting—it might feel a little heavy.

  • Ultra-modern, sleek spaces—sometimes a cooler green works better here.

  • Pairing with icy or blue-based grays—those tones can fight each other.

My Final Take

Sherwin Williams Dried Thyme is currently one of my favorite muted greens out there. It’s versatile, sophisticated, and brings an easy, natural warmth to almost any space. Whether you’re going bold with a full room or just dipping your toe in with cabinetry or an accent wall, you really can’t go wrong with this one.

If you're interested in a coordinated palette that includes Dried Thyme, check out my exclusive palette below:

Millie Hart Interiors Dried Thyme Palette

And of course, make sure you sample in your space prior to committing!

Happy Painting,

- Millie


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