Fresh Zest

Technical Profile

What color is Fresh Zest? It's a light warm neutral with the hex code #F5E9CF. Colors similar to Fresh Zest include Hirshfield's Misty Mustard, Benjamin Moore Point Pleasant, Behr Lunaria. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. Fresh Zest has a neutral undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Understanding a color's undertone is key to avoiding combinations that clash — it often matters more than the surface color itself. Fresh Zest (#F5E9CF) by Sherwin-Williams is a light neutral paint color with a rich, saturated presence that draws the eye. It delivers a bright, welcoming quality that keeps interiors feeling fresh. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. In its RGB breakdown, red is the dominant channel, which gives it a subtle rosy warmth even under different lighting conditions. With a Light Reflectance Value of 82, it reflects the vast majority of light, helping smaller rooms feel more spacious. Light neutrals like this are go-to choices for whole-home color schemes, working seamlessly in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways without competing with decor. Eggshell or satin finishes complement light tones nicely, balancing a subtle sheen with durability for high-traffic areas. For color coordination, Fresh Zest pairs beautifully with blue tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring green and red hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its neutral undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. If Sherwin-Williams is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from Hirshfield's, Benjamin Moore, Behr and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Fresh Zest radiates an inviting, sun-washed warmth that makes guests feel immediately at ease. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for a wide range of interior design styles. As part of the Sherwin-Williams palette, Fresh Zest benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. High-LRV colors like Fresh Zest are forgiving in most lighting conditions, but they can pick up reflected color from adjacent walls, flooring, or large furniture pieces, so evaluate samples in situ. This tone works well alongside natural textures like jute rugs, bleached wood, ceramic tile, and woven baskets, building an inviting, tactile space. You can order Fresh Zest (9662) directly from Sherwin-Williams or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.