You may have noticed that gray has become one of the top neutral colors
in decorating. Beige and tan will probably always be the top neutral,
but decorating with gray gives you options you won't get with
other neutrals. Whether your palette includes a cool gray or a warm
greige, you’ll want to learn the secrets to making the most out of
gray.
DO familiarize yourself with the wide
range of gray. If the first image of gray that comes to mind is cold and
industrial, then you will want to acquaint yourself with the new grays
in decorating.
DO check out greige. This is an
easy-to-use gray that has a hint of beige or brown. If you're concerned
that gray would be too cold for your space, griege could be the answer
to finding the right gray.
DON’T forget that gray
is a neutral. There are some color schemes that contain gray and beige
together, but it’s probably a good idea to base your palette on one or
the other.
But...
DON’T be afraid to experiment with gray and beige if you are inspired by a complex, yet subdued, look.
A warm gray or greige might just be the perfect complement to the right beige.
DO learn the basics of cool versus warm colors.
Being able to recognize the color temperature of the gray you’re
considering, will make choosing a palette much simpler. Color
temperature or undertone incompatibility is almost always the culprit
when colors don’t look “quite right” together.
DO consider
charcoal gray as an alternative to black or dark blue. Charcoal gray
can be the perfect dark accent without being too dark, or too drab.
Charcoal gray is stunning as upholstered furniture or rugs.
DO
watch your undertones. Some grays can be perfectly color-neutral with
no obvious undertones. Most grays have an undertone that will either
help or hinder your color palette. Knowing the difference between a gray
with a blue or brown undertone, or even a green undertone can help you
match colors like a pro.
DON’T hesitate to use gray in a natural color scheme. Gray is a beautiful addition to beach-style,
Zen, or South Western, styles. Warm grays are most compatible to other
natural colors, evoking images of stones and weathered wood.
DON’T
overlook gray that is already in a room. Gray can be found as a
fireplace, carpeting, and countertops. If you live in an area with
perpetually gray skies, a white wall can often appear gray and should be
taken into consideration. When you add gray to any room, be sure to
consider any other gray that might already be in there.
DO
have fun with gray! It’s been years since gray was considered stodgy
and conservative. With the growing popularity of gray, paint and home
decor companies are offering expansive color options. If you have a
color combination in mind, there will be a gray that is a perfect
complement.
DON'T overlook creative color combinations using gray. The right gray can be gorgeous with the newest muted candy colors, like gray and pink, yellow, or blue. Gray can also be paired with black and white, to soften the palette.
By Diana Hathaway Timmons
Color Expert
