How to Pick the Right Shade of Grey
Which version of today's 'it' neutral is for you?
Grey has certainly undergone a radical transformation in the past few years – in terms of how we view it, that is. No longer is grey only associated with dreary days, serious attire and a gloomy outlook. This quiet neutral has shaken off its bad rap. Grey has not only replaced beige as being the “it” neutral, but greys are now synonymous with style, sophistication and glamour. Read on for some hints on picking a great grey paint colour for your space.
Medium grey
I don’t know why, but grey and yellow seem to be made for each other. Many people are hesitant to use yellow but when put with grey, it just works. You can create a cheery space by using a soft mid-tone grey with vivid yellow accents.
Find out why you should pair grey with yellow
I don’t know why, but grey and yellow seem to be made for each other. Many people are hesitant to use yellow but when put with grey, it just works. You can create a cheery space by using a soft mid-tone grey with vivid yellow accents.
Find out why you should pair grey with yellow
Greige
The grey office cubicle has definitely received a bad reputation. However, as shown here, a very warm grey can be a terrific choice for a workspace whether it’s a home office, studio or craft room. These warmer shades of grey are called greige because they are a cross between grey and beige. This colour is welcoming, cozy and far from being drab.
The grey office cubicle has definitely received a bad reputation. However, as shown here, a very warm grey can be a terrific choice for a workspace whether it’s a home office, studio or craft room. These warmer shades of grey are called greige because they are a cross between grey and beige. This colour is welcoming, cozy and far from being drab.
Nature’s Grey
Grey in the kitchen is becoming very popular these days. Because kitchens are such a huge gathering place, use a grey that is warm and inviting. If greige looks too taupe to you, turn to nature for inspiration. Many birds and other animals, rocks and pebbles are perfect shades of warm grey.
Grey in the kitchen is becoming very popular these days. Because kitchens are such a huge gathering place, use a grey that is warm and inviting. If greige looks too taupe to you, turn to nature for inspiration. Many birds and other animals, rocks and pebbles are perfect shades of warm grey.
Pewter
Like other neutrals, grey gives you limitless possibilities as far as introducing other hues. However, don’t forget to include different textures and patterns, as well. This will keep the more saturated greys from appearing too drab. Here, a pewter (grey with a bit of bronze) wall colour is tempered by a host of of fun colours and playful patterns.
Wondering what colours are grey’s rivals?
Like other neutrals, grey gives you limitless possibilities as far as introducing other hues. However, don’t forget to include different textures and patterns, as well. This will keep the more saturated greys from appearing too drab. Here, a pewter (grey with a bit of bronze) wall colour is tempered by a host of of fun colours and playful patterns.
Wondering what colours are grey’s rivals?
Blue grey
Greys with blue undertones are very cool and almost have a steel-like appearance to them. Bluish greys are a wonderful way to ‘cool off’ a south-facing room where the sun is constant throughout the day.
Greys with blue undertones are very cool and almost have a steel-like appearance to them. Bluish greys are a wonderful way to ‘cool off’ a south-facing room where the sun is constant throughout the day.
Purple grey
The dark grey used in this space has purplish undertones, which is a great colour for a more casual space. This shade of deep grey is less formal than one that leans more towards blue or black.
The dark grey used in this space has purplish undertones, which is a great colour for a more casual space. This shade of deep grey is less formal than one that leans more towards blue or black.
Charcoal grey
Deep charcoal greys are more subdued. Also called smoky grey, this colour is very calming which makes it a great choice for a bedroom. The deepest greys exude a feeling of elegance, and they create a striking contrast when paired with white or vivid colours.
Tip: Bright yellows are commonly used with charcoal grey, but try experimenting with other unexpected hues such as lime green, cranberry red or burnt orange.
Deep charcoal greys are more subdued. Also called smoky grey, this colour is very calming which makes it a great choice for a bedroom. The deepest greys exude a feeling of elegance, and they create a striking contrast when paired with white or vivid colours.
Tip: Bright yellows are commonly used with charcoal grey, but try experimenting with other unexpected hues such as lime green, cranberry red or burnt orange.
Slate grey
Yes, you can use grey with tan, beige and other organic hues. It doesn’t always feel right to put these neutrals together but it can work well if you incorporate different finishes. For example, in this photo walls painted with slate grey serve as a backdrop for stained wood cabinetry.
Yes, you can use grey with tan, beige and other organic hues. It doesn’t always feel right to put these neutrals together but it can work well if you incorporate different finishes. For example, in this photo walls painted with slate grey serve as a backdrop for stained wood cabinetry.
Subtle grey
A subtle grey tint is a nice alternative to white. Grey tints will provide a feeling of openness to small or windowless rooms.
Read more:
17 Stunning Rooms With Grey Walls
Tell us:
Have you used grey in your home? How does the colour affect the look of the space? Share images and your thoughts in the Comments below.
A subtle grey tint is a nice alternative to white. Grey tints will provide a feeling of openness to small or windowless rooms.
Read more:
17 Stunning Rooms With Grey Walls
Tell us:
Have you used grey in your home? How does the colour affect the look of the space? Share images and your thoughts in the Comments below.
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Lighter grey paint colours actually look silver, and they will appear luminous in a well-lit space. When paired with white, these silvery greys create a dazzling space that is also serene. There’s nothing gloomy about that.
Here’s how to create magic with light grey