Getting ready to redesign a bedroom, or throw some new paint up on your living room walls? You may be wondering about a neutral canvas that won’t have you swimming in beige. Enter the versatile gray canvas. Gray as a neutral can be the perfect choice because of its quality to make colors pop.
Neutral Colors
In the context of interior design, neutral means without color. Neutrals such as beige, ivory, taupe, black, gray and shades of white appear to be without color, but in many applications these hues often have undertones. Be aware of these underlying tones as you match colors or choose paint. For example, beige might have an undertone of pink, tan or gold. White might be slightly ivory, yellow, bluish or peachy. Gray, on the other hand, ranges from various warm shades to cool colors, with minimal undertones. Gray works perfectly with the bold, more colorful lighting and home décor that’s on trend. For warmer gray hues, brass and antique gold are great pairings options.
The All-Gray Room Palette
If you are going for an all-neutral look, layer different hues of the same color for a classy and sophisticated look. Gray can be used in every room of the house and all values from light to dark. It is a very sophisticated color than can change the mood from romance for the bedroom to classic for the dining room.
Gray as Background
Gray is such a versatile color. It serves as the perfect backdrop for you to showcase your personality. Choose the gray based on what other colors you wish to use, how much natural light the room receives, and your personal preference for lighter or darker walls. Be mindful that a darker gray for the walls may seem to close the room up while a lighter gray will open things up a bit. You’ll also have to decide whether you prefer a warm or cool shade.
For example, if you go with taupe, try pairing that shade of gray with navy-blue sofa and chairs. Add an area rug or carpeting in the same shade of taupe as the walls or a bit lighter. In this color scheme, you have taupe walls and floor accents or carpeting for a neutral canvas.
Gray is really the unsung hero of the neutral color world. Dress it up or down, keep it warm or cool, it’s up to you! Remember, there is more to a neutral canvass than just beige or white. Turn to gray to really set your colors apart.
