When choosing a paint color to pair with blue grey walls, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. The shade of blue grey you select as your wall color will impact which hues look best with it. You’ll also want to think about the mood you want to create in the space – do you want a relaxing, spa-like feel or something more energetic and vibrant? And of course, personal color preferences come into play. With so many potential options, deciding on that perfect complementary color for blue grey walls can be tricky. But have no fear – this comprehensive guide breaks down the top color pairings that work beautifully with different shades of blue grey on walls. We’ll explore the color theory behind these combinations and provide specific paint color recommendations to make the selection process easy. Get ready to discover the ideal accent hues that will liven up your blue grey walls and pull your space together.
Factors to Consider for Choosing Complementary Colors
When selecting paint colors to go with blue grey walls, keep these key considerations in mind:
- The undertone of your blue grey – Does it lean more blue or green? This will impact which colors complement it best.
- The lightness/darkness of the blue grey – Darker shades pair better with brighter hues, while lighter blues look better with more muted tones.
- The mood you want to create – Vibrant colors are energizing, while softer hues are more relaxing.
- Personal color preferences – Make sure YOU love the color combination!
- The room’s purpose – Bold colors suit casual spaces, while subtle tones are better for bedrooms.
With those factors in mind, let’s explore some of the best colors to pair with different shades of blue grey.
For Blue-Toned Blue Greys
If your blue grey walls lean towards a blue undertone, bringing in some warm accent colors creates a pleasing, balanced look. The contrast of a bold orange or yellow against the cool blue grey is vibrant and energizing. Here are some specific colors to try:
- Sherwin-Williams Spiced Apple – A bright, warm orange
- Benjamin Moore Lemon Ice – A pale pastel yellow
- Behr Coral Reef – A cheerful orange-coral hue
Deeper teal greens also complement a blue-leaning blue grey beautifully. The analogous color scheme is sophisticated and refreshing. Consider these shades:
- Valspar Seastar – A jewel-toned teal green
- Benjamin Moore Rain Forest – A dusty, muted teal sage
- Sherwin-Williams Evergreen Fog – A gray-green with blue undertones
For Greener Blue Greys
If your blue grey wall color has more green/sage undertones, look to peach and coral accent colors to contrast nicely. These warmer tones add energy and prevent the green grey from feeling too cool and muted. Some fitting options include:
- Behr Coral Bliss – A peachy pink neutral
- Sherwin-Williams Everlasting – A warm peach beige
- Benjamin Moore Hot Paprika – A true coral hue
Vibrant purple shades also look beautiful alongside a green-leaning blue grey. The combination feels fresh yet elegant. Consider these regal purple paint colors:
- Behr Risen Blue – A grey-toned lilac
- Valspar Lavender Bouquet – A light purple with grey undertones
- Sherwin-Williams Sensuous – A muted mauve
Pairing Colors with Light Blue Greys
For a very pale blue grey wall color, steer clear of equally pale accent shades. This can make the space feel washed out. Instead, inject some contrast with deeper, saturated hues. Here are some lively paint colors that pop beautifully against a light blue grey:
- Benjamin Moore Calypso Coral – A tropical, energizing orangey red
- Sherwin-Williams Passionate Purple – A bold magenta
- Behr Blue Danube – An intense indigo blue
If you prefer a more soothing look, pastel pinks, peaches and buttercup yellows add the right amount of contrast without overwhelming the soft blue grey walls:
- Valspar Wisp Pink – A barely-there blush tone
- Benjamin Moore Lemon Custard – A vintage-inspired pale yellow
- Sherwin-Williams Tradewinds – A warm peachy neutral
Complementary Colors for Dark Blue Greys
Deep charcoal blue greys look stunning paired with bright, saturated accent colors that add excitement. Citrus yellows, corals and teals have an energizing effect against the dramatic blue grey background. Some perfect pairings include:
- Sherwin-Williams Mango Mojito – A vibrant lime green/yellow
- Behr Radiant Orange – A bold, tangerine orange
- Valspar Bikini – A poppy turquoise teal
For a more zen look, earthier tones like terracotta, olive and gold work well with a dark blue grey. These warmer neutrals add a touch of sophistication and glamour.
- Benjamin Moore Terracotta Tile – A burnt orange clay
- Sherwin-Williams Sensuous – A muted olive green
- Behr Glittering Gold – A shimmery champagne tone
Most Versatile Colors for Blue Grey Walls
Looking for a color that pairs beautifully with blue greys across the spectrum of shades? Creamy off-whites and beiges complement most variations of blue grey. Crisp white trim pops against darker blue greys, while warmer antique whites pair better with lighter shades. Try these versatile neutral paint colors:
- Benjamin Moore Simply White – A true bright white
- Sherwin-Williams Alabaster – A soft, warm white
- Valspar Swiss Coffee – A light tan beige
- Behr Cappuccino – A medium beige-brown neutral
Deep charcoals and black also act as classic complementary colors to all tones of blue grey. For accent walls or furniture pieces, rich black and charcoal add stylish contrast and drama against blue grey backdrops.
Color Combinations to Avoid with Blue Grey
When decorating with blue grey walls, there are a few accent colors you’ll want to steer clear of:
- Matching blue greys – Too much of the same undertone can feel monotonous
- Pale shades that are too similar – Can look washed out
- Cool purples – Clash with blue undertones
- Bright reds – Too much contrast creates visual discomfort
Trust your eye – if a color pairing looks “off” with your particular blue grey, it likely is not a good match. The colors should complement each other, not compete.
Using Tones and Tints for Cohesion
An easy way to decorate with complementing colors for blue grey walls is to choose tones and tints of your wall color. Mixing in deeper shades of blue grey along with paler, softer versions creates natural cohesion. You can use these tonal blue greys for:
- Accent walls
- Furniture like sofas, chairs, tables
- Decor items like pillows, throws, rugs, art
- Kitchen or bathroom cabinets
- Headboards and bedroom furniture
Playing with different blue grey tones and textures across your space brings visual interest while keeping the overall palette soothing and sophisticated.
Conclusion
Complementing blue grey walls with the right accent colors transforms a space from blah to beautiful. Keeping color theory and undertones in mind allows you to select combinations that work in harmony. Energizing yet relaxing, sophisticated yet fresh – the possibilities are endless for livening up blue grey walls with thoughtful pops of color. Trust your personal style preferences and create a space that you love coming home to.
