When choosing an exterior paint color for a gray house, it’s important to consider colors that will complement the existing gray nicely. The right complementary color can enhance the gray without clashing. Some key factors to consider when picking a color to go with gray siding include the undertones of the gray, the style of the home, and the surrounding environment. With some thoughtfulness, you can select a color that adds personality and visual interest to your gray home’s exterior.
Consider the Undertones of the Gray
Grays can have warm, cool, or neutral undertones. Warm grays have hints of tan, brown, or red. Cool grays lean towards blue or green shades. Neutral grays don’t have a strong bias towards warm or cool. The undertone of the existing gray paint is important because you’ll usually want to choose a complementary color with the same undertone. Some examples:
– Warm grays look great with sage greens, brick reds, or sunny yellows
– Cool grays are complemented by pastel blues, lavender, or robin’s egg blue
– Neutral grays can be paired with just about any color
Spend some time looking at your gray house in different lighting at various times of day. This will help you identify if it has a warm, cool, or neutral undertone. From there, you can start narrowing down color options with the same undertone.
Consider the Style of the Home
The architectural style of the home can also provide direction on choosing attire right color for a gray house. Certain exterior colors work better with particular styles.
| Home Style | Complementary Color Options |
|---|---|
| Colonial | Forest green, navy, brick red, yellow |
| Craftsman | Sage green, rust orange, charcoal |
| Farmhouse | Marigold yellow, olive green, navy |
| Victorian | Purple, light blue, sage green |
Pick a complementary color that suits the home’s architecture and design era. For example, a bold kelly green pops nicely against a gray Victorian house. Or consider a muted brick red to accentuate the arts and crafts style of a gray craftsman bungalow.
Factor in the Surroundings
Also think about how the new exterior color will look with the surroundings. Is the home in a wooded area? Then earthy browns, greens, and neutrals will complement the trees. In a suburban neighborhood, you may want a color that complements nearby houses. Near the ocean? Go for relaxing blue or green shades.
Drive around the neighborhood and make note of colors that catch your eye. This can inspire your choice. You want the new color to stand out while still blending into the landscape.
Choosing Colors for a Gray House
Now that you know how to select a complementary color, here are some specific options that work well with gray houses:
Green
Different shades of green pair excellently with gray. Green is a versatile color that works with most architectural styles.
– Sage green has a subtle, earthy vibe. It complements warm gray tones.
– Moss green is bold yet still neutral. It works on craftsman or colonial homes.
– Mint green is cheerful and refreshing. It brightens up a cool-toned gray house.
– Forest green is dramatic but nature-inspired. It suits homes in wooded settings.
Blue
From navy to sky blue, various blues make gray pop. Blue conjures images of sky and water to create a relaxing feel.
– Baby blue is dreamy and peaceful. It lightens up neutral grays.
– Robin’s egg blue is retro yet still modern. It stands out against cool grays.
– Navy is nautical and sophisticated. It enhances stately homes.
– Powder blue is calming and subtle. It pairs nicely with warm grays.
Red
Reds in different shades add energy to gray exteriors. They work best on vintage styles like colonials and Victorians.
– Brick red reads as neutral but still makes a statement.
– Burgundy has vintage appeal. It suits formal gray homes.
– Terra cotta is earthy and natural. It works with craftsman designs.
– Scarlet red is bold and fun. It contrasts well with cool gray tones.
Yellow
Yellow energizes gray exteriors and creates instant curb appeal. The trick is picking a yellow with the right brightness and warmth.
– Mustard yellow has a retro feel that complements warm grays.
– Pale yellow is subtle but still noticeable against light grays.
– Buttercream yellow is warm and welcoming on neutral gray homes.
– Dijon yellow makes a bold contrasting pop against dark grays.
Purple
Certain shades of purple pair nicely with gray exteriors, adding a touch of sophistication.
– Lavender is dreamy and peaceful next to cool grays.
– Lilac is sweet and romantic against neutral grays.
– Eggplant purple contrasts dramatically with warm gray tones.
Creative Complimentary Color Combinations
Looking for something more unique? Here are some striking color combinations to make a gray house stand out:
– Gray with orange – Try pumpkiin orange for a fun, trendy pairing.
– Gray with teal – A bright aqua teal energizes a neutral gray home.
– Gray with olive green – Earthy olive green enhances natural gray tones.
– Gray with marigold yellow – Cheery marigold yellow lights up a gray exterior.
– Gray with light pink – Soft blush pink feminizes a gray house.
– Gray with cobalt blue – Vibrant cobalt blue awakens cool grays.
Feel free to get creative with your gray house’s complementary color. The options are nearly endless!
Use Accent Colors Strategically
One approach is to paint the house gray and then use an accent color on the front door, window trims, or shutters. This allows the gray to remain dominant while still incorporating color.
Some eye-catching accent colors to try:
– Red front door against a gray house
– Navy blue shutters on gray siding
– Kelly green window trim for gray walls
Also consider accenting with darker gray tones, like painting the trim charcoal against a lighter gray exterior.
Further Considerations
Here are a few final tips for choosing a complementary color for a gray house:
– Try out colors on a small section first before painting the entire exterior. You can paint large sample swatches to view in different lighting.
– Ask neighbors for their input on color combinations that would complement nearby homes.
– Check with your local HOA or zoning office for any restrictions on exterior paint colors before deciding.
– View color palettes online or at the paint store for more gray and color pairings.
With the right complementary color, your gray house can stand out while still blending into the surroundings. Follow the tips above to pick a shade that enhances your home’s architecture and style. Soon you’ll have a exterior paint color combination that wows.
Conclusion
Choosing a color to complement a gray exterior requires careful consideration, but the effort pays off. Look at the undertones of your gray, the style of your home, and the surrounding environment to guide your color selection. Green, blue, red, yellow, and purple all pair attractively with gray. For a bolder look, go for more unusual combinations like gray with orange or teal. Strategically use accent colors on trim and doors. With the ideal color combination, your gray house will have maximum appeal and personality. The perfect complementary color can bring out the best in your home’s existing gray exterior.