When choosing a gray paint color to pair with white trim, there are a few key factors to consider. The undertones of the gray will impact how it looks next to the bright white trim. Cool grays with blue undertones complement white trim best, while warm grays with yellow or orange undertones can make the trim seem dingy. The lightness or darkness of the gray will also affect the overall aesthetic – a very dark gray risks looking gloomy and cavernous next to white trim. Lighter grays create a more uplifting, airy look. Lastly, the finish of the gray paint plays a role too – shiny finishes like gloss make colors pop more, while matte finishes mute the contrast. Overall, grays in the middle to light range of the spectrum, with cool, blue undertones, and eggshell or satin sheens are safest for pairing with crisp white trim.
Cool Gray Undertones
Since white has a cool undertone, gray paint colors that also have cool, blue undertones are most harmonious with bright white trim. The slight blue quality flatters the white and prevents the gray from looking drab or muddy when compared side-by-side. Some popular cool gray paint colors that look beautiful with white trim include:
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl – A light gray with hints of blue that creates an airy look next to white trim.
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray – A popular light gray with a calming vibe.
- Behr Pale Oak – A greige (gray beige) that complements white trim well.
- Benjamin Moore Horizon – A gorgeous blue-gray that brightens up white trim.
- Valspar Rock Gray – A darker charcoal gray that contrasts white trim boldly.
Grays without much undertone or color bias also pair nicely with white. These include:
- Benjamin Moore Gray Cashmere – A creamy, soft gray.
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray – A light gray with a hint of greige.
- Behr Virtual Taupe – A greige with barely a hint of coolness.
Warm Gray Undertones
Warm grays with yellow, peach, orange, or red undertones tend to clash next to white trim. The warm tones make the white look more starkly cool in comparison, and often accentuate any dingy yellowing in older white paint or trim. Warm grays like:
- Behr Koala Gray
- Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige
- Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal
Can end up looking dirty or grimy against true white. However, if the white has also yellowed or is an off-white ivory shade, a warm gray may complement it better than a crisp, cool gray would.
Depth of Gray
The depth or lightness of the gray also impacts its pairing with white. Darker grays provide striking contrast and bold definition. But they can also feel gloomy or cavernous if taken too dark. Light grays have an uplifting, ethereal quality that allows white trim to really pop. Medium grays can be versatile neutrals. Consider how much contrast you want between the gray and the white. Darker shades like:
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black
- Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray
- Valspar Kunlun Mountain
Will dramatically frame white trim. Lighter shades like:
- Sherwin Williams Natural Choice
- Benjamin Moore Wickham Gray
- Behr Silver Drop
Allow the white to stand out boldly. Medium tones like:
- Valspar Padre
- Behr Cyber Gray
- Benjamin Moore Classic Gray
Offer more nuanced contrast.
Paint Finish
The sheen of the gray paint also influences its look alongside white trim. Shiny paint finishes like high-gloss amplify contrast. They make colors pop and stand out more. Matte paint finishes like flat or matte mute contrast between colors. Eggshell and satin finishes provide a versatile middle ground. General guidelines include:
- Gloss gray paint – high contrast with white trim.
- Satin, eggshell gray paint – medium contrast.
- Matte, flat gray paint – subtle contrast.
Additionally, darker grays should typically be matte to avoid looking too bold and intense next to white. Lighter grays can handle more sheen without seeming overwhelming. Consider the overall style you want before choosing a definitive finish.
Recommended Combinations
Some failproof combinations of gray and white that nail the cool undertone, medium-light shade, and eggshell finish trifecta include:
| Gray Paint Color | White Trim |
|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter | Bright White |
| Sherwin Williams Repose Gray | Extra White |
| Behr Silver Drop | Ultra Pure White |
These grays have hints of cool blue that coordinate elegantly with crisp white. Their medium depths provide versatile contrast without becoming overwhelming dark. And an eggshell or similar mid-range sheen allows both colors to blend harmoniously.
Tips for Painting
When painting gray walls with white trim, follow these tips:
- Paint the trim first, then the walls. This allows you to be messier with roller work without worrying about getting gray paint on the trim.
- Use painter’s tape between the wall and trim for clean lines.
- Cut in the edges with a brush, then use a roller for the walls to avoid streaks.
- Use two coats of paint for proper coverage and color depth.
- Remove painter’s tape right after finishing the last coat before the paint fully dries.
- Use a small angled brush to touch up corners or edges.
- Consider adding molding along the tops of walls and where they meet the ceiling for a polished look.
Proper prep and application technique will result in a sophisticated, seamless look with your chosen gray and white pairing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about choosing gray paint for white trim:
Should I go darker or lighter with the gray?
Lighter grays are more common for a fresh, uplifting look. But your room size and lighting impacts whether you can go bold with a darker charcoal gray. Small rooms or low light conditions are best suited for mid to lighter grays.
How does undertone affect the color combo?
Cool undertones in grays complement and enhance white’s inherent coolness. Warm grays can sometimes make white seem dingy or stark in contrast. Cool grays flow seamlessly.
What sheen should I use?
Mid-range sheens like eggshell, satin, and pearl are safest. They aren’t too bold and shiny but also aren’t too matte and flat. The muted contrast enhances both the gray and the white.
Should I paint the trim and ceiling white too?
For a cohesive, spacious look, white ceilings complement gray walls with white trim beautifully. Painting all trim clean white also frames the gray neatly.
What are some sample color combinations?
Some popular options are Behr Pale Oak gray with White Dove trim, Valspar Rock Gray walls with Swiss Coffee trim, and Sherwin Williams Repose Gray with Extra White trim.
Conclusion
The best gray paint colors to pair with white trim are light to medium grays with cool, blue undertones in satin, eggshell, or pearl finishes. Shades like Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter, Sherwin Williams Repose Gray, and Behr Silver Drop complement white trim elegantly. Avoid warm grays, which can look dirty or clash. Proper technique like painting the trim first and using painter’s tape ensures clean delineation between the gray and white. With the right gray for your goals, white trim frames the walls beautifully and enhances the entire space.
