Choosing a gray paint color for walls can be an overwhelming process with so many options to consider. Grays range from cool undertones like blue-gray to warm undertones like beige-gray. The level of light or dark also impacts the look and feel of a gray wall color. While trends come and go, there are several timeless and popular gray paint colors that look beautiful in any style of home.
Factors To Consider
Here are some key factors to think about when selecting a gray paint color:
Undertones – Grays can lean cool or warm. Cool grays have blue, purple, or green undertones. These shades create calm, relaxing spaces. Warm grays have undertones of brown, beige, taupe, or peach. Warm grays make a space cozy.
Light Reflectance Value – The light reflectance value (LRV) measures how much light a color reflects. The higher the LRV, the lighter the color. For gray walls, consider going a few shades lighter than you initially think. Dark grays can make a room feel gloomy.
Room Size – In small spaces, very dark colors can make a room feel closed in. Lighter grays help open up the space. However, dark charcoal grays can look striking in a large room.
Natural Light – North-facing rooms have lower exposure to sunlight. Lighter grays help reflect light. South-facing rooms can handle deeper, moodier grays without feeling too dark.
Most Popular Gray Paint Colors
Here are 5 of the top, most popular gray paint colors for walls:
Benjamin Moore Gray Owl – This is one of the most sought-after gray paint colors. It’s a light-medium tone with subtle warm undertones. Gray Owl is peaceful and versatile enough for any room.
Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray – A popular light gray with a hint of green. It’s almost greige – a blend of gray and beige. Repose Gray provides a soft, relaxed feel.
Behr Silver Drop – This is a pale gray that works well in darker rooms needing more light. Silver Drop has a hint of blue that comes through.
Valspar Kettle Black – For those wanting a darker, moodier look, Kettle Black is a charcoal gray with depth. It feels contemporary and stylish.
Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray – This mid-tone warm gray strikes the perfect balance between light and dark. Chelsea Gray is cozy without going too dark.
Best Gray Colors for Different Rooms
Grays work well in any room when selected appropriately. Here are top gray paint colors for popular rooms:
Living Room – Repose Gray is light and airy, opening up the living room. Pale Oak adds warmth as an accent wall.
Bedroom – Balboa Mist is peaceful and relaxing for better sleep. Complement with white trim and ceiling.
Kitchen – Accessible Beige has beige undertones that pair nicely with cabinets and tile. Consider Edgecomb Gray on an island.
Bathroom – Rain is a soothing blue-gray shade. Use a lighter Attic Gray on the ceiling for an airy look.
Home Office – Functional Grays like Mindful Gray or Classic Gray boost concentration. Add visual interest with lighter gray shelving.
Dining Room – For formal spaces, Foggy Day is an elegant, soft gray that sets a refined tone.
Tips for Selecting Gray Paint
When choosing a gray for your home, keep these tips in mind:
– Purchase gray paint color sample sizes to test on walls before fully committing to a color. Gray paint can look very different on a wall versus a small swatch.
– Take lighting into account. Grays can skew cooler or warmer depending on light exposure. View paint samples at different times of day.
– Coordinate with your existing interior. Look at furniture, tile, cabinets, and flooring to select a complementary gray.
– Be aware that grays with blue undertones can read as violet or lavender in some spaces. Make sure to verify the undertone before painting an entire room.
– Consider sheen – flat or matte paint helps darker grays feel less imposing in small spaces compared to a semi-gloss.
– Don’t be afraid to go bold with a dark charcoal gray on an accent wall. This can create dramatic contrast.
Conclusion
Gray is a versatile neutral paint color option for any home when chosen with care. Factors like undertones, natural lighting, room size, and existing decor impact the look and feel of gray walls. Selecting sample sizes first allows you to live with potential grays before fully committing. Some of the most popular, timeless grays include Repose Gray, Gray Owl, and Chelsea Gray. With so many gray shades to explore, you’re sure to find a beautiful cool or warm tone to suit your space.
| Gray Paint Color | Light Reflectance Value | Undertone |
|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Moore Gray Owl | 54 | Warm |
| Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray | 59 | Slightly Warm |
| Behr Silver Drop | 70 | Slightly Cool |
| Valspar Kettle Black | 16 | Cool |
| Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray | 38 | Warm |
