Slate gray is a neutral and versatile color that has been popular in home decor and fashion for decades. But what exactly defines this elusive shade? Slate gray sits between black and gray on the color wheel, making it darker than medium grays but lighter than true charcoal tones. The color gets its name from the natural stone slate which ranges in color from dark gray to grayish black. Let’s take a closer look at the different variations of slate gray and how to decorate with this sophisticated hue.
Defining Slate Gray
Slate gray is characterized by its blue undertones rather than the brown or red undertones found in warmer grays. This gives the color a cooler, smoother appearance. Here are some key facts about slate gray:
- Hue Family: Neutral
- Color Wheel Position: Between black and gray
- Hex Codes: #708090, #687B8E, #616D7E
- Alternative Names: Stone gray, rainy day gray
- Paint Companies: Benjamin Moore Graytone, Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray, Behr Pale Slate
Variations of Slate Gray
Slate gray is not defined by one set hex code or paint color. Rather, it encompasses a range of hues from light medium grays to dark charcoal tones. Here are some of the most popular varieties of slate gray:
Light Slate Gray
The lightest shades of slate gray have only subtle blue undertones and appear closer to a tan or greige neutral. Light slate grays work beautifully in airy spaces and pair well with crisp whites.
- Benjamin Moore Classic Gray (HC-171)
- Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray (SW 7016)
- Behr Pale Slate (PPU18-07)
Medium Slate Gray
The truest slate grays have visible blue undertones while maintaining enough lightness to avoid looking dingy. Medium slate grays are versatile enough for any room.
- Benjamin Moore Graytone (HC-174)
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015)
- Behr Slate Tile (520D-3)
Dark Slate Gray
Dark charcoal slate grays have a sophisticated, almost blackened appearance. They create dramatic accent walls but can overwhelm a space if overdone.
- Benjamin Moore Stormy Sky (HC-144)
- Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (SW 6258)
- Behr Slate Gray (520C-7)
Decorating with Slate Gray
From home exteriors to furniture upholstery, slate gray can be incorporated into any room for a refined look. Here are some popular ways to decorate with this hue:
Exterior House Color
For exterior house paint, slate gray creates a handsome, tailored look. Depending on your climate and the style of your home, options can range from light warm grays to darker blue-gray tones:
| Light Slate Gray | Medium Slate Gray | Dark Slate Gray |
|---|---|---|
| Goes well with white trim/details | Classic, versatile choice | Dramatic on modern homes |
| Softer appearance | Refined for any style home | Can feel imposing if overdone |
Living Room
In living rooms, slate gray makes a sophisticated neutral backdrop for furnishings and decor. Try these applications of slate gray for the living room:
- Main wall color
- Accent wall
- Fireplace surround
- Ceiling color
- Shelving or built-ins
- Sofas or armchairs
- Pillows, throws, and accent accessories
Bedroom
Slate gray can create either a soothing spa-like retreat or a cozy sleeping space in the bedroom. Ideas include:
- Full wall color or accent wall
- Ceiling color
- Headboard color
- Bedding such as shams, duvets, and pillows
- Window treatments like curtains, roman shades, or drapes
- Nightstands and dressers
Kitchen
While very dark slate grays could feel dreary in a kitchen, the right tones can add timeless style. Try lighter warm grays for a more inviting look. Uses include:
- Perimeter cabinetry or island color
- Backsplash tile
- Countertops
- Window treatments
- Tables, stools, and chairs
- Kitchen accessories like canisters and dishware
Bathroom
For a soothing spa bathroom, consider these applications of slate gray:
- Wall color
- Shower tile
- Bathroom vanity or stand-alone sinks
- Tiles floors
- Window treatments
- Bath mats, towels, and shower curtains
Home Office
Slate gray can help create a focused yet aesthetically pleasing workspace at home. Ideas for home offices include:
- Desktop, bookshelves, cabinets, and file storage
- Full wall color or accent wall
- Area rugs
- Desk chair or office lounge seating
- Table lamp shades
- Office accessories like pencil cups, organizers, and notepads
Pairing Paint Colors with Slate Gray
One of the joys of decorating with slate gray is choosing accent colors that highlight the gray’s sophisticated personality. Here are some top paint colors to pair with different shades of slate gray:
| Slate Gray Hue | Complimentary Paint Colors |
|---|---|
| Light warm grays | Crisp whites, ivory, tan, light blue |
| Medium cool grays | Cobalt blue, emerald green, crisp black and white |
| Dark charcoal grays | Rich navy blue, hunter green, warm wood tones |
Textiles That Complement Slate Gray
From upholstery to accent pillows, textiles provide the perfect opportunity to layer in additional colors and patterns to enhance slate gray. Some winning textile combinations include:
- Ivory, cream, or white
- Light blue, denim, or navy
- Camel, beige, tan, or brown
- Emerald green or sage green
- Black and white patterns or solids
- Plaids, stripes, prints or textured weaves
Conclusion
With its sophisticated personality and versatility, slate gray truly suits any style or space. Whether you prefer light warm grays or darker charcoal tones, this hue can create a refined, artful look. From full room colors to accent walls and accessories, decorating with slate gray is an elegant, on-trend choice. With the right complementary color scheme and textural layers, you can design a beautiful, inviting space with this timeless neutral as your foundation.
