When decorating a space, choosing colors that complement each other is key to creating a cohesive and stylish look. One popular color pairing is teal and grey. But with so many shades of grey to choose from, which one looks best with teal? In this article, we’ll explore the different grey options and help you determine the ideal grey to pair with teal for your home.
Understanding Teal
Before we look at greys, let’s first understand teal. Teal is a bluish-green color that takes its name from the common teal bird which has striking blueish-green feathers. It sits between blue and green on the color wheel, making it a cool tone.
True teal has a blue-leaning undertone. However, many paint brands and designers use the term “teal” quite loosely, calling any greenish-blue color teal. So you may see a wide variety of shades labeled teal, some more blue and some more green.
When pairing teal with grey, you’ll want to choose a grey with a similar cool undertone to complement the blue in true teal. Warm greys will contrast more with teal, creating a bolder look.
The Grey Scale
Grey is a neutral color spanning a wide range of shades from white to black. There are three main types of grey:
Cool Greys
Cool greys have blue, purple, or green undertones. They coordinate well with teal since teal also has blue undertones. Cool greys create a relaxing, sophisticated look.
Warm Greys
Warm greys have red, yellow, pink, or brown undertones. They provide a cozy, inviting feel. When paired with teal, warm greys offer more contrast and vibrancy.
Neutral Greys
True neutral greys don’t lean warm or cool. They are versatile and work with any color scheme. With teal, they act as a subtle backdrop that allows the teal to take center stage.
Best Greys for Teal
Now let’s explore some specific shades of grey that complement teal beautifully.
Light Cool Greys
| Grey | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Cloud Grey | #c9cbcf |
| Light French Grey | #c8cdd3 |
| Pale Smoke | #c4c4c4 |
Soft, airy light greys create an elegant, relaxing palette with teal. Cloud grey, light French grey, and pale smoke are three go-to options. Their subtle cool undertones mesh seamlessly with teal for a sophisticated look. Use these light greys on walls, furniture, decor accents, and textiles.
Medium Cool Greys
| Grey | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Cadet Grey | #95a3b2 |
| Silver Grey | #c0c0c0 |
| Grey Blue | #6c7986 |
Boost the contrast a notch by pairing teal with medium-toned cool greys like cadet grey, silver grey, or grey blue. These greys provide a little more depth without becoming too dark. Use them in kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces.
Charcoal Grey
| Grey | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Charcoal | #36454f |
For a bold, dramatic look, charcoal grey is the perfect match for teal. The rich darkness of charcoal grey makes the teal pop. Use it sparingly on accent walls, furniture pieces, or linens for a striking color combo.
Warm Greys
| Grey | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Light French Grey | #c8cdd3 |
| Warm Grey | #978A84 |
| Beige Grey | #807d75 |
While cool greys may be the conventional choice, warm greys can create stylish teal combinations too. Light French grey, warm grey, and beige grey have subtle warm undertones that make teal pop. Use them in cozy living spaces and bedrooms.
Using Grey and Teal Together
When using teal and grey together, keep these tips in mind:
– Use teal as the accent color and grey as the neutral backdrop. Too much teal can feel overwhelming.
– Layer lighter and darker shades of grey for depth and interest.
– Add metallic silvers and steely blues to bridge teal and grey.
– Introduce black and white for contrast.
– Use warm woods, tans, and cream to soften the cool tones.
– Show restraint with bright white to avoid looking clinical. Opt for soft off-whites instead.
Teal and Grey Color Schemes
Here are some inspiring teal and grey color combinations to spark ideas:
Light Teal and Light Grey
Soft dove grey walls paired with Robin’s egg blue accents create a soothing, relaxed feel. Add cream and white for an extra touch of tranquility.
Mint Teal and Medium Grey
A light mint green teal plays beautifully against medium greys like pewter or ash grey. Throw in some eucalyptus green for a spa vibe.
Dark Teal and Charcoal Grey
Dramatic and moody, deep teal pops against the inky backdrop of charcoal walls or fabrics. Punch it up with shiny silver and black accents.
Vibrant Teal and Warm Grey
Warm greys like beige help bright teals feel more grounded and earthy. Rustic wood finishes complete the cozy look.
Teal with Black, White, and Grey
Classic black, white, and grey gets a bold update with the addition of teal throw pillows, art, or an accent wall. Stylish, energetic, and versatile.
Using Teal and Grey in Different Rooms
Let’s explore how teal and grey can be used in various rooms:
Living Room
In living rooms, use light to medium greys on larger surfaces like walls, sectionals, and carpeting. Then introduce teal through throw pillows, a painted accent wall or fireplace, colorful art, curtains, or area rugs. Finish the look with wood and metal accents for warmth.
Bedroom
Teal and grey create a tranquil bedroom retreat. A dove grey wall color is soothing while teal bedding, curtains, and accent pillows add personality. Neutral wood nightstands and warm lighting keep the mood relaxed.
Bathroom
Powder rooms are the perfect canvas for bold teal grey combos. Charcoal walls and grey floors serve as a dramatic backdrop for teal vanities, tiles, towels, and artwork. Brass hardware and lighting add shine.
Kitchen
In the kitchen, grey cabinetry or an island paired with a teal backsplash, pendant lights, bar stools or accent wall makes for an energetic, yet balanced space. Stainless steel appliances complement both colors.
Dining Room
Use cool grey walls and a teal dining table to set the stage for fun dinner parties. Grey dining chairs balance the strong pop of teal. Add teal dishware for a pulled-together dining space.
Office
Boost productivity in a grey home office with energizing teal accents. Grey desks, filing cabinets, and bookshelves provide order while teal artwork, office accessories, chairs or throw pillows encourage creativity.
Conclusion
Teal and grey make for an elegant, inviting color pairing if done right. Stick with cool-toned greys like pale smoke, cadet grey, and charcoal to complement teal’s blue undertones. Or create bold contrast with warm greys. Use teal as the accent color and keep surfaces light and airy. Whatever shades you choose, teal and grey create a look that’s both stylish and soothing. With endless combinations, you’re sure to find a scheme that’s perfect for your space.
