Grey has become so popular recently, credited to the rise of minimalism and Nordic design. Its nuanced appearance (neither black nor white) and its versatility/ease in styling have made it a favorite amongst homeowners and we are now seeing more and more grey interiors. If you have grown into loving this color and are wondering how to incorporate it in your home decor or what colors to match it with, this guide is for you. Before answering the question what colors go with grey? Let’s find out the meaning behind the color and what emotions it’s most likely to evoke in a space.
What Colors Go With Grey?
Meaning of the color grey
Research has found that the colors we put in our homes are so important because they impact our mood and ultimately our mental health (you can read more here). Therefore, it’s paramount to understand the theory behind grey before introducing it into your home’s color scheme especially when living in a small space.
The color grey is often associated with intellect and wisdom due to its interrelation with old age. When used in an interior-grey can create sophisticated aesthetic evoking emotions of comfort, calmness, and maturity.
But it’s important to note that when used alone it can appear to be dull and washed out hence it’s best combined with other colors to add visual depth to a space.
Furthermore, It’s crucial to keep in mind that darker shades of gray may make you feel edgier and moodier (similar to navy blue or black) while lighter shades feel more timeless and hopeful.
With that background in mind, these are the 8 colors that best go with grey for a minimalistic understated aesthetic.
What Colours go with grey?
1. Beige And Grey: A Perfect Neutral Pairing
Combining beige with grey in an interior can create a luxurious, tranquil, and versatile space. Both colors are neutral as a result they work harmoniously together when styled correctly. Here are some tips and ideas on how to style beige and grey for a cohesive and elegant look.
- Use a Warm and Cool Balance: Beige typically has warm undertones, while grey often has cool undertones. That being the case choose greys with warmer undertones (such as greige) to blend seamlessly with beige.
- Mix light and dark shades of both colors to add depth and interest. For example, a light grey sofa paired with a dark beige rug can create a striking contrast without clashing.
- Incorporate natural elements like wood and stone to enhance the earthy feel of beige and the modern touch of grey. Wooden furniture or stone accessories can bridge the two colors beautifully.
Shop The Look
Henri Matisse Art Print amazon link
Egypt Natural Marble Tray amazon link
Premium Feathers Down Comforter amazon link
Velvet Decorative Square Throw Pillow Covers amazon link
Wood Headboard amazon link
Modern Accent Chair amazon link
Room-Specific Ideas
In your Living Room keep it simple with:
- A beige sofa and grey throw pillows as well as a grey coffee table to create a cohesive look.
- Use a beige area rug on a grey floor or vice versa for visual interest.
Bedroom:
- Choose Grey bedding with beige accent pillows and a beige throw to create a serene and inviting atmosphere.
- Consider a beige upholstered bed frame for contrast and visual interest.
Kitchen:
- Grey cabinets paired with beige countertops or a beige backsplash like travertine can create a balanced, modern kitchen.
- Use wood bar stools to complement the color scheme.
Bathroom:
- Grey tiles with beige towels and bath mats create a spa-like feel.
- A grey vanity with beige countertops can add sophistication.
2. White
For a clean, minimalist, and timeless look, consider white.
This classic combination is versatile and can suit any style, from modern to traditional.
White accents, whether in furniture, fixtures, or textiles, provide a crisp and airy feel that balances the neutrality of grey.
Here are some unique room specifications and tips to help you make the most of this elegant color combination.
Living Room
Wall Colors:
- White Walls: Use crisp white walls to create a bright and airy atmosphere. This will also make your grey furniture and accents stand out.
- Incorporate a Grey Accent Wall: Add a light to a medium grey accent wall to add depth and interest without overwhelming the space.
Furniture:
- Coffee Table: A white marble coffee table with grey veining or a grey metal table with a sleek design can be a focal point.
Decor:
- Rugs: Opt for a grey rug with a subtle white pattern or a solid grey rug to anchor the space depending on your floor finish.
- Pillows and Throws: Mix white and grey pillows with different textures and patterns. Add a chunky grey knit throw for extra coziness.
- Art and Accessories: Use white frames for black-and-white photographs or abstract art. Incorporate silver or chrome decor items to add a touch of shine.
Lighting:
- Fixtures: Choose white or grey pendant lights or floor lamps with sleek designs. A statement chandelier in a contemporary design can add elegance.
- Natural Light: Maximize natural light with sheer white curtains or grey blinds.
Bedroom
Wall Colors:
- Light grey walls can create a calming backdrop. Consider using a grey wallpaper with a subtle texture or pattern for one accent wall.
- Keep the ceiling and trim white to brighten the room and add contrast.
Then for the Furniture:
- A white upholstered bed with a grey headboard or a grey wooden bed frame with white bedding can create a stylish focal point.
- Pair grey nightstands with white or grey lamps.
Decor:
- Use white sheets with grey accent pillows and a grey duvet cover or blanket. Mixing different shades of grey and textures can add depth.
- Tie the look in with a soft grey rug under the bed to add warmth and comfort.
- Opt for white curtains to frame the windows.
Lighting:
- Choose white or grey table lamps with sleek, modern designs.
- A simple, elegant white chandelier can add a touch of luxury.
What Colors Go With Grey Mood Board: SHOP THE LOOK
Framed Canvas Wall Art Set amazon link
Small Vintage Natural Marble Tray amazon link
White Ceramic Vase amazon link
Premium Feathers Down Comforter amazon link
3. Brown and Grey: A Warm and Classic look
This is a moodier and richer combination for an office or a luxurious bedroom. Here’s how to style brown and grey with unique room specifications for different areas of your home:
Bedroom
Wall Colors:
- Brown Accent Wall: Paint one wall in a warm brown shade or you can clad it with wooden slates to create a cozy focal point.
- Grey Walls: Use light grey for the remaining walls to keep the room feeling spacious and bright or you can choose to go dark grey for an edgier look.
Kitchen
- Pair brown grainy wooden cabinets with grey-grained marble as a backsplash and countertop.
- Keep your kitchen walls in a light grey almost white color paint for minimalist sophistication.
SHOP THE LOOK
Mid-Century Leather Sofa amazon link
Rustic Organic Bowl amazon link
4. Tan
When it comes to creating a sophisticated and inviting space, pairing grey with tan is a timeless-elegant choice. This combination results in a balanced and aesthetically pleasing that reflects both modern flair and cozy warmth.
Here are some tips on how you can pair them together;
- Light Grey and Soft Tan: This pairing creates an airy and spacious feel, ideal for smaller rooms or areas where you want to maximize light.
- Charcoal Grey and Rich Tan: For a more dramatic/moody as well as cozy atmosphere, opt for darker shades of grey and richer, deeper tans.
- Soft Textiles: Use grey in soft fabrics like linen, velvet, or fur for furniture and cushions. Pair with tan leather or suede for a luxurious touch.
- Natural Elements: Introduce natural materials like wood, rattan, or jute in tan shades to complement grey furniture or walls.
Keep in mind that Incorporating different textures can enhance the visual interest and depth of your decor
Room-Specific Ideas
Living Room:
For the living room, you can Style;
- A grey sofa paired with tan leather accent chairs creates a stylish and comfortable seating area.
- Use a tan rug to anchor a grey coffee table and tie the room together.
Bedroom:
- Consider a tan headboard with grey bedding for a balanced look.
Bathroom:
- Incorporate tan wooden accents, such as shelving or a vanity, against grey walls.
What Colors Go With Grey Mood Board:SHOP THE LOOK
Gold Brown & Bronze Photo Frame amazon link
3 Wick Candle Scented Candle amazon link
Mid-Century Nightstand and Side Table amazon link
5. Blush Pink
Blush pink adds a soft, romantic touch to grey. This combination is perfect for creating a playful and inviting atmosphere. Use blush pink accents in artwork, or floral arrangements to soften the industrial feel of grey and bring warmth to a room.
In the bathroom:
- Add a muted blush pink tile against grey paint to add a splash of color and also to break the monotony of a grey color palette
In the Living room:
- Add a fun blush pink mirror as a statement in an entryway for visual interest as a conversation starter to impress your friends.
Misto Decorative Wall Mirror for Entryway amazon link
6. Teal
If you’re pondering on what colors go with grey for a contemporary or coastal vibe, teal is a great dynamic and refreshing color. This vibrant shade can be used in accessories like cushions, artwork, or even kitchenware to add a splash of color and vitality to a grey backdrop.
In the Kitchen:
Teal backsplash tiles coupled with Kitchenware in the same color can add a vibrant and fresh feel to a grey backdrop.
SHOP THE LOOK
Wall Art Print amazon link
Wild Animal Art Print amazon link
Rug amazon link
Teal Green 3D Peel and Stick Tile amazon link
Walnut Finish Dining Chair amazon link
7. Coral
Coral brings a bright and cheerful vibe to grey-Giving off a fun vibe to any space while still being sophisticated. Use coral in small decor items, textiles, or artwork to invigorate a room and make it feel more vibrant. For example;
Bedroom
You can combine coral with grey to add personality to a bedroom. As well as to create a calming yet invigorating atmosphere, perfect for both relaxation and rejuvenation.
How to Style:
- Walls: Consider a light grey for the walls with coral accents in the form of artwork like sea shells or a coral mural painting as a fun backdrop.
- Furniture: Grey furniture pieces, like a bed frame or dresser, can be paired with coral lamps or bedside tables for a cohesive look.
Home Office
In a home office, the energetic vibe of coral can inspire creativity and productivity, while grey provides a professional and calming background.
How to Style:
- Desk and Chair: Opt for a grey desk and chair and add coral accessories such as desk organizers, lamp, or a notice board.
- Wall Art: Use coral and grey artwork to add color and interest to the space.
- Storage: Grey storage solutions can be accented with coral labels or decorative boxes to keep the office organized and stylish.
8. Emerald Green
If you are searching for what colors go with grey to achieve a refined and organic feel Emerald green is a luxurious and natural color that pairs exquisitely well with grey.
Introduce this rich hue through plants, textiles, or statement furniture pieces to create an inviting and sophisticated ambiance.
SHOP THE LOOK
Green Marble Decorative Tray amazon link
Table Lamp amazon link
You are free to experiment with all the various combinations. But just remember to keep in mind the rule of thumb-Which is to match cooler Greys with fresher tones like teal blue, pale greens, and cool whites. And darker grey tones with warmer colors like Tan and brown.
What Colors Go With Grey?: Important Styling Tips.
Additionally, Here are some important tips to prioritize when considering what colors go with grey for a timeless, minimalist style;
1. Choose the Right Shade of Grey
Before considering what colors go with grey, it’s important to choose the appropriate shade of grey first. Grey comes in a variety of shades, from light to dark, warm to cool. Consider the mood you want to create:
- Light Greys are airy and make spaces feel larger and more open.
- Medium Greys provide a balanced, neutral backdrop.
- Dark Greys add drama and sophistication but can make a room feel smaller.
2. Layer Different Shades of Grey
Create depth and interest by layering various shades of grey. Use lighter greys for walls and larger pieces of furniture, and introduce darker greys through accessories like cushions, rugs, and throws. This creates a cohesive look without feeling monotonous.
3. Add Texture
Incorporate different textures to add warmth and visual interest. Combine materials like velvet, wool, linen, and leather. For instance:
- A grey velvet sofa can be paired with linen cushions.
- A faux fur grey throw can add texture and drama to a sleek leather chair.
4. Incorporate Patterns
Patterns can break up the monotony of grey and add character to your apartment. Consider:
- Geometric patterns for a modern touch.
- Soft Floral or botanical prints for a natural, organic feel.
- Stripes or plaids for a classic, timeless look.
Introduce patterns through curtains, rugs, cushions, and bed linens. But remember to choose more muted and toned-down options for a more minimalistic aesthetic.
5. Use Metallic Accents
Metallics can enhance the elegance of grey. Depending on your style, you can use:
- Silver or chrome for a sleek, modern look.
- Gold or brass for a warm, luxurious feel.
- Copper for a trendy, industrial touch.
Incorporate metallics through light fixtures, picture frames, mirrors, and decorative objects.
6. Play with Lighting
The right lighting can enhance the beauty of grey and create a cozy atmosphere. Consider:
- Natural light to make grey tones appear lighter and more inviting.
- Warm lighting (like yellow or soft white bulbs) to add warmth to cool greys.
- Statement lighting fixtures (like chandeliers or pendant lights) to add a focal point.
7. Add Greenery
Plants bring life and color to a grey palette, creating a vibrant contrast. Choose plants that thrive indoors, such as:
- Fiddle Leaf Figs
- Snake Plants
- Pothos
- Succulents
Use stylish planters that complement your grey color scheme.
8. Create Focal Points
Designate focal points to draw attention and break up large expanses of grey. This could be:
- A statement piece of furniture, like a grey velvet sofa.
- An accent wall painted in a darker shade of grey or a complementary color.
- A large piece of artwork featuring your accent colors.
9. Personalize Your Space
Add personal touches to make your apartment feel like home. Display personal items such as:
- Photographs in grey or metallic frames.
- A curated collection of books and knick-knacks.
- Art and souvenirs from your travels.
All in all,
understanding what colors go with grey is essential for crafting a harmonious and stylish interior. Grey’s neutrality and versatility allow it to pair beautifully with a wide range of hues, from crisp whites and soft pastels to bold blacks and moody brown tones. By thoughtfully combining grey with complementary colors, you can create spaces that exude elegance, tranquility, and modern sophistication. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist aesthetic or a luxurious vibe, grey serves as a perfect foundation, allowing you to personalize your decor effortlessly. Embrace the endless possibilities and create a beautifully balanced home.
Related Posts
Hire my Design Services
As an interior designer, my focus is on helping you discover your personal style. And creating a space that truly feels like home. I provide one-on-one guidance and support throughout the decorating process, from creating a floor plan to choosing the perfect color scheme and selecting furniture and accessories that fit your style as well as your budget.
Please Note: There are limited spots available because I can only work with a few clients at a time if you are interested I suggest you click on the link. When all spots are taken this offer will no longer be valid.
