If you're in search of a universally beautiful shade of gray or greige for your home, you've come to the right place. Whether you're staging your home, painting a brand-new space, or giving your current home a fresh look, these colors offer tremendous flexibility for a variety of exposures, finishes, and personal tastes.
However, it's important to note that even the most universally gorgeous colors can vary in appearance from room to room. Just like finding a pair of shoes that complements every outfit or a wine that pairs perfectly with every meal (which is nearly impossible), there isn't one paint color that will look exactly the same in every space. Each room has its own unique lighting conditions and undertones that can subtly influence the way a color appears.
Neutral Paint Colors in North-Facing Rooms
In north-facing rooms with cool gray-blue northern light, cool colors can appear even chillier. The undertones of the paint color may also become more pronounced. It's essential to consider the best paint colors for northern exposure to achieve the desired effect.
Neutral Paint Colors in South-Facing Rooms
In south-facing rooms, cool colors will soften up. While they won't necessarily appear warm, they won't have the same icy, cold, clean look as they do in north-facing rooms. Discover the best paint colors for southern exposure to make the most of your space.
Neutral Paint Colors in East-Facing Rooms
In rooms with eastern exposure, cool colors will look natural and as they should in the morning. However, they can appear cold and flat in the afternoon. Learn more about the best paint colors for rooms with eastern exposure to maximize the appeal of your space.
Neutral Paint Colors in West-Facing Rooms
Western light is flat in the morning but warms up in the afternoon. While your grays and greiges won't make your walls overly toasty, they will bring a touch of balance to warm south-facing sunshine. Find out more about the best paint colors for western exposure for a harmonious look.
How the Quality of Light Changes Paint Colors
Natural light has a significant impact on how paint colors appear in a room. The amount of natural light you receive can influence the look of your chosen color. For example, the main floor of your home may have predominantly south-facing windows, while the bottom level may have limited natural light due to greenery or a deck. It's crucial to understand how light affects paint colors to achieve the desired result.
- A lot of natural light can wash out paint colors, especially the ones we'll be discussing. Keep in mind that the sun's position changes throughout the day, causing the color to shift as well.
- Rooms with low natural light can make a paint color appear slightly darker or more shaded than usual.
- Average natural light conditions will provide the truest representation of the selected paint color.
And don't forget about the importance of selecting the right light bulbs for your space!
And now, the moment you've been waiting for—the top 12 flexible gray and greige paint colors for your entire home. Gray may be losing a bit of its popularity, but greige continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a timeless option. Remember, while these colors are a great starting point, they may not work in every home due to individual finishes, exposures, and personal preferences.
1. Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray SW-7029
2. Benjamin Moore Collingwood OC-28
3. Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray HC-173
4. Benjamin Moore Classic Gray OC-23
5. Sherwin Williams Big Chill SW-7648
6. Benjamin Moore Gray Owl OC-52
7. Sherwin Williams Colonnade Gray SW-7641
8. Sherwin Williams Repose Gray SW-7015
9. Sherwin Williams Mindful Gray SW-7016
10. Benjamin Moore Stonington Gray HC-170
11. Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter HC-172
12. Sherwin Williams Anew Gray SW-7030
These are the top 12 gray and greige paint colors that offer versatility and elegance for your entire home. While gray may be losing some popularity, greige continues to be a popular choice that stands the test of time. Remember, these colors may not suit every finish and exposure in your home, so it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences.
If you need assistance in choosing the best paint color for your space, I offer Online Color Consulting packages that can help you find the perfect hue. Feel free to reach out—I'd love to help you achieve color happiness!
Chat soon,
Originally written in October 2019, overhauled in 2022 for you!