Our Editor Shares Her Favorite Colors, Patterns & Textures to Pair With Gray

Apr 27, 2024

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Are you the type of person who always sticks to neutrals—who can't seem to escape the siren song of the best white paint colors, best brown paint colors, and best greige paint colors? We don't blame you! These colors are classics for a reason, and they go with almost every color. Gray is versatile enough to stand on its own, and it comes in so many different shades that you can add depth to a space by simply layering on shades of this singular color ranging from charcoal to silver.

But we urge you to step outside of your comfort zone and set yourself up for some gray-ter expectations (sorry, we had to!), which is why you shouldn't shy away from pairing your well-loved neutral interiors with pops of bold colors, patterns, and textures. We know it can be difficult to leap before you look, so we've rounded up some of our favorite homes that will reassure you that gray paint, in particular, can be paired with tons of fun colors. From lime green to cobalt blue, you'll be so inspired to try out these color combos, you might just break out the paint brushes this weekend.

RELATED: All Our Paint Inspo in One Place

Bring muted colors into your bedroom, like this peach headboard, ochre armchair, and indigo mudcloth blanket to complement plain gray furniture. Mix in patterns of various style and scale like designer Heidi Caillier did here to level-up your design.

SHOP INDIGO BLANKETS

Want to paint your floors but over the typical black and white design? Take a note from designer Kate Marker and opt a creamy gray-and-white palette. A show-stopping, tufted teal banquette finished with long jute fringe complements the cozy breakfast nook.

SHOP FRINGE

We have to admit—this pairing is quite unexpected! But a pop of lime green against off-white walls and dark gray doors is sure to put a smile on your face as you walk downstairs every morning.

SHOP LIME GREEN PAINT

A stained gray exterior allows this house to blend in with its wooded surroundings, while bold red trim gives it major wow factor. TIP: If you want a more natural look, opt for a semi-transparent stain that allows the wood grain to peek through over a solid finish.

SHOP GRAY WOOD STAIN

The beauty of gray is that even when it's used subtly—as in the case with these painted chairs—it still stands out, especially when paired with bright colors like this cobalt blue Oushak rug.

SHOP BLUE RUGS

Here, an attic with a steeply slanted roof could have made for an awkward bedroom, but the white and gray accents and bold bird wallpaper come together for an airy, comfortable space that guests will never want to leave.

SHOP BIRD WALLPAPER

If you think "neutral" is only synonymous with "white," think again. A timeless gray is the perfect hue for kitchen cabinetry, and it's a lovely match for a bold palette like the one in this quilt-like floor tile.

SHOP PATTERNED TILE

Brighten up a subdued palette with touches of highly-collectible copper. The metallic finish adds a sophisticated layer of shine to this North Carolina cabin kitchen.

SHOP COPPER COOKWARE

Is there a better sight on a gray day than when the clouds part and a glimmer of sunshine peeks through? Apply that aesthetic to a bedroom with gray upholstery and yellow bedding, and you'll start every day in the right frame of mind.

SHOP YELLOW COVERLET

Sure, white goes with everything, but there's something especially sophisticated about a nice gray paired with a crisp white as showcased in this serene guest room. Opt for Turkish towels to upgrade your house guests' experience and add a layer of texture.

SHOP TURKISH TOWELS

Pops of fresh, verdant plants and natural stone textures complement this delightfully neutral living room, while mismatched pillows in shades of gray add a layer of visual interest.

SHOP INDOOR PLANTS

No one can deny how great grays look next to a white shiplap, but the hue also shines when paired with natural-stained pieces like the rustic door, bench, and floor in this peaceful bedroom.

SHOP WOODEN BENCH

Gray millwork pops against white walls in this fun bunk room and sets the stage for red accents found in the coverlets, artwork, and blankets.

SHOP PENDLETON BLANKETS

Would the gray Swedish look good in any setting? Of course. But does it look even better when keeping time against a pretty blue wall and surrounded by blue accent pillows and rug? You bet.

SHOP SIMILAR CLOCKS

Looking for an easy way to become the toast of the neighborhood? Up your curb appeal by taking on a gray exterior and adding a pink front door. Pair with happy green landscaping, and you're probably a lock for yard of the month.

SHOP PINK PAINT

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