Gray is the new “it”  neutral paint color.

Gray walls are becoming the modern, neutral choice for a home’s interior spaces. According to paint experts: “Gray is the new beige.”

But you need to find the right gray.

“Although the color gray is commonly associated with cooler, cloudy days, there are both ‘cool grays’ and ‘warm grays,'” paint company Sherwin Williams explains. “Cool grays have more blue undertones, while warm grays are grounded in yellow and brown – similar to ‘greige,’ a combination of gray and beige.”

To find the right gray, painting experts suggest first looking at the flooring, cabinetry, lighting, and wood trim in the home. The undertone of these interior elements should match the undertone of the gray paint homeowners choose for their home. For example, brushed nickel often pairs better with cooler gray paint colors. Brick and gold, on the other hand, tend to pair better with warmer undertones, such as beige.

Gray can also be used to add dimension into a home’s space. For example, for more impact, paint the ceiling gray too – but make it a shade two or three lighter than the wall color. The painted ceiling can give a smaller room a more spacious feel. For high ceilings in a large room, select a darker gray paint to make the space feel cozier.

“Whether you choose gray on the walls or on the ceilings, it offers a crisper, cleaner look than beige,” the paint company notes. “And because gray paint is offered with many different undertones, it can either be the most neutral hue possible or give dramatic dimension – another great reason to add it to your palette.”

Source: “Gray Tones in Your Homes,” BUILDER (2016)