Choosing a paint color is difficult in general, but choosing a neutral hue, in particular, is more difficult than it appears. If you don’t want to use white, gray is the next best thing.
While gray comes in a variety of tints and tones, one particular gray shade that designers adore is Benjamin Moore’s, Classic Gray.
This shade is quite adaptable and provides a cool and soothing respite from the heat. The timeless hue is also an example of the contemporary neutral trend known as greige, which is gaining popularity among designers.
Designer Kiley Baun describes the color as “something between gray and warm beige.” The mid-tone serves as a neutral alternative that is neither chilly nor warm.
1. Classic Gray
One of Dominique DeLaney’s favorite paint colors is Benjamin Moore’s, Classic Gray. “It’s a warm gray that’s sharp and bright,” she explains, “and it just looks wonderful wherever.” Use it to add a light, airy effect to a living room, bedroom, or even a hallway and draw attention to any striking wall art.
2. Harbor Gray
The purpose of Amir Khamneipur’s Manhattan flat was to create a hotel-like atmosphere. A peaceful palette of granular tonal grays throughout the refurbished flat, including the kitchen cabinetry painted in Benjamin Moore’s Harbor Gray, makes it feel big despite its size.
3. Metropolitan
Metropolitan is a sleek, stylish soft gray with cool undertones that was named Benjamin Moore’s color of the year in 2019. “It’s a neutral color that refers to a meditative state of mind and design,” says Ellen O’Neill, director of strategic design intelligence at Benjamin Moore. “This subtle yet beautiful gray creates a relaxing, impactful common ground without being arresting or forceful.”
4. Amherst Gray
Designer Analisse Taft-Gersten used Benjamin Moore’s Amherst Gray on the island in her Connecticut residence to contrast with the Calcutta gold worktops and Silver Satin cabinets. The sleek room is enhanced by the timeless dark gray.
5. Gray Owl
Designer Ann Wolf used Benjamin Moore’s Gray Owl to calm down the hues in the main bedroom of a Houston home. “It’s a delicate gray with a hint of blue,” she explained. “Because of the height of the ceiling, we chose a warm gray. Against it, so many hues show out.”
6. Kendall Charcoal
Peti Lau utilized Benjamin Moore’s Kendall Charcoal in the dining area of DJ Drew Taggart’s West Hollywood home, widely known as one half of The Chainsmokers. The rich, dark gray contrasts beautifully with the white ceiling and trim.