Cool neutrals were in the design spotlight for the better part of a decade. From gray paint and gray-toned vinyl flooring to gray-washed wood, upholstery, rugs, and throw pillows, it wasn’t uncommon to live in a fully gray-toned space in the 2010s.

It’s this particular breed of all-gray-everything design that now feels incredibly dated and — unsurprisingly — drab. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that gray is on our color no-no list for the time being, at least when it comes to primary design elements like flooring, wood tones, and even paint. 

With that said, gray can still feel elevated and tasteful when used in a restrained, thoughtful way. Gray-toned wallpaper paired with warm wood furniture, for example, feels balanced and tasteful, as opposed to overdone and dreary. Ahead, read up on the 2023 way to pull off a gray color palette in your home, per the Havenly interior design team.

1. Balance gray upholstery with warm woods

A soft gray sofa, like the Charly from Interior Define, feels all the more balanced when paired with warm wood tones, from the coffee table and flooring to the artwork and floor lamp. The overall look is textural and interesting, versus monochrome and dull.

2. Bring in gray via accessories

If your overall home color palette leans warm, add contrast with cool, gray-toned accessories. In the above office, for example, the dark charcoal lamp and art piece lend a bold, cool touch to the otherwise warm-hued space.

3. Go for trim paint instead of wall paint

We absolutely love the bold feel of the Kendall Charcoal trim in Havenly designer Brady Burke’s Victorian home. While reversing the palette — white trim and gray walls — would lean more mainstream and a bit blah, this unexpected twist utilizes gray paint in a modern, subtle way.

4. Consider gray wallpaper

Whereas wall-to-wall gray paint can feel overwhelming and firmly rooted in the “cool” color camp, gray wallpaper leans more subtle and understated. This floral gray and white print adds cool visual interest to the above dining space, without going overboard. Paired with warm wood furniture and a tan rug, the overall look is beautifully balanced.

5. Pair it with warm whites

We love the understated use of gray-toned upholstery in the above living space. Paired with ivory bouclé accent chairs, a white rug, warm white paint, and colorful decor, the gray feels intentional instead of in-your-face.

Want expert advice on your own space, straight from an interior designer? Get started today with our style quiz.