| A Gray Matter |

2016 Wall Trend

I don’t know how many of you are on Pinterest, but every year they create a board called the “Pinterest 100.” A collection of pins from Pinterest staff (& "top pinners") that are trending in various popular categories. One of the trends that I’ve definitely been on board with lately is gray walls. I mean, I still love some white walls, but while I was designing a room for my cousin over the summer, I definitely felt inspired by gray walls with natural elements/colors as accents. Grey skies, fog, my gray blanket… it’s a great color(a “gray”-t color! ...kidding!)

It's all about gray. Gunmetal is the new copper and shades of gray will take over. Nothing is chic'er then a gray room with some accent colors. Looks calm and collected," – Paul Lowe.

So, this week I wanted to talk about a few ways that gray walls can work in your space.

(Image credit: Ollie & Seb's Haus) — (Image credit: Ollie & Seb's Haus)

1. When you’re choosing a wall color, a lot of times its advised to choose white for a small space, in order to make it look bigger(the idea that white walls will reflect more light into the space).. but with a dark shade of gray, the walls become more active & interesting. As the light changes in the room throughout the day, the color or tone of the gray changes with it. I like how this room combines the white walls that make a room feel bright and airy, but the dark gray accent wall makes it look interesting and warm!

a. See this image and others in THIS post from Apartment Therapy on bedroom layouts

b. More of this room from Ollie & Seb's Haus!

2. If you’re hopping on the gray kitchen bandwagon, go with a warmer shade, that way the space will be inviting and cozy and a perfect place for gathering.

a. If you’re interested, here’s a really great article from Houzz on “When to Use Gray in A Kitchen"

3. Gray walls can be accented with bold colors and patterns, as well as different textures… this helps the space from looking to cold or drab!

4. Blue Gray: The color of my bedroom. It’s a great shade for rooms that face South(that get sun through the majority of the day) and it “cools” the space. I really like that it makes the space feel calm and serene, but is also neutral enough that I can pair it with lots of different accent color options!

Room: Emma Reddington Photo: Design Sponge

5. Charcoal Gray colors are darker, and appear elegant on the walls. They pair most easily with bold colors, and a variety of textures. The shade also looks great with white!

a. Gray & Yellow is always a good combination, but you could also go with a cranberry color or different shades of green!

b. See this room and other dark walls in THIS article from Design Sponge!