When it comes to choosing a grey paint color for your home, there are many options to consider. The shade of grey, undertones, finish and brand can all impact the look and feel of the final painted surface. As a starting point, determine whether you want a light, medium or dark grey for the space. From there, you can narrow down the specific undertones and finishes that will work best. Cool greys with blue, green or purple undertones are tranquil and sophisticated. Warm greys with yellow, red or brown undertones are cozy and inviting. Soft matte finishes hide imperfections on walls and stand up to dirt and stains. Higher sheens add depth and shine when used on trim or front doors. Testing grey paint samples on the actual surface is key to deciding on the right hue. With some tips and experimentation, you’ll end up with a beautiful grey paint color.
What are the different types of grey paint?
When looking at grey paint colors, there are three main categories:
- Light greys – These include off-whites with a hint of grey. They create an airy, open feel.
- Mid-tone greys – Versatile medium shades work well in many rooms. They feel sophisticated but not too dark.
- Dark greys- Deep charcoal greys can create an intimate, cozy look. Use them sparingly to avoid a cave-like feeling.
Within each shade family, greys have undertones that impact their look:
- Cool greys – Blue, green or purple undertones come across as tranquil and relaxing.
- Warm greys – Yellow, red or brown undertones give a cozy, inviting impression.
- Greige – A mix of gray and beige creates a versatile, natural grey tone.
How do I choose the right grey for a room?
When selecting a grey, consider both its shade and undertone. Here are some grey paint ideas for popular rooms:
| Room | Recommended Grey Paint Type |
|---|---|
| Living room | Mid-tone greige or warm grey to encourage relaxation |
| Bedroom | Light cool grey for a soothing, restful vibe |
| Kitchen | Mid-tone greige that complements cabinets and counters |
| Bathroom | Crisp, clean white-grey for an airy spa-like feel |
| Exterior | Soft warm or greige grey to complement landscaping |
Greys with the same undertones as woods, fabrics and metals already in the room will create a cohesive look. Testing grey paint samples on the wall before finalizing your choice is key.
How do I pick a grey paint brand and finish?
When you’ve settled on a shade, consider the right brand and finish for your needs:
| Paint Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Behr | Affordable, readily available |
| Benjamin Moore | Sophisticated colors, high quality |
| Sherwin-Williams | Durable, uniform finishes |
| Valspar | Budget-friendly options |
For finish, consider:
- Matte – Flat, velvety finish hides imperfections
- Eggshell – Soft sheen, easy to clean
- Satin – Subtle shine, durable and stain-resistant
- Semi-gloss – Reflective sheen, ideal for trim
How much grey paint will I need?
Measure wall space to calculate how much paint is required. One gallon covers approximately 400 sq ft. Here’s a guide:
| Wall Space | Paint Needed |
|---|---|
| Small room, up to 150 sq ft | 1 Quart |
| Medium room, 150-400 sq ft | 1-2 Gallons |
| Large room over 400 sq ft | 2+ Gallons |
For accent walls, trim and doors, get 1 extra quart per room. Buy all paint at once for color consistency. Unopened grey paint lasts 2+ years.
What grey paint colors are most popular?
Here are 5 trending grey paint shades for 2022 and beyond:
- Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray (HC-168) – Blue/green undertones, versatile medium tone
- Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray (SW 7015) – Ever-popular soft greige neutral
- Behr Pewter Tankard (N470-5) – Light grey with a hint of green
- Valspar Kettle Black (6004-10A) – Deepest charcoal matte grey
- Clare Bear Bare (N450-1) – Warm, inviting light greige
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect grey involves considering the room, shade, undertones and finish. Testing paint samples first allows you to get the right balance. A well-selected grey creates a sophisticated, versatile backdrop for any design style. With the right prep work and some experimentation, you can pick a gorgeous grey paint color you’ll love.