These 22 Color Combos Prove That Gray Walls Are the Perfect Neutral Base

When it comes to picking a paint color, there are so many options to choose from that it could feel overwhelming. Do you go for a bold hue or a neutral, something that stands out or one that will let your accent colors and furniture choices shine? Sure, maximalism is in, but when it comes to paint colors, there's nothing like classic gray walls to provide the ultimate backdrop for an array of decor.

Like white walls, gray walls may not always seem like the most glamorous choice, but they are far from dated. Gray is classic and can also lean quite contemporary depending on what you pair it with. Pick a cool-toned gray, a gray with a blue, green, or purple undertone, for a relaxing space, or a warm-toned gray, a shade with hints of brown, yellow, or beige, if you want to feature warmer colors in the rest of your furniture.

Unsure of where to start? Check out these 22 colors that go with gray walls for a splash of inspiration.

Brass

Jenny Williamson of West Rose Design is a big fan of gray. This office, which features charcoal gray walls, is mixed with "warm woods, golds, and camel brown for depth and richness," she says. "This combo works well for moody offices or powder rooms."

Lilac and Rust

Designer Erin Williamson included a colorful vintage sectional in this Tudor renovation. Paired with deep gray walls, rust-colored pillows, a cheetah-print rug, and brass chandelier, the room comes together without feeling too busy. This particular gray, which has warm undertones, is a great pick for a room with jewel accents.

Black and White

Canadian designer Michelle Berwick chose hardworking finishes and muted colors for this modern farmhouse-inspired home. Black and white are always timeless colors to pick with gray walls.

Hot Pink

This bedroom and bathroom upgrade from Rumor Designs showcases light gray walls set against warm wood, black accents, and a hot pink rug. Love bright colors? Cool gray walls are the ideal starting place.

Blush

Emily Henderson's mountain house has a guest room with a dreamy palette. Modern, Scandi-inspired wooden furnishings work well with gray walls and blush bedding.

Mustard

Another winning combo? Gray and mustard. By keeping the color in the decor and leaving the furniture neutral, this room design comes together with ease. Further infuse warmth with greenery, terracotta, and brass accents.

Forest Green

This Pacific Northwest home draws inspiration from its setting. Forest green pillows and gray walls complement the lush greenery outside. Imagine cozying up to this window for an afternoon with a good book.

Bright Orange

This modern living room has a color combo you'll want to copy: cool-toned gray walls, navy, and orange. The minimalist palette allows the navy pillows and orange blanket to stand out amid the crisp furnishings and neutral decor.

Cream and Navy

Jenny Williamson is also a lover of cream and navy paired with gray walls. It's a "sophisticated palette that grounds a space with interesting neutrals but still leaves room for a bolder pop of color if desired," she says.

Brown

This Southern California home from Laura Brophy Interiors combines gray with camel brown and black for a soothing bedroom. Whether you choose gray wallpaper, paint, or on an accent wall, these colors create a singing combo.

Walnut

While any shade of brown is a match with gray, dark brown or walnut is a gorgeous combination. Create a stylish foyer or mudroom with painted gray cabinetry and a wood bench. Add hooks and cubbies for extra storage.

Khaki Green

Keep things simple with only a handful of colors. It's sure to lend itself to a room that feels intentionally designed and calm. Gray walls meet khaki green nightstands and bedding for a tranquil bedroom aesthetic.

Purple and Fuchsia

This eclectic living room includes an array of colors like fuchsia, blue, and purple. Muted gray walls and a gray fireplace keeps everything in balance. Unsure where to start with such a vivid palette? Try purple and gray, blue and gray, or a color in between.

Cool Gray and Warm Gray

This effortless, casual living room from Cathie Hong Interiors is the ultimate lounging spot thanks to shades of gray, a white flush mount, wooden blinds, and sleek credenza.

Shades of Blue

Blue, gray, white, and black are all colors that pair well together, especially when it comes to formal settings. This living room, for example, features shades of blue, plenty of seating, and brightly colored art.

Aqua

Want to add color to your space? Try painting the fireplace. Gray walls set the stage for an aqua-painted brick fireplace in this Texas home from designer Mary Patton.

Yellow and Turquoise

Have a favorite piece of art? Make it stand out with monotone furnishings. This design from Mary Patton has gray curtains, gray walls, and even gray bedding to complement blue lamps and a rainbow canvas.

Terracotta

When it comes to creating a peaceful bathroom, there's nothing like gray to act as a backdrop for a well-designed space. For this home, designer Kate Marker went for gray walls and a vintage terracotta rug for added warmth.

Primary Colors

Let select items pack a punch by setting them against gray walls. This formal seating vignette includes both rich red and navy, colors that would likely clash had they been in a room with a different wall color.

Black

This dining room is both modern and inviting with greige walls and slick black chairs. Looking to redo your dining room? Gray walls, in either lighter or darker shades, will allow your art and lighting to be the focus.

Maroon

Gray: the perfect paint to display alongside your vintage collection. This living room from Emily Henderson has both modern and retro charm with thrifted finds, a maroon chair, and herringbone floors.

Peach

This twin room from Tyler Karu features gingham bedding and gray walls. A pop of color comes in the accessories: a peach lamp and peachy-pink pillows.

Read Next: What Is Greige? How to Use This Versatile Neutral Color

Read the original article on The Spruce.