Best Paint Colors
Is Grey Out? 6 Neutral Paint Colors To Try Now
Published on February 21, 2017
Assistant design editor Jen Masseau shares six shades she’s loving now.
Grey has been the go-to neutral for those wanting an alternative to white, without committing to full-fledged color. But after the drab shade’s long popularity streak, we’re starting to see more and more spaces that prove a variety of other hues are just as versatile. Here are six unexpected paint colors that make the cut.
This cool, creamy taupe is a current Pinterest favorite, proving to a new generation that earth tones can work in contemporary spaces. This mid-toned shade works beautifully in every room of the house.
Paint Color to Try: Poised Taupe by Sherwin Williams
Whoever said your whites have to match clearly wasn’t decorating in 2017. Creamy, yellow-based white offset with pure- or cool-white trim gives a relaxed and inviting fuss-free look in this sitting room corner.
Paint Color to Try: Milkyway by Benjamin Moore
Shades of green have been hot as of late (see: Pantone’s 2017 color of the year, Greenery, and H&H’s 2016 color of the year pick, Emerald Green), so it’s only natural we’re embracing neutral versions of the hue, too. Dusty sage and olive have an old-world look that can bring a sense of heritage to any space. I especially love it on kitchen cabinetry.
Paint Color to Try: Green Trellis by Behr
Dark, chocolately brown makes for a rich alternative to charcoal grey. This color takes on different personalities whether in gloss (traditional) or matte (contemporary) finishes; test out different options to see what works best in your space.
Paint Color to Try: Chocolate Kiss by Dulux
Yes, pink can be a neutral, and I’m not talking about the #AllBlushEverything takeover of the past couple years here. My current crush: A soft, pale mauve with blue undertones — rather than blush’s yellow base — yields pretty results that feel fresh, not trendy.
Paint Colour to Try: Peignoir by Farrow & Ball
Another alternative to charcoal or black, deep navy blue pairs effortlessly with almost any color, making it a perfect neutral backdrop in a light-filled living room or cozy bedroom.
Paint Colour to Try: Cobalt Shadow by Sico