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Add color to gray living room


44 grey living room ideas from dove to charcoal to suit every scheme

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If there's one interiors trend that's showing no signs of leaving us anytime soon, it has to be the grey palette. It's no surprise that grey living room ideas appeal to so many of us. An incredibly versatile colour, it comes in shades that work with every style.

Whichever style of living room ideas you're looking for in your home, there's sure to be a grey to suit your scheme. Grey can create a warm scheme as easily as a cool one; it can channel edgy modern and charming country; be calm and soothing or vivid, lively and energetic.

‘The term ‘grey’ covers a huge number of colours which are often not true greys but contain colours that create distinct warm or cool undertones,’ explains Joa Studholme, Colour Curator, Farrow & Ball .

‘When it comes to choosing grey, it is the temperature of the tone that is most important and will affect the feel of the space. Greys look different in different light and different size rooms so we have created some tried and tested groups of colours that each have a distinctive character.’

Just a quick peek at a Farrow & Ball paint chart suggests the myriad possibilities of this favourite decorating shade and explains its enduring appeal.

From the barely-there neutrals of Dimity and Ammonite, to the mid tones of Lamp Room Gray and Calluna, through the green-edged Mizzle and Pigeon, blue-hued Parma Gray and Lulworth Blue and out the other side to deep dark Down Pipe, Plummett and Brassica.

Grey living room ideas

From a colour drenched scheme, to perfect palette pairings, here are some of our favourite grey living room ideas

1. Make gallery walls pop

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Katie Leew)

We love the gallery wall look - mixing and matching prints, photography and even empty picture frames. Grey walls are the perfect backdrop for creating these. As it's a neutral, this allows the gallery details to pop and create impact. Choosing a deep charcoal over a paler dove will make a cool contrast=, especially if you're using gilt frames.

2. Pair with purple for a luxurious look

(Image credit: Future PLC/Rob Sanderson)

Think elegant luxe and combine grey with regal purple tones. This colour combination is a match made in interiors heaven, especially when used across sumptous materials like satins and velvets.

This combination works best using a paler grey, with creates a bold contrast with bright purples, and a soft effect with gentle lilacs.

3. Choose a two-tone style

(Image credit: Future PLC/ James French)

Can't choose between light and dark grey? Simple. Use both. Paint the lower half, or two thirds of your wall in one shade, and finish with the other.

This works best when the darker shade is on the lower half. Lighter colours above will trick the eye into making the room appear larger than it is.

4. Paint architectural features

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

If you have wall panels or other architectural details in your room, paint them the same grey as the wall. Not only does this create a cool colour drenched effect, but the ridges will pick up lights and shadows, adding interest and depth to your space.

5. Add colour with books and objets

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Anna Stathaki)

Grey living room ideas are the perfect way to decorate your home if you own a lot of colourful accessories. A warmer and more interesting background than white, this neutral allows your books and objets room to breathe and stand out, rather than clashing against yet another colour.

6. Paint all the woodwork

(Image credit: Pooky)

A super-soft dove grey living room colour scheme works as a gentle contrast to rosy toned upholstery and accents. Painting all of the woodwork in the same colour has created a chic, seamless look and creates the illusion of more space and an airy, open room.

Take care when picking the best grey paint for your walls – you'll need to consider your room's size and situation.

7. Use silvery tones

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Joanna Henderson)

The striking rough-luxe wall mural brings texture and movement to the space. The metallic highlights of the silky silver rug and wallcovering reflect the light, giving this glam living room even more of a lift.

A plush velvet sofa in a deeper grey punctuates the space and layers on the luxe. Combining touches of blush pink with the cool grey creates grown-up sophistication.

If you like this combination, or the previous look, our smart pink living room ideas will inspire you to introduce the shade into your home. 

8. Create a textured wall

(Image credit: Furniture Village)

Get creative with smart living room paint ideas such as paint effects, which are back in fashion! But things have moved on since the sponge effect championed on Changing Rooms. Textured emulsion paint such as the Craig & Rose Artisan Concrete Effect Paint and Crown ’s Suede paint will create a rustic, artfully imperfect finish. 

Alternatively, a limed effect can be created using watered down flat matt emulsion, chalk paint or a specialist limewash such as Bauwerk 's selection. 

Start by applying a bonding primer for plasterboard or previously painted walls. Then with a wide brush, apply the paint in random, sweeping strokes. A second and third coat needs to be watered down to allow the layers and textured effect to build.

Complement the walls with tactile velvet, layered in tonal hues for a vibe that’s calm, yet cost and oozes easy elegance.

9. Let architectural features pop

(Image credit: Dulux)

It's common to want to hide architectural features such as RSJs. But in a grey room, letting them sing by painting them in white can create an interesting structural contrast. It also helps zone the space and therefore make it seem cosier – a neat trick, particularly if you're using a cooler grey palette.

10. Integrate shelving

(Image credit: Dunelm)

Smart and sophisticated, charcoal grey brings depth to an elegant living room. Smart geometric designs on the cushions and rug along with polished chrome accents bring a timeless touch of boutique chic to the space.

Create the illusion of expensive, built-in storage by painting shelving the same colour as the walls. For example, alcoves can become a smart feature wall idea that's easy to adjust. But sticking to a simple palette of black, white and silver reflects the pared back aesthetic of the room.

11. Use grey as an accent

(Image credit: Sofa.com)

If wall-to-wall grey isn’t for you, inject modern anthracite accents. A sofa in warm grey is not only a fail-safe style choice, it's a practical option too. Tie in other features around the room such as fireplace surround, door or windows.

Floor to ceiling wooden framed windows are a striking feature, and grey will pick them out against neutral walls, highlighting the shape and detailing. If you don't have wooden framed doors or windows, UPVC windows can also be painted, just look for a specialist primer or paint for durability. 

12. Lift your grey scheme with a mix of sorbet brights

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Joanna Henderson)

If you are not a fan of washed out sorbet tones but the idea of primary brights scare you to bits, why not try a punchy-pastel alternative. Think Primrose yellow, not lemon sorbet and blues that veer towards turquoise rather than soft powder blue.

Choose a neutral grey colour to allow you to experiment with the palette on artwork and accessories.

13. Add depth with different shades

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

Use a variety of greys to give depth to your grey living room. Use a lighter, warmer grey when painting the walls and layer darker saturations with a painted fireplace surround and statement furniture pieces. Layering the same colour in different tones creates a calming atmosphere that feels cohesive.

Soft grey and dark charcoals are both equally enhanced with the addition of some natural greens, whether real foliage or as accent soft furnishings. The flourish of green helps to connect the space with a sense of nature.

14. Wow with brooding dark shades

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

There's no denying interior trends in recent years have very much embraced the dark side. As confidence in colour has grown homeowners have been looking to express their personalities more with bold colour choices. A striking almost-black charcoal grey is ideal for an attention-seeking statement, like with a striking fireplace idea.

A colour of this nature is not just for larger rooms either. Used wisely it can be a great small living room idea also – says Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen.

Using dark paint to make a space feel bigger might seem counterintuitive, but Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen explains that particularly when you have a wall-mounted television, painting the space behind it will work much better.

15. Echo natural shades of grey

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Richard Gadsby)

Allow the colour of natural stone to inspire your grey colour choices. Use your paint samples on a piece of card to hold against the original walls to determine the perfect pairing to complement the natural warmth on the walls. Offset the light grey decorating with darker accents on the furniture to add depth, as shown in this rustic living room.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

Sometimes understated can have the biggest impact, especially when paired with bold furniture and furnishing choices. The light grey on the walls can help to act like a blank canvas, without being as stark as white.

'Our most popular group of greys is made up of Wevet, Ammonite and Cornforth White – colours that are so relaxed and easy to live with you barely notice that they are there,' explains Joa Studholme at Farrow & Ball.

'They have a gossamer-like appearance so are perfect for those who prefer understated decoration which does not challenge us very much but gives a huge amount of versatility. '

17. Create a sanctuary with slate and wood accents

(Image credit: Future PLC/Simon Whitmore)

Slate grey walls look anything but cold when paired with rustic, natural woody furniture accents. Fill the room with plenty of textures such as a fluffy berber rug and straw basket for storing blankets to complete the relaxed living room scheme.

18. Cocoon yourself with a warming grey

(Image credit: Dulux)

Colours that whisper rather than shout are a must for rooms designed to promote relaxation. Deep greys like Stable Gates by Dulux gently cocoon and visually don't distract, so you can focus on a film or good book.

Stable Grey's warm make-up also means that it works as well with a terracotta or blush as it does with a pale or stonewashed blue – or indeed, a forest green living room. That versatility comes in handy if you like to switch up soft furnishings on a regular basis.

19. Warm up grey walls with bright prints

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Parmiter)

A floor to ceiling pale grey colour palette is the perfect canvas to make a splash with brightly coloured wall display ideas. A floating picture shelf is a great non-permanent solution to displaying wall art. You can easily swap one print for another as your collection grows and changes.

Putty and blue-coloured patterned cushions and a geometric rug in dark navy add pops of muted colour for a sophisticated, yet cosy living room.

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes)

Pale grey walls create the perfect backdrop for statement patterns in this country living room. The warm undertones of grey absorbs busy patterns, meaning it's less stark than, say, white walls. This quality allows pattern to sit more comfortably within the overall scheme. Want to see if white works better? Our white living room ideas show you how this shade can be used.

21. Create calming vibes with natural foliage

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Joanna Henderson)

Cool shades of grey can have a calming effect on an interior space. This can be enhanced further with the addition of natural house plants and foliage, a hugely popular accessory choice.

22. Take the colour from the floor to ceiling

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

Colour drenching is having something of a moment right now, so why not go all out with grey. Paint your walls and ceiling in one shade, and select flooring in as close to a matching grey as possible. Keep things light and bright with pastel accessories.

23. Try a panelled wall

(Image credit: Sofology)

In addition to the cocooning deep, blue-toned grey, the fine ribbed panelling creates cosy texture. It's a great trick for adding features to new builds and boxy rooms that don’t have any architectural interest.

A contemporary, corrugated wall panelling idea is totally on trend too. Pitch the line of panelling above key pieces of furniture. Ramp up the intimate feeling by painting above the panelling and the ceiling in a dramatic charcoal. 

24. Update a grey country scheme with paisley print

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Update the backdrop in a classic country scheme with paisley-print living room wallpaper ideas. Choose cushions and upholstery in opulent weaves, soft linens and plush damasks, with Moroccan-style metal tables to add glamour.

'Be extravagant with finishing touches for an opulent look,' advises Ideal Home's Style Editor, Michela Collling. 'For example, double up on fabrics so curtains feel fuller.'

25. Use grey as a base for soft geometrics

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

Team cool grey and geometrics with primrose yellow splashes for a vintage look with a modern twist. Keep the scheme contemporary with grey walls and furniture. Then add warmth with summer living room ideas such as hints of yellow in geometric prints and furnishings and character with a cool mix of retro accessories. Wooden cube tables and copper details complement the retro vibe.

26. Team warm grey with soft ivory for effortless elegance

(Image credit: Perch & Parrow)

Make a living room more inviting with a warm grey wall colour that mixes well with other neutrals. Pile up the sofa with cushions and throws in complementary shades, with a Berber rug as your anchor point.

If an all-grey scheme feels too flat and monotone, work in an extra layer of colour with an elegant ivory for a subtle lift. Flashes of mustard, olive green or softer tones of nude or blush work well with any yellow-toned greys.

27. Curate a grey scheme

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Who says grey can't be cosy, warm and inviting? Duck egg living room schemes debunks that theory.

Opt for chunky knits, pattern and texture to give a grey living room a welcoming feel. Curate a wall with monochrome prints and photography for a chic. stylish space that you just won't want to leave.

28. Bring grey to life with pops of yellow

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Worried grey alone might seem a bit dull? Then choose your accessories carefully. A blue sofa, yellow chair and tomato red lamp really sing out against a mid-grey backdrop. Pull everything together with a rug that features all the different shades that you are using, and voilà – decorating perfection!

29. Add warmth with vintage pieces

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Olly Gordon)

In a neutral living room, grey works beautifully when added in courtesy of carpets, curtains and squishy sofas. Adding in touches of blush and natural woods will introduce cosy tones, keeping things warm and feminine.

30. Combine colours

(Image credit: TBC)

Take the intimidation out of a grey colour scheme by warming up this look with oh-so-fashionable copper accessories. The rose-gold undertones have a lovely way of adding a glow to the scheme, making it warm and inviting.

If you don't want to go grey-all-over, consider creating a winning colour combination by teaming grey with pink. This pretty duo packs a stylish punch.

31. Inject a shot of mustard tones

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore)

If you've already dipped your toe into the grey trend with pale walls, you may now be ready to take things a few shades darker. As you can see, it's a sophisticated way to go, and will instantly make a room feel cosier.

However, if you're nervous it will seem too dark, stick to one feature wall – you can always paint the others at a later date. Deep yellow accessories will also brighten things up, provided you choose a strong enough shade like mustards and ochres.

32. Give florals a trend twist

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

There's something almost regal about this deep grey living room, with pops of colour provided by the curtains, cushions and purple living room furniture and upholstery. Using such a dark backdrop really brings out the brighter tones, and it does something magical to a floral print, making it appear edgy and modern as opposed to mumsy or in any way old-fashioned.

33. Go global

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore)

Grey makes a fine backdrop to energising Ikat patterns and hints of rich orange. Try this look with mid-century living room ideas, such as furniture. Add elegance with smooth, dark woods, or create a Wild-West feel with weathered wood and leather.

34. Start with a feature wall

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

A feature wall is always a good jump-off point if you're nervous of working with a new shade. You could even start by painting a chimney breast. Or you could take it to the next level and commission built-in furniture from a local carpenter, then finish it in a deep grey. Coordinate with carpets and upholstery in a paler shade.

35. Use grey furniture

(Image credit: Future PLC/ James Merrell)

Paint bookcases ad other built-in storage unit in the same grey paint as your walls, to allow them to blend seamlessly in with the rest of the room. Add this to grey seating and flooring to complete the look. The different materials across these surfaces will keep the look dynamic and stop it from feeling bland.

36. Mix grey with warmer neutrals

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

Create a relaxing living room with a tightly controlled palette of toning greys and neutrals. Mid-tone grey walls and flooring provide a warm, inviting backdrop for a neutral sofa and rug and delicately patterned cushions.

Touches of white will help to balance the darker grey accents, bringing the scheme together.

37. Introduce plenty of pattern and texture

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Stop all-grey from looking flat by adding texture and pattern. For a winter-proof living room you'll want to hunker down in, texture is key. Furry cushions and super-soft blankets make this the perfect space to curl up in. Break up those shades of grey with some well-chosen patterned dainty curtains, a statement rug and chunky weaves are all it takes.

38. Start with a grey sofa

(Image credit: Swyft)

While dark blue and green sofas are gaining popularity, if you're looking for a sofa you won't tire of, grey is a strong choice.

While black living rooms might seem too dark for some, the light tone of this sofa along with the wooden flooring and natural light coming through the windows breaks up the otherwise dark scheme.

39. Keep it classic

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Nick Smith)

If you fancy a more traditional feel in your living room, don't overdo the grey. For a wonderfully smart scheme, use a mid grey on walls style the rest of the space in browns and reds.

40. Play with trends

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Try a fusion of styles by contrasting rough industrial with global grandness. The grey-toned neutral colour palette is the starting point, teamed with a mix of geometric and Ikat print fabrics.

Follow this with contrasting furniture styles, from the grand Chesterfield sofa and retro leather armchair to the industrial steel shelving and coffee table.

41. Experiment with different depths of grey

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Paul Raeside)

Pick a plump sofa for lounging. This charcoal grey number adds elegance and interest to a minimal room. Explore the many depths of a grey colour palette by layering tones to create a scheme that looks cohesive.

By using the same colour, but in both its palest and deepest incarnations, you can create a rich, contrasting look that is co-ordinated. A glass coffee table and side table add a glamorous note.

42. Create a grey coastal scheme

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Try A take on a traditional coastal living room idea but instead of sea blues, use a cool wintry grey. Start with a pale wash of grey over the walls, then bring in pieces of weathered-wood furniture and faded linen upholstery to give the room a lived-in look.

Accessorise with whitewashed basketware, driftwood, smooth ceramics and opaque glassware to carry on the coastal theme.

43. Go smart with grey

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Smarten up a family living room with a modern grey and monochrome scheme with a graphic linear wallpaper as the focal point. Worried that a modern scheme might look too grey?

Add pops of a bright accent colour on cushions and accessories. Bring in an informal element with a picture ledge positioned above the sofa – line with family photographs and favourite prints that you can add to and rearrange at your leisure.

44. Pretty up grey with pink

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Emma Lee)

Use the gentlest of greys as a springboard for blush pink, plum and buff tones. Mid century-style furniture rubs shoulders here with contemporary pieces in brilliant hi-gloss white.

The floor-to-ceiling living room curtain idea adds a lovely touch of dip-dyed pink, while cushions and floral displays channel rich plum tones. Grey and pink is a winning combination, particularly suited to modern living rooms, and works just as well as a grey bedroom idea.

What colours go with grey in a living room?

The ideal colour to go with grey in a living room will depend on the depth you've chosen. Generally speaking, warmer shades of grey will benefit from equally warm accent colours such as rich greens, vibrant yellows and pops of bright pink. Colder tones pair naturally well with paler colours such as blush pink and watery blues.

What are the best grey paints for a living room?

Each shade of grey paint is capable of creating a different look, feel and style of living room and the shade that you choose will be part and parcel of your own personal style. Modern living room schemes tend to call for cooler, darker, dramatic charcoals or near-blacks. While vintage and classic-inspired styles have a natural affinity with warmer blue and green-toned greys.

How do you add warmth to a grey living room?

How you add warmth to a grey living room is by choosing the right shade of paint for walls – depending on the light quality. Getting the right temperature of grey will help to instantly make the shade feel warmer in all lights.

'If you have a south-facing room that you are using during the day then you can afford to choose virtually any grey,' explains Joa from Farrow & Ball.

'But you need to be wary in north-facing rooms where grey can appear cold and clinical, so you should opt for a shade with warmer or more beige undertones. Elephants Breath and Skimming Stone always come to the rescue in these circumstances.'

Amy Cutmore is Editor-in-Chief, Homes Audience, working across the Future Homes portfolio. She works on titles including Ideal Home, Homes & Gardens, Livingetc, Real Homes, Gardeningetc, Top Ten Reviews and Country Life. And she's a winner of the PPA's Digital Content Leader of the Year. A homes journalist for two decades, she has a strong background in technology and appliances, and has a small portfolio of rental properties, so can offer advice to renters and rentees, alike. 

51 grey living room ideas that prove this hue never goes out of style

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Grey living room ideas are just so classic. They suit any space and any style, which is precisely the reason why we have a whole gallery dedicated to them. Whether you are a lover of cool-toned greys that work amazingly in minimal homes or, if you're keen to embrace the dark side with dark grey and deep charcoal hues for a cozy and enveloping finish – you'll be able to find the perfect shade. 

After all, grey is here to stay and whether you want to go all out or simply add in grey accents to tone down a brighter decor scheme, there are so many ways that this said basic color can help you achieve the ambiance and interior decor scheme you have in mind. Fittingly, we've covered all the different grey color schemes possible for living rooms so that you can pick your perfect look.

Grey living room ideas that don't age

'The best way to perceive grey is as a neutral which can create the ideal canvas for spaces that require calm and relaxation such as the living room,' says explains Patrick O'Donnell, brand ambassador at Farrow & Ball .

'With such a broad spectrum of greys from gentle soft versions to deeply dramatic darks, they work very successfully when layered with other grey tones.' 

1. Introduce colorful accessories

(Image credit: Future)

An archway is a beautiful architectural feature that feels oh-so-inviting in a grey living room. But, if you want to have some fun, why not paint the inside of it, in a contrasting color (such as yellow) to an add a kid-friendly color pop? These are two paint colors for the living room that work in perfect harmony together.

Abstract art, jewel velvet cushions and tactile footstools all add to relaxed and free-spirited vibe. The look is unstuffy, welcoming to all and provides the perfect place for play dates.

2. Pair grey and dark navy

(Image credit: Future)

Pair a grey sofa with navy blue living room elements like shiplap wall paneling and upholstered chairs to create a cozy theme. We also enjoy the subtle celestial nods scattered around the space, ideal for a dreamy evening spent around the fire.

3. Zone an open-plan living room with a fireplace

(Image credit: Future)

If you've got an open-plan home it can sometimes be hard to designate a proper space that doesn't spill into the kitchen and other areas of the home. But, by introducing a corner fireplace into your grey living room, you can carve out this area of relaxation.

In line with the wooden flooring and abundance of houseplants, this fireplace is built from grey brick to create a sense of bringing the outside in.

4. Paint alcove cabinetry grey

(Image credit: Future)

Modern living rooms can often be modest when it comes to decor, with only the best statement furniture making the cut. With out-there orange patterned armchairs and distressed antique-style mirror taking center stage, sometimes you'll want storage to take a back seat.

Here, built-in cupboards have been painted in a very light grey so as not to distract from the other elements of the room.

(Image credit: Furniture Village)

Let your furniture do the talking with our industrial chic look, that's perfect for urban living.

Combine pared back décor with Scandi-inspired tactile textures to create a stylish yet warm feel. Exposed brick walls, concrete and original floorboards are softened by natural materials such as linen, cotton and leather for a harmonious balance.

A neutral palette of grey, white and pale wood evokes a sense of stillness, giving a calm and mindful ambience. The delicate balance of faux fur on the armchairs and footstools plays with texture to create a restful space to chill out and relax.

Less is more with this look, so scale right back and only choose defined, purposeful accessories that will subtly complement the scheme.

6. Layer your mirrors

(Image credit: Benjamin Moore)

We know all about the benefits of layering living room lighting, but this duo of paned glass can really help to give the perception of a larger lounge space too. Choosing a cool grey like Benjamin Moore's Metropolitan AF-690 will help as one expert explains:

'Comforting, composed and effortlessly sophisticated, Metropolitan AF-690 exudes beauty and balance,' says Ellen O’Neill, director of strategic design intelligence, Benjamin Moore .

'It’s a color in the neutral spectrum that references a contemplative state of mind and design. Not arresting nor aggressive, this understated yet glamorous grey creates a soothing, impactful common ground.'

7. Paint your floorboards

(Image credit: Future)

Like with most things in the world, we need balance and equilibrium in our homes too. So if you're going to go for a dark grey living room – keep the floors light. Now, if you have wooden floorboards, you can either strip them back to a very light wood or try painting floorboards in a lighter, softer grey.

8. Create the illusion of a large space with striped carpet

(Image credit: Carpetright)

Fashion has been responsible for teaching us the power that lines and stripes have to make us look slimmer or elongate our silhouette and the same discipline can be practiced in a grey living room.

Here, Carpetright's Westmoreland Twist Carpet in Misty Zig-Zag will help to stretch out that floor plan to maximize the space you have. What's more, a busy pattern like this will help to disguise spills and stains – which is perfect for whatever modern life throws at us.

Carpet is also one of the cheapest living room flooring options, so shop around to make sure you bag yourself a bargain.

(Image credit: Carpetright )

If you don't want to commit to a full floor of the same design, carpet tiles are another type of flooring to try. Much easier than cutting reams of this fabric by the meter, you can have more control with this measurement – which is especially important if you're doing the job yourself.  

We love the blue, grey and charcoal detail on the fireplace hearth in the center of the room which adds texture and interest, when combined with the other blue wall paint and soft furnishings in the room. 

10. Break up grey with art

(Image credit: Desenio)

Scandinavian interior design has taught us a lot about how to create a sophisticated and stylish grey living room that looks and feels homely too. And one of the best take-aways that we've introduced into our living spaces is the good old gallery wall.

Whether it's finding pictures of the family to frame, or going online and picking up some budget-friendly reprints from Desenio – this is one of the more simple living room ideas that everyone can get on board with.

'Looking to go all-in with a grey living room by keeping the ‘raw’ feel?' asks Annica Wallin, executive creative director, Desenio.

'Display your minimalist posters in black frames to create contrast with the grey walls. To maintain balance and a cozy vibe, add a grey-scale rug, or pillows in similar shades. A living room with a minimalist grey decor makes room for unique details and the motifs on the walls.'

11. Bring the outdoors in with grey rattan

(Image credit: Future)

Grey rattan garden furniture is a great investment for the summer time, but as the evenings get a little chillier, and the nights get shorter, it risks becoming redundant until the next year's signs of spring.

Repurpose your outdoor seating in an indoor space to get the most out of your purchase. We love this calming grey and white living room with shiplap walls and lots of indoor plants. Perfect for an all-year round botanical aesthetic.

12. Pick a plaid sofa for country vibes

(Image credit: Laura Ashley)

One very quick and easy way to inject country charm into your grey living room is through your choice of couch. The best grey sofas to serve this style could incorporate an all-over check, plaid or gingham pattern.

Mix it up with a contrasting print like Laura Ashley's Beckworth table lamp for a more modern finish with the practical bonus of added task lighting also. Bringing in more pattern via the grey wallpaper helps balance out the space perfectly also.

13. Layer up different grey tones

(Image credit: John Lewis)

Use just one shade of grey and your room can feel flat and dull so it’s important to layer the shades, one on top of the other. Start with a base layer, a grey that really inspires you, and add different shades through furniture, soft furnishings and accessories. 

This sofa is deep and dark and works well against the backdrop of a dark wall and cooler grey flooring. The grey throws and grey cushions in add texture too.

14. Match the warmth of your lighting to the grey you choose

(Image credit: Neptune )

Grey is one of those colors that can completely change under different lights, so picking the perfect lighting for your space is important. 

As a general rule when it comes to grey living room ideas – the cooler the tone you choose, the warmer the lighting should be – think about the room at night, you'll still want it to feel cozy and welcoming despite the cool grey color scheme.  

Pick out lampshades that give off a yellowish glow and always go for warm/soft white bulbs. Pick out different sources of light too. As with any living room, you'll want to think about having a few different sources that all do different jobs. 

Typically you'll want to cover ambient lighting (soft lighting usually from a pendant or living room wall lighting), task lighting (stronger, focused lights) and accent lighting (soft, but still focused lights that highlight certain areas of your room).

15. Choose grey living room furniture that's minimal

(Image credit: Ikea)

Don’t limit your love affair with grey to just wall color, if you love this hue consider new furniture pieces in this shade to add a modern edge to your living room. Living room storage units are a great way to add in grey, and particularly good when you don’t want wood or white melamine.

16. Introduce greenery for height and depth

(Image credit: Neptune)

One of the big benefits of houseplants is that they can bring so much interest into even the simplest of color schemes. We love how the green looks against dark walls, giving this grey living room even more depth and drama.

Pick a larger plant like a fiddle leaf fig or a big fern to make a statement or for a more rustic look, dot smaller plants around the space at different heights.

17. Mix a cool toned grey with pink

(Image credit: Magnolia Network)

Pink and grey where the color power couple for a moment back there, but  we are loving this new, more grown up take on it. Mixing a pale, cooler grey with a lovely warm blush pink creates an almost neutral space, especially if paired with white walls and wooden furnishings as seen here. Add in a touch of muted light blue to bring out the cooler tones of the grey. Very chic.

'To avoid giving off a ‘hard’ expression, which grey has a tendency to do, we recommend adding details such as softer colors like gold and pink,' says Wallin.

'Display black and white photo prints in gold frames, and add pink as an accent in the grey interior. A pink pouffe, pink pillows, or a throw makes the perfect accessory and lends a softer side to your living room.'

18. Add grey at the windows

(Image credit: Neptune)

If you want to add some more grey tones to your living room, this is a really easy and effective way to do so. Rather than go all out painting a grey accent wall, instead learn how to paint window frames. See how in this space the two tones of grey help bring out the cooler tones of the blue and complements the pale wood of the floors and ceiling also.  

19. Add darker hues to a light grey living room

(Image credit: Neptune)

Who doesn't love a really light and airy grey living room? The palest of greys on the walls gives a space such a loft elegant feel, especially if you contrast it with a really deep grey or a black. 

It just grounds all those light colors and gives the room a bit of focus. Bring in those darker colors with cushions, throws rugs or even an accent armchair.  

20. Create a distressed wall effect 

(Image credit: Ikea)

We know what you are thinking, that distressed 'shabby chic' look can be very hit and miss. But when it goes right it can look very chic, and that kind of bare plaster look is bang on trend at the moment. 

It's a really easy look to recreate using paint and a cloth to get that rustic, unfinished look. We have a whole step-by-step guide on creating this plaster paint effect that'll get you concrete results.

21. Brighten up grey paint with metallic accessories 

(Image credit: lustliving.co.uk)

There’s nothing more glamorous than some beautiful gold accessories which, of course, pair well with a base palette of greys. Use different grey shades layered throughout a grey living room for your neutral backdrop, retaining the focus on the metallics and any other color you choose to introduce.

Keep it soft or add bold, bright accents; just ensure they don’t detract from the shine and sparkle of your metals.  

Olivia, blogger at Lust Living , has the most stunning living room pairing a  really pale grey on the walls with some beautiful gold metallics. 

22. Create the perfect backdrop with grey walls

(Image credit: Urban Avenue)

With its charm and appeal lying in the ability to offer the best neutral base for interior décor, grey is the ideal shade with which to decorate your living room walls. 

Using a living room wallpaper or paint won’t intrude on the brighter accent colors if you use them; darker greys give them depth; paler greys help them to pop.

23. Highlight grey walls with white floors and window dressings

(Image credit: Ikea)

If you're keen to ensure that your living room stays light and bright, despite the grey walls, we'd really advise keeping the window area uncluttered and dressed in a light color. A white or pale-colored floor will make a big difference, too.

24. Warm things up with greige 

(Image credit: Cult furniture )

We will confess, we have previously mocked greige and what we liked to think of as its blandness, but alas, we have grown to love this neither grey nor brown nor beige color and think we owe it an apology. So, sorry greige. 

If you can't decide between a beige room or a grey one, it's actually a perfect warm-toned color that combines the two hues. We love how it's been styled in this living room with splashes of sage green and pale mustard yellow. So what is the perfect greige shade? Well, we recommend Farrow and Ball Stony Ground.  

25. Add black to grey color schemes for living rooms

(Image credit: Cult Furniture)

Black and white doesn’t have to be a boring combination – when teamed with different layers of grey, it can look exceptionally striking. 

Use a deep grey on your living room wall, and then mix in plenty of black and white accessories to get the full impact of this dramatic scheme. 

26. Choose a simple (but chic) grey sofa

(Image credit: Sweet Pea and Willow)

We all love on-trend colorful sofas but sometimes we want to keep it simple and uncomplicated. That’s where a grey sofa really comes into its own. It suits all styles of living room, from country cottage to industrial to contemporary, and anything in between.  

Give it some life and add a few strong accent colors or simply layer your greys for a more monotone feel. 

Need some help finding your perfect sofa, grey or otherwise? We've put together the ultimate guide to choosing a sofa.

27. Add drama with a dark grey living room 

(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)

If you’re after more dark and atmospheric decorating ideas and not one to shy away from being bold and daring, then go for a dark grey living room. Painted on the walls and even the ceiling to it can act as a striking basis for bright colors and rock and roll décor. 

You’ll need to get your living room lighting right to make the space useable at night, but these darker charcoals make a room feel exceptionally moody and atmospheric.

28. Counteract cool tones with mustard

(Image credit: Kimberly Duran)

Greens and botanical prints work effortlessly with grey tones as shown here in this bright, light, grey and yellow living room.  

The homeowner has paired a subtle shade of grey with golds and greens allowing the features to shine, with a bold print that doesn’t impinge on the lighter feel of the space.

29. Mix soft grey with pretty pastels

(Image credit: Arianna Trapani)

Use soft warm greys and mix them with pastel decorating ideas for a pretty grey living room. Prevent it from feeling too sweet and sugary by accenting with darker, moodier shades seen here with black and white cushions and dark wood table. The result is a calm living room suitable for the whole family. 

Blogger, Arianna , has created a sumptuous, cozy and candy-hued space packed full of texture and warmth.

30. Make a dark grey living room feel warm and cozy

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)

If you opt for a darker, charcoal grey on your walls yet don’t want the living room to feel all doom and gloom, lighten the space by using white-based artwork. 

Include pops of color through your soft furnishings and make the most of your cozy feel by adding layers of sheepskins for warmth and texture.

For a farmhouse touch, we love the look of this cow-print rug, but anything statement will do to add interest underfoot. Discover our round-up of the best living room rugs.

31. Add texture to a grey living room for an on-trend look

(Image credit: Maisons du Monde)

Palest greys and darkest blacks come together with stark whites to create the nomad look which has become rather popular in the last few seasons. Mix up your greys with a black and white pattern in shaggy textures. 

Add some natural materials like rattan and wicker plus lots of house plants, and you have a very on-trend living space. 

Love the vibes of this grey living room idea? Go and get some more inspiration from these brilliant boho design ideas. 

32. Don't ignore the floor, pick out a grey rug

(Image credit: Argos)

When you’re not sure how to start designing a grey living room, look down. The floor is often the best place to begin when you’re building a scheme and if you want to include grey, this is a great kicking off point.  

Pick a larger grey rug as a centerpiece or layer up your rugs for a more laid-back, relaxed look. 

33. Want a more luxe living room? Add marble

(Image credit: Norsu Interiors)

Marble isn't particularly revolutionary when it comes to home decor, we know, it's pretty much an essential in the age of Pinterest and Instagram . 

But there is a reason we're all so in love with is swirly, opulent, qualities, marble just brings elegance into a space like no other material. 

Give a grey living room a lift with a few pale marble accessories. The smooth and swishy finish works perfectly with lots of different shades of grey.

34. Choose multi-functional grey furniture 

(Image credit: Sofa.com)

If you are as obsessed with grey as we are, chances are you might not want to limit grey to your living room. So when choosing furniture, pick pieces that are versatile and can be put to use throughout the rest of your home too. 

Storage benches, day beds, sofa beds, grey ottomans, you get the idea, any pieces that can be shifted into a spare bedroom or a hallway.

If you're stuck for ideas of where to go for said furniture – you needn't trawl to the shops. Our best sofa beds are all available online for doorstep delivery.

35. Add interest to a grey living room with a mural 

(Image credit: Katie Lee)

Before we go on to talk about the many positive points of adding prints and murals to a grey living room, can we just appreciate the artful layering in this living room? That's how it's done, people.

Anyway, yes, murals – a great way to add even more texture to a living room with a limited color palette. They are also a fab option if you are decorating a rented home, because you can choose to hang a mural rather than paste it permanently to your wall.

In this small living room ideas, the use of a mural also expands the space as it stops an expanse of white wall making the room feel boxy. 

36. Go for a coastal vibe with a light grey living room

(Image credit: Maison du Monde)

You might live nowhere near the beach but that doesn't mean you can't bring some of those coastal vibes into your living room. Coastal interiors aren't all about blue stripes and miniature ships in bottles. 

You can create a beach house-inspired interior using light greys and lots of layers of different fabrics and materials. 

Rugs, cushions, baskets, wall hangings can all be incorporated into your current space to create that relaxed, laid back feel that the coastal look is all about.

37. Choose a cool, green-toned grey for a contemporary look

(Image credit: Nest)

We love the modern vibe of this grey space and the borderline khaki green living room tones would work perfectly if you had a sunny, south-facing room that can take a moody shade. 

To copy the look, choose a grey paint with cooler tones (something like Farrow & Ball's French Gray ) and, to further enhance the cool color, pair it with darker tones and furniture that has clear, sharp black lines. You can add in some warmth with throws, cushions and rugs. 

38. Highlight alcoves with grey paint

(Image credit: Neptune)

Use grey paint to highlight alcoves in a living room: it's a neat trick for creating depth in the room, showing off artwork hung on the darker walls and exaggerating the height of the ceiling in the room.  

Light the alcoves with wall or table lamps so that the grey becomes a warmer tone at night. 

39. Create a very modern grey living room

(Image credit: Annie Sloan )

If you want those quite dramatic, contemporary vibes in your living room, keep the furniture very sculptural and slimline and enhance the drama of a dark space. 

The Mid-century modern furniture works so well in this minimal space and creates a really quirky contrast with the traditional design of the room. 

We just love the decorative stone horse on the living room fireplace which stops the mantel looking too bare, while also adding interest.

40. Pick a dramatic grey wallpaper 

(Image credit: Sandberg )

Wallpaper is such an easy grey living room idea, potentially the quickest way to add a dose of this stylish hue. 

Most of the time you will be able to find a shade of grey that will work with your current scheme, so it can be the simplest way to update your space.  

We love the dramatic mountain motif of the Midnatt wallpaper from Sandberg, but there are tonnes of other grey wallpaper ideas that will pique your interest.

41. Go for a moody vibe with inky greys 

(Image credit: Katie Lee)

Bluey grey is the grey that's here to stay. It's moody, atmospheric and dramatic but styled the right way is can be really soft and welcoming too. 

Mix it in with some natural materials and lots of textures for a really cool contemporary grey living room idea. 

42. Mix grey with slubby naturals

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

Grey living rooms run the risk of feeling a little cold, but if you mix it with rich textures: knotty, warm-colored wood, slubby linens and soft velvet, you'll create a warm, welcoming feel. 

Loving how the sofa is color-matched to the walls here for a space-enhancing feel.

The living room in this gorgeous renovated home in Shrewsbury uses grey to a calming effect.

43. Choose light flooring in a dark grey living room 

(Image credit: Katie Lee)

Dark grey living rooms always work best if you choose a lighter flooring – lighter wooden flooring to be precise. 

The cheapest option is to go for a laminate version or vinyl. Pop down a rug to cozy up the room, plus some bright prints and greenery that will pop against that dark backdrop. 

44. Mix grey with warm browns  

(Image credit: Ikea)

The darker the grey, and the less yellow or even pink tints within it, the cooler the room begins to feel, so accessorizing or furnishing it in warm colors is essential. 

We really love warm, natural colors and textures or spice shades against grey – it brings out the best in both. 

However, any warmer color will help make a cool room feel instantly more welcoming. This tan leather sofa set for example is the perfect furniture if you want to create a vintage retro living room.

45. Go for a cool Mid-century style grey living room 

(Image credit: Ikea/Lina Ikse)

You can still keep things feeling bright and fresh in a grey living room, just be selective about where you add the grey.  

Here one cool-toned grey wall works really well to differentiate between two 'rooms' in an open-plan space. 

The grey also looks great mixed with the fresh, clean white and the warm dark woods of the Mid-century style furniture. 

46. Go grey in a traditional living room 

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

If you have a more traditional living room and are looking for grey living room ideas, this picture provides all the inspiration you need. 

The mid-tone grey works so well with the lighter wooden floors and the gold accents and it's all softened up with cozy soft furnishings. 

We love how the paneling in the lighter grey breaks up the darker grey of the walls which could risk looking quite flat if it wasn't contrasted with the warmer, greige.

47. Make a grey living room cozy with plenty of soft furnishings

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)

What we love about grey living rooms, is they can be both fresh and chic but really cozy and inviting at the same time.  

In this space, the pale grey walls work perfectly as this room isn't huge to great for making it feel lighter and bigger, and the darker grey sofa is a nice contrast. 

Then it's just a case of making the space softer with plenty of cushions, throws and even house plants can help add a kind of cocooning feel. 

If you want more inspiring home decor ideas, make sure you take a tour of this first time buyer's Scandi-style house renovation. 

48. Mix grey walls with leather furniture for a retro feel

(Image credit: Farrow and Ball)

What a cool grey living room, very Mid-century, and see how the cool-toned grey worked with the very orange hue of all the furniture. 

The walls in this space are painted with Manor House Gray from Farrow & Ball. It's a favorite in contemporary homes and does need quite a bit of light so as not to look flat but it the right space paired with warmer colors it looks so chic. 

49. Create a luxury feel with plush grey velvet furniture

(Image credit: Paul Craig)

If you want to add a touch of luxury to a grey living room, velvet is the way to do it. The obvious choice is to go for a gorgeous grey velvet sofa, that will be the focus of your space. Opt for a deep charcoal – practical and pretty.

You could add in some velvet curtains or even just a few cushions too if you are looking for a quicker, more affordable living room update.

50. Create a clean look with white and charcoal grey

(Image credit: James Balston)

A slightly softer version of monochrome is to pair white with a deep charcoal. We love this grey living room because it feels so light and fresh but there's warmth here too with the light woods and Berber rug. 

The walls might look white but they are actually a very, very light grey which brings more dimension that just a brilliant white would. 

51. Paint all five walls grey

(Image credit: Kasia Fiszer)

We all have a tendency to stick with white when it comes to ceilings, but why not be bolder with your ceiling and give them the attention they deserve. 

Painting walls and the ceiling gives a lovely cocooning effect to a room and works especially well if you have a larger room with high ceilings and want the space to feel more coz

How do you decorate a grey living room?

'Decorate your living room with grey paired with natural elements,' advises Wallin.  

'Display your black and white posters in a collage, and mix in oak frames to elegantly add wood details to the grey decor. Oak frames paired with other accessories, such as wooden side tables, brown leather pillows, and green plants, make a living room more lively while contributing an elegant balance.'

What colors go with grey in a living room?

(Image credit: Rachael Smith)

This depends on the vibe you are trying to create – if you want to play it safe and like a neutral scheme, then layering greys with creams and whites is always a classic look. You could however be a bit bolder and throw in some contrasting colors like oranges and yellows.

'Bluer-based greys will team wonderfully with rich blue tones, brick reds and terracotta shades. Whilst browner greys look beautiful with an added punch of warm burnt orange and chartreuse yellow in your accessories through to more restful layering of caramel and chocolate tones,' explains O'Donnell.

Is grey a good color for a living room?

We actually did had a recent debate over is grey still in style? And the overwhelming majority said yes. Thank god, because it's our personal fave color to decorate with and we think it works in every room of the home. There is however a trend towards much warmer greigey greys recently, so consider choosing a grey that has a more earthy undertone.

How do you add warmth to a grey living room?

(Image credit: Darren Chung)

Easy, pick warmer greys! If you are planning on painting your walls grey, choose a paint that has pinkish undertones, avoid anything to blue as that might make a room feel cooler, especially if it's north-facing.

You can always warm up a grey living room with accessories too. Pick our warm wooden furniture, add in some cute rattan baskets, pick out cane lampshades too. Oh, and nice slubby linen cushions will help – check out H&M Home for our fave picks.

Hebe joined the Real Homes team in early 2018 as Staff Writer before moving to the Livingetc team in 2021 where she took on a role as Digital Editor. She loves boho and 70's style and is a big fan of Instagram as a source of interiors inspiration. When she isn't writing about interiors, she is renovating her own spaces – be it wallpapering a hallway, painting kitchen cupboards or converting a van.

psychology, combinations, application in design

2/18/2020

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The interior in gray tones can be called one of the classic and time-tested options for interior design. This color, as one of the basic tones of the palette, goes well with various shades and can be successfully applied in a variety of style solutions.

The psychology of gray and its possibilities in the interior

Gray color in the interior, according to psychologists, tend to choose calm and balanced personalities, for whom inner peace and tranquility have special weight. This color is ideal for decorating bedrooms, recreation areas and relaxation. It does not irritate the human visual receptors, allows the brain to relax and reduces the level of anxiety and stress.

The gray color in the design provides a lot of scope for the use of various bright accents. It is not only an excellent background for them, but also to a large extent muffles excessive variegation and softens even the richest colors in the decor. For this reason, it is quite common as a base tone in the design of not only rooms, but also clothes.

When creating an interior with the inclusion of the color in question, the level of illumination of the room is of paramount importance. The lack of natural light and ill-conceived artificial lighting will make the room gloomy and depressing. Therefore, when working on a project, special attention should be paid to the study of the lighting scenario of the interior.


Gray shades and combinations

Gray has many gradations, each of which is able to reveal the interior in its own way:

Gray is one of the friendliest shades and is successfully combined with almost the entire palette of colors. Each new combination of gray in the interior will have its own visual and psychological effect, which should be considered when creating a room design project: