We’ve talked about the best ways to use bold, dark colors in interior painting previously in the Zenith Painting’s blog, but let’s not give all the attention to the deep reds and brilliant greens.
Gray paint may be ‘neutral,’ but that doesn’t mean it can’t catch the eye and make a statement. Here are some of the chief reasons some people avoid neutral colors like gray—and the reasons we think you may want to consider giving it a try in your home.
#1: Neutral Colors are Cold
It’s true that gray isn’t a ‘warm’ color like red or yellow, and brightly colored furniture will look out of place against a neutral background. But try working with the neutral theme instead of against it!
Soft gray fabrics used in upholstery, curtains, and other features will create a unified look that makes gray feel warm and comfortable, and all the more so for being subtle instead of overwhelming.
#2: Neutral Colors are Boring
Now, we’ll grant you that it may be a stretch to call colors like gray exciting, but it’s also far from boring. The secret is to think elegance, not excitement.
Gray is calming, serene, stately. That may not be thrilling, but it’s far from boring. Use the right accessories to emphasize the dignified effect.
#3: Neutral Colors Say Nothing
Colors like gray are subtle and muted. So where’s the fun in designing a theme around that?
This might be the best-kept secret about using neutral colors in decorating and design: by painting with a neutral color like gray, you create the opportunity to make incredibly powerful design statements by contrast.
Think about a bright red room with a table in the center, a vase on the table, and a single red rose in the vase. Nice. Now imagine a steely gray room with that same rose. It’s a powerful statement, made possible by the neutral surroundings.
#4: Neutral Colors are Depressing
Flat gray in a dark room full of gray metal furniture… that’s the vision of gray we have from ugly institutional rooms.
Throw that thought away. Introduce some natural light, vary the shades and tones of the neutral color used, and you’re in a whole new world that’s energizing instead of depressing.
Excited about Neutral
Don’t just stop at neutral paint. Think of including other features to complement the color scheme: Fabrics, metals, stone, artwork. Combine shades and accents.
But paint is a good place to start, and when you’re ready to pursue that bold new neutral look, give Zenith Painting a call at 800-381-4601.
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