Gray has long been one of our favorite neutrals. It's classic with just enough edge, and versatile enough to work with plenty of styles, whether you live in a craftsman cottage or reside in a rustic farmhouse. While we love it indoors for a bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen, it also works remarkably well as an exterior color, adding curb appeal with ease, and remaining a timeless choice for years to come.
We get it though — seeing is believing! That's why we've rounded up seven foolproof gray-hued homes to lend plenty of inspiration. Don't worry, we've also included the exact gray exterior paint colors for you to recreate the look.
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1. Create a contemporary vibe.
This medium gray paint color employed by Brittany Hayes from Addison's Wonderland, feels contemporary yet classic when paired with a light blue front door. To recreate this look at home, pair it with bright white trim, allowing the architectural details to really shine.
Get the look: Sherwin-Williams Dovetail
2. Keep it subtle.
Courtney Dickey from T.S. Adams Studio gave this vacation home (spotted on Home Bunch) a super light and airy makeover with the help of some gray exterior paint. The shade is perfect for those who want just a bit more depth and interest than you'd get with white, while still reading bright and neutral. And if you're feeling adventurous, pair with a copper portico roof and matching drain pipe for a dose of warmth and contrast.
Get the look: Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray
3. Opt for a warmer shade.
Gauntlet Gray by Sherwin-Williams — as seen here on this charming exterior by Abbie from The Gray Cottage — is a rich, warm, gray exterior paint with plenty of brown undertones, allowing it to lean more traditional than other shades. What really makes this home exterior feel extra special is the way the varied stone complements the siding. Pro-tip: Using natural stones and textures as a guide results in a foolproof color palette.
Get the look: Sherwin-Williams Gauntlet Gray
4. Embrace a hint of blue.
Beach vibes abound when using this greenish-gray exterior paint color, topped off with just a hint of blue. Follow the lead of Clark & Co. Homes and complement the cool tones with a wood door and crisp white trim for the epitome of relaxed elegance.
Get the look: Benjamin Moore Boothbay Gray
5. Make it dark and bold.
We love a light and airy look as much as the next person, but there's just something about a moody gray that we can't resist. While dark exteriors often feel inherently modern, the juxtaposition of a current hue against traditional architecture makes our hearts swell. Be sure to consider the trim color as well to achieve your desired result: a tone-on-tone look will lean more modern, while a higher contrast palette (light trim with dark gray, as seen here on The Magnolia Mamas blog) will read more classic.
Get the look: Sherwin-Williams Thunder Gray
6. Create a tone-on-tone look.
This simple and subtle gray-on-gray idea by Leah from Bell Sheep Studio feels like a breath of fresh air. Thanks to minimal contrast and a symmetrical design — from the wall sconces to the potted plants — you'll immediately put your guests at ease upon entering.
Get the look: Sherwin-Williams Repose Gray and Sherwin-Williams Dorian Gray
7. Go earthy with your palette.
This gray exterior paint color reads ultra-organic and natural thanks to its green and brown undertones, making it an ideal choice for a tucked away haven that's far from the hustle and bustle of the city. To highlight those earthy undertones, try pairing it with greens, tans, and browns, much like you see here from Kylie M. Interiors.
Get the look: Benjamin Moore Rockport Gray