Gray has been fading out of fashion in favor of warmer neutrals over the past few years. However, that doesn't mean that the color has gone away completely. Spaces like Nara Smith's kitchen show that the cooler shade can still be a striking neutral color choice.
Smith's kitchen idea is visible in her classic cooking videos. Though people tend to fixate on her over-the-top outfits and complicated recipes, the kitchen itself is no small player. The model's home features light gray cabinets, white countertops, and a white and gray marble backsplash. Countertop accessories like a beautiful vintage-style Smeg toaster, a tiled natural wood cutting board, and a Le Creuset cream Dutch oven add visual interest to the space. It's a masterclass in how to use gray interestingly.
The timelessness of Smith's gray kitchen signals a new direction in interior design trends. We are moving towards an era of permanence. 'Kitchen design in 2024 has largely been driven by a growing desire for spaces that offer a perfect balance of style, functionality, and personalization,' says Sinead Trainor, design expert at kitchen company LochAnna Kitchens. 'In 2025, we predict that homeowners will gravitate toward sleeker, slimline shaker cabinetry and embrace a shift toward timeless heritage hues; subtle yet impactful design choices that enhance, rather than replace some of the macro trends seen over the past few years.'
This 50s-style toaster is perfect for adding character to your countertops. It's gorgeous paired with gray or white cabinets.
Cook like Nara Smith with this aesthetically pleasing Dutch oven. It can be used for a variety of purposes.
This beautiful silver utensil set is perfect for featuring on a countertop or hanging from a a railing on the edge of a stovetop.
This rounded trivet is perfect for storing spices or oils in a gray kitchen. It would look beautiful on a white countertop, where it could be the perfect accent to add texture.
Cut beautifully with a patterned cutting board like the one that Nara Smith uses. Wood cutting boards have naturally antimicrobial properties and can last forever if properly cared for.
Store your chrome accessories in a beautiful vessel. The white and gray design would perfectly match the trivet.
Beyond aesthetics, this timeless kitchen cabinet color has many practical benefits. First, it rarely requires remodeling. Trainor explains: 'The current economic climate is steering homeowners towards more long-term kitchen designs, as many plan to update their kitchens less frequently due to rising costs. This “improve, don’t move” mentality prioritizes timelessness and adaptability, with a focus on cohesive living spaces that extend beyond the kitchen.' It's right in line with design trends for the year.
Though decorating with gray might not be the most revolutionary idea, it's a safe way to ensure that your design will last until the next generation. With the proper styling and texture added, there's nothing less boring.
