The popularity of conventional gray kitchens is wavering, as many designers may warn us, but what happens when there's a twist on the once-ubiquitous shade?
Enter gray-green – the warmer, earthier alternative to the classic. This emerging hue is already favored by celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon.
The actress recently shared a glimpse inside her kitchen, which is steeped in this potent gray-green shade. Reese's kitchen cabinets and cabinetry retain the moody yet sophisticated feel we all grew to love about gray, but this autumnal-inspired tone offers a slightly bolder take on the cool neutral. Designers are quick to share their enthusiasm for this color as we transition into the winter season.
Shop the Gray-Green Edit
This gray-green crackle-glaze ceramic vase combines timeless vintage appeal with contemporary elegance. Expertly handcrafted with meticulous detail, it is fully watertight for fresh flowers and comes with anti-slip pads for stability, making it a stylish and practical accent that complements the calming gray-green trend.
Enjoy all-day comfort with these extra-thick anti-fatigue mats that provide cushioning for your feet, knees, and joints. The two eco-friendly, slip-resistant mats (17.3 x 59" and 17.3 x 29") are waterproof, stain-resistant, and easy to clean, making them ideal for kitchens, standing desks, or any space where comfort is essential.
Bring a cozy, seasonal touch to your space with this 11-inch pumpkin figurine. Its dark two-tone finish makes it perfect for contemporary indoor fall or Halloween displays, whether displayed alone or paired with other decor.
Made from durable stoneware with a reactive glaze finish, this round plate brings style and sophistication to any table setting. Its flared rim helps prevent spills, and the versatile solid color complements any decor. Microwave and dishwasher safe, it is ideal for easy reheating and effortless cleanup.
Bring texture and dimension to your kitchen countertop or shelf with this on-trend ruffled stoneware vase in a gray-green color. The reactive glaze creates a unique, eye-catching finish on each piece, instantly elevating the look of your kitchen.
With a refined design and natural appeal, this pale gray-green stoneware serving bowl brings earthy sophistication to your table. Ideal for serving your favorite sides and entrees, it adds timeless elegance while enhancing any table setting.
But what makes it so sought after? 'Gray-green exudes a soothing aura. The color contributes to establishing a tranquil and serene environment in your dwelling,' says New York-based designer Artem Kropovinsky.
As with all 'color trends,' you'd be forgiven for approaching gray-green with caution – but as the designer explains, this hue is more than a fleeting fad. Firstly, because its therapeutic aura is unlikely to fall out of fashion – and secondly, because it is so easy to get right.
Artem is not alone in his observations. 'Gray-green works beautifully in the home because it combines neutral, soothing, earthy tones,' adds kitchen expert and Nieu Cabinet's head of design, Teri Simone.
'Greens with a hint of a gray undertone make for a balanced color palette, and both provide grounding elements that can be emphasized with pops of other bright tones to warm up the space,' he adds.
To complement this tone in a kitchen setting, we recommend introducing vibrantly-hued appliances or a collection of bright-colored cookbooks to bring extra warmth to the space. 'Alternatively, soft linen curtains [like these from Wayfair] will create a subtle contrast.'
As Teri explains, choosing bold-colored appliances is one way to highlight this hue. However, there are even more ways to make this color work for you this season. Artem recommends introducing nature-inspired elements that work well against the grounding shade.
'This could encompass items such as floral, botanical arrangements, or a textile with a pattern that derives from nature,' he says.
'Also, remember to focus on your kitchen lighting. Appropriate illumination is crucial for any space, but it is particularly significant in a gray-green setting where you can accentuate its welcoming and warm tones,' essential for creating a sociable space this holiday season that is both beautiful and functional.
