top of page

STYLE & FORM

The Trend Edit | Is It Time For Grey To Bow Out Gracefully?

In recent years, grey has been a popular colour choice in interior design. It has been used in various styles, from minimalist to Victorian, and has been seen on everything from light grey walls to dark grey furniture. However, some designers and homeowners now consider grey to be a dated trend, and there are several reasons for this.


One of the main reasons why grey is considered dated is that it has been overused. While grey is a versatile and neutral colour that can work with any design style and colour palette, its popularity has resulted in an influx of grey interiors that lack personality and originality. When used excessively, grey can create a cold and uninviting atmosphere that lacks warmth and can feel sterile or monotonous. A home should be a space for relaxation and comfort, and grey may not always be the best choice to achieve this mood.


Additionally, as design trends continue to evolve, designers are increasingly opting for bolder and brighter colours to inject personality and vibrancy into interiors. Bold colours like greens, blues, and oranges can provide a pop of colour that can add character and life to a room. When grey is used excessively, it can quickly become depressing and gloomy, affecting not only the mood of the space but also the people in it.




Image by Earthborn



Therefore, when selecting a colour palette for the next interior design project, it's essential to consider the mood and atmosphere you want to create in your space. While grey can be a great option, it's important to balance it out with other colours and textures to prevent it from becoming overwhelming. Experimenting with different colours can create a unique and personal space that reflects your individual style and taste. Keeping an open mind and exploring different options can help you find the perfect colour palette to make your home feel more inviting and comfortable.



Alternatives To Grey


  • Warm neutrals - shades of beige, cream, and white can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially when combined with natural materials like wood and stone.

  • Bold colours - bright hues like blue, green, red, or yellow can add energy and personality to a space. Just be careful not to overpower the room with too much colour.

  • Pastels - soft shades of pink, lavender, or mint can create a serene and calming ambiance. They work especially well in bedrooms and bathrooms.

  • Metallics - silver, gold, and copper can add a touch of glamour and sophistication. They work well as accents in accessories and fixtures.

  • Earth tones - shades of brown, green, and rust can bring a sense of nature and warmth to a room. They work especially well in rustic or bohemian-inspired spaces.



grey interior design

Image by Coco Lapine Design. Pair together a warm colour like red to bring the grey to life.




Alternatives To Grey Flooring


  • Light-colored flooring such as beige, cream, and white

  • Natural wood such as oak, maple, or walnut

  • Dark-colored flooring such as brown or black

  • Colored flooring such as blue, green, or red

  • Patterned flooring such as geometric or floral designs

  • Stone or tile flooring such as marble or slate

  • Concrete flooring in different shades or stains

  • Vinyl or laminate flooring that mimics the look of hardwood or other materials

  • Cork flooring with natural tones and patterns

  • Bamboo flooring with a range of colors from light to dark.



Colours To Complement Grey


  • Soft blues: Light blues pair beautifully with grey to create a calming and modern aesthetic.

  • Warm yellows: Pale, muted yellows can create a cheerful atmosphere when paired with grey.

  • Earthy greens: Soft greens like sage or olive can bring a natural and relaxing vibe to a space with grey accents.

  • Bold jewel tones: Rich colours like emerald, ruby, and sapphire can create a bold and luxurious look when paired with grey.

  • Neutrals: Colours like white, beige, and black can create a clean and sleek look when paired with grey.



grey interior design

Image by Becki Owens. Try incorporating brass accents and fixtures into grey kitchens for a quick change up.



Alternatives To Grey Furniture


  • Light or dark wood tones such as walnut, cherry, or oak.

  • Bright and bold colors like red, orange, or blue.

  • Neutral colors like beige, ivory, or cream.

  • Natural textures and materials like woven rattan or wicker furniture, or pieces made from reclaimed wood.

  • Metallic finishes like gold, copper, or silver for added glamour.

  • Patterned upholstery like floral or geometric prints.

  • Vibrant hues like emerald green, fuchsia, or sunny yellow.

  • Black furniture for a sleek and modern look.

Welcome to the Style & Form Interior Design Blog!
Home to
Trends, Designers, Inspiration, Moodboards, Design Tips, and more...

Let's stay in touch

Keep to to date with the latest design trends

  • Black Twitter Icon
  • Black Pinterest Icon
  • Black Facebook Icon
  • Black Instagram Icon
bottom of page