The 5 Best Neutral Alternatives to Gray

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For years, gray has been the go-to base for modern interiors. While it may seem like a timeless tone, designers are slowly straying away from the classic gray. If you want to keep your space looking sleek and chic without overdoing the gray décor, we’ve compiled a list of almost-neutral alternatives. These five colors will add a splash of character to your space while still maintaining the contemporary vibe that gray provides. Explore neutral wall art and natural wall décor to elevate your modern home.

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Natural Wall Décor & more

Mauve

A mix of lavender and gray, mauve is emerging as one of the hottest colors for 2024. This purple hue isn’t going to overpower your interior, but it will add a subtle touch of color. Mauve lies somewhere in between a neutral and an accent color, making it a perfect shade to use in tandem with any existing décor. Use it sparingly or liberally throughout your space; the choice is up to you.

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Midnight at the Lake III Amethyst and Grey Multi Panel Canvas Wall Art

Sage

Another popular color for 2024, sage green is marvelously muted. Bluer than mint and paler than teal, sage green is an ideal color for walls and decor. This relaxing hue is soft without looking dull, which means it works as an excellent neutral substitute. Sage will brighten your space while still letting your statement pieces steal the show. If you want to avoid a bland interior while capturing the same calming effect that gray provides, sage green is the color for you.

Expert Design Tips

ElephantStock's interior design expert Elimar Lobo Sáenz shares her ideas for trendy alternatives to grey:

“Consider these colors as an alternative (or to go along with) gray in 2024. This year puts a focus on finding joy in the simple things, and embracing what it means to be human. Add an eclectic, but organic, feel to your space with these trendy tones:

School house white (warm white)

Breakfast room green (dusty emerald)

Stone blue (bright, medium blue)
Light dusty mint green /Light olive color”

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Taupe

Smack dab between gray and brown, taupe is the best of both worlds. If you’re worried about tying together warm and cool décor, taupe is the perfect solution. The biggest benefit to taupe is that it is truly timeless, which means it will look modern in spite of whether warm or cool tones are in style. No matter your personal aesthetic, taupe is one of the most versatile colors in the world. This shade is ideal if you want to maximize the longevity of your décor, and it will make your space look effortlessly stylish. Consider taupe walls for your living room, or add a stunning piece of taupe wall art.

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Circular Sculpture Multi Panel Canvas Wall Art

Slate

While still in the gray family, slate is the ideal gray-meets-blue shade. If you’re still clinging onto the classic gray trend, slate is the perfect baby step towards color. Give your gray space a lively new look with soft slate décor. Slate is more unique than both blue and gray on their own, making it an ultra-stylish choice for any interior. It also keeps your space looking cool without veering towards cold.

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Liquid Marble Pattern Multi Panel Canvas Wall Art

Beige

We’re seeing a significant resurgence in desert-inspired shades. Beige is a warmer alternative to gray, making it a great choice for designers who want to create a more cozy and welcoming space. Not quite as warm as tan, beige is beautifully bright and airy. Jump on this sand-inspired trend and watch how beige can transform your home. If you’re looking to warm up your home without sacrificing an ounce of modernism, beige will be your best friend. If you insist on adding some gray to your interior, beige is an excellent color to offset the cool tones. Consider a calming beige and gray bedroom idea.

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Natural Wall Decor & More

Gray may seem synonymous with modern decor, but there are plenty of contemporary alternatives. Whether you want to stay cool or add some warmth, these five shades can help bridge the gap between colors and neutrals. Choose wall art and furniture that will add visual dimension to your space without sacrificing style. From mauve to beige, these muted marvels are the hottest hues for 2024. Refresh your space with these substitutes for your classic gray.