Gray gets a bad rep, but when used strategically, it can be just as exciting as any of the more beloved soft neutrals or earth tones.
Need proof? Look no further than Olivia Munn's home, where the color reigns supreme via glossy kitchen cabinets and wood drawers. Decorating with gray can be controversial. However, the key factor keeping this light gray shade appealing is its varied texture: the sheen of the upper cabinets combined with the grain of the lower ones maintains visual interest.
At the same time, the calming hue is a strong choice for a high-traffic area like a kitchen, where cooking stress can feel overwhelming.
Shop the Gray Kitchen Edit
Expertly crafted in Portugal, these cotton waffle-weave towels are stonewashed for superior softness and absorbency. Lightweight and quick-drying, they are designed to hold their shape wash after wash, making them an essential for the modern kitchen.
Handcrafted with a striking silhouette, this charcoal terracotta jug brings depth and drama to any space. A rich matte finish, generous proportions, and sculptural handle combine to create a timeless statement piece with captivating textural character.
Designed in collaboration with Studio McGee, this marble catchall tray brings understated elegance to everyday organization. Crafted from solid marble with a subtle fluted detail, its round form adds rustic charm while offering a refined place to hold keys, trinkets, or small essentials.
According to design experts, gray's versatility lies in its soothing properties, as well as its chameleonic compatibility with other colors.
'Gray is inherently calming, providing a serene canvas that can transform any room into a peaceful retreat,' designer Nina Lichtenstein states.
'Its subtlety allows for a restful environment, perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and even home offices where focus and relaxation are paramount. Lighter shades of gray evoke a sense of spaciousness and airiness, enhancing natural light and making small spaces feel more open and inviting. On the other hand, darker grays introduce drama and intimacy, ideal for creating cozy, cocoon-like environments that envelop you in comfort.'
To recreate Olivia's look in your own kitchen, opt for textured gray pieces, like this marble catchall tray from Studio McGee's Target collection, or this stunning, charcoal terracotta jug from McGee & Co. These waffle towels are also an excellent pick and would look fantastic hanging from an oven door for some subtle softness. With this color, you really can't go wrong – just ask Olivia.
