The power of conventional gray kitchens is wavering, as many designers may warn us – but what happens when there's a twist on the once-popular hue? Introducing: gray-green – the warmer, earthier alternative to the classic – and it's already favored by the likes of Reese Witherspoon.
The actress recently shared a look inside her power gray-green-hued kitchen – showcasing cabinets drenched in this trending tone. Reese's cupboards and cabinetry still boast the moody yet sophisticated feel we all grew to love about gray, but it's a slightly bolder twist on the cool neutral – and designers are quick to share their love for this emerging hue. 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 vogue – and secondly, because it's so easy to get right. And he's not alone in his observations.
'Gray-green works beautifully in the home because they combine 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. In the case of a kitchen, we'd recommend looking for a vibrantly-hued appliance or collection of bright-colored cookbooks that will bring more color to the space. 'Alternatively, soft linen curtains will create a subtle contrast.'
How to style gray-green kitchen cabinets
As Teri explains, choosing bold-colored appliances is one way to highlight this hue in your kitchen. However, are even more ways to make this color work for you.
Artem recommends introducing nature-inspired elements that work well against the grounding hue. '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' – to create a sociable space that is as beautiful as it is functional.
We're starting with this color match to Reese's paint via Backdrop below.
