What color is replacing gray? This is the one color we prefer to use instead of gray in 2023, say designers. Read more
Gray’s reign is over, and the replacement is none other than the classic beige. Designers are ditching gray for its timeless and elegant counterpart, beige, in 2023. Beige, celebrated for its simplicity, has become the new neutral in interior design, offering a versatile canvas for colorful accents. According to experts, beige is not only replacing gray but also challenging the dominance of white in home decor.
Beige’s appeal lies in its ability to create a sophisticated backdrop, perfect for showcasing art and books, especially in spaces like home offices. Deborah Bass recommends pairing subtler beige shades with rich natural timber for a balanced look. This shift from cool tones to warmer hues like beige, amber, ivory, rust, and sepia tones marks a departure from the dullness associated with gray in Western culture.
Anthony Barzilay Freund, 1stDibs’ editorial director, notes that the decline of all-over gray schemes reflects a desire to infuse homes with a special and layered feel. Comforting colors that evoke nature and warmth are gaining popularity for their visual appeal and emotional reassurance. However, if you’re a gray enthusiast, there’s still hope. Charu Gandhi suggests using deeper, darker greys or near-blacks to create a cozy atmosphere. To avoid somberness, incorporate pops of color and texture through accessories like pillows, throws, or artwork. So, while gray may have lost its top spot, there’s still room for its subtler shades in a refreshed and contemporary context.