How to Decorate a Gray Bedroom

Gray is a versatile color.

Gray is a classic color for a decorating palette because it goes with everything. In the bedroom, gray is especially pleasing because it’s calming. Use this to your advantage and create a bedroom that is as restful as it is interesting. When you realize the potential of gray, you’ll love creating a personal space with it.

Things You'll Need

• Furniture
• Paint
• Fabric
• Pillows
• Lampshade
• Rugs
• Paintings

Instructions

1. Pick a theme for your gray bedroom. Think of how you want the room to feel, which will help you decide on themes and colors. A modern look feels much different from a country look. Modern or contemporary themes are minimalist, while a country look is casual. Retro themes are funky, while Italian ambiance is elegant but comfortable.

2. Use furniture that helps evoke the mood of your room. Distressed furnishings enhance the casual aspect of bedrooms. For a modern look, go with sleek black furnishings. White furniture will open up a room, while black furniture is modern and is used with Asian themes. Light-colored wood stands out against dark shades of gray, while walnut, mahogany and cherry wood stand out against light gray paint.

3. Paint trim to match your theme. If you have a small room, painting the trim the same color as the walls make the room feel more spacious. White trim with gray walls adds a splash of color and creates a nice balance if used with white furniture. Black trim emphasizes black furnishings and creates an elegant touch to a modern theme.

4. Use fabrics that emphasize your theme. Add texture to your room by using shades of gray slightly darker or lighter than the color on your walls. Silk is luxurious and ideal for modern decorating styles. Linens accentuate a more casual style. Put a red velvet pillow on your bed and pair it with rich red stripes in your window treatments for an elegant touch.

5. Add one or two complementary colors to break up the monotony of gray. Touches of red, yellow or blue create interest. Bring these colors into your room with pillows, lampshades, rugs and paintings.

Tips & Warnings

• When working with dark wood against light walls, keep organization a priority, as too many pieces crowded into your room feels overcrowded.

• Avoid adding too many complementary colors because too much makes your bedroom feel cluttered and overcrowded.

References

• "House Beautiful"; 10 Gorgeous Gray Bedrooms; Karen Ziga
• "Coastal Living"; 100 Comfy Cottage Rooms; Perry Del Favero