Welcome to the world of gray houses, where sophistication meets subtlety. Gray, with its understated elegance, has become a favorite choice for homeowners seeking a refined and versatile exterior. From soft and soothing pale grays to deep and dramatic charcoal tones, these houses have a unique ability to blend harmoniously with their surroundings while offering a touch of modernity. Whether nestled in a quaint suburb or standing proudly in an urban landscape, gray houses leave a lasting impression of understated beauty and contemporary allure.
Gray All the Way
Selecting the ideal paint color for your home often involves a nuanced decision-making process, and while it might not be as straightforward as choosing between black and white, the versatile shade of gray emerges as a strong contender. This neutral tone presents a unique challenge due to its diverse range, spanning from nearly black to almost white, encompassing both cool and warm undertones. The depicted paint color choices exemplify this complexity: the house features "Grey Tweed," the front door showcases "Celebration Orange," and the trim displays "Toasted White," all provided by Glidden.
From Dated to Darling
Homeowners Kimberly and Jim Bauman recount, "Our house used to showcase pale yellow siding that failed to accentuate its true beauty. However, opting for gray-painted composite cladding paired with white trim has unveiled the house's exquisite original features such as the arched door, curved roofline, and prominent chimney, all while the charcoal-hued stamped concrete walkway, though not genuine stone, mirrors the same aesthetic at a more affordable price." This captivating residence, situated in Portland, OR, was erected in 1927 and spans 2,100 sq. ft. The chosen paint colors for the house are Sherwin-Williams' "Software" for the exterior and "Extra White" for the trim.
Gray House Goals
Located in Fairfield, CT, this house, constructed in 1917, boasts a size of 1,200 sq. ft. and is adorned with a cheerful yellow door, Software-hued exterior, and High Reflective White trim, all provided by Sherwin-Williams paints. Beyond the inviting entrance, the residence is replete with delightful embellishments such as decorative corbels, window boxes, and a picket fence, which collectively culminate in an incredibly inviting and charming abode.
Going Gray
Nestled in Greenville, SC, this residence, established in 1940 and spanning 4,000 sq. ft., exhibits a distinct charm further enhanced by its thoughtfully chosen paint colors: the shingles sport a Sherwin-Williams' "Flagstone" stain, while the trim boasts the pristine hue of "Polar Bear," and the front door exudes character with "Off Broadway," both from Behr. Notably, the gray tones adorning the cedar shakes are not a result of paint but rather a skillful staining process, adding to the adorably appealing exterior of the house.
A Multi-Gable Stunner in Charlotte
Residing in Charlotte, NC, and constructed in 1936, this impressive abode spans 3,244 sq. ft. and showcases an artful selection of paint colors: the house is adorned with the elegant shade of "Heron Grey," the scalloped siding boasts the warm embrace of "Grand Canyon Tan," the trim exudes timeless beauty with "Antique White," and the front door makes a bold statement in "Candy Apple," all by Glidden. Homeowners Michelle and Kelly Frenzel aptly describe their residence, noting its captivating multi-gable roof, two distinctive siding styles, and pergola-crowned porch, ensuring visual intrigue from every vantage point. The judicious use of gray tones across both siding styles creates a harmonious palette, allowing the home's exceptional architectural intricacies to shine prominently.
Double the Fun
Found in the heart of Jacksonville, FL, this contemporary gem, erected in 2012 and spanning an expansive 3,400 sq. ft., showcases a carefully curated palette of paint colors to achieve its inviting aesthetic. For those seeking to replicate this look, consider Sherwin-Williams' "Gray Area" for the second-floor siding, "Web Gray" for the first-floor lap siding, "White Sand" for the trim, and the vibrant "Nugget" for the front door. A distinctive feature of the home lies in its dual siding materials — the first floor flaunts lap siding, while the second floor's HardieShingle siding artfully emulates the charm of cedar shakes, seamlessly blending the modern construction with the character of its historic neighborhood. Enhanced by sunlit glass double doors and a welcoming pair of matching Adirondack chairs, the residence exudes timeless allure.
Pretty Painted Brick
Nestled in Montgomery, AL, this charming residence, crafted in 1941 and encompassing 2,900 sq. ft., boasts an enduring color scheme that has stood the test of time. The house, adorned with the dignified shade of "Tinsmith" by Behr, finds contrast and elegance in its "Super White" Benjamin Moore trim, while its front door and shutters command attention in the timeless allure of "Gloss Black" from Rust-Oleum. Homeowners Nancy and Steve Mitchell have maintained this gray and black palette, a classic combination that retains its appeal through the decades. Their commitment to this enduring aesthetic choice is showcased in their brick cottage, which has remained a cherished abode for over 40 years.
A Gorgeous Gray Craftsman
Gracing the landscape of Portland, OR, this historical treasure, erected in 1910 and spanning 3,700 sq. ft., encapsulates the essence of timeless elegance. The house itself boasts a dignified "Gray" hue, harmoniously complemented by a welcoming "New London Burgundy" front door, a tasteful "Waynesboro Taupe" trim, and a striking "Blackberry Punch" half-timber trim — all thoughtfully selected from Benjamin Moore's collection. Homeowners Margaret Beam and Nathan Rutman express their admiration for the vintage allure of their Craftsman bungalow, which boasts an array of captivating elements such as cedar shake siding, artful half-timber trim, and wood corbel-adorned eaves, collectively contributing to the exterior's distinct character. The infusion of a rich cranberry shade into the palette — alongside the true gray, navy, and taupe tones — imbues the residence with a cozy warmth that complements its original charm.
Nestled in the heart of Providence, RI, this vintage gem, erected in 1929 and encompassing 2,000 sq. ft., radiates its unique personality through a carefully curated selection of paint colors. The house itself boasts the captivating "Unique Gray," while the front door bursts forth in the vibrant hue of "Awesome Violet," the trim elegantly adorned with "Extra White," and the shutters carrying the dignified "Tricorn Black," all sourced from Sherwin-Williams' palette. Homeowners Christine Lamar and Thomas J. Skouras recount their journey from a sage green exterior to the current sophisticated gray with subtle violet undertones. This new palette thoughtfully captures the hues of the catmint in the yard, with the poppy purple door serving as a focal point. The unity is further extended to the porch ceiling, which shares the same enchanting shade, resulting in a harmonious and inviting aesthetic.
A Stately Colonial
Gracefully situated in Pasadena, CA, this vintage dwelling, built in 1923, emanates a sense of timelessness through its meticulously chosen paint colors. The siding boasts the refined "Bunglehouse Gray" from Sherwin-Williams, while the trim exudes an inviting warmth with "Swiss Coffee" from Dunn-Edwards. Black shutters and a stately "Rembrandt Red" front door, both by Fine Paints of Europe, add depth and contrast to the palette. Homeowners Michele and Michael Downing articulate their deliberate selection of black, white, and gray, establishing a foundation for a perpetually elegant color scheme that resonates with the home's dignified aura. The front door's striking cranberry shade serves to punctuate the palette, offering a classic yet vibrant touch that impeccably aligns with the Colonial-style essence of the house.
A North Carolina Craftsman
Nestled in Wilmington, NC, this residence, constructed in 1997, exudes a timeless charm through a thoughtfully chosen array of paint colors. The siding showcases the gentle elegance of "Winter Day" from Behr, while the trim exudes pristine simplicity in "Simply White." The side door stands out with a welcoming touch of "Coral Gables," sourced from Benjamin Moore. The gray siding and roof are energized by delightful pops of coral, gracing both the front door and a quaint bench, infusing the exterior with an extra touch of vitality. Further enhancing the visual allure are the classic Craftsman columns anchored on rustic brick bases, contributing to the overall charm and character of the residence.
A Totally Gray Tudor
Nestled in the picturesque setting of St. Paul, MN, this enchanting Tudor, dating back to 1928 and encompassing 1,700 sq. ft., beautifully defies expectations with its meticulously curated palette of paint colors. The house itself radiates sophistication in the dignified shade of "Metropolis," while the storm door and trim seamlessly merge with the urban charm of "City Storm," and the window trim delights in the soothing "Palisade Blue," all of which belong to Valspar's collection. This fairytale-like abode showcases the remarkable allure of a monochromatic color scheme, disproving any notion of monotony. Homeowners Erin and Tim Kjar share their journey from initial hesitation to the realization that the monochrome concept, when combined with vibrant yard elements and a rejuvenated storm door, encapsulates an ethereal and truly magical ambiance that transforms their residence into a captivating storybook-like haven.
A Cute Cottage With a Dash of Blue
Gracing the landscape of St. Paul, MN, this charming cottage, established in 1946 and encompassing 2,000 sq. ft., captures the essence of a storybook with its meticulously selected palette of paint colors. The house itself is cloaked in the alluring shade of "Eclipse," while the shutters and trim radiate a pristine elegance with "White Ice." The standout element, an inviting "Athens Blue" front door, adds a pop of cool undertones that harmoniously complements the gray siding. Climbing ivy further enhances the exterior, enveloping the residence in an ultra-cozy ambiance that effortlessly embodies the charm of a storybook setting.
Plenty of Visual Interest
Embracing the beauty of Boise, ID, this timeless dwelling, erected in 1947 and encompassing 3,180 sq. ft., resonates with character through its carefully chosen paint colors. The front door radiates warmth in "Hearty Orange," while the siding boasts the sophisticated hue of "Classic French Gray." A touch of depth is added through the "Gauntlet Gray" board and batten siding, while the trim elegantly frames the ensemble in "Extra White" — all thoughtfully selected from Sherwin-Williams' palette. Homeowners Catie and Will Wardwell share their transformative journey, discarding the previous taupe and cream palette for a captivating two-shades-of-gray scheme, expertly accentuating the varied siding styles — clapboard, board-and-batten, and cedar shakes — to create a harmonious yet distinctive exterior that exudes an undeniable charm.
Looking Good in Gray
Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, AL, this historic gem, dating back to 1939 and spanning 2,500 sq. ft., embraces a carefully selected array of paint colors that effortlessly enhance its allure. For those seeking to emulate the look, consider Sherwin-Williams' "Gray Shingle" for the siding, while the doors exude a delightful charm in the "Beacon Hill Damask" shade from Benjamin Moore. The neutral gray siding serves as the perfect backdrop, allowing the climbing vines to flourish and the pair of doors, painted in a captivating green-ish yellow hue, to take center stage. This composition artfully showcases the balance between a serene neutral and a vibrant accent, creating an inviting and visually captivating exterior.
Gray Siding Paired With Cedar Shakes
Set against the backdrop of Boise, ID, this contemporary dwelling, established in 2001 and spanning 2,400 sq. ft., is a study in careful color curation. For those aiming to replicate the appearance, consider a siding color akin to "Web Gray," while the front door asserts its presence in the vibrant "Decisive Yellow" from Sherwin-Williams. Homeowners Elizabeth Bisgard and Gabriel Hamilton celebrate the distinctiveness of their abode, attributing it to the compelling fusion of gray siding and natural cedar shingles, with special appreciation for the captivating stone piers. The standout quality of the door, adorned in an unmissable yellow hue, provides a captivating contrast against the dark exterior, further contributing to the residence's unique and inviting aesthetic.
A Light Gray Stucco Number
Gracing the landscape of Lexington, KY, this historic gem, erected in 1908 and sprawling over 4,000 sq. ft., radiates elegance through a meticulously selected array of paint colors. To capture a similar look, consider the stately "Cement Gray" for the stucco, "French Canvas" for the trim, "Ebony Slate" for the shutters, and the bold "Million Dollar Red" by Benjamin Moore for the front door. The residence's inherent beauty is accentuated by its grand portico and stucco exterior, both of which contribute to its allure. The color scheme, characterized by light gray, black, and ivory tones, alongside the classic red front door, enhances the sense of grandeur that permeates the property. Amidst this refined exterior, an edible garden adds a touch of wild charm, completing the enchanting ambiance.
Three Tiers of Greige
Nestled in the heart of Seattle, this contemporary gem, erected in 2004 and encompassing 2,210 sq. ft., stands as a tribute to both happenstance and careful color curation. The upper shingles exhibit the welcoming "Smoke Tree" hue, while the middle siding emanates the inviting warmth of "Caribou," and the low shingles showcase the timeless elegance of "Belvedere Tan," all thoughtfully selected from Sherwin-Williams' range of stain colors. Homeowner Clara Chesterman's fortuitous discovery of the house's construction led to a lasting affection for the property. The wood siding, enriched by its palette of warm colors, combined with the charming multipaned windows, collectively bestow a wealth of character upon the residence, making it a truly captivating and beloved abode.
Nestled in picturesque Healdsburg, CA, this charming dwelling, established in 1986 and encompassing 1,618 sq. ft., showcases an exquisite pairing of paint colors. The house itself exudes timeless elegance in the rich "Hale Navy," while the front door boasts the inviting allure of "Damask Gold," both sourced from Benjamin Moore's palette. Demonstrating the enduring appeal of the gray and yellow color combination, this California home takes it up a notch by incorporating crisp white trim, thereby creating a sophisticated and visually appealing exterior that stands as a testament to the power of well-chosen color combinations.
A Classic Colonial With Brick
Situated in the heart of Milwaukee, WI, this Colonial-style dwelling, spanning 1,850 sq. ft., epitomizes a tasteful transformation through the selection of its paint colors. The siding now proudly flaunts the refined shade of "Fashion Gray," while the front door and shutters command attention in the captivating "Aubergine," both sourced from Behr. The trim exudes timeless simplicity with "Simply White," a classic hue from Benjamin Moore. Homeowners Vanessa and Tyson Mueller share their journey, describing the shift from an off-white and red scheme to the current harmonious palette. The transition to gray siding and scallop trim has been instrumental in enhancing the inherent beauty of the brick's color, creating an exterior that exudes a balanced blend of sophistication and warmth.
A Midcentury Modern Stunner
Nestled in Minneapolis, MN, this transformed residence resonates with thoughtful design choices showcased through its selected paint colors. The house now boasts the contemporary elegance of "Web Gray," while the front door introduces a lively touch with "Hep Green," both sourced from Sherwin-Williams. Homeowners Steve and Meghan Modrow demonstrate their careful approach, preserving the cottage aesthetic to ensure seamless integration with the neighborhood's architectural character, all while incorporating a twist of midcentury modern vibes. The updated board and batten siding, coupled with the sleek metal portico, contribute to the home's distinctive appeal. Furthermore, the fabulous new door harmonizes effortlessly with the surrounding landscaping, culminating in an exterior that embodies both a nod to tradition and a contemporary flair.
Light Gray and Gorgeous
Found in the heart of Kansas City, MO, this century-old dwelling, erected in 1912, radiates charm through its chosen palette of paint colors. The house itself is adorned with the understated elegance of "Escape Gray," while the shutters and door emanate a touch of sophistication in the dark allure of "Caviar," both from Sherwin-Williams. Homeowners Lisa and Curt Chase have skillfully orchestrated a symphony of pale gray siding, accented with black and white elements, effectively directing attention to the captivating landscape. The couple's devotion to their yard has transformed it from a barren space to a flourishing oasis that garners admiration from many. The vibrant color palette harmonizes with the natural beauty, breathing life into their home and creating a harmonious synergy between the exterior and the landscape.
Gracing the streets of Minneapolis, MN, this historic beauty, erected in 1899, emanates a timeless allure through its meticulously chosen palette of paint colors. The siding exudes elegance in the dignified "Amherst Gray," while the front door confidently stands out in the vibrant "Buckingham Gardens," sourced from Benjamin Moore. The trim, showcasing intricate detailing and accentuated by dentil molding, showcases a pristine "Superwhite," originating from Sherwin-Williams. The bold neon green front door adds a striking and stylish focal point against the gray backdrop, capturing attention and imbuing the home with an eye-catching statement. Enhanced by its detailed trim work and distinctive molding, the exterior is characterized by abundant character that seamlessly blends the classic with the contemporary.
Mostly Muted
Found in picturesque Bergen County, NJ, this vintage residence hails from the 1920s and delights with its chosen palette of paint colors. The siding is enveloped in the subtle charm of "Pewter Mug," while the trim radiates purity with "Swan Wing," and the shutters introduce a contrasting "Beluga," all courtesy of Behr's collection. The front door, in a fitting and not-too-bright "Awning Red," stands out as a cherished feature. Homeowners Linda and Bill Bradley express their admiration for the red door that graces their home, harmonizing perfectly with the soft gray siding and roof. This rusty shade of red adds a classic touch that resonates with the vintage charm while creating an inviting visual contrast against the serene exterior backdrop.
A Charming Cape Cod-Style Home
Situated in the vibrant city of Atlanta, GA, this historic dwelling, constructed in 1935, exemplifies the art of paint color selection. To achieve a similar look, consider "Dovetail" for the house, "Extra White" for the trim, and "Tricorn Black" for the front door and shutters — all from Sherwin-Williams. The uniformity achieved by painting both the brick façade and the siding in the same hue lends the home a sleek and harmonious appearance. The granite retaining wall seamlessly integrates with the original basement-level walls, creating an impression that it has always been a part of the home's design, contributing to an overall sense of unity and cohesion.
Nestled in Silver Spring, MD, this recent addition to the neighborhood, constructed in 2020, showcases a distinct personality through its selection of paint colors. For those aiming to replicate the appearance, consider "Whisper" for the light siding and "Gray Shower" for the dark siding, both from Benjamin Moore's collection. The dual gray hues create a striking visual contrast that adeptly accentuates the multitude of architectural intricacies present in the home. The contemporary touch is amplified by gray metal roofs adorning the garage and front patio, infusing a modern flair into the overall aesthetic. This new build successfully melds the classic with the contemporary, resulting in an exterior that's both captivating and memorable.