Is Beige the New Gray? We Asked Designers for Their Thoughts

While it’s been predicted for quite some time that the ever-popular gray is on the way out, that certainly doesn’t mean neutrals are going away entirely. In fact, some might say they’re warming up… and the tones are getting warmer, too.

But with so many neutrals to choose from, which color will replace gray as number one? Turns out, beige is the favorite. No, not gray—beige.

But even if we see beige on the rise, does that mean it’s really the new gray? We spoke to two design experts, and they seemed to feel that yes, it definitely is.

Beige is more versatile than you think.

For years, beige has seemed underrated as boring or drab. But as Michal Rubin, principal designer at MR Interiors, points out, it’s actually quite versatile—and that’s just one more reason to love it.

“I love using beige when designing spaces,” says Rubin, pointing out that it’s all about how you combine them.

When combined with wooden accessories or furniture, this tone gives a neutral and minimalist feel.

“You can also create a modern and cool feel with pops of color in fabrics like window treatments, like light blue or bright pink,” says Rubin.

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Yes, beige color can vary

While you might think of beige as a specific shade, Rubin says that’s not true at all! It’s a color that can range from extremely pigmented—like a tan or camel—to much paler, like ivory.

“Like any color, the spectrum is very broad,” says Rubin.

Like gray, different shades of beige can look great together to create a monochromatic space. But in this case, it creates a warmer, softer look.

“For paint, choose a lighter beige so it doesn’t compete with the rest of the colors in the space,” says Rubin. “For accent or feature pieces, look for a darker beige for a dramatic effect.”

It is the perfect tone for decorative pieces

Home decorating and organizing influencer Kristi Howard says she’s really loving the rise of beige, especially when it comes to upholstered furniture, like armchairs and dining chairs.

“I’m also seeing a lot of lamps, ceramics, and tabletop photo books in beige tones,” she says, which is the perfect on-trend shade to add slowly if you’re still experimenting.

It makes a great contrasting color.

While monochrome rooms are still very trendy and beige works well with this design style, Howard says she likes to use beige as a contrast to black. It can be as dramatic as white, while also creating a softer, more welcoming experience.

“In my living room, I have a floor-to-ceiling black fireplace,” she says. “I have light beige chairs to contrast the black and add some warmth to the room.”

Howard plans to enhance this look with darker beige carpet and a mix of black and beige decor to create a dramatic and stylish space.

Beige is great in the bathroom

If you like the idea of ​​beige but aren’t sure how you want to implement the trend, Rubin says the bathroom is a great place to start.

For example, neutral floor tiles are a great place to start, and Rubin says anything large will automatically give any bathroom space a spa-like feel.

Speaking of a spa-like vibe, Rubin says she also loves beige with any wood tone—especially in the bedroom. “It feels so fresh and relaxing,” she says.