For The Millennials Who Can't Get Over Gray: There's A Colorful Alternative You Need To Try

Light gray color schemes in the home have had a hold over millennials since the early 2010s.It's even been given the nickname "millennial gray." Now, you may be asking yourself, "What is millennial gray?" Well, picture shades of cool-toned gray on walls, floors, and furniture, paired with minimalist décor, and an overall muted, monochromatic color palette. While this might sound slightly dull, there's a valid psychological reason millennial gray gained such popularity. It all boils down to people seeking a calming escape from the busy trends they grew up with in the 90s, such as the shabby chic and Tuscan farmhouse aesthetic. However, as homeowners look to incorporate more character and color into their space, the millennial gray movement is starting to feel like a trend of the past.

If you have an all-gray home and are ready to incorporate some color, consider a soothing earthy green shade with gray undertones. This would not require a full makeover and would allow millennials to keep that chill vibe. Gray-green paint colors are predicted to become the new neutral of the moment. As Sue Kim, the director of color marketing at Valspar (the company that named Warm Eucalyptus its 2026 Color of the Year) explains, "In the coming year, we will redefine our notion of neutral hues. Going beyond the classified color term, neutral refers to colors that set a grounding and inviting mood with the warmth that calms our senses."

One reason homeowners loved millennial gray was because of its versatility. Gray can be paired with a variety of colors, which makes decorating your home seamless and easy. By choosing a shade of green with gray undertones, you'll achieve a similar effect. And another bonus of a gray-green color scheme is that it will likely pair well with your existing gray décor. So, if you want to ease into a more vivid look, incorporating shades of gray-green may be the way to go.

On the other hand, if you're ready for a full color palette revamp, there are hues that look fantastic paired with a gray-green shade. Warm neutrals like off-white, creamy beige, khaki, or taupe balance out the cool undertones of gray-green — think shades like Sherwin-Williams' Neutral Ground or Dried Edamame. For those looking for even more color, dusty pink and soft terracotta pair beautifully with gray-green tones, creating an earthy color combination that adds warmth and elegance to your home. Consider a warm brown or a cool blue shade, such as Valspar's Degas Blue, for more of a moody vibe. As for materials, a gray-green color palette looks elegant with warm wood tones, such as oak or walnut, and with metals like brass and gold. For example, the warmth of a walnut butcher block countertop in the kitchen can soften gray-green-painted cabinetry, while metallic accents introduce a touch of sophistication and industrial edge.