Although gray is often thought of as a base or accent color, it has the power to transform any living space. Gray can be sophisticated, moody, retro, fresh, farmhouse, masculine or feminine. It can take center stage when painted on every wall and ceiling of a room or serve as a backdrop for colorful decor and bold accessories. Whether you want a calming, neutral space or a dramatic living room packed with personality, these gray designs from some our favorite designers and HGTV experts are sure to inspire.

Designer Brian Patrick Flynn used a palette of various gray tones to create a modern, yet cozy sitting room in the HGTV Dream Home 2022, located in the mountains of Vermont. A gray sofa is a smooth base for autumnal hued pillows, while darker gray armchairs anchor the space. Light gray paint on the walls (Stone Isle by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams) combined with extra-tall windows and skylights keeps the room light and bright.

To make her clients' small and disjointed living room feel bigger, No Demo Reno host Jenn Todryk used a moody gray on the ceiling, walls and built-ins to tie every element together. An area rug with lighter gray tones picks up on the paint color and makes the room feel more airy. The creamy stone fireplace, white curtains and matching white chairs provide a break from the dark walls and ceiling.

As a color, gray often takes a backseat in design, but one way to make it stand out is with wallpaper. This gray and white geometric pattern gives this transitional sitting room memorable personality. Paired with a gray tufted ottoman and a neutral striped rug, it also provides a nice backdrop for the camel colored chairs and fireplace.