The Best Dark Gray Paint Colors for Cabinets & Vanities
Shades of Gray for Kitchen Cabinets/Bathroom Vanity
Hands-down, gray was a popular color for cabinets in previous years (with navy blue coming in a hot second). However, shifting trends have introduced much warmer colors.
So, where does this leave gray?
Like me squatting in the forest with no toilet paper, this leaves gray in an interesting position. The thing is, many countertops suit a darker gray cabinet color. And while light gray cabinets are no longer in style (if you worry about trends, if not, ignore me), dark grays are still showing up.
These grays all have green undertones (some more than others)
However, it’s alllll in the undertones.
Whether you’re looking at light, medium, or dark gray paint colors, grays have undertones of blue, green, purple, or a blend. There are also cool grays and warm grays. And you don’t get to pick which undertone or temperature you want…
Your countertop and backsplash call the shots when it comes to paint colors. Once you figure out which gray undertones the suit, you can explore colors.
If you like these two, you love stronger blue and green hues (SW Tin Lizzie & Cadet)
But, how on earth do you pick from all of those grays? Warm gray, cool gray, blue-gray, greige-gray, green-gray – HELLS BELLS! Thank goodness you have your own personal, expert Color Consultant tucked in your back pocket (and don’t worry, I don’t pinch…unless you ask nicely).
1. BENJAMIN MOORE AMHERST GRAY HC-167
Amherst Gray is a solid, medium-dark charcoal gray paint color with an LRV of 18.8, so it has some serious meat on its bones.
Amherst Gray usually settles as a nice, moderate gray; not overly warm, but definitely not cold. It can also pick up a subtle green undertone.
This glorious shade of gray often suits some of the older granite and laminate countertops. It’s less likely to suit most of the modern white and off-white quartz countertops.
While this is a fireplace surround, not a cabinet, it’s a good example of Amherst Gray’s undertone and is painted in the same sheen as cabinet paint (satin)…
Note that it’s receiving a good amount of natural and artificial lighting.
COLORS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO AMHERST GRAY
It makes no sense to sample one single color when a tweak in depth, undertones, or temperature could make ALL the difference. Here are a few alternatives to explore…
- Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray, which is a bit lighter than Amherst Gray (and very popular)
- Benjamin Moore Kendall Charcoal, a wicked dark charcoal
- Sherwin Williams Classic French Gray
FULL Paint Colour Review of Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray
2. BENJAMIN MOORE METROPOLIS CC-546
If the grays you’re looking at are too cool, a soft, warm gray like Metropolis could be the perfect fit, offering a softer, warmer approach.
This is a gray as Metropolis EVER looks.
One of the many things I love about Metropolis is that it tiptoes the line between warm gray and taupe, making it extremely versatile. This also makes it a contender when trying to update some of the older granite countertops by repainting their cabinets (early 2000s).
As for depth, Metropolis has an LRV of 23.
PAINT COLORS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO METROPOLIS
- Sherwin Williams Dovetail (which we’ll look at shortly) is one of the best alternatives to Metropolis
- I also love the darker look of Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray (coming up).
- Should you step into a warmer, more taupe-inspired hue like Sherwin Williams Elephant Ear? You won’t know until you try!
FULL Paint Colour Review of Benjamin Moore Metropolis
3. SHERWIN WILLIAMS GAUNTLET GRAY 7019
COME TO MOMMA! Gauntlet Gray is a wicked dark gray with a warm backdrop that seems to hit the spot with a wide range of quartz, granite, and laminate countertops.
The above kitchen island is painted Benjamin Moore Chelsea Gray, and the undertones don’t suit the flecks in the granite. The soft warmth of Gauntlet Gray is a better choice.
This next older oak kitchen from the 1980s or 90s was ready for a facelift…
Although a drawer is missing, it’s easy to see how great it will look!
Gauntlet Gray has an LRV of 17, making it a medium-dark shade of warm gray.
COLORS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO GAUNTLET GRAY
- While Sherwin Williams Dovetail doesn’t have the same depth, it’s a similar-looking shade of gray, just a bit lighter.
- I’d sample the previously mentioned Benjamin Moore Metropolis (#2).
FULL Paint Color Review of Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray
4. BENJAMIN MOORE CHARCOAL SLATE
It’s up for debate whether Charcoal Slate is a dark gray with a blue undertone or a dark blue with a ton of gray – you do you, boo. Either way, it’s friggin’ stunning.
Charcoal Slate has an LRV of 14.51, making it a moderately dark shade of gray. I don’t have an image of Charcoal Slate in action, but it could look something like this…
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COLORS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO CHARCOAL SLATE
Check out these colors to see if you love them more (or less) than Charcoal Slate – or even better, see what your countertop and backsplash think!
- Benjamin Moore Ashland Slate has a bit more blue hue.
- Sherwin Williams Web Gray for a touch of green mixed in with the blue undertone.
Here’s your Peel & Stick sample of Charcoal Slate...
Benjamin Moore Charcoal Slate Paint Color Review
5. SHERWIN WILLIAMS CLASSIC FRENCH GRAY 0077
Classic French Gray is exactly as it sounds – classically gray. Whereas grays tend to have committed undertones, Classic French Gray settles somewhat moderately, maybe winking at a slightly cool green, but not by much.
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With an LRV of 24, Classic French Gray is slightly lighter than some of the colors on this page, and way lighter than others. It all depends on the contrast and depth you’re looking for.
WHAT COLORS ARE SIMILAR TO CLASSIC FRENCH GRAY?
Let’s explore a few alternatives to sample and compare…
- Sherwin Williams Cityscape is an interesting color to compare.
- If you think you miiiiight want a touch more warmth, check out Benjamin Moore Amherst Gray (#1).
Sherwin Williams Classic French Gray: MORE IMAGES & Info
6. SHERWIN WILLIAMS IRON ORE 7069
Is Iron Ore a soft black or a super dark gray? It’s up to you, but regardless, it’s gorgeous…
Iron Ore has an LRV of 6, which is what stops it from being a more true shade of black (which are more in the 2-4 range). It also has a lovely, soft green undertone.
WHAT COLORS ARE SIMILAR TO IRON ORE?
Ooooh boy, there aren’t many colors that pick up what Iron Ore’s throwin’ down.
- If you compare it to Sherwin-Williams Tricorn Black, it’ll be easier to see Iron Ore’s softness (I recommend doing this with any dark color).
- If you prefer a blue undertone (or blue-purple) rather than green, check out Benjamin Moore Cheating Heart and Wrought Iron.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore Review: MORE IMAGES & Info!
7. BENJAMIN MOORE TROUT GRAY 2124-20
Trout Gray is another badass, beautiful shade of gray for cabinets or a bathroom vanity.
With a solid, medium-dark gray with an LRV of 16.41, Trout Gray grounds a space without being as drastically dark as grays with LRVs lower than 12.
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WHAT COLORS ARE SIMILAR TO TROUT GRAY?
You definitely want to sample and compare some alternatives, just in case your perfect color is a tweak away!
- Benjamin Moore Steel Wool is a bit lighter.
- Compare Trout Gray to Benjamin Moore Anchor Gray, as Anchor Gray can help you see the degree of gray in Trout Gray.
Benjamin Moore Trout Gray Review: MORE IMAGES & Info!
8. SHERWIN WILLIAMS DOVETAIL 7018
How could I wrote a blog post on the best gray paint colors without Dovetail!
Dovetail is one of the most popular shade of gray for cabinets, islands, vanities…and accent walls, exteriors, front doors, etc – it ain’t no one trick pony.
With minimal undertones and a warm undercurrent, Dovetail has been a popular choice for several years. It’s LRV of 26 offers a moderate, medium-depth approach to warm gray.
COLORS SIMILAR TO DOVETAIL
If you’re thinking about using Dovetail, I highly recommend comparing it to these interesting alternatives…
- Benjamin Moore Metropolis for SURE (#2)
- Sherwin Williams Gauntlet Gray (#3) for a slightly darker look
Sherwin Williams Dovetail: FULL Paint Color Review
IF YOU LOVE DARK GRAYS WITH A BLUE OR PURPLE UNDERTONE
Check out my CURATED COLOR BUNDLE including shades like Charcoal Slate, Gray 2121-10, Trout Gray, Cheating Heart, & More.
IF YOU LOVE DARK GRAYS WITH A GREEN UNDERTONE
I’ve got a CURATED COLOR BUNDLE for that, too, including Grizzle Gray, Classic French Gray, and more!
IF YOU LOVE WARMER SHADES OF GRAY
I’ve got the perfect CURATED COLOR BUNDLE for you, including Gauntlet Gray, Metropolis, & More.
READ MORE
The Best Neutral Paint Colors for Kitchen Cabinets & Islands
Sherwin Williams 8 Best Dark Gray Paint Colors
How to Pick the Best Paint Color for Your Cabinets
The Best Light to Medium Greige Paint Colors by Sherwin Williams
Need help?
Check out my Online Color Consulting Packages!
Originally posted in 2017, updated in 2020
I absolutely LOVE the way you explain colors. Your posts are always so informative. I pin each of your color descriptions so I can keep the information. Wish you could explain ALL colors!!! If paint companies explained their colors the way you do it would benefit us all. Guess they make more money from our mistakes, lol!!
Been wanting to move to more neutral colors, but they just don’t feel right even when I pick from those listed in the pictures I love. Just finished re-painting a newly planked wall for the third time and still don’t like it. My problem is I’m trying to use the pictures/decor I already have and they don’t work with the colors I want to use. Budget constraints limit changing things. Most of my stuff is either red/golds of Tuscan decor or creams/dirty greens of cottage/floral. Oh well, am using up a lot of old paint by mixing colors! I love greens and would like to get rid of any reds, perhaps I’ll try the golds next and see if that helps my stuff work.
Keep up these excellent explanations!!
These are all gorgeous colors for cabinetry. I wouldn’t have thought to put Amherst with Grant Beige, but it looks like it works well. Thanks for another great post!
Thank you Beth! I think Grant Beige is a greatly underused, but super awesome colour. I find so many beige/tan colours overly yellow and this one is just so grounded.
Chat soon 🙂
Linda,
Perhaps you should consider investing a few minutes of your time to take photos…and then a few dollars to get superb ideas from Kylie. it would ultimately save you a ton of time, money and grief! … AND produce results you will love…and will have learned from.
What type of finish would you use for these paints in a kitchen when painting over oak cabinets? Gloss? Semi? Matte?
Great questions Rose! My FAVOURITE paint for cabinets is Benjamin Moore Advance in Pearl finish. I’ve tried the semi-gloss, but I found it a bit too reflective/shiny. We have the pearl on our kitchen and bathroom cabinets and it’s just perfectly wipeable with a small amount of sheen. Generally speaking, I find semi-gloss in MOST brands a bit too shiny and I’m inclined to go 1 step down.
Thanks for asking!
Kylie ~ Is that the Soapstone Sequoia with the kingsport gray? What is the countertop in your bathroom? Love both! Great colors…thanks for the very informative posts. I enjoy every one of them!
Thank you Valerie! With the Kingsport Gray, the countertop is Formica Silver Travertine which is a laminate. In our bathroom it is Caesarstone Bianco Drift which is a quartz that I’m MAAAADLY in love with. Hope that helps!
Hi Ingrid! That cabinet was just via a building supplier in Surrey. The local builders are able to get these affordably as they order a lot of them! It was then painted with BM Kingsport Gray…
Love your ideas and photos. Love the Amherst Gray. Just painted our vanities that color. Looking for a soft gray/white wall color. Most samples come off as blue. Any suggestions?
Hi Debbie! When it comes to personal questions, I have to give priority to my e-design clients. If you are interested, I can look at photos of your room/questionnaire and come up with paint samples that actually make sense with your room and it’s flooring/lighting/etc…, rather than just guessing at it. If this interests you, here’s the link… https://www.kylieminteriors.ca/online-decorating-design-services/
Chat soon!
~Kylie
Hi Kylie, I have relied on your blog many times for advice and it is always so great! Do you think a bathroom vanity painted Kingsport Gray would work in an east-facing bathroom with Edgecomb gray walls? Just wondering if you think Edgecomb and Kingsport would compliment each other well.
Thank you,
Jill Anne
Hi Jill Anne, I can’t see that being a problem at all! It will just be a more soft, slightly lower-contrast look 🙂
Hi Kylie, love your site! It’s been very helpful. I’m in the process of “neutralizing” my ensuite bathroom. It has a forest green counter and almond fixtures. I found a shower curtain (soft blue/greens, off white and a sandy color) with pattern and a bath mat which is a soft blue/green color which seem to work. I think I will paint the walls either revere pewter or gray cashmere by Benjamin Moore…leaning more towards gray cashmere….I also have tiled floors that are sort of a almond with almost a slight peachy color to them. I was painting the cabinets White Dove by Benjamin Moore, just because I have some on hand really, but find it a bit too white. Would you say either a creamier white or darker brown like Kingsport gray for the cabinets would neutralize those colors more?
Hi Amanda, off the top of my head without seeing photos I’m going to say a darker tone would be a bit better at blending 😉
Hi Kylie – do you have a favorite Sherwin Williams gray color for cabinets? I’ve read so much about Dove Tail, but it looks like it has purple undertones in it. I really like SW Hammered Zinc, but haven’t read or heard any reviews on it. My kitchen will be painted Repose Gray. Thanks so much!
Hi Kacy! yes, Dovetail (in the world of gray) can lean that way (vaguely so, but yes, compared to blue or green undertones). For a medium toned gray, check out Classic French Gray 🙂
Hi! In your opinion what is the best gray color to paint kitchen cabinets, with dark wood floors and tan walls? Thanks!
Hi Tracy! Tan and gray can be tricky as gray can have undertones that can flash with SOME tans. I might lean toward a warm gray (so it has some beige in it) and perhaps with a touch of green…if you’d like me to take a look at your home, you might like to check out my E-design it is affordable and fun – this way I can look at photos of your space and spend some time with it! There’s more to consider, such as exposure, amount of natural light, furnishings, etc…and I don’t like to just guess! https://www.kylieminteriors.ca/online-decorating-design-services/
Thank you for the info..on not stressing..I’m getting ready to paint
Sweet, I hope it turns out just how you hope!
Hi Kylie,
Getting ready to do a master remodel. We are keeping countertops and tile around garden tub which are a lighter tan. We will paint cabinets and do new floor and are wanting to do more of a taupe/gray feel. Ideas on cabinet paint color and floor color. I’m thinking of choosing cabinet paint color first and then moving on to choosing floor? Any ideas would be so helpful…. feeling overwhelmed!!
Hi Robin, thank you for your note! I actually have an E-design service just for this! I try to give as much complimentary as I can on my website, but if that doesn’t work you might want to think about sending me photos and filling out the questionnaire so that I can spend some time with your home! https://www.kylieminteriors.ca/online-decorating-design-services/
~Kylie
Loved your E-design help several years ago and have followed your blog all the time as I continue to update my house! Quick question, Kendall Charcoal. I painted my vanity that color. Can it go a bit green? Or is it because I have yellow light bulbs, dated cream linoleum, and cream counter top next to the vanity. (both of which will be replaced.) What white paint pairs well with it?
Oh you BET it can go a bit green, absolutely. As for teh best white, that’s ALLLL about the other finishes in your room and from the sounds of it, they won’t love a white so much (cream lino/cream counter). I mean, BM White Dove is a warm white, but even then…it could be a stretch :).
Hi Kylie: Getting ready to do a slight make over of our basement. Took out the bar area and am replacing with Bottom cabinets along the wall in that space. The problem is with the walls. They are Muslim BM and the bottom is wainscotted with white knotty pine that has turned yellow orange over time. I do not want to paint the pine and have decided to calm down the pine with the proper cabinet color and maybe wall color. I am leaning towards a dark grey with a touch of brown not a purple or steel grey. I do not want green or dark navy cabinets as over time I may tire of them. Which grey would best neutralize the pine walls. Thank you. Lynda Cody