Charcoal gray is a sophisticated alternative to black and a dramatic option when compared to lighter neutral hues.

It provides a natural backdrop while still providing a pop of color.

Whenever you decorate with charcoal gray, incorporate plenty ofbright whiteaccents to brightens up the space.

Charcoal gray wall in center of decorated living space with potted plant on wood table and wooden seat in right corner

The Spruce / Michelle Becker

Below, we highlight colors that go with charcoal gray to help you decorate your space.

Choose a textured upholstery fabric, like tweed.

Then pair it with throw pillows and blankets in contrastingaccent colorssuch as yellow or white.

modern living room with gray couch

Ashley Montgomery Design

Use it sparingly, such as on just one dramatic accent wall or below a chair rail.

Charcoal tiles are a fresh way to add the color to your walls while still retaining a sleek finish.

The tiles break up the dark hue so that it doesn’t appear too heavy or monotonous.

gray and white marble wallpaper in bathroom

Erin Williamson Design

Like charcoal gray wallpaper, this dark-hued paint should be used sparingly.

Dark colors like charcoal gray can be surprisingly versatile if you effectively manage your lighting in the room.

Small or dark rooms will only look smaller and darker if coated entirely with charcoal gray paint.

kitchen with charcoal gray zellige tile

Brophy Interiors

Charcoal bedding can feel slightly masculine at first glance, but the secret is in the fabric you choose.

A luxurious satin or velvet fabric can soften the serious nature of charcoal bedding.

Layer crisp white sheets underneath the dark charcoal pillowcases and comforter.

living room with long sleek gray curtains

Gray Space Interior Design

For a feminine look, replace the white sheets with pale pink or lavender sheets.

Hanging a piece of vibrant, colorful artwork can help bring that much-needed boost.

The contrast between the charcoal gray and the brighter tones are a match made in heaven.

bedroom with charcoal gray wall

D Burns Interiors

Try Rustic Vibes

Arbor & Co.

Rustic themes in home decor pair perfectly with charcoal gray.

Opt for Modern Seating

Another theme that pairs well with gray is notably the modern style.

Charcoal can easily be incorporated into the scheme, whether midcentury-inspired or more on the contemporary side.

minimalist bedroom

Corner House Creatives

The key is surrounding charcoal with white or soft tones so it can really pop in the space.

Light wood floors allow gray chairs or other furniture to shine rather than fall to the wayside.

Using charcoal as a base color can work well in an eclectic, decadent-themed room.

bedroom with charcoal gray wall

Alvin Wayne

Bold patterns and muted hues can make a significant impact when contrasted against a solid gray wall.

Neutral colors have the benefit of allowing for diverse pairings and accents, and charcoal gray is no exception.

The Perfect Backsplash

Adding gray in small amounts can still make a big impact.

kitchen with gray island and cabinets

Ashley Montgomery Design

When working with the kitchen, opt for a gray backsplash rather than covering an entire wall.

From bathrooms to kitchens, the possibilities are endless.

Stone-like finishes or tones can make a shower feel dramatic yet sophisticated.

rustic living room charcoal couch

Arbor & Co.

Adding gold hardware into the mix brings the whole look together.

This gives the room closer to a farmhouse or cabin-esque feel, but the results are stunning.

From florals to stripes to zigzagpatterns can take a solid gray surface and give it new life.

dining room with charcoal gray chairs

Ashley Montgomery Design

dining room with charcoal gray chairs

Brophy Interiors

gray wall in eclectic living room

Erin Williamson Design

charcoal gray wall in bathroom

Brophy Interiors

charcoal gray accent wall in bedroom

D Burns Interiors

small room with patterned gray wallpaper and bedding

Erin Williamson Design

kitchen with charcoal gray backsplash

Erin Williamson Design

bedroom with twins beds and charcoal gray wall

Erin Williamson Design

bathroom with gray marble tile walls

Gray Space Interior Design

living room with gallery wall and charcoal gray accent chair

JK Interior Living

charcoal gray shower

Brophy Interiors

bedroom with wooden wall and leather headboard

House 9 Interiors

dining room with gray wall

Amy Leferink at Interior Impressions

shower with zigzag pattern charcoal gray and white

House 9 Interiors

office with charcoal gray wall

LeClair Decor