Plus, they also offer alternative options for each.

“Charcoal gray was once the go-to for achieving that dramatic, sophisticated look,” he says.

“However, its become so prevalent in recent years that it now feels expected.”

gray living room

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This evokes a mood that feels closed-off and stifling.

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His go-tos aredark olive greenor terracotta.

dark gray living room

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She recalls seeing it countless times in use as an accent wall (anothervery outdated trend).

In fact, she highly recommendspale bluein a living room setting.

“But this stark shade can feel clinical, particularly in a space meant for gathering and relaxing.

Navy living room

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The trend toward warmer, more inviting spaces has made the cool white look feel too austere.”

However, Vanderford says you don’t have to entirely avoid white as a wall treatment.

Warm,off-white paintwith subtle undertones of beige or cream is a great alternative in his book.

White living room

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Teal living room

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