African Gray
Often used for its versatile qualities, African Gray remains a staple for Sherwin-Williams designers. It is widely considered one of the best colors in its class to add character and warmth to any space. We've gathered 8 real-home scenarios to help you visualize this color alongside our expert data.
Hex
#939899
LRV
30.98
African Gray's Color Strip
African Gray is the fourth shade on this 7-color strip, sitting between Network Gray and Software. The strip spans from Gray Screen at the lightest end to Cyberspace at the deepest. Color strip 235 groups these shades together so you can see how each reads next to its neighbors.
African Gray in Real Rooms
African Gray has a medium LRV of 30.98 — it adds real depth and will read noticeably darker as natural light fades. It's neutral in temperature and , making it adaptable across different lighting conditions and room orientations. Grouped in the Neutral family, the photos below show it applied in a living room, kitchen cabinets, home office, kitchen and dining room.
3 Living Room Photos
The beauty of African Gray in a living room lies in its versatility with textures. It provides a smooth, matte-like quality that contrasts beautifully against plush velvet sofas or chunky wool rugs. It's a color that invites you to stay a little longer, creating an atmosphere that feels established rather than just decorated.
Living room walls in African Gray deliver sophisticated, contemporary depth.
@affordablepaintingfw
Walls painted African Gray bring understated elegance to the living space.
@affordablepaintingfw
Dining room walls in African Gray create a sophisticated neutral backdrop.
@classallc
2 Kitchen Cabinets Photos
The depth of African Gray on kitchen cabinets is excellent for hiding the inevitable wear and tear of a busy kitchen. It's a practical choice that doesn't sacrifice an ounce of style, providing a durable-looking finish that remains elegant for years.
Kitchen cabinets painted in African Gray offer timeless elegance and versatility.
@nicolemariepainting
Cabinetry finished in African Gray provides a modern, understated look.
@nicolemariepainting
1 Home Office Photo
African Gray works exceptionally well with "warm" tech—leather desk pads, brass lamps, and wooden monitor stands. It bridges the gap between modern technology and traditional home comfort, making the office feel like part of the house.
Home office walls in African Gray establish a calm, professional atmosphere.
@building51814insc
1 Kitchen Photo
For smaller kitchens, African Gray can be used to create a "jewel box" effect. By painting the walls and trim in this same shade, you eliminate visual breaks, making the room feel more expansive and sophisticated despite its modest footprint.
Kitchen walls dressed in African Gray complement both traditional and contemporary design.
@classallc
1 Dining Room Photo
Using African Gray in the dining room allows you to go bold with your lighting fixtures. An oversized chandelier or a modern sculptural pendant will look even more dramatic against the rich, steady background of this particular shade.
Dining room painted in African Gray balances warmth with sophisticated restraint.
@classallc
