Gray paint has become one of the most ubiquitous exterior paint colors, and for good reason. The shade is calming, versatile, and subtle, with benefits like concealing dirt and reflecting the surrounding natural environment. Though we've seen thousands of gray homes, Kristen Bell's somehow brings something new to the conversation.
We spotted the actress's exterior paint color in an Instagram post about her and her husband, Dax Sheperd's, F1 themed party. Behind their headband clad poses, we can see that their house has a traditional shape with a dark gray roof and matte gray walls. They contrast this sea of gray with black accents on the windows and a warm door color.
Experts laud their clever, timeless exterior paint color decision. 'Gray hues are a smart choice for exterior paint,' states Cory A. Ferris, principal designer at Cory Alisa Fine Arts & Interior Design. She continues, 'Gray is neutral and can lean cool or warm, or modern or traditional depending on its tone and accompanying finishes. In this case, Kristen Bell and Dax Shephard’s home supports a warmer color story with its honey-stained oak front door and bronze and brass window fittings, lighting, and door hardware. This scheme lends a softer, more rustic take on the gray trend.'
Bell's gray paint is also an excellent choice for its interaction with the surrounding landscape. This is due not only to the color, but to its flat finish. Pam Hutter, architect states: 'The matte gray paint choice lends an industrial yet natural feel to Bell's home. The flat finish helps the home blend into the surrounding landscape.'
For those considering applying matte paint to their own homes, Hutter explains: 'I often recommend matte exterior paints for modern homes in natural settings. This exterior paint trend is ideal for homes in coastal areas or mountain retreats. The gray palette complements natural materials like wood and stone. I've specified similar paint colors for many sustainable homes to create a harmonious connection between the structure and environment.' Ferris adds: 'Not only is a matte finish more sophisticated, but it is also less reflective, so it will help conceal any imperfections on the surface.'
However, in painting your own home, it's important to think about maintenance. Ferris suggests: 'While I visually prefer matte paint for interiors and exteriors, higher glosses help to repel water which is especially beneficial with exterior paint, so I would recommend a satin finish for exteriors as a happy medium.'
Though the look is a design trend, it doesn't seem to show any signs of abating. 'Over the last decade, gray has oversaturated some homes, creating monochromatic and even sterile-looking residences,' says Ferris. 'However, gray is here to stay as one of the top paint color choices as it remains neutral and versatile. This newer trend to pair natural woodgrains and metals that develop patinas with gray paint colors sensibly disrupts the surface and adds a refined agrestic component.'
Shop H&G Editors' Favorite Gray Paints
Durable, breathable finish for exterior wood and metal. It lasts up to 6 years and has a beautiful 20 percent sheen.
Aura Flat paint by Benjamin Moore is designed with 'remarkable durability' and offers an advanced way to bring color to life outside.
This pure, neutral gray is designed to withstand outside elements. We love that it applies easily and is washable.
Though the timeless exterior paint color and finish is undeniably stylish, it's important to consider what paint will work best in your surroundings. Hutter cautions: The style may not suit all home styles or climates. In hot, sunny places, the paint could fade more quickly and may require more maintenance to prevent disciloration over time. For the right setting though, this muted, nature-inspired look is ideal for crafting a stylish yet sustainable space.'
Kristen Bell is a constant inspiration. From her acting, to her singing, to her exterior paint color.
