After four years of writing about living rooms, I thought I had drawn a firm conclusion on gray: It certainly wasn't my favourite.
While I admit, it looks beautiful in some homes, it wasn't ever a color I'd crave to bring into my own home. In fact, I dare say, I assumed the tone would feel dull and lifeless in my small apartment. That was, at least, until I saw Auston Matthews' stunning use of the shade, which changed my perception overnight.
In his gray living room, Auston pairs stone, industrial-style walls with a gray sofa topped with a cult-favorite accessory: A black and white Hermes throw blanket.
Despite being color-drenched in gray, the living space doesn't feel boring. Its varying textures create contrast, especially the textile sofa material against the harsh stone wall, meaning his space feels ultra-modern, and almost boutique hotel-like, in the best way possible.
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Understated yet elegant (just like Auston's sofa), this piece's understated design makes it a versatile choice for every kind of home. It features supremely comfortable upholstery and plush back cushions that add a sumptuous feel to its classic image.
These soft throw pillow covers, which come in a set of 4, are the ideal way to introduce a touch of grey into your living room, without the need for a larger sofa. It comes with an invisible zipper that provides a sleek, clean finish.
A Hermes classic, this Avalon III signature H blanket is just like Auston Matthews', only in a rare black, camel, and ecru colorway. It's created from 90% Merino Wool and 10% cashmere and has whip stitch edges in the ultimate nod to luxury.
As Auston demonstrates, knowing how to style a gray sofa is crucial, both in terms of its accessories and how it looks in the broader space. His arrangement has changed how I see gray, and it's all because of his styling. David Harris, the design director at Andrew Martin, agrees.
'A gray sofa is a timeless choice, but without the right styling, it can risk feeling flat. The secret? Layer in colour, texture, and personality with accessories,' he says. First up? Cushions.
Cushions are an easy and affordable way to transform the look. From bold pinks to soft powder blues, they instantly add impact, comfort, and character. Don’t be afraid to mix textures - think velvet, linen, and embroidery for a more dynamic, layered look,' he says.
Then, as we see in Auston's home, a beautiful throw can change everything.
'Gray is the perfect neutral base for seasonal updates. Warm it up with earthy tones and a chunky throw in cooler months, or lighten things with fresh whites and soft blues come spring,' David adds.
'By keeping your palette considered and your textures varied, a grey sofa can feel anything but boring - instead, it becomes a timeless anchor for your evolving style.'
Has Auston's space changed your perspective of gray, too? Let me know in the comments...
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