Olivia Munn’s Kitchen Quietly Settles the Neutral Debate – Why Gray May Be the Most Exciting Color Designers Are Using Right Now

Olivia Munn's glossy gray cabinets and grainy, wood drawers prove that gray is one of the most versatile and visually appealing neutrals to play with

Olivia Munn
(Image credit: Photo by Gregg DeGuire/WWD via Getty Images)

Gray gets a bad rep, but when used strategically, it can be just as exciting as any of the more beloved soft neutrals or earth tones.

Need proof? Look no further than Olivia Munn's home, where the color reigns supreme via glossy kitchen cabinets and wood drawers. Decorating with gray can be controversial. However, the key factor keeping this light gray shade appealing is its varied texture: the sheen of the upper cabinets combined with the grain of the lower ones maintains visual interest.

Shop the Gray Kitchen Edit

According to design experts, gray's versatility lies in its soothing properties, as well as its chameleonic compatibility with other colors.

'Gray is inherently calming, providing a serene canvas that can transform any room into a peaceful retreat,' designer Nina Lichtenstein states.

'Its subtlety allows for a restful environment, perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and even home offices where focus and relaxation are paramount. Lighter shades of gray evoke a sense of spaciousness and airiness, enhancing natural light and making small spaces feel more open and inviting. On the other hand, darker grays introduce drama and intimacy, ideal for creating cozy, cocoon-like environments that envelop you in comfort.'

To recreate Olivia's look in your own kitchen, opt for textured gray pieces, like this marble catchall tray from Studio McGee's Target collection, or this stunning, charcoal terracotta jug from McGee & Co. These waffle towels are also an excellent pick and would look fantastic hanging from an oven door for some subtle softness. With this color, you really can't go wrong – just ask Olivia.


Hannah Ziegler
News Editor

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.

Her love of film is rivaled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.