Over Two Years Later, Reese Witherspoon’s Gray-Green Cabinet Remains the Classiest Twist on the Traditional Gray Kitchen I’ve Seen – It’s So Sophisticated

The popularity of conventional gray kitchens is wavering, as many designers may warn us, but what happens when there's a twist on the once-ubiquitous shade?

Enter gray-green – the warmer, earthier alternative to the classic. This emerging hue is already favored by celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon.

The actress recently shared a glimpse inside her kitchen, which is steeped in this potent gray-green shade. Reese's kitchen cabinets and cabinetry retain the moody yet sophisticated feel we all grew to love about gray, but this autumnal-inspired tone offers a slightly bolder take on the cool neutral. Designers are quick to share their enthusiasm for this color as we transition into the winter season.

Shop the Gray-Green Edit

But what makes it so sought after? 'Gray-green exudes a soothing aura. The color contributes to establishing a tranquil and serene environment in your dwelling,' says New York-based designer Artem Kropovinsky.

As with all 'color trends,' you'd be forgiven for approaching gray-green with caution – but as the designer explains, this hue is more than a fleeting fad. Firstly, because its therapeutic aura is unlikely to fall out of fashion – and secondly, because it is so easy to get right.

Artem is not alone in his observations. 'Gray-green works beautifully in the home because it combines neutral, soothing, earthy tones,' adds kitchen expert and Nieu Cabinet's head of design, Teri Simone.

'Greens with a hint of a gray undertone make for a balanced color palette, and both provide grounding elements that can be emphasized with pops of other bright tones to warm up the space,' he adds.

To complement this tone in a kitchen setting, we recommend introducing vibrantly-hued appliances or a collection of bright-colored cookbooks to bring extra warmth to the space. 'Alternatively, soft linen curtains [like these from Wayfair] will create a subtle contrast.'

As Teri explains, choosing bold-colored appliances is one way to highlight this hue. However, there are even more ways to make this color work for you this season. Artem recommends introducing nature-inspired elements that work well against the grounding shade.

'This could encompass items such as floral, botanical arrangements, or a textile with a pattern that derives from nature,' he says.

'Also, remember to focus on your kitchen lighting. Appropriate illumination is crucial for any space, but it is particularly significant in a gray-green setting where you can accentuate its welcoming and warm tones,' essential for creating a sociable space this holiday season that is both beautiful and functional.