How to Decorate With Gray Carpet

Select a color scheme that matches the color of your carpet. Look at the colors in your furniture and accessories and pull at least two favorite colors from them. You may want to add warmth to your decor with a color like yellow, red or green. Another option is going with cool colors, such as blue, black or white. You may also want to go with varying shades of gray for a monochromatic look.

Paint your walls with a color that matches your gray carpet and is a color you can live with. Off-white, light gray, white with blue undertones or the palest shade of yellow are options that will give your room very different looks. Yellow and cream are warm, they will brighten a room, while white, and bluer shades make rooms feel airy. If you have light gray carpet, go a shade or two darker than your carpet for a dramatic look.

Arrange your room with balance in mind. If your carpet is dark gray, you'll want to stay away from similar colors in furnishings, because they will fade into the carpet. Choose furnishings and fabrics with stripes of gray to help the room look unified but not too gray. Black furniture may be too much for dark gray carpet, but light-colored wood furnishings with colorful cushions will add interest.

Accessorize with contrasting colors to brighten your room. Red or yellow pillows or flowers in a vase are eye-catching in a room with a gray foundation. White or black lamps will add stunning contrast, and objects with metallic finishes stand out. Look for brushed nickel, chrome or pewter frames and candle holders to add appeal.