10 Taupe Paint Colors That Are Always Right

The color taupe sits somewhere between brown brown and gray, combining the warmth of one with the sophistication of the other. But don't confuse taupe with its cousin, greige, which lies between beige and gray. The two may have a lot in common but have a subtly different effect as paint colors. Either can have warm or cool undertones, but taupe is generally a deeper hue. Of course, color is always in the eye of the beholder, and many refer to taupe and greige interchangeably.

Depending on which taupe paint you select, it could have a slightly yellow, reddish, or greenish cast. How a paint color looks in your space is subject to the surface, light, and more. Pick up a few paint samples in the taupe colors you're considering, and swipe them on a small part of the area you'll be painting. Check back on the paint marks throughout the day as the light shifts throughout the space.

Taupe is a fan favorite for walls, trim, cabinets, and more—especially when a little cottage charm is needed. Here are a few of our favorite spaces that call for this warm and cozy neutral, plus the best taupe paint colors to help you get the look.

Related: You'll See These Interior Paint Colors Everywhere In 2023

Warm Up The Kitchen

We've got you covered—in taupe. This charming kitchen uses old-world elements paired with a gray and taupe palette to create the quintessential cottage look. Using cabinet hardware, such as a brushed bronze, completes this look.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Kennett Square Taupe (#HDGWN09D); homedepot.com.

On The Window Casings

We love the character that window casings lend to this cottage-style bedroom. Giving them a statement-making neutral paint job is an inspiring way to highlight easily overlooked architectural details. The white shiplap on the ceiling and behind the headboard makes for a serene space.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Make Believe (CSP-1035); benjaminmoore.com.

On The Cabinetry

Using one paint color and reducing it by varying percentages allowed the homeowner to play with the shade saturation while keeping a cohesive look. The almost ombre-style painting cabinets uniquely showcase your home's character in a modern way. Our favorite of the bunch? Trim and cabinet paint at 100%.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Pavilion Gray (No. 242); farrow-ball.com

On The Trim

The designer opted to paint the trim a taupe-grey instead of drapes, as it would overwhelm the space. We think it's perfection. Choose a satin or semi-gloss finish to make sure the frame doesn't darken too much of the doorway.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Antiquing; magnolia.com

In The Living Room

We love the one-shade-fits-all look of this space. The deep taupe walls keep the living room warm and thoroughly inviting, while the contrasting ceiling gives just the right amount of light it needs to prevent it from getting too heavy. Taupe is earthy, so forest greens and other natural colors work well for the overall decor.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Parlour Taupe (7003-1); valspar.com

On The Window Grilles

Painting window grilles with a neutral taupe doesn't inhibit the view. It ties in all the textures, colors, and surfaces found on the covered porch and pool deck in the sightlines beyond. This color works well on interior and exterior windows.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Tony Taupe (SW 7038); sherwin-williams.com

In The Bathroom

If you think taupe has no place in a bathroom, think again. We love the antique feel it gives these vanities. And don't even get us started on that deep green tub. Dreamy.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Smokey Taupe (983); benjaminmoore.com

In The Guest House

Deep taupe walls are just right in this tiny guest house. The light and bright ceiling, paired with the rich wood floors, hit just the right mix of warm and cool notes. Using this paint color near windows or a lot of natural light helps blend its rich tones with the others in the room.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Virtual Taupe (SW 7039); sherwin-williams.com

Use Contrasting Colors

Juxtaposed with these orange colors, the taupe paint color on the shiplap walls perfectly blends the energetic palette with the soothing neutral. Keeping the ceiling and window trim bright makes the room appear larger and lighter. Using a neutral like taupe allows additional decor to mix in various shades of the same color, and it still doesn't overwhelm the room.

Try a Similar Paint Color: Shabby Chic (1018); benjaminmoore.com

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