French Gray

Why French Gray owns kitchen cabinetry

French Gray straddles sage and stone. On cabinetry it feels premium without shouting, and on walls it behaves like a neutral that still has personality. In daylight it leans leafy; under evening pendants it softens to a calm greige, which is why it flatters brass hardware, veined marble, and even matt black details.

Because it carries both green and grey, French Gray can bridge contrasting materials—oak flooring, quartz counters, black-framed glazing—all in the same space. For tonal layering, pair it with Pigeon or Treron on lower units, then keep walls light with Old White.

Testing dupes and choosing finishes

Dupe hunting hinges on undertone control. Paint sample boards, prop them next to countertops and flooring, and observe them through cool morning and warm evening light. If the shade swings khaki or blue, it won’t give that balanced calm. For cabinetry and doors, specify durable satin or specialist cabinet paints; for walls, washable matt or estate emulsion keeps the finish velvety while tolerating splashes.

Sprayed finishes show imperfections easily, so sand between coats and use tinted primer to prevent patchiness. When combining French Gray with other neutrals, match sheen levels so subtle colour differences feel intentional rather than accidental.

Where French Gray excels

Beyond kitchens, this shade sings in boot rooms, pantries, home offices, and layered living rooms. Use it on interior doors or stair balustrades to introduce depth without resorting to charcoal. For exteriors, it’s elegant on front doors or timber cladding, especially when framed by Portland stone or red brick. The trade-off: satin finishes show fingerprints, so keep a soft cloth handy for high-touch zones. Style the look with unlacquered brass, woven pendants, botanical textiles, and smoked glass; French Gray will keep the palette cohesive while letting textures and hardware shine.