There are many challenges with creating an interior design for yourself or for clients. Colour seems to be one decision that proves to frighten people and create more stress. For this reason, people play it safe with lighter colours. Which you can still get wrong. But if you want to make a bold statement, when is it ok to paint your walls a mid-grey.
Define your interior style goal and colour scheme
Before you do anything in your space you need to define your interior style goal and colour scheme. This is a must do, not a nice to have.
So I’ll repeat this point, select a style goal and colour scheme, prior to buying absolutely anything for your room. When I commence working with a client this is what I do.
I can’t express more emphatically how this will ensure all your decisions about your space will be a lot easier. In essence, you need an interior design strategy.
The reason why this is so important is because there are certain interior design elements which lend themselves more to particular styles.
For example concrete is an Industrial interior style material not a Luxe style material. Another example is the classic colour for Hamptons style is blue and white, not pink and blue and so on.
So when you’re faced with a decision, if you have an interior design strategy, all you need to do is ask yourself does this piece work within your designated interior design strategy.
Then when you’re considering a mid-grey paint colour for your wall you can refer to your style goal and colour scheme and determine if it fits.
Natural and artificial light
To be confident a mid-grey paint colour will work, you need a lot of natural light. Alternatively, you need to like a moody vibe in your space, especially if you like low artificial light.
For my own apartment I chose the colour Mole Grey by Dulux, because of the abundant natural light the space received. Also, because base colour scheme was black, white and grey.

For client in an apartment in Southbank, I chose Teahouse by Dulux, firstly because the client wanted a moody aesthetic but also because of the abundant sunlight.

Another mid grey I’m currently working with is Grainger by Dulux. This is for current interior styling project in Glen Waverley. Painter is booked for early July.
This client also wanted a bold colour and lots of pattern in their space.
I think grey is a neutral colour, like white or beige. It can have cool or warm undertones. A mid (or dark) grey can add drama and interest and be an amazing backdrop for art.
For me grey is a sophisticated and flexible colour. While I think a light grey is a great alternative to white walls if you’re looking to make a statement then consider a mid grey. Especially if you have a lot of natural light. Good natural light is definitely the time when it’s ok to paint your walls mid grey.