The Best Taupe Paint Colors for Timeless Elegance (2024)

If you're looking for a neutral paint color that has more depth than a plain gray but doesn't skew too tan, consider going with taupe. Blending warm and cool tones, it lends itself well to a variety of architectural and design styles. It's versatile and has a classic aesthetic that will seamlessly blend with almost any color palette. But with as many taupe paint colors as there are on the market, it can be hard to narrow down the right one for your space.

We asked design industry experts to share their favorite taupe paint color picks for all decor styles. Some taupe paint colors have warmer pink and red undertones, while others' blue undertones tip the scales towards a cooler shade. Some taupes are rich and earthy, while others are soft and sophisticated. What they all share is a timeless quality that will elevate any space. If you're thinking about giving your walls a refresh, take inspiration from these designer picks.

Tina Ramchandani is an award-winning interior designer based in New York.
Sue Wadden is the director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams.
Erika Woelfel is the VP of color and creative services at Behr.

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Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore

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For a go-to taupe that feels both fresh and classic, interior designer Tina Ramchandani recommends Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore. "This is a favorite of mine. It'staupebut it's brighter and more refreshing than othertaupeson the market," she says. Unlike some taupe paint colors that can feel heavy or muddy, this neutral is light and welcoming. "Because of itsairy quality, it remains a timeless color and I've been specifying it for years," Ramchandani adds.

Paint color: Edgecomb Gray by Benjamin Moore

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Poised Taupe by Sherwin-Williams

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Poised Taupe by Sherwin-Williams delivers the best of both worlds—the warm tones of brown and cool hues of gray. Color expert Sue Wadden calls it "a perfect example of a classic, warm neutral color with a modern twist". This taupe paint color can easily elevate a space and create a warm cozy ambience. "Not cool or warm, nor gray or brown, PoisedTaupeis a weathered, woodsy neutral that brings the sense of coziness and harmony people are seeking," Wadden explains.

Paint color: Poised Taupe by Sherwin-Williams

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Truly Taupe by Sherwin-Williams

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If you're looking for a calming neutral, Sherwin-Williams' Truly Taupe is the way to go. Purple undertones add depth to this taupe paint color, making it "a gentle and natural fit for making a space feel restorative", Wadden says. Use it to create a peaceful bedroom retreat or to give your bathroom a spa-like feel. Wadden emphasizes the color's relaxing properties, adding, "This warm neutral instantly washes over the room to create a sense of stillness where you can unwind from a long day."

Paint color: Truly Taupe by Sherwin-Williams

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Tranquil Gray by Behr

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To set a calm and serene scene, color pro Erika Woelfel recommends Tranquil Gray. It's a mid-tone taupe paint color that's an elegant neutral. "Behr's Tranquil gray is a taupe-gray that offers the ease and comfort of a hot stone massage," she says. A delicate balance of warm and cool, this shade is versatile enough to work in a variety of spaces. "Tranquil Gray brings elegance to a corporate office or residential living space, while offering great potential for versatility," Woelfel explains.

Paint color: Tranquil Gray by Behr

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Creamy Mushroom by Behr

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Creamy Mushroom by Behr is a soft and soothing taupe paint color that ushers in a warmth and a touch of luxury. This calming taupe has pink undertones that instantly infuses a space with classic elegance. Whether you want to paint a cozy corner nook or add sophistication to a bedroom, Creamy Mushroom is a go-to taupe that won't disappoint.

Paint color: Creamy Mushroom by Behr

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Flatiron by Clare

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Named after the iconic New York City triangular building, Flatiron by Clare is an updated take on a taupe paint color. Fresh yet timeless, the hue changes with natural light and deepens as the day begins to lose its brightness. The creamy blend of brown and gray gives it a luxurious edge and makes it a chic choice for walls, trim, and millwork.

Paint color: Flatiron by Clare

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Weimaraner by Benjamin Moore

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Ground your space with the warm, earthy tones of Weimaraner by Benjamin Moore, a deep taupe paint color that's equal parts sophisticated and relaxed. A rich blend of brown and gray, it's a cozy pick that exudes a calm and inviting feel. Its pink, red, and purple undertones give this taupe a unique warmth and brightness, making it an ideal choice for a gathering space. Use it on living room walls or in more private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.

Paint color: Weimaraner by Benjamin Moore

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Hardwick White No. 5 by Farrow & Ball

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One of the reasons taupe is so popular is that the blended hue fits a variety of styles, rooms, and color palettes. Whether you live in a historic home or a modern condo, Ramchandani suggests Hardwick White by Farrow & Ball. "This is a deeptaupethat doesn't take on a tone, which I love," she says. "I've been able to pair this paint color with many schemes and it adjusts very well to each." She explains the shade is versatile enough to blend with a variety of decorating styles. "It's a little 'chalky' and works with both traditional architecture as well as modern styles," she says.

Paint color: Hardwick White by Farrow & Ball

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