Gray Granite Countertops (Matching Cabinets & Paint)
Find out all about gray granite countertops, including matching it with cabinets & paint colors, the best paint to use, and the different types.
Gray granite countertops are among the most popular kitchen countertop options. They provide a classic design that can match any kitchen layout. Gray is also a flexible neutral color that can be paired with a wide range of cabinet colors as well as other decor and accessories.
Whether utilized for kitchen or bathroom countertops, the many forms of gray granite make a great impression. The additional benefits the stone provides, in addition to its beauty, are remarkable, and most are even long-lasting and low-maintenance. It is indeed easy to see why so many homeowners prefer granite.
Furthermore, certain shades of gray granite countertops can help to brighten up a gloomy space and make it seem larger. These countertops have unequaled dimensionality in a kitchen; they may completely transform your design!
In this article, we will provide you with a full overview of our best-loved gray granite countertops and why they remain so popular. We will also show you the different types of gray granite and paint suggestions for combining these countertops with the interior of your kitchen.
Types of Gray Granite Countertops
Selecting the ideal type of gray granite for your kitchen can make your home genuinely unique and classic. Below, you’ll find the different types of gray-hued granite countertops and their characteristics, cost, country of origin, and pattern variation.
Dark Gray
Starting with dark gray stonework, here are a few of the most popular choices.
Charcoal Gray
Characteristics: Charcoal gray granite uses light color specks to counterbalance the dark backdrop. It is extremely slip-resistant, rendering it a great option for non-slip countertop surfaces. Its cool tones provide a modern aesthetic that architects and designers prefer.
Granite slab sizes are cut neatly and are easy to lay. Certain dark stonework might have a slight white veining that adds aesthetic appeal.
Cost: $20 to $70 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: United States
Pattern Variation: Medium
Steel Gray
Characteristics: Steel gray granite is a medium-variation countertop stone option with hues of gray, black, and brown, as well as blues interspersed and specks of light grays.
This type of stonework is a tough stone that works well for both interior and exterior applications in both residential and commercial environments. See more types of black granite here.
Cost: $40 to $60 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India
Pattern Variation: Medium
Graphite Gray
Characteristics: Graphite gray granite is a contemporary granite featuring ash and silver hues. It has deep grayish stonework with delicate flecks to provide vitality.
This stone draws out the warmth of metals and woods while emphasizing honey and grayish-brown tones. Graphite-gray is perfect for use on kitchen countertops due to its firmness and durability.
Cost: $50 to $60 per square foot (2.2 to 3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India
Pattern Variation: Low
Light Gray
Here are a few of the most popular light-gray color stonework.
Ivory Pearl Granite
Characteristics: Ivory Pearl stonework is a solid and durable stone with specks of burgundy and veining of beige, white, and gray. Its cool tone gives it a sleek, clean, urbanized appearance.
A granite slab has a substantial feel, great natural beauty, and permanence—and it is a snap to wipe clean. – Building Outdoor Kitchens for Every Budget, Steve Cory
It is precisely sized, cuts well, and is simple to lay and there is very little diversity between slabs. The slab surfaces have a trace of mica, which shine under direct sunlight or illumination.
Cost: $30 to $50 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: Brazil
Pattern Variation: Low
Fantasy Gray
Characteristics: Fantasy gray is a rich dark gray exotic stonework with unique veins. It contains very fine darker grains, stunning gray splashes, and vivid brown veining on a cream backdrop. This stonework is a thick material that has been softly sandblasted for grip, making sure that your kitchen countertops will be a reliable surface for various tasks.
Cost: $35 to $50 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: Turkey, Brazil
Pattern Variation: Medium
Gray Mist Granite
See this gray mist granite countertop sample at Home Depot [sponsored link]
Characteristics: Gray mist stonework nicely combines dark and light grays with a tinge of warmer tones to generate motion and visual complexity, much like the sun breaking through a foggy atmosphere on an early winter morning.
Gray mist stonework has ripples of white and grayish tones with little black particles, making it ideal for constructing modern-looking kitchen countertops. This variety of countertops is extremely durable, making them ideal for both busy residential and commercial kitchens.
Cost: $30 to $40 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India
Pattern Variation: High
Gray Pearl Granite
Characteristics: Gray pearl stonework has a delicate black backdrop with gray pearls that have been twisted. It is a low-variation stone with brown, blue, and black hues as well as a faint flecks all over. The low-variation patterns on gray pearl stonework create a wavy overall appearance.
This natural stone material is suitable for individuals who prefer a kitchen countertop with balanced neutral granite colors and a serene look. The flecks on it impart a delicate touch that greatly appeals to customers.
Cost: $40 to $50 per square foot (1.5 to 2 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India
Pattern Variation: Low
White Gray
Characteristics: White-gray granite is one of the most widely known countertop options. It features gorgeous gray-and-white veins as well as lovely burgundy specks.
It adds a dash of color to your otherwise bland kitchen countertop. This is well-known for its fashionable look and durability. It can also be purchased in tiles or slabs.
Cost: $35 to $45 per square foot (2 or 3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India
Pattern Variation: Low
Gray Wave Stonework
Characteristics: Gray wave stonework countertops have medium to coarse-grained veins in brown, brown, gold, yellow, white, beige, and dark brown. This natural granite’s wavy design is also made up of numerous small black specks that are linked together.
These black dots are soft and dense, resembling river sand at the river’s bottom, and the whole aesthetic is incredibly harmonic. This type of stonework makes an ideal surface for both residential and commercial kitchens.
Cost: $45 to $55 per square foot (2 or 3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India
Pattern Variation: Medium
Silver Cloud Granite
Characteristics: Silver cloud granite is inherently gorgeous, resembling a thick snow cloud that produces a dense pattern over the horizon. Finely-grained silver and fog-gray swirl throughout ivory, alabaster, and white in this delicate and exquisite stonework.
This is a magnificent stonework with amazing flowing ripples of white-and-gray minerals. This extremely durable material is ideal for kitchen countertops and may be utilized in both indoor and outdoor installations, as well as commercial and residential locations.
Cost: $40 to 60 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: India, United States of America
Pattern Variation: Medium
Andino White Granite
Characteristics: Andino white granite is a lovely white-and-gray option with beige specks and charcoal tints. Andino white will offer you a bright and stylish appearance. It is both soft-looking and colorful all throughout.
The subtle gray and white granite color scheme stands out against the black woodwork. This long-lasting and low-maintenance stonework countertop is often available with a polished appearance.
Cost: $55 to $65 per square foot (3 cm thick)
Country of Origin: Brazil
Pattern Variation: Medium
A lighter color tone or speckled granite is an excellent choice for darker spaces with little to no natural light.- interior designer, Ellen Siloy
Honed Granite Finish
Honed granite is unfinished and features a low-gloss, matte finish. This is not the same as polished, which has a high-gloss finish. Furthermore, honed granite has a much softer, more authentic feel compared to polished granite. You will recognize it once you slide your hand across the surface.
Honed gray granite countertops are a widely known option among homeowners who want a more casual or weathered appearance. They are stylish, and modern, and can potentially add thousands of dollars to the total value of your property.
Manufacturers impede the finishing process just when the granite begins to shine. Therefore, you get that plain and low-sheen appearance. Because of its distinct appearance, honed granite has grown in popularity among homeowners who prefer minimalist kitchen decor.
Moreover, honed granite countertops come in a variety of colors, although grays are the most common. If you want to incorporate honed granite into your kitchen, it is highly suggested that you visit your local store to check out what they have to give. Every granite slab is different in quality, thus look around to get the best countertop for you.
The texture and color of honed granite are not quite as stunning as polished surfaces. The inherent detail of the stone will simply be less visible than it is with a polished surface.
Honed granite countertops are permeable. Not only can dirt, filth, oil, and smudges stick to it more easily but honed granite can also be discolored more easily. Even after sealing your countertops as instructed, they may still become damaged by substances like acidic drinks, red wines, citrus, and carbonated beverages.
Certain foods can also damage your honed granite surfaces. The greatest thing you can do is wipe up spilled messes as soon as possible. Failure to do so might stain the surface and perhaps leave black patches.
Honed granite countertops involve significantly more maintenance than polished stonework. You should clean granite honed frequently with warm water and a soft towel to maintain its appearance. Make sure to use a towel to thoroughly dry your honed surfaces which will keep wet stains at bay. In addition, each countertop will be graded according to color, veins, and patterning.
The grades of honed granite countertops are as follows:
• Low-Tier Honed Granite: Low-tier stonework is also known as commercial-grade natural stone. Such slabs may contain more flaws than higher-grade slabs.
• Mid-Tier Honed Granite: Mid-tier stone is of moderate quality. It is of higher quality than commercial grade but not as beautiful as top-tier stonework.
• Top-Tier Honed Granite: Top-tier stonework is the highest grade and has the widest variety of patterns, colors, and veins.
Polished Granite Finish
Gray granite that has been polished seems a lot smoother and more reflective. The gray-tones of the stone will appear more vivid, and the patterns, such as unique veins, flakes, and swirls, will be more visible.
This is due to the polished surface enhancing the appearance of the tones and patterns. Polished countertops are an appealing natural stone surface that can be added to your kitchen.
Truly, polished granites are the prime option for an elegant, smart, and minimalist appearance. It brings out the natural beauty of the granites, resulting in unrivaled luxury.
Polished stonework boasts a glossy, mirror-like finish that bounces light nicely and accentuates the granite’s uniqueness.
The surface always appears tidy and faultless, and the gray colors as well as the specks and veins, appear more vibrant and intense. Even so, the polished surface emphasizes the depth of the stonework and makes the tones appear more desirable.
Polished stonework has low maintenance needs, drawing many homeowners’ attention. The surfaces are extremely sanitary, simple to keep clean, and stain-resistant. As a result, polished stonework countertops make an excellent option for a high-traffic part of the house, especially the kitchen.
Polished slabs are quite common and, as a result, are very inclined to be always in stock. As a byproduct of their widespread availability, polished granite countertops are less expensive than honed ones.
Honed stonework is often more expensive, but because it necessitates more grinding than honed natural stone, the polished version makes logical sense to be costlier at times than its honed equivalent.
Matching Gray Countertops with Cabinets
Gray-toned countertops offer an exquisite appearance and are ideal for creating a smart and trendy kitchen. These countertops, which work harmoniously with both warm and cool tones, are a versatile solution for countless kitchen décor.
Lighter cabinet colors compliment gray countertops best, even though we are also seeing other colors such as blues, greens, and several other neutral tones in interior design.
Thus, we adore the wonderful variances and color veins in gray countertops, like uniquely patterned natural stone, because they provide a neutral background yet allow homeowners to accentuate their preferred color.
Here are some tips and tricks on matching your stone countertops with your cabinets.
Pick Your Preferred Kitchen Design: Gray-hued granite types of countertops complement a wide range of kitchen design ideas. The first step in picking which natural stone to select for your kitchen countertop is to decide on a design concept.
This will also assist you in developing your general color palette and selecting the appropriate material finishes for your cabinets and flooring.
For example, antique-style cabinets necessitate a rich and extravagant color combination; therefore, you should use these natural stone countertops with profound color or dynamic patterns.
Consider Complementing Accent Cabinets: Cabinets with a bright white or off-white backdrop complement almost every kitchen countertop color, especially gray-toned granite countertops.
Furthermore, the mix of these hues makes the kitchen space appear larger than it actually is thus, white cabinets function well in smaller kitchens. However, before choosing a white cabinet, we suggest that you choose a material that is appropriate for your personality.
Think About Achieving a Monochromatic Appearance: If you like tone-on-tone designs, coordinating cabinet and countertop colors will give your kitchen a unified and versatile look.
The minimalism of a monochromatic appearance allows various colorful accents, such as appliances, decorative items, wall paint, and so on, to stand out.
The key to achieving this appearance is to use solid surface countertops and kitchen cabinet doors that are the same color but one or two shades darker or lighter.
Soothing Beige and Cream Accent the Toned-Down Countertops: When contrasted to the cooler tones of white and gray, using cream and beige can contribute to making your kitchen feel more relaxed and warmer.
Thus, while designing with these colors, you can look for a cabinet that combines these warmer tones with the gray-hues that are present in your countertops.
Earthy Browns are the Ideal Complement: If you prefer the depth of darker kitchen cabinets, there is no doubt that earthy browns go nicely with gray-toned stone countertops with a warmer undertone. You can search for cabinets with a blend of browns, but do not be afraid to experiment with other color schemes.
Paint Colors That Go with Gray Countertops
Gray-hued natural stone countertops are a wonderful option if you want something new and exciting, mostly due to their versatility to work in various designs. So, do not be concerned about what colors will go with your silvery-flecked surface countertops. You are not as restricted by color matching as you might assume.
Here are some of the best paint colors to pair with this natural stone.
White
Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17)
White is undoubtedly the least daring of colors, but it is frequently a top option since it complements these countertops so beautifully. It looks well in both modern and rustic kitchens and exudes a sense of cleanliness.
• Recommended White Paint: Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17)
Black
Benjamin Moore Onyx (2133-10)
It can be not very comforting to paint anything black. Admittedly, black can make a room appear smaller than it is. Nevertheless, combining these countertops may produce a gorgeous, modern, and deluxe appearance.
• Recommended Black Paint: Benjamin Moore Onyx (2133-10)
Dark Or Light Gray
Benjamin Moore Silver Chain (1472)
Gray shades complement each other effectively, but although we have shown you dark gray with lighter gray countertops, the opposite would also work. This works equally well with matching gray with backsplash or paint.
• Recommended Light Gray Paint (for Matching Dark-Gray Natural Rock Countertops): Benjamin Moore Silver Chain (1472)
• Recommended Dark Gray Paint (for Matching Light-Gray Natural Stone Countertops): Behr Graphic Charcoal (N500-6)
Navy Blue
Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244)
If you want a less conventional or more modern color, you can select navy blue. Gray and blue go well together as they are both cool colors, and navy blue adds a touch of refinement.
• Recommended Navy Blue Paint: Sherwin-Williams Naval (SW 6244)
Pale Blue
Sherwin-Williams Notable Hue (SW 6521)
Pale blue cabinets appear completely beautiful against the rich hues of these stone slabs, a pleasant pairing that is currently the craze in architectural magazines and interior developments.
This nautical combination is perfect for beach hotels, but it may also be used in the suburbs to combine the indoors and the outdoors.
• Recommended Pale Blue Paint: Sherwin-Williams Notable Hue (SW 6521)
Green
Behr Laurel Tree (S390-5)
This is not a common kitchen color but can provide a unique and fresh atmosphere. Green has the potential to bring the outdoors in and frequently reflects peace and freshness. It also pairs well with granites.
• Recommended Green Paint: Behr Laurel Tree (S390-5)
Light Brown
Farrow & Ball Buff (No. 20)
Light brown might appear to be an unexpected color to add to an ash-hued stone surface countertop, but it is truly ideal for creating a warm kitchen ambiance. Numerous people choose brown kitchen cabinets with natural stone countertops since they are easy to keep.
They also do not require continuous wiping to remove those nasty dirt marks. Furthermore, light brown cabinets will contrast with the gray-toned countertops to produce a dramatic and inviting look.
• Recommended Light Brown Paint: Farrow & Ball Buff (No. 20)
Dark Brown
Benjamin Moore Middlebury Brown (HC-68)
Because of its distinctiveness, ease of upkeep, and minimalism, pairing dark brown with stone surface countertops has also become a design trend in kitchens. Dark brown is low-maintenance, very easy to clean.
It also adds a homey feel to your kitchen design. This color combination is a terrific starting point if you want to establish a welcoming atmosphere for your family with a relaxing and simple rustic charm.
• Recommended Dark Brown Paint: Benjamin Moore Middlebury Brown (HC-68)
Red
Benjamin Moore Chili Pepper (2004-20)
Bright red cabinets with ash-hued stone surface countertops can create an amazingly modern effect. However, if you enjoy the concept of red but prefer a more vintage design kitchen, burgundy red may be a better option.
• Recommended Red Paint (Bright): Benjamin Moore Chili Pepper (2004-20)
• Recommended Red Paint (Burgundy): Farrow & Ball Eating Room Red (No. 43)
Blush Pink
Behr My Sweetheart (RD-W03)
Pink and gray is a very unusual yet romantic and relaxing color combination that is heavily used in houses with feminine décor. This lovely combination of soft blush pink cabinets and gray stone countertops is indeed a great pairing, particularly for households with all-woman members.
• Recommended Blush Pink Paint: Behr My Sweetheart (RD-W03)
See more related content in our article about marble vs granite countertops on this page.
