Goodbye Grey: Anthracite Is Out. But What’s In?

Once the hero of modern design, anthracite grey windows and doors have been everywhere over the past decade. Sleek, sophisticated, and versatile, they’ve been the go-to choice for homeowners wanting to add a dash of contemporary edge to their properties. But, as trends inevitably shift, there’s a noticeable change in direction. The tide is turning, and people are starting to move away from anthracite grey. But why? And what’s replacing it? Let’s dive into this evolving design landscape, where the future is looking a little brighter…

The Rise and Fall of Millennial Grey

For years, grey has been the go-to choice – it was cool, calm, and collected. Enter Millennial Grey (or Greige as some like to call it): a blend of grey and beige that became the darling of interior design. It was everywhere: walls, furniture, and, yes, windows and doors. But it seems like the love affair with this grey-beige hybrid is starting to fizzle out. Why? Well, people are getting a bit tired of the neutrality. It’s no longer as fresh and edgy as it once was.

Instead, we’re seeing a shift towards warmer tones that feel more welcoming and personal. Muted earth tones, subtle pastels and even soft whites are taking the spotlight. These colours evoke a sense of comfort and warmth, moving away from the cooler, almost industrial feel that Millennial Grey brought to the table. This shift is also happening outside, with Painswick Grey gaining more ground as an alternative to the once-dominant anthracite. Painswick offers that contemporary vibe without feeling too cold or overdone.

Time to Change Colour

So, what does this mean for your windows and doors? Well, as anthracite grey is beginning to lose its crown, it’s being replaced by a new range of colours that focus more on warmth and individuality. Darker tones are still around – black windows are set to be hugely popular in 2025 – but are becoming more balanced with warmer shades. Rather than the sharp contrast of anthracite against the natural environment, homeowners are opting for Painswick, ivory, and even soft taupes. These colours complement both modern and traditional homes, offering a softer, more cohesive look.

If you’re in the market for new windows and doors, it might be time to consider Cream or Sage Green – especially if you’re in a more rural area where softer, more organic tones can blend beautifully with the natural surroundings. These colours are much easier on the eye and don’t overpower the architecture of your home. Plus, they make your home feel like a cosy haven, rather than a minimalist showroom.

Inside Out

The movement away from grey isn’t confined to just windows and doors. We’re seeing a shift in the way people approach the outer shell of their homes. Where once homes were swathed in anthracite grey or stark white render, there’s now an increasing preference for warmer brick tones, natural wood accents, and earthier tones. People are moving towards softer palettes that offer a sense of stability and grounding – and in the case of wooden features, a touch of nature.

The demand for painted brick in shades of off-white, creamy beige, and even soft green is on the rise. These colours blend seamlessly into both urban and suburban landscapes, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels far less clinical than the cool grey tones of the past. And with the increased focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials, natural finishes are becoming even more popular, further pushing grey out of the picture.

Express Yourself

One of the most exciting things about this design shift is the sense of personalisation it brings. No longer are you tied to a single neutral shade; you’ve got more options than ever before to reflect your personality and the unique character of your home. Whether you’re opting for sage green windows, rich navy doors, or honey-toned timber-alternative frames, it’s all about finding what resonates with you and what feels right for the space.

The beauty of moving away from the Grey Age is the opportunity to experiment. After all, the exterior of your home is one of the first things visitors see, so why not make it memorable? Instead of sticking to trends just because they’re popular, play with shades that create an inviting and distinctive vibe for your home. A bit of colour can add that extra charm and warmth that makes your house truly stand out.

Wrapping Up: A Softer, Warmer Future

In conclusion, the days of anthracite grey windows and doors dominating the market may be behind us, but that doesn’t mean that grey is gone for good. It’s just evolving, becoming softer and warmer, and offering homeowners more flexibility and room for creativity. Whether you’re updating your windows and doors or overhauling your whole exterior, it’s clear that the future is looking less grey and more colourful. It’s time to say goodbye to the cold, industrial hues of yesteryear and embrace a new world of colours that reflect a warmer, more inviting design ethos.