Zooey Deschanel's rare, unconventional doors are 'inherently calming' – designers say they tap into this enduring color trend

Zooey Deschanel is known as the queen of 'twee', which means her interiors feature vintage wonders and patterns galore. However, even the 500 Days of Summer and New Girl star and actor's quirky sensibilities can skew more sophisticated, as evidenced by her latest Instagram post.

We see the twee come through with some blush pink floral wallpaper in a hallway, but this is cut with a touch of elegant darkness thanks to some dark gray painted doors. An excellent execution of contrast, the painted doors ensure that the space does not lean too feminine or cutesy, instead feeling refined and mature.

Though gray is an omnipresent color through decades and trends, dare we say that it's underrated? Softer than black and bolder than beige, gray fits in perfectly with a variety of design styles and color palettes – and experts agree that it's a solid color choice.

'Gray is inherently calming, providing a serene canvas that can transform any room into a peaceful retreat,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Its subtlety allows for a restful environment, perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, and even home offices where focus and relaxation are paramount. Lighter shades of gray evoke a sense of spaciousness and airiness, enhancing natural light and making small spaces feel more open and inviting. On the other hand, darker grays introduce drama and intimacy, ideal for creating cozy, cocoon-like environments that envelop you in comfort.'

As far as compatible colors go, Deschanel has hit the nail on the head with her choice of pink wallpaper, and we found an exact match. For the perfect look, we're opting for her pink tree wallpaper, available on Wallpaper Direct.

'For a blend of elegance and romance, gray paired with blush pink creates a soft, chic, and feminine look,' Lichtenstein says. 'This combination is ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, or any space where a gentle, sophisticated aesthetic is desired.'

Not a fan of pink? Good news: Lichtenstein says that there are an array of other colors that work just as well with gray, while each providing unique benefits to the home.

'Gray and blue together create a sophisticated and soothing palette,' she says. 'Soft blues bring out the cool undertones of gray, while deeper blues add richness and depth. This pairing works beautifully in bedrooms and bathrooms, evoking a coastal or serene spa-like ambiance.'

Alternatively, 'Add warmth and energy by combining gray with yellow,' Lichtenstein states. 'Mustard or lemon accents can invigorate the neutral backdrop, providing a cheerful and dynamic contrast. This duo is perfect for living rooms and kitchens where you want to foster a lively and inviting atmosphere.'

For a classic yet contemporary look, opt for gray and white, or gray and black color schemes in the home. Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to approach decorating with gray.

'Gray’s adaptability and understated charm make it an excellent choice for any design scheme,' Lichtenstein reinforces. 'Whether you’re aiming for modern minimalism, classic elegance, or cozy comfort, gray paint offers a timeless foundation that allows your personal style to shine through.'

We love the above gray for its dark hue and calming properties, much like the doors in Deschanel's home. We can also see this shade working well in a bathroom.