In design, charcoal gray windows and doors refer to dark gray frames, which often add a modern feel to the exterior and interior of the home. At some point it was like that The Color for these architectural features is ubiquitous in design, but are homeowners now gravitating toward something else?
As we delve into this architectural trend, it's important to pay attention to which designers are choosing homes and whether charcoal gray windows and doors are still making the rounds in the design world or whether they've officially lost their flair. “Charcoal gray is characterized by its deep charcoal tone and has an industrial feel with a refined quality. It offers depth and drama while remaining softer and more nuanced than black,” says Roselind Wilson, creative director of Roselind Wilson Design.
But the question remains: has this design gone out of fashion? Or are we still experiencing a rise and shift towards modern design? To understand this better, I spoke to a few designers and architects and here is what they had to say.
Are anthracite-colored windows and doors out of fashion?
Anthracite windows are a modern yet popular window design idea and still seem to be on trend with many designers and homeowners. As for charcoal gray doors, we have seen them in modern homes that open onto patios and gardens. So if you're really wondering if this design has gone out of trend, the answer is no, and here's why.
“The trend has been popular in residential and commercial design for about a decade,” says Roselind Wilson, creative director of Roselind Wilson Design. “Although we are seeing customers prefer warmer, more neutral tones, off-whites and traditional hues that feel more personal and a little less ubiquitous.”
It is clear that this design still meets the needs of many people, although some still prefer calm color palettes in their homes.
Dan Staupe, co-owner of Compass Exteriors, tells me that charcoal gray windows and doors still have their place, but they're not as unique a choice as they once were. He notes: “I wouldn't say they're going out of style at all; they're just not as popular as a deeper black. But it still provides the darkness and contrast that we all love about this style. It's elegant and sophisticated, and people definitely won't stop choosing charcoal for their doors and windows. It's classic.”
What architects will choose for projects in 2026
As we've discovered, charcoal gray windows and doors are still all the rage in the design world, but there are several other options and statements that people are making in their homes. From bay windows for living rooms to a more seamless indoor-outdoor living concept with large internal doors leading out to the garden.
And Dan agrees: “Indoor-outdoor is still a huge design, so we're seeing a lot of big windows and sliding doors that are increasingly blurring the line between indoors and outdoors.”
He continues, “Let nature in, let the natural light in, smell nature and bring it in via plants and greenery. Windows and doors are minimal (you don't want to block the natural light) and made from sustainable materials when possible.”
Peter Miles, director and architect at The Drawing Board, says people are also gravitating towards subtle colors and designs. “Subtle sophistication is the order of the day; monochromatic facades with different shades of white, brown or gray,” he says. “Classic white mullion windows are also always a winner. The color (sage, red and more) is also very timeless.”
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FAQs
Do anthracite windows fade?
“Quality is the key here,” says Rosalind. “When manufactured with high-quality powder coatings, charcoal aluminum frames retain their depth of color for decades from the elements and UV light, but inferior finishes can potentially chalk or fade over time. Therefore, as with any specialty finish, it is important to find a reputable supplier.”
So remember to invest in the right supplier if you want your charcoal gray windows to look like new.
What are the advantages of anthracite windows and doors?
Aside from its modern appeal, Rosalind says, “In the right setting, the charcoal shade brings a bold architectural touch while appearing softer and more versatile than black, giving it a timeless quality.”
All in all, charcoal gray windows and doors are still a design theme, but if you are looking for inspiration to change your window in a specific area of your home, you can find further inspiration with these stunning and smart kitchen window ideas.