Set a Neutral Table with Gray Bowls

When selecting dishes, whether for daily use, special occasions or both, it is a good idea to consider the range of scenarios in which you'll use them. If you plan on investing in a single set of dinner plates and bowls that you'll use for weeknight dinners as well as more formal meals, it makes sense to opt for pieces in a neutral color palette and plan to introduce color, pattern and seasonal touches with your table linens and decor. While white place settings are certainly a timeless option, opting for gray bowls, plates and serving pieces is an unexpected and contemporary choice.

Gray Cereal Bowls, Pasta Bowls and More

Williams Sonoma's collection of gray bowls includes options in a variety of styles, materials and designs. There are organic stoneware designs, traditional porcelain styles, rustic earthenware options and more. Regardless of the style you select, you'll find that most are available both individually and in sets of four. If you're interested in replacing all of your dishes, Williams Sonoma also carries a number of gray dinnerware sets, which include a dinner plate, a salad plate, a bowl and a mug. Here are just a few of the gray bowls and dinnerware sets available at Williams Sonoma:

• Jars Pasta Plates - Inspired by the landscape of the French Riviera, these contemporary stoneware bowls have an unglazed exterior, which beautifully highlights the soft interior glaze. These artisan-made bowls come in a set of four and are available in almond, blue and grey. Microwave- and dishwasher-safe, the Jars collection can be found in over 180 Michelin-starred restaurants.
• Splatter Ceramic Italian Hand-Glazed Cereal Bowls - These handcrafted glazed earthenware bowls feature a bold splatter pattern that instantly adds a lighthearted, fun vibe to your dinner table. Available in blue and grey, these bowls coordinate with the rest of the Splatter Collection but also look great when mixed in with solid-colored pieces.
• Le Creuset Vancouver Cereal Bowls - These durable, glazed stoneware bowls feature Le Creuset's iconic three-ring design in a modern, streamlined silhouette. Safe for use in the microwave, oven, broiler, freezer and dishwasher, these gray cereal bowls work well for both casual and formal settings. A matching pasta bowl is also available.
• Pillivuyt Eclectique Porcelain Soup Plates - Available exclusively at Williams Sonoma, these Victorian-inspired bowls feature a scalloped rim with a shell motif that adds a hint of sophisticated whimsy to your dining table. Made in France of high-fired porcelain, these bowls are available in white and a soft dove gray.

Complete the Look

Once you've settled on the perfect gray bowls or dinnerware set, you'll want to turn your attention to the rest of your tabletop needs. Since gray is such a versatile hue, you won't have to work too hard to find flatware, glassware and linens that complement your new dishes. The undertones in the gray dinnerware that you selected will help guide your other choices, but you can't go wrong with traditional silver flatware and clear glassware. For an edgier look, consider opting for black accents in the form of your flatware and tabletop accessories like candlesticks and salt and pepper shakers. If you want to lean into a more rustic style, keep the color palette neutral and add organic shapes and textures - think a linen tablecloth, rattan chargers or faux leather placemats.