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Why Anthracite Grey is so Popular for Modern Homes
Lifestyle
Anthracite grey has become the defining colour for modern British homes. Recognised by its RAL reference 7016, this rich charcoal tone has redefined the appearance of windows, doors, and façades across the country. It’s the shade that homeowners, architects, and developers all agree gives a home a timeless edge, one that feels both current and enduring.
So, what makes anthracite grey (RAL 7016) such a dominant choice for today’s homes, and why are so many property owners choosing it for their aluminium frames? Below we take a closer look.
A Modern Colour with Lasting Appeal
The anthracite grey colour sits between deep charcoal and soft black, giving homes a refined finish that works well with natural and painted materials. Against white render it delivers a clean contrast, while on brick, stone, or timber it feels cohesive and considered.
Its popularity marks a shift away from traditional white uPVC, as homeowners now prefer anthracite grey windows and doors that offer depth and definition without feeling harsh. The tone works equally well on period cottages and modern townhouses, proving its versatility across both heritage and contemporary designs.
This movement reflects a broader design preference for calm, consistent tones that sit comfortably within their surroundings.
“Over the last decade, we’ve seen remarkable growth in demand for anthracite grey across our aluminium product range. Customers associate it with premium quality and confident design. It complements both traditional and modern properties and continues to hold its place as a trusted, long-term choice.”
— Steve Bromberg, Managing Director
Anthracite Grey and Aluminium
Few pairings define the look of the modern home more effectively than anthracite grey and aluminium. Aluminium’s clean edges and slim profiles allow the colour to take centre stage, as the RAL 7016 finish brings depth to the metal surface, highlighting the crisp lines and generous glass areas that modern homeowners value.
The surface coating used on anthracite grey aluminium windows and doors is applied using a durable powder-coating process. This ensures resistance to fading, corrosion, and weathering, even after years of exposure, and the result is a surface that maintains its rich colour and texture with very little maintenance.
For many, the decision to invest in aluminium is driven as much by performance as appearance. The strength of the frames allows for large openings and uninterrupted views, while the anthracite grey tone adds balance and character to the design. This combination of technical strength, aesthetic balance, and lasting performance has made it one of the most requested finishes across the Express range of windows, doors, and roof systems.
Bringing Consistency Across the Home
One of the biggest advantages of anthracite grey is its ability to tie the entire home together. The same RAL 7016 finish can be used across windows, bifold doors, sliding doors, front doors, and cladding, bringing a coordinated look that feels well considered.
Windows
Anthracite grey windows remain the top colour choice in the UK market. Their darker tone helps reduce the appearance of marks and streaks, keeping them looking neat throughout the year. The finish works across both aluminium and composite frames, and pairs easily with other architectural features.
Front Doors
Choosing an anthracite grey front door creates a strong first impression. Homeowners often pair their main entrance with matching aluminium side panels for a consistent frontage. The deep tone adds definition to porches and façades without overpowering lighter surroundings.
Bifold and Sliding Doors
The popularity of anthracite grey sliding doors and bifold doors continues to rise as more people look to open up their living spaces. The dark frames act as a natural border for outdoor views, drawing attention to the garden while maintaining a balanced look from inside. When open, the continuity of colour between interior frames and exterior finishes helps the whole space feel connected.
Aluminium Cladding
In recent years, anthracite cladding has become a distinctive feature of home extensions, garden rooms, and new-build façades. It provides a confident finish that adds dimension to external walls. When used alongside matching windows and doors, the effect feels unified and architectural.
Built to Last
Choosing anthracite grey aluminium products is about more than appearance; it reflects a commitment to lasting quality. Each product features a premium powder-coated finish that stands up to daily life. It resists UV damage, surface wear, and corrosion, ensuring the colour remains rich and consistent even in challenging conditions.
Anthracite grey is also one of the most practical choices for busy households. Its balanced tone hides small marks and imperfections, keeping surfaces looking sleek and well maintained over time. This makes it ideal for homes that value both style and reliability.
The benefits extend beyond appearance. Aluminium systems from Express are engineered for long-term performance, featuring advanced thermal breaks and high-performance glazing. Together, these elements help maintain comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year, improving energy efficiency while boosting the look and feel of your home.
A Neutral Shade for Every Architectural Style
Part of the reason anthracite grey remains so popular is its adaptability across property types.
- New builds: Anthracite grey contrasts beautifully with pale render, emphasising crisp lines and large glazed sections.
- Period homes: It updates older façades without losing character, providing a subtle modern edge that feels natural.
- Extensions and renovations: It offers continuity between existing structures and new additions, giving the overall design a unified finish.
The colour also pairs easily with a range of materials such as natural stone, oak, and brushed aluminium, giving homeowners the flexibility to introduce new textures and finishes without clashing tones.
Is the Anthracite Grey Trend Here to Stay?
Anthracite grey has been a defining shade in modern architecture for years, but it’s far more than a fleeting trend. Its appeal lies in the perfect balance between contemporary style and long-term versatility. The colour complements almost any property type, from traditional homes to sleek new builds, and pairs effortlessly with other finishes and materials.
As design preferences shift towards timeless, low-maintenance aesthetics, anthracite grey continues to dominate. Homeowners and developers alike value its ability to stay current year after year, ensuring windows, doors, and cladding in RAL 7016 never feel outdated. All signs suggest that this is one trend built to last.
Timeless, versatile, and effortlessly stylish, anthracite grey has become the defining colour of modern British homes. Its depth and durability make it a popular choice for everything from bifold and sliding doors to front doors and windows. The RAL 7016 finish embodies quality and long-lasting appeal, adding a contemporary edge to any property. Visit one of our showrooms nationwide to see how this striking shade could transform your home. Explore our full collection and speak with our experts to find the perfect finish for your project.
