I need to paint boring white walls, but I have to match the gray and pink/burgundy tiles around the fireplace. Does anyone have any ideas? I need a very neutral color that will blend with about anything. The trim is oak, but I may paint that white. I am thinking I will have to go with a neutral gray color. I put up sample of tan by the fireplace and it looked terrible. Thanks for any suggestions.

First question: do you like these tiles? If they can be replaced, painted, or covered with another material (marble, another tile, etc), then I say, please dont plan an entire room around an off-color accent that is easy to replace.

Second question: what other elements are you working with in the room? Do you have existing upholstery, window treatments, carpeting, or are you starting from scratch?

Small paint chips will do little to give you an idea of an overall paint color. Some companies make "sample jars" these days. Paint a large piece of wallboard, or even cardboard with several coats to give you a better idea. It's also well-worth the cost of a gallon of paint to be sure a color is correct before the entire room is painted.

Have you considered keeping the walls neutral, but keeping the color continuity by bringing the burgundy in as window treatments? Another fabulous idea is to add color to the ceiling instead of the walls. Tin tiles in a matte silver finish for example. With burgundy window treatments and some great art on the walls, your accent tiles will look special..and as if you selected them because you love them, not as if you are just trying to make them blend in.

Just some thoughts...good luck!