Current trends and popular color palettes are always changing to fit the season, one’s mood, or to keep up with the latest fashion and style trends. Interestingly, the color brown is making a comeback and is replacing black as the most commonly used neutral tone.
Brown is Back
Interior designer Julie Khuu spoke of brown’s comeback and why she believes it’s increasingly popular in today’s home decor trends. She says the color brown creates a “cozy” feel while remaining “sophisticated” and “inviting.”
Khuu notes that in previous years, colder colors like grays and blacks have been used to accent homes but that brown “feels welcoming.”
“Easy to Match”
“Brown is such an easy neutral to match,” she said. “Chances are you probably have a ton of it already in your home. Whether it’s wooden furniture, leather pieces, or earthy accents, brown has been there all along, and it’s time to let it shine.”
Khuu explains that there might be a psychological reason for brown’s newfound popularity. She explains that the color “evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and security.”
Brown Represents Nature
Another interesting note about brown is the way it triggers feelings of togetherness with and in nature. It’s the color of soil and wood. As such, brown is accented well by shades of blue or green, also reminiscent of nature.
“Think about how you feel when you step outside for a walk surrounded by trees and nature,” Khuu adds. “That’s what brown brings into your home. It promotes a sense of tranquility and reduces stress levels. Brown is all about grounding and creating a sanctuary in your space.”
Brown is Versatile
Brown can easily be incorporated into any space because it’s a neutral color that adds a hint of versatility to your decor. Here are some easy ways to include brown in your home.
Khuu says one of the easiest and seemingly most effective ways to incorporate brown is to consider the color for furniture. Chocolate-velvet and Espresso are two popular shades that Khuu highly recommends.
“If you want a glamorous look, a chocolate velvet sofa in a light-colored room is an absolute showstopper,” she explained. “It adds a high-contrast element that feels both elegant and comfortable.”
Wooden Furniture
Alternately, wooden furniture is a great way to incorporate the color into your home, without “committing to larger pieces.” For instance a nice set of side tables or coffee table made of wood can add tones of brown to your home without becoming the focal point. She adds that mixing wood tones can “add depth and interest to any room.”
Brown Artwork
Perhaps you’re firm on your home decor but would like to add hints of brown throughout your home. In this case, things like artwork, vases, pillows, blankets, and curtains are great options to consider. They can easily be swapped out, are generally cost-effective, and provide you with ample options to find the decor that works best for you and in your space.
Use Brown Bedding to Accent Sleeping Spaces
Additionally, Khuu explains: “Bedding is a simple way to bring brown into your home. Add a furry throw or a plush quilt to create that warm, inviting vibe that everyone craves during the colder months.”
“I recently swapped out my white sheers for coffee-colored ones in my bedroom, and the whole room instantly felt warmer and more intimate,” Khuu adds. “It’s an easy switch that makes a huge impact.“
Brown Patterns and Textures
Another way to add more life and coziness to the space is to play with different textures and patterns. For instance, geometric or floral patterns add a touch of personality and color without overwhelming the rest of the space. Meanwhile, wood paneling is another great way to incorporate brown into your, and highlights natural tones that are perfect to add to any existing decor. Khuu noted that it’s best to get high-quality materials as “cheap-looking veneer” can throw off the whole aesthetic, according to Redesign Daily.
Wood Paneling in Brown
Meanwhile, wood paneling is a great option for people who prefer less clutter. “I love the way rich wood paneling feels—it’s warm and luxurious without being overwhelming,” Khuu notes. “It’s perfect for creating a maximalist yet inviting atmosphere.”
Wallpaper is Popular Too
Brown as a common accent color isn’t the only thing making a comeback for home decor. Rather, wallpaper and other wall coverings or treatments are also becoming popular again. As a result, many products feature or are accented by neutral tones like brown, tan, or beige. Furthermore, wall coverings and wallpaper are another fun way to play with different textures, patterns, or shapes. These options add depth and dimension to decor without overwhelming the space. However, the space can become overwhelmed with too many patterns and shapes so it’s best to stick with one or 2 complimentary colors and add brown patterned items along the way.
Square Spaces Vs. Rectangular Spaces
Unsurprisingly, decor can look different in a square room than it does in a rectangular room or hallway. These are perceived as more compact spaces and can become overwhelmed by too many colors or patterns. Compact spaces are better suited for small hints and accents or browns such as wall decor or a few pillows or a throw blanket.
Large Spaces Should Be Bold
Alternatively, large spaces should be accented with bold colors and patterns to create a more cozy feel, while furniture in those spaces should be light colored and with toned down patterns or shapes.
Experiment with Brown
“Don’t be afraid to experiment with brown,” Khuu encourages. “It’s such an easy neutral to incorporate, and it instantly brings warmth and comfort to any room.” However, mixing light and dark shades together can create depth and dimension without overwhelming the space. Be creative and have fun!