{"id":25422,"date":"2024-09-27T16:55:53","date_gmt":"2024-09-27T15:55:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/?p=25422"},"modified":"2024-10-15T11:05:35","modified_gmt":"2024-10-15T10:05:35","slug":"brown-interiors-trend","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.goodhomesmagazine.com\/inspiration\/brown-interiors-trend\/","title":{"rendered":"Brownie points \u2013 how to make the brown interiors trend work in any home"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Not everyone is excited about the turn to brown interiors. For some, it is a dowdy, old fashioned colour that they associate with traditional \u2018brown furniture\u2019, the worst of ugly 1970\u2019s design, or worse – but times have changed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now the coolest designers and hippest makers are making warm brown tones cool. Come take a look at how you can make the brown interiors trend work in your home…<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"This
Barker and Stonehouse retro-inspired Blume corner sofa, \u00a31,445. Image credit: Barker and Stonehouse<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Cultural change<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Underlying the brown fashion is a desire to connect to all things natural, which itself is inspired by the environmental movement and a desire to adopt more sustainable lifestyles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brown is the colour of trees and earth, after all. Camilla Lesser, designer at Essential Living<\/a> puts it like this: \u201cIn today\u2019s world, people want to feel connected to nature, especially in urban settings. <\/p>

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“Earth tones like brown help bridge that gap, creating warm, inviting spaces that feel rooted in the natural world.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The
The brown leather sofa is a timeless classic: Barker <\/strong>and Stonehouse <\/strong>Aldo loveseat \u00a31,589, Yeti cabana chair \u00a31,999, Yeti footstool \u00a3979. Image credit: Barker and Stonehouse<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Lesley Taylor, founder of The Baked Tile Company<\/a>, says, \u201cIn the ever-evolving world of interior design, trends come and go, but some shifts mark a significant turning point. And, right now, we are seeing a move away from the once-dominant grey palette towards richer, warmer hues like terracotta, burgundy, and brown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This move not only brings a big change in interior design, but also signifies a deeper connection to nature and comfort in our living spaces.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brown
Designers are focusing on natural materials: Crucial Trading, Sisool plaid in natural calico, \u00a3151 per m2<\/sup>. Image credit: Crucial Trading<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Holly Ambrose, Interior Designer at Roomes Furniture & Interiors<\/a> adds, \u201cTen to 15 years ago, grey was very popular in interior design. <\/p>

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However, we are now moving away from this because grey can make a room feel cold and stark. Instead, people are looking for ways to make their homes feel cosier and more welcoming.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Emma Bestley, Co-founder of YesColours<\/a>, points out, <\/em>\u201cColours inspired by the beauty of nature bring a piece of the outdoors inside, and a sense of calm to the stresses of our everyday lives.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

We are increasingly realising biophilia \u2013 a need to connect with nature \u2013 is hard-wired into us. So, it seems only sensible to reflect this in the places we spend most time: our homes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Layered
Layered dark browns update a very traditional aesthetic. Image credit: ILIV<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Reuse inspo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Another eco inspiration for the trend, meanwhile, is furniture reuse. The reuse of brown furniture \u2013 well, certain types anyway, such as fashionable Mid-century Modern \u2013 is seeing brown pieces brought back into the heart of the hippest homes. <\/p>

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And, as Lesley points out, brown d\u00e9cor complements these pieces as well. She says, \u201c[Brown] shades work brilliantly with lots of different interior styles, including Mid-Century Modern, rustic farmhouse and the current Mediterranean Revival.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Mid-century
Mid-century is the new modern. Image credit: EZ Living Furniture<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Amthal Karim, at Furniture and Choice<\/a>, adds, \u201cDarker brown tones, which used to have classic connotations with stately pieces, now lean towards more retro or Mid-century style, prioritising clean, functional design, with lots of natural accents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Brown is also an ideal colour pick for your kitchen-diner if you\u2019re inspired by the rise of the caf\u00e9core trend whereby you recreate the look and feel of your favourite coffee bar. You can even go the Japandi route, with its love of a neutral palette and natural textures.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brown
Vintage or vintage-style, it’s all about the retro look: Barker and Stonehouse Gion dining table \u00a31,125, Rin dining chair \u00a3149, Chrome Latte rug from \u00a3429, Amber glass pendant light \u00a3199. Image credit: Barker and Stonehouse<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

So now we understand the inspo behind the look, how do you make it work in real homes?<\/p>

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Different shades: different-sized rooms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As some of the photos accompanying this piece show, colour drenching with similar shades of brown can work really well. But this look might be a bit rich for some. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ryan McDonough, from trades-matching site MyJobQuote.co.uk<\/a>, explains, \u201cAlthough brown has a warm, cocooning effect, you might wish to use darker shades sparingly in smaller rooms, so it doesn\u2019t overwhelm the space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Brown can even work in bathrooms. Image credit: Ca’ Pietra<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Warm tones make even a formally styled room feel safe and comforting. Image credit: ILIV<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe natural brown hues of wood flooring and panelling work well as a base or background colour. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“You can pair lighter, oaky wood tones with bright whites for a modern farmhouse feel, or combine darker, mahogany tones with deep greens and blues or lighter neutrals for a warmer, cosier interior. <\/p>

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Light vs dark<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are no hard rules in interiors these days, but Debbie Leigh, from ILIV<\/a>, has some good advice about what browns to use where. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

She suggests, \u201cLighter browns, such as taupe, beige and camel, create a soft, warm ambiance that brightens up spaces. These tones are especially effective in smaller rooms, where they can prevent the space from feeling cramped. Darker browns, like chocolate, walnut or espresso, bring a sense of depth and richness to larger or more formal rooms.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Sulcado
Sulcado slat wall panels aren’t just for the bathroom: they deliver texture, pattern and the warmth of wood to this bedroom. Image credit: DBS Bathrooms<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Amthal says, \u201cLight brown like camel or beige on the walls will give your living room a luxe feel and a more contemporary touch. These are also super easy to pair with darker brown accents, cream and off-white, pinks and deep blues for contrast. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Brown shades with a red or orange undertone will warm up the room and give it that dopamine boost that\u2019s so on trend. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Pale
Pale shades keep it light in a room that might otherwise feel too dark. Image credit: Sarah Griggs for Claire Garner Interiors<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\u201cShades like espresso or mocha can be used to highlight parts of the room like shelving or an alcove. This draws the eye upwards and serves as a backdrop for neutral, cream and beige accessories.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ben Thomson, from Promain<\/a> says, \u201cDark chocolates paired with soft taupes can work wonders together: think of a room featuring a rich, walnut accent wall alongside lighter sandy hues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“One of my go-to colours is RAL 8017 Chocolate Brown, which will add depth and sophistication to a feature wall and work well with the aesthetic of contemporary furnishings.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Dark
Dark brown wood panelling lends a sense of class and tradition. Image credit: ILIV<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Brown interiors: using other colours<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Brown works better with other colours than you might expect. Debbie points out, \u201cBrown pairs beautifully with a wide range of colours from soft neutrals like cream, white, and grey, to cooler tones like blues and greens.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Combining brown with neutrals gives a soft, understated look, whereas using blues and green in a brown scheme helps introduce a refreshing contrast that echoes the natural world.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Green
Working green and brown: French Bedroom Chateauneuf rustic rattan bed, from \u00a31,395.
Image credit: French Bedroom<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Emma says, \u201cBrown and navy is arguably an under-utilised colour combination. These are robust colours that can give bedrooms, home offices, movie rooms and lounges a more masculine feel.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The
The Roost Dado Atelier cabin stripe wallpaper \u00a3169 per roll. Image credit: The Roost<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Meanwhile, Lisa Cooper, from Thomas Sanderson<\/a>, recommends, “Pair with other neutrals like white or cream for a timeless look, or add pops of colour with accent pieces for a more vibrant aesthetic.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the whole brown trend was inspired by green concerns about sustainability, it would seem appropriate to choose sustainable water-based and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\"Warm
Warm tones, like Little Rascal from Earthborn, make a welcoming entrance hall. Image credit: Earthborn<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Pattern matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Lisa adds, “Patterns can play a significant role in enhancing the appeal of brown. Consider incorporating geometric patterns, natural textures, or floral prints to create visual interest and prevent the space from feeling too uniform. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“The combination of brown’s warmth with the energy of patterns can result in a truly captivating interior.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Patterned
Patterned rugs are a wonderful way to introduce striking pattern. Image credit: Ruggable<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Introduce natural elements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can lean into the natural feel of brown by incorporating natural materials. Rudoph Diesel, of Rudolph Diesel, London<\/a>, says, \u201cNatural materials are indispensable when using brown. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“I frequently opt for reclaimed or weathered oak, which exudes earthy richness. A finely grained wooden dining table alongside brown leather chairs makes for an eye-catching focal point.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Wood
Wood and leather always work well together: Furniture Village Boutique Brando four-seater sofa \u00a32,795, Globe coffee table \u00a3419. Image credit: Furniture Village <\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Sam Greig, Head of Design at Swoon<\/a>, recommends, \u201cTo elevate a brown interior colour scheme, integrate natural materials such as wood, stone, and plants. Wooden furniture adds a timeless quality that complements brown wonderfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Stone accents, whether through fireplace surrounds, countertops, or decorative elements, bring an earthy, grounded feel that enhances the natural warmth of brown tones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Additionally, incorporating indoor greenery, like potted plants or fresh flowers, introduces a touch of freshness that contrasts excellently with deeper brown shades.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brown
Brown kitchens are back in fashion. Image credit: Pronorm kitchen in Terrazzo gold brown and Sherwood dark brown from Classic Interiors<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Incorporate texture<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to adding texture, you\u2019re spoilt for choice, because there are so many natural materials in complementary tones that give great texture. Think: jute, raffia, rattan, bamboo<\/a>, and, of course, all kinds of wood. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amthal says, \u201cWith brown interiors having their roots in retro style, it\u2019s only natural that we gravitate to wooden textures and soft upholstery like faux leather, cord fabrics and boucl\u00e9. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Try
Bringing natural texture: Industville raffia ceiling pendant light \u00a3129, Petton jute and wool rug from \u00a3229. Image credit: Industville<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

“It also provides the ideal backdrop for accessorising with natural textures like pampas grass that add bits of fluff to your room for a hint of boho style.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Debbie adds, \u201cCombining different fabrics such as velvet, linen and cotton will keep a brown scheme from feeling too flat or heavy.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Traditional library look featuring Roman blind from 247 Blinds. Image credit: 247Blinds<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Lighting a brown interior<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Sam emphasises the importance of getting the lighting right when decorating with brown, \u201cOpt for warm lightbulbs to bring out the earthy hues of brown and create a cosy, inviting atmosphere. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Warm lighting highlights the depth and texture of brown shades, making them appear richer. It also adds a comforting glow that gives a relaxing feel, in turn creating a welcoming environment.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Chocolate
Chocolate walls work brilliantly with the stripped door and black and white tiles in this hall.
Image credit: Hannah Ellis @half_a_hall<\/a> (featuring Dowsing & Reynolds gold dimmer switch)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Brown interiors: accessories <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re still not sure about the brown interiors trend, a few well chosen accessories can be a great way to ease your home into the brown zone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ryan McDonough says, \u201cThink about dotting brown highlights around the room to tie a scheme together. That could be with furnishings like rattan side tables, velvet curtains and jute rugs, or with smaller items such as wood picture frames, cork coasters and seagrass light shades.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Accessories
Accessories are an easy way to introduce brown accents. Image credit: EZ Living Furniture<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Lena Gierasinska, from Barker and Stonehouse<\/a>, recommends, \u201cMy top tip is to use brown sparingly, so its richness doesn\u2019t feel overbearing. Choose larger pieces of furniture in walnut shades, like sofas and sideboards, but offset these against a plain, light-coloured backdrop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“This way, the brown furniture will inject warmth and character into the room, but will also feel unobtrusive, and let other elements stand out.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

“For those who remain unconvinced, I\u2019d suggest introducing gentle accents in soft brown tones, like a cushion upholstered in caramel or a table lamp with a light wooden base.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brown
Bridgman Olbia table from \u00a33,879, Ferrara chair from \u00a3429. Image credit: Bridgman<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Even if you have been hesitant about brown, it may be time to take another look. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Lisa Cooper says, “As we move away from grey, brown interiors are emerging as a refreshing and inviting alternative. Its ability to create a sense of warmth, comfort, and sophistication, makes it a compelling choice for modern homes.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Brown
Baked Tile Co Marrakesh terracotta light matt tiles 15cm2<\/sup> \u00a31.59. Image credit: Baked Tile Co<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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