In the ever-evolving world of interior design, color trends come and go with the changing seasons. While white has always been a classic choice for many homes, designers are now looking towards a new neutral shade to bring a fresh and earthy feel to living spaces.
According to experts like Karen Harding from Jake Harding Studio, the color that is replacing white as the go-to neutral is a surprising one – brown. This may come as a shock to those who have always associated brown with dated terms or lackluster aesthetics, but designers like Nicola Wood insist that brown doesn’t have to mean boring.
Using brown in your home can actually create a grounded and natural atmosphere. Instead of going for the sharp and direct contrast that white often brings, brown provides a softer and more inviting feel to rooms. It can work as a foil to other colors or serve as a backdrop for a variety of furniture and decor schemes.
While darker browns may be more commonly associated with cool fall climates or chocolate-themed interiors, designers are now exploring the use of lighter and softer brown shades. This opens up a whole new palette of ideas for those seeking a neutral color that will work well in any room of the house.
The latest trend is using brown in kitchens, where white cabinets have been the norm for so long. Instead of the starkness of white, brown cabinets can bring a warmth and coziness to the space, making it feel more like a welcoming gathering spot.
So, if you’re looking to update your living space and want to stay ahead of the design curve, consider incorporating more brown into your home. Whether it’s by using soft brown paint on the walls, adding brown furniture pieces, or experimenting with different shades of wood, this unexpected choice of color will help create a warm and natural ambiance in your living spaces.
Designers and decorators alike are embracing the shift towards brown, recognizing its ability to bring a touch of sophistication and elegance to any interior. So, don’t be afraid to step away from the traditional white and explore the world of brown. You may be pleasantly surprised by the beauty and versatility it can bring to your home.
What is the new white in interior design
When it comes to interior design, white has long been considered the go-to neutral color. It’s classic, timeless, and works well in any room. However, designers are now exploring new options and looking for alternatives to white that can bring a fresh and modern look to homes.
Instead of using white, some designers are turning to a surprising but beautiful choice for 2023 – chocolate brown. According to Karen, an interior designer, using brown in interior design can add warmth and depth to any room.
One of the latest trends in interior design is to incorporate brown in different elements of the home, from walls to furniture. Brown can be used as a neutral backdrop, allowing other colors and patterns to stand out. It can also be combined with other cool colors to create a more interesting palette.
For those who prefer a more natural look, brown can work as a foil to earthy tones, bringing a grounded and organic feel to a space. Nicola, another interior designer, suggests using brown in kitchen cabinets or wood furniture to add depth and richness to the room.
While white has always been associated with cleanliness and purity, brown adds a sense of coziness and warmth to interiors. It creates a soft and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for living spaces and bedrooms.
Moreover, brown can provide a sense of privacy and calmness in a world where we are constantly connected. Jake, an interior decorator, believes that brown can help create a sanctuary-like feeling in our homes, allowing us to relax and unwind.
When it comes to pairing brown with other colors, there are infinite possibilities. Brown can be used alongside neutrals for a more subtle and sophisticated look, or it can be combined with bold and vibrant colors to create a striking contrast.
If you’re looking for some ideas on how to incorporate brown into your interior design, here are some suggestions:
- Painting your walls in a rich chocolate brown color
- Adding brown furniture pieces, such as a leather sofa or wooden dining table
- Incorporating brown accents, such as throw pillows, curtains, or rugs
- Using brown in your kitchen, whether it’s through cabinets, countertops, or backsplash
- Bringing in natural elements, like wooden floors or exposed beams, to complement the brown color scheme
Whether you choose to fully embrace brown or use it as an accent color, it’s clear that this new white alternative is here to stay. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and let brown bring a new level of warmth and sophistication to your interior design!
Is white out of style for 2023
White has long been considered a timeless and classic color choice for homes. It is a versatile neutral that can be used in various design schemes and works well with a wide range of colors. However, in recent years, designers and decorators have been gravitating towards darker and more grounded colors.
While white interiors will always have their place, there is a shift towards using colors like chocolate brown, rich browns, and earthy neutrals. Designers like Nicola Harding and Karen Hardie are advising homeowners to consider these warmer, more natural colors instead of stark white.
One of the reasons behind this trend is the desire for a cozier and more inviting atmosphere in living spaces. Brown tones, such as chocolate brown, create a sense of warmth and comfort. They can be used on walls, furniture, or even cabinets in the kitchen, creating a soft and soothing ambiance.
Additionally, using brown as a neutral color doesn’t mean sacrificing style. There are plenty of design ideas and color schemes that can work well with darker tones. Jake Harding, a designer at Studio 2023, suggests pairing rich browns with cool blues or soft grays to create a modern and sophisticated look.
Another factor to consider is the trend towards using more natural materials in home interiors. Brown colors can complement natural wood elements, bringing a sense of harmony and groundedness to the space. This combination creates a timeless and classic palette that can withstand changing design trends.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that white is completely out of style for 2023. White is still a popular choice for many designers and homeowners. It has the ability to brighten up a room and create a sense of cleanliness and freshness.
Ultimately, the choice between using white or embracing the darker and earthier color palette depends on personal preferences and the specific conditions of each home. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional interior designer who can provide expert advice and guidance.
In conclusion, while white is still a classic and versatile color, there is a growing trend towards using darker and earthier neutrals. Brown tones, such as chocolate brown, can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in homes. Pairing them with cool blues or soft grays can add a modern touch. Ultimately, the decision on which color to use should be based on personal style and the specific needs of each space.
What can I paint walls with instead of white
When it comes to painting your walls, white has long been a go-to choice for many homeowners. It’s clean, fresh, and can make a room feel bright and spacious. However, if you’re looking for an alternative to white that still offers a neutral and timeless look, there are several options to consider.
One popular choice is to opt for soft neutrals, such as creams or light greys. These colors can provide a warm and inviting feel to a room, while still maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic. They work well in both traditional and contemporary homes, and can be paired with a variety of furniture styles and color schemes.
If you’re looking for something a bit more bold, consider painting your walls with a darker neutral, such as a deep brown or chocolate hue. These colors can add depth and richness to a space, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. This can work particularly well in rooms like a study, library, or formal dining room.
For those who want to bring a touch of nature indoors, earthy tones can be a great choice. Shades of green and brown can create a grounded and serene feel to a space, making it feel connected to the natural world. This can work well in rooms like a living room or bedroom, where you want to create a calm and peaceful environment.
When it comes to the latest trends in interior design, designers are leaning towards more unique and unexpected colors. Blues, greens, and even purples are becoming popular choices for walls, as they can add a cool and refreshing vibe to a room. These colors work well alongside natural materials like wood, and can be paired with both light and dark furniture.
While these suggestions can provide some guidance, it’s important to remember that ultimately, the color you choose to paint your walls should reflect your personal style and the conditions of your home. A classic white palette is always a safe and timeless option, but if you’re feeling more adventurous, don’t be afraid to go bold and experiment with different colors. After all, it’s your home, and it should reflect your unique taste and personality!
How do you decorate with brown
Brown is a versatile and timeless color that can add warmth and depth to any interior. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary style, brown can be used in a variety of ways to create a visually appealing space. Here are some tips and ideas for decorating with brown:
- Use brown as a foil for other colors: Brown can serve as a neutral backdrop for brighter colors. For example, pair a chocolate brown sofa with vibrant accent pillows in red or orange to create a striking contrast.
- Embrace natural materials: Brown is often associated with earthy tones, so incorporating natural materials like wood and stone can enhance the warmth and organic feel of a room.
- Consider using brown instead of black: When looking for a dark neutral, consider using brown instead of black. Brown can be just as sophisticated and elegant, but with a softer and warmer effect.
- Experiment with different shades of brown: Brown comes in a wide range of shades, from light beige to dark walnut. Try using different shades of brown in the same room to create depth and visual interest.
- Combine brown with cool colors: Brown can be paired with cool colors like blues and greens to create a calming and balanced color palette.
- Don’t be afraid of darker browns: While lighter browns are often used in more traditional interiors, darker browns can add drama and sophistication to a contemporary space.
- Use brown as a paint color: If you’re hesitant about incorporating brown into your furniture or accessories, consider using it as a paint color for walls or cabinets. Brown can create a rich and inviting atmosphere in any room.
In conclusion, brown is a classic and versatile color that can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the look and feel of your home. Whether you choose to use it as a neutral backdrop or as a main focal point, brown will always work well with other colors and neutrals. So don’t be afraid to embrace this grounded and earthy color in your interiors!
1 How to use brown in a living room
In terms of interior design, brown is a classic and timeless color choice. It is often associated with warmth, comfort, and privacy, making it a perfect choice for a living room.
When using brown in your living room, there are several key points to keep in mind:
- Choose the right shade: There are many shades of brown to choose from, ranging from lighter neutrals to darker chocolate tones. Consider the natural lighting conditions in your living room and choose a shade of brown that will work well in those conditions.
- Pair it with other colors: Brown can be a great base color for your living room, but it doesn’t mean you have to stick to an all-brown palette. Consider incorporating other colors, such as white, cream, or even cool blues and greens, to add depth and interest to the space.
- Add texture: One of the great things about brown is that it works well with different textures. Consider incorporating wood furniture, soft fabrics, or even a textured paint finish to add visual interest to your living room.
- Consider the size of the room: If you have a smaller living room, using lighter shades of brown can help create the illusion of more space. On the other hand, if you have a larger living room, using darker browns can create a more grounded and cozy feel.
- Mix different shades of brown: Don’t be afraid to mix different shades of brown in your living room. By using different tones and hues, you can create a dynamic and visually appealing space.
Overall, brown is a versatile and sophisticated color choice for a living room. Whether you want to create a cozy and intimate space or a more formal and elegant atmosphere, brown can work well in a variety of design schemes. So why not consider incorporating this timeless color into your living room design?
2 How to use brown in a kitchen
Brown is always a natural choice for interior design, and it can be used in many different rooms in your home. In terms of kitchen design, brown can add warmth and depth to the space, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Here are some tips on how to use brown in your kitchen:
- Consider your color palette: When using brown in your kitchen, it’s important to consider the overall color scheme. Browns can work well with neutral colors like white, beige, and gray, creating a classic and timeless look. You can also pair brown with bolder colors like blue or green for a more vibrant and unique kitchen.
- Use brown in the furniture: One of the easiest ways to incorporate brown into your kitchen is through the use of brown furniture. Whether it’s wooden cabinets, tables, or chairs, brown furniture can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. It also brings a sense of nature and earthiness indoors.
- Opt for darker shades: While lighter shades of brown can work well in a kitchen, darker browns can create a more dramatic or rustic look. Consider using chocolate brown cabinets or countertops to add depth and richness to your kitchen design.
- Combine with other neutrals: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different neutral colors with brown in your kitchen. For example, pairing brown cabinets with white or gray countertops can create a clean and sharp aesthetic. By using a mix of neutrals, you can create a balanced and cohesive look in your kitchen.
- Balance with lighter colors: If you’re worried about your kitchen feeling too dark or heavy with brown, you can balance it out by incorporating lighter colors. Using white or cream-colored walls, backsplash, or flooring can help lighten the space and create a more airy and open feel.
- Add texture with wood: Brown is often associated with wood, so incorporating wooden elements in your kitchen can further enhance the brown color scheme. Consider using a wooden countertop, a butcher block island, or even wooden shelves to bring a touch of nature and warmth to your kitchen.
By following these tips, you can effectively use brown in your kitchen design and create a space that is both stylish and functional. Whether you prefer a cool and modern aesthetic or a warm and grounded look, brown can be a versatile color choice that adds character and charm to your kitchen.
3 How to use brown in a bedroom
When it comes to using brown in a bedroom, there are many ways to incorporate this classic and earthy color into your space. Whether you want to create a cozy and warm atmosphere or add a touch of elegance, brown can be a versatile choice. Here are some ideas:
- Choose the right shade: Brown comes in various shades, ranging from light and soft to dark and rich. Consider the size of your bedroom and the amount of natural light it receives when selecting a shade. Lighter browns can make a small room feel more spacious, while darker browns can create a sense of intimacy.
- Use brown as an accent color: If you’re not ready to commit to a full brown bedroom, you can incorporate the color as an accent. For example, you can use brown pillows, throws, or curtains to add warmth and depth to your room.
- Combine brown with other neutrals: Brown works well alongside other neutral colors, such as white, cream, or beige. You can create a calming and soothing palette by combining different shades of brown with these colors. Consider using brown for your furniture or accent pieces and pair it with lighter neutral walls.
- Add natural elements: Brown is often associated with the natural world, so incorporating natural materials and textures can enhance the overall look and feel of your bedroom. Consider adding wooden furniture, rattan accessories, or even a woven rug to bring in that natural and earthy vibe.
- Create a cozy atmosphere with brown: Brown is a warm color that can help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider using soft and plush fabrics, such as velvet or faux fur, in shades of brown for your bedding or upholstery. These textures will not only add visual interest but also make your bedroom feel more comfortable and luxurious.
- Balance with other colors: While brown can be the dominant color in your bedroom, it’s important to balance it with other colors. Consider using lighter or cooler colors, such as blues or greens, to create a harmonious and balanced look. These colors can be incorporated through artwork, rugs, or even accent walls.
- Consider the season: Brown is a versatile color that can work well in any season. In the colder months, you can embrace darker and richer browns to create a cozy and warm atmosphere. In the warmer months, you can lighten up the space with softer and lighter shades of brown or even incorporate floral patterns to bring in a touch of freshness.
Remember, when it comes to using brown in your bedroom, there are no strict rules. It’s all about finding the right balance and creating a space that feels comfortable and personal to you.
4 How to use brown in a dining room
The color brown has become an increasingly popular choice when it comes to interiors. Its warm and earthy tones create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in any home. If you’re considering using brown in your dining room, here are a few tips on how to incorporate this versatile color:
- Wooden furniture: Brown works exceptionally well with wood, so consider incorporating wooden dining tables, chairs, or cabinets into your dining room design. The combination of brown and wood creates a classic and timeless look.
- Dark brown walls: For a bold and dramatic effect, consider painting your dining room walls in a rich chocolate brown shade. This darker hue will create a warm and intimate ambiance, perfect for entertaining guests.
- Accent colors: While brown can be the main color in your dining room, it also works well alongside other colors as an accent. Consider pairing brown with shades of white, cream, or beige to create a soft and elegant look.
- Brown in the kitchen: If your dining room is connected to the kitchen, you can use brown to create a seamless transition between the two spaces. Consider using brown cabinets or incorporating brown accessories in your kitchen design to tie the two rooms together.
- Natural elements: Brown is a natural and earthy color, so incorporating natural elements into your dining room design will complement it perfectly. Consider adding plants, dried flowers, or wooden accessories to create a cool and grounded atmosphere.
- Brown as a backdrop: If you prefer to keep the main elements of your dining room neutral, you can use brown as a backdrop for artwork or other decorative features. This will allow the brown to create a sense of depth and warmth without overpowering the space.
When it comes to using brown in your dining room, the key is to find the right balance. Too much brown can make the space feel small and closed off, so be sure to incorporate other colors and textures to lighten the overall look. Brown is a versatile color that can work in any season and with any style of interior design, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your space.
5 How to use brown in a home office
When it comes to decorating a home office, many designers and decorators are turning to brown as a go-to color. Browns can create a warm and inviting atmosphere while still feeling grounded and neutral. If you’re considering using brown in your home office, here are 5 ideas to help you incorporate this beautiful color:
- Paint the walls: One of the easiest ways to bring brown into your home office is to paint the walls a soft chocolate color. This earthy tone will create a cozy and calming environment, perfect for staying focused and productive.
- Add brown furniture: Consider using brown furniture pieces, such as a wooden desk or shelving units. These classic pieces will add a touch of elegance to your office and create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Use brown accents: If you want to introduce brown in a more subtle way, try using brown accents throughout your office. This could include brown curtains, throw pillows, or even a brown area rug. These small pops of color will add depth and richness to your space.
- Incorporate natural materials: Brown is closely associated with natural materials such as wood and leather. Consider using these materials in your home office, whether it’s through a wooden desk, leather chair, or even a jute rug. This will create a connection to the natural world and bring a sense of warmth to your space.
- Create a color scheme: If you’re unsure how to use brown in your home office, consider creating a color scheme that incorporates brown alongside other colors. For example, you could use a brown and white color palette with accents of green or blue. This will add a touch of freshness to your office and keep the space from feeling too monotonous.
By following these simple tips, you can create a home office that is both functional and beautiful. Brown is a versatile color that can work in any style of office, from traditional to modern. So why not embrace this trend and bring a touch of warmth and elegance to your workspace?