The ongoing need for neutrals has driven the rise of brown, as well as a shift towards earthy tones reflecting a change in attitude to environmental issues. Our friends at Wattyl give us some insights on why.
Brown is a great colour, as it is warm, rich, and a great neutral to layer with other colours. The revival of brown is deeply rooted in the desire for warmth and naturalism in home décor, reflecting a broader trend of turning to comforting, organic influences within interior spaces.
The resurgence of brown and its associated spectrum, from deep chocolate to lighter caramel and sandy shades, marks a shift away from the cooler neutrals that have dominated the past decade.
These warm colours add a layer of cosiness and welcoming ambiance to any room, making spaces feel more grounded and secure. Brown adds a softness to a colour scheme that you don’t get with charcoals and blacks and ties in with the rise in popularity of dark woods. Deep chocolate brown walls evoke a sense of luxe sophistication, especially in a bedroom or dining room.
Browns are even bigger in 2025, especially as Pantone selected Mocha Mousse as the colour of the year. It is a warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort.
Pantone says, Mocha Mousse echoes the collective desire for connection and harmony, performing equally well in living spaces and bedrooms, or kitchen areas and bathrooms.
The mocha range of colours works beautifully on walls as well as large decorative elements such as rugs, furniture and artwork. By layering the different shades within the Mocha Mousse spectrum, a space is quickly defined by its sense of harmony and overall calm.
As we continue to embrace natural materials and more sustainable design practices, brown offers a perfect balance of comfort, elegance, and organic beauty. Whether through rich chocolate tones, soft caramel shades, or earthy sandy hues, incorporating brown into your home can create an inviting atmosphere while reflecting the growing cultural shift toward environmental consciousness. As the trend of earthy neutrals continues to gain momentum, brown proves to be an essential element for creating spaces that are both stylish and grounded in nature.
