I Asked 12 Interior Designers About Emerging Color Trends—Their Answers Surprised Me

January 15, 2026

As January wraps its chilly fingers around us, here we are, facing not just a new year but also a fresh canvas for our homes. The world of interior design is buzzing with excitement, especially in the realm of color. With layers of muted tones and bold hues emerging, I decided to dig deeper and consult twelve top interior designers. What I found left me both intrigued and inspired.

Highlights

  • 🌿 Sophisticated Earth Tones: Rich browns and greens dominate.
  • 🔷 Timeless Palettes: Neutrals are evolving to earthy shades.
  • 🎨 Vibrant Accents: Bursting yellows and reds add life.
  • Nature-Inspired Colors: Seafoam and dark greens foster tranquility.

“Rich, warm browns are expected to reign supreme in 2025, creating cozy, inviting spaces.” – Designer Insight

The Allure of Earthy Tones

Stepping into my friend’s newly redecorated living room, I was assaulted by the luxurious embrace of rich, chocolatey browns and shadowy green accents. It felt grounding, like a warm hug from Mother Nature herself. Designers like Autumn Oser and Andre Golsorkhi have noted this shift: ‘Expect dark tones like burgundy and deep olive greens to create an ambiance of opulence and refined elegance.’

Interestingly, these colors aren’t just for aesthetics; they also echo a societal trend towards comfort and grounding in a world that sometimes feels unstable. Embracing the warmth and coziness of chocolate brown may just be the antidote to our frenetic lifestyles. Imagine curling up with a book in a space that envelops you in earthy tones, evoking a sense of retreat.

Transformative Neutrals

Neutrals are anything but dull in 2025. I’m talking about warm, inviting shades that wrap you like a favorite sweater. Gone are the cool gray tones—hello, earthy beiges and comforting mustards! Susan Jamieson emphasizes the shift: ‘We’re moving towards colors that feel like a reassuring hug.’ Think back to your grandmother’s home—how warm and inviting the neutrals felt.

So how can we translate this into our homes? Here are some hands-on tips:

  • 🖌️ Accent Walls: Dive into warm beige or terracotta.
  • 🛋️ Textiles: Incorporate cushions and throws in mustard or muted olive.
  • 🌞 Artwork: Choose pieces that reflect these earthy tones for cohesion.

This transformation creates a backdrop that encourages relaxation and comfort, essential for wellness in our fast-paced lives.

Vibrant Hues for Lively Spaces

But let’s not forget a splash of vibrancy! The joy of using bright colors, like sunlit yellows and cheerful reds, adds a pulse to spaces. Helen Shaw from Benjamin Moore highlights the potential of these lively shades: ‘Yellow is the most uplifting color—embrace it!’ I can testify; a golden-hued living room instantly brightens your mood, flooding your space with energy.

Incorporating these colors can be as simple as:

  • 🌼 Accents: Use bold yellow tableware or wall art.
  • 🎨 Paint: Experiment with a vibrant feature wall to spark joy.
  • 🌺 Flowers: Fill spaces with bright blooms for a natural, lively touch.

Introducing these hues into your home can make a world of difference, creating inviting atmospheres that encourage life and conversations.

Nature’s Palette: Seafoam and Verdant Greens

With designers increasingly drawing inspiration from nature, colors like seafoam green and rich verdant hues are on the rise. Marianne Shillingford from Dulux notes that these colors evoke tranquility, bringing the calming effects of nature indoors. I find myself gravitating towards these soft, expressive shades—like the first breath of fresh air after the rain.

For a serene ambience, consider:

  • 🌊 Wall Colors: Go for subtle seafoam as a backdrop.
  • 🏞️ Accessories: Incorporate greens through plants or textiles.
  • 🌿 Glassware: Choose pieces in soft greens to complement the decor.

These colors effortlessly enhance spaces, making them ideal for calming home offices or tranquil bedrooms.

Call to Action: Embrace the Change

As we move through 2025, let’s not shy away from the evolving color trends. Whether embracing earthy tones, warm neutrals, or vibrant splashes, each choice reflects our journey and values. It’s about cultivating spaces that resonate with who we are and how we feel.

Ready to take the plunge? Explore your own color palette that speaks to you! Dive into accessories, experiment with paint, and give your living space a fresh, contemporary makeover that feels uniquely yours.

This year, let’s design our homes as sanctuaries filled with inspiration and warmth, ensuring every corner breathes life and joy. Let’s embrace the change and create environments that reflect the beauty of life itself.