How to Decorate in Shades of Brown

Cozy and comforting, shades of brown go hand in hand with our need to feel safe and secure. 

It comes as no surprise then that the color brown, literally the color of the earth, is associated with ‘grounding’.

Grounding also called earthing, is a calming and self-soothing skill that can assist you in times of stress and uncertainty by simply walking barefoot, allowing your skin to touch the natural ground.

Brown has been used in art since prehistoric times and is often described as natural, down-to-earth, and conventional, but brown can also be sophisticated.

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The psychology of color brown

Following color psychology - how colors affect moods and emotions - it’s understood that using shades of brown enhances feelings of warmth, comfort, and security.

You can decorate and style an interior using nature-inspired decor by choosing natural materials and objects in brown hues such as wood, leather, rattan, cottons, and clay, and pairing it with lots of indoor plants and greenery, your interior will exude a sense of warmth, earthiness, and calm.

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When it comes to decorating in shades of brown, there are endless possibilities. From light and airy to dark and dramatic, this versatile color can be used in a variety of ways to create a look that is both stylish and sophisticated.

Balancing brown with white

An excess of brown can create a dark and heavy feeling in your interior, so be sure to balance it with other softer neutrals. Pairing brown with crisp white and off-whites will create a contemporary, nature-inspired look.

brown and white interior moodboard

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Combining shades of brown with red

Brown pairs surprisingly well with all tones of red - rust, terracotta, burnt orange, primary red, sienna. We wrote about how to decorate with muted reds a while ago, which only affirms that brown is right on track with the earlier prediction. As well as the rust color trend, it seems all shades and hues of reds are here to stay.

Brown and red color trend

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Combining brown with black

One classic way to use brown is by pairing it with black. This creates a dramatic and sophisticated look that is perfect for any space. To keep the look from feeling too heavy, use lighter shades of brown and light woods. This will help to brighten up the room and make it feel more inviting.

Brown and black interior color trend

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Create a rustic, laid-back feel

For a more rustic vibe, try using darker shades of brown paired with natural woods. 

For a more laid-back feel, try using darker shades of brown paired with natural elements like stone or wood. This combination is perfect for creating a warm and inviting space that has a rustic feel.

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Use brown as an accent color

Another great way to use brown is by using it as an accent color. This can be done by adding a few pops of brown here and there throughout the room. This is a great way to add some warmth and depth to a space without going overboard.

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The brown color trend allows us to focus on creating intentional living environments within our homes that offer our weary souls a chance to recoup and rest after two hard years by surrounding ourselves with nature-inspired decor and design.

No matter what your style, decorating with shades of brown is a great way to create a warm and inviting space. So experiment with different shades and combinations until you find the perfect look for your home.

No matter what style you're going for, there's a shade of brown that will help you achieve the look you're after. So don't be afraid to experiment until you find the perfect combination for your home.

In the end, we think the color brown will have staying power. What do you think?

Shop one-of-a-kind luxury pieces in scrumptious brown

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Shop shades of brown on a budget

brown interior color trend

Below, shop a selection of our favorite brown home decor goods and furniture we've spotted on Amazon:

Or simply get inspired...

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