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Blacks, browns, oranges, reds and even yellows are often considered to be earth tones that can help add warmth and coziness to a space. Earth tones work especially well in spaces that are overly cool or large and cavernous, as they add a welcoming feeling.
Looking for ways to infuse warmth into your home? Here are some top do’s and don’ts for using earth tones.
Do’s
Do blend a neutral palette of earth tones such as brown, black and taupe.
A blend of black, brown and taupe helps create a warm and inviting living space. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Do use earth tones as foundation colors to serve as a blank canvas and springboard to a color story.
A foundation of a neutral, earth tone bed serves as the springboard for a blue color story.Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Do use earth tones to add a sense of warmth and coziness to a space.
Deep browns and neutral earth tone creams help create a warm and inviting living space. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Do add organic elements such as greenery or succulents.
Pale neutrals blend with elements of greenery in this living space. Handout/TNS
Do incorporate textiles to infuse earth tones into a space.
Don’ts
Don’t overuse the same earth tone in the same space. Use tints, tones and shades.
A neutral furniture piece against a neutral wall. (Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS)
Don’t be afraid to black and brown together for a rich, luxurious feel.
A pairing of black and deep rich brown helps create a soothing mood. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Don’t overlook opportunities to incorporate earth tones in unexpected ways like a piece of artwork or furniture.
A neutral furniture piece against a neutral wall. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Don’t use earth tones in spaces that are overly dark, as they may make a space feel small and closed in.
Don’t ignore black and brown as foundation colors for other earth tones as part of an overall color scheme.
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at [email protected] or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.
