How to use earthy colors in your home decor?
Earthy colors are a great way to make rooms like living rooms or bedrooms both comfortable and elegant. Contrary to what you might think at first glance, brown is just one of many elements in the earthy color palette, as the colors come in a variety of hues.
When well chosen and used, earthy colors can give any room a feel almost as serene and organic as the great outdoors, but with the added benefit of the comfort of being at home. Read our article and you'll know all you need to know about how to use earthy colors in decorating!
What are earthy colors?
If you don't know what an earthy color palette is, the concept is simple. It's a color palette inspired by Mother Nature herself. All the colors you see outdoors, from the dark brown of tree bark to the green of grass, are part of the earthy color family.
In your search for the right colors, remember that brown is just the beginning. The following earthy colors may be of interest to you:
- Khaki
- Clay
- Deep orange
- Golden
- Honey
- Terracotta
- Auburn
- Caramel
- Rust
- Chocolate
Earthy colors go far beyond the brown family. Shades of green, such as those inspired by moss and trees, also fall into this category. The cool shades of blue-gray found in ocean waters and even in the sky are also involved. The main idea behind this style is to make your apartment reflect real nature, not an overloaded version of it.
Design tips for an earthy color palette
Earthy colors are popular for several reasons. First of all, they're a truly timeless look. They're also popular because they blend well with other colors. When it comes to designing your color palette, if you're not sure how to mix earthy colors with brighter ones, first use accessories to test out color combinations. Small decorative objects, such as cushions, make it easy to see what works and what doesn't.
Another approach to designing a color palette is to use several earthy shades of color in the same space. With a range from dark to light, you'll avoid the familiar predictability of taupe, beige, cream and off-white tones. Just make sure there's plenty of light in the space if you plan to incorporate darker earth tones, as they can create a space that's too dark.
Tips for decorating with earthy colors
Before you even get started with the earthy color palette, take some time to think about the shades you like best in nature. If possible, take a walk for inspiration!
Paint where possible
Nothing transforms a room like a fresh coat of paint. If your home allows it, redo one whole room at a time in a neutral tone, such as beige with shades of grey. Such a shade goes with all types of furniture and decor, so it's easy to accessorize. Or, choose an accent wall in a bolder color like taupe.
Incorporate textures
Even a room that sticks to two or three colors can stand out if the decorator incorporates several textures. One of the easiest ways to do this is by achieve is to create decorative pillows wrapped in a variety of earthy fabrics, such as burlap, linen and other woven materials.
Decorate with natural materials
Choose furniture made from materials found in nature. Some of the best options include wood, rattan, marble and travertine.
Long before plastic became standard, people were making their everyday items like bowls, pots, vases and other objects using natural materials. Terracotta or clay decorations add gorgeous red and orange tones to any space. Or opt for hand-painted ceramic vessels and wooden pieces to add woody elements.
Try taupe
If you like discretion, taupe is a great solution. Somewhere between brown and gray, taupe is a versatile color that can easily be added to your rooms with an accent wall, some furniture like sofas or armchairs.
Accentuate earthy colors with plants
Is there anything more earthy than plants? A touch of greenery easily brings an element of nature to any room. Hanging ivy is an easy-to-grow, easy-to-maintain option, or pot up some small indoor flowers and place them near natural light.
Add nature-inspired
artwork Nature-inspired artwork is a simple way to incorporate earthy colors into your decor. A painting or photograph is a beautiful focal point around which you can design the rest of your decor.
A touch of brighter earthy color
One of the best ways to decorate in an earthy color palette is to keep most furnishings in fairly neutral colors and add one or two pieces that stand out. The ideal way to achieve this effect is to choose an accent piece in a brighter earthy color (like dark orange, for example). Tie it in with the rest of the room by adding a few decorative objects (frames, vases, etc.) in the same color.
Think glassware
Glassware is often used in earthy colors, particularly browns and greens. A few well-placed glass vases, bottles, bowls and even jars will bring an extra earthy tone or two to your home decor. Add flowers for a beautiful, natural ambience.