How To Incorporate The Trendiest Color Of 2026: My New Project

It’s the shade associated with dirt, wood, and chocolate – but it’s also one of the trendiest colors of 2026. Brown is having a major design moment, whether it’s tan, camel, or burnt sienna. In my most recent residential project, I utilized brown to create an earthy and calming home, and I’m showing you how to do the same in your own space.

Ranging from umber to ecru to caramel, this 1,569-square-foot home showcases numerous shades of brown to brilliant effect. Part of the Tri Pointe Homes Luminary at Outlook community in Winchester, California, this design draws on the colors of the earth to create engaging spaces that invite you in. The use of textural furniture and accessories also creates an additional layer that is cozy and compelling. Want to know how you can do the same in your own space? I’m sharing my three tips for incorporating brown tones into your home. (I’ve also compiled a shoppable round-up of brown furnishings and accessories from this design.)

trendiest color of 2026: brown

Pair Brown With Darker & Lighter Colors

This living room demonstrates how brown tones work seamlessly with darker and lighter colors. The caramel brown pillows really pop against the charcoal gray sofa, while a wooden coffee table contrasts nicely against an ivory rug.  The light ecru walls also provide a pleasing backdrop for all the shades of brown in the space.

trendiest color of 2026: brown

Work With Multiple Wood Tones

Adding a variety of woods is one way to bring more brown to a room. In this kitchen, the flooring, cabinets, and counter stools are all different wood tones, and they work together because they are different variations: light, medium, and dark. The oak seating creates a strong contrast against the dark-stained cabinetry, while the mid-tone flooring strikes a balance between the two.

1. Wooden Coffee Table with Open Bottom Shelf | 2. Stone Shores Table Lamp | 3. Textured Basketweave Knit Throw | 4. Knot Pillow Ball | 5. Wabi Sabi Art Prints Set | 6. Cognac Throw Pillow | 7. Ceramic Low Stone Bowl | 8. Rustic Palo Santo Candle | 9. Wood Beads with Tassels | 10. Morgan Counter Stool | 11. Acacia Round Salt Shaker & Pepper Grinder Set | 12. Faux Sheepskin Fur Rug

trendiest color of 2026: brown

Saturate A Space

You can also choose to really saturate a space in shades of brown. (It’s all about choosing the right shades to ensure your room doesn’t look like a pile of mud.) For this guest bedroom, I went with a tan paint color for the walls, a woven can bed frame, mid-tone wooden nightstands, and artwork in lighter brown tones. But it’s not all brown – the white bedding also creates a nice balance (and break).