3 Rich Color Palettes Replacing Dated, Drab Neutrals in Design this Year

The Shift from Safe Neutrals to Bolder, Richer Hues

For years, soft greiges, beiges, and cool whites have dominated interior design. These neutrals provided a timeless, safe backdrop, making homes feel light, airy, and cohesive. But as design evolves, so do our color preferences. Today’s homeowners and designers, are longing for something with a little more personality: colors that speak to emotion, depth and richness.

As an interior designer, I find that shift refreshing and inspiring. Color is one of the strongest tools a designer has—it creates a mood, defines a space and customizes a home. Neutrals have a continuing role to play, but the trend is toward a more vibrant, layered and sophisticated palette. Ahead, we’ve rounded up three of the most exciting color pairings to emerge this year, and how you can use them in your space.

1. Elevated, Healing Earth Hues

(Olive & Sage, Umber & Navy, Cinnamon & Ochre)

Earth tones have always provided grounding in design, but this year, they’re making an even stronger statement. Gone are the days of washed-out taupes—now, we’re seeing deep, warm hues that create a sense of security, balance, and connection to nature.

• Olive & Sage – Muted green tones feel organic, calming, and versatile. Whether they’re on kitchen cabinets, accent walls, or upholstery, they pair beautifully with wood tones and textured fabrics.
• Umber & Navy – Rich, reddish browns like umber contrast beautifully with deep navy, offering a sophisticated alternative to the traditional black-and-white palette.
• Cinnamon & Ochre – Warm, spicy tones are emerging in textiles, accent walls and decor. These shades feel inviting and are suited to living rooms and dining areas.

How to Use: These colors are great in both modern and traditional spaces. Consider olive kitchen cabinets with brass hardware, or bring in ochre in the form of a velvet sofa to set a luxe, cozy tone

2. Joyful, Tasteful Jewel Tones

(Emerald & Garnet, Sapphire & Topaz)

Jewel tones are making a dramatic comeback, bringing richness and opulence into interior spaces. Where a primary color in its boldest, most saturated form was once a bright ring at the carnival, today’s jewel tones are muted and layered, delivering a depth that is indulgent without being ostentatious.

Emerald & Garnet – Deep greens and rich reds exude timeless elegance. These hues work beautifully in Art Deco-inspired spaces, home libraries or theaters, or dramatic dining rooms.

Sapphire & Topaz – A pairing that feels luxurious yet playful. Deep blue tones add a regal feel, while golden topaz accents introduce warmth and contrast.

How to Use: Jewel tones work well in high-drama spaces like powder rooms, dining areas, or moody bedrooms. For a boutique-hotel feel, match an emerald-green velvet headboard (above) with gold lighting fixtures. Or, install sapphire blue cabinetry in a butler’s pantry for a bold unexpected statement.

3. Novel, Bold Natural Brights

(Coral, Cerulean, Lime)

For those who love energy, vibrance, and a touch of the unexpected, nature-inspired brights will be front and center. These hues infuse life into spaces, creating an uplifting, playful atmosphere.

Coral – A lively, warm hue that brings personality to neutral spaces. Coral complements deep greens, navy and even soft grays beautifully.

Cerulean – A fresh, clean blue that reflects the sky and ocean, for an airy, expansive sensibility in interiors.

Lime — A citrusy green that packs a punch, especially when used in small amounts against a more muted background.

How to Use: These colors can be used in smaller amounts — throw pillows, artwork, an accent chair — to bring energy without making a space feel heavy. For a bolder look, try a coral front door, a cerulean-tiled bathroom or lime-hued dining chairs on a more neutral canvas.

Make Color Your Own

Trends can certainly inspire us to try something new, but the most important thing in design is that your space reflects you. Whether you gravitate toward earthy tones, dramatic jewel hues, or playful brights, the key is to integrate them in a way that complements your personal style and the architecture of your home.

If you love your home but feel less enthused with the current color palette, please reach out. We can't wait to create YOUR richly-colored space!

Until next time,

Kerry