Earthy tones: complete guide to using the palette at home!

In recent years, earth tones have become one of the major trends in decoration. Colors like brown, terracotta, beige, rust, and even the more subtle greens are taking over interiors, bringing a sense of coziness, balance, and connection with nature. If you're looking to refresh your home decor in a sophisticated and welcoming way, earth tones are a sure choice.

These colors, which evoke the earth and natural elements, are perfect for creating a tranquil and comfortable projects, ideal for moments of rest and companionship. But how to use earth tones in decoration without overloading the projects? Below, we’ve rounded up 5 amazing tips for you to get inspired.

Paint on the wall

The simplest way to incorporate earth tones into decoration is through the walls. Opting for an earthy background color can be an excellent way to quickly transform the projects. Shades of beige, sand, or light brown are great for creating a cozy feeling, as well as visually enlarging the space.

If you desire something bolder, betting on colors like terracotta or burnt red can be done on a feature wall. This technique creates a focal point that conveys warmth and personality to the projects. A central wall, such as behind the sofa or the headboard of the bed, is ideal for giving that special touch without exaggeration.

If you prefer something more subtle, combine earth tones with neutral shades like gray or white. This helps balance the intensity of the warm tones, creating a harmonious and elegant decoration.

Furniture and accessories in earthy tones

If you don't want to change the color of the walls, investing in furniture and accessories in earth tones is an excellent option. Sofas, armchairs, tables, and upholstery in shades of brown, caramel, or terracotta not only bring coziness but also elegance to the projects. If your space is small, opt for lighter-colored pieces to avoid overcrowding the projects.

Another way to include earth tones in the decoration is through details, such as pillows, curtains, and rugs. A terracotta blanket or pillows in rust tones can be used to add a touch of color to the sofa, while a neutral-toned sisal rug brings rusticity and coziness.

Balanced combination

Although earth tones are beautiful on their own, choosing complementary colors is essential to create a harmonious project. To ensure the decoration doesn't become monotonous, opt for combinations that bring contrast and freshness.

• Neutral tones: The mix of earth tones with neutral colors, such as white, gray, or black, creates a clean and sophisticated look. The contrast between brown and white, for example, is timeless and ideal for those who want a modern and cozy project.

• Green: Green is an excellent option to complement earth tones, as it refers to nature. Combining a moss or olive green with brown creates a sensation of freshness and tranquility, perfect for those seeking a calmer and more natural project.

• Blue: Blue, especially the darker shades, also works very well with earth tones. The harmony between brown and blue creates an interesting and modern contrast, bringing sophistication and freshness to the projects.

Invest in natural textures

To reinforce the connection with nature, invest in materials and textures that complement earth tones. Using wood, stones, and natural fibers, such as sisal and linen, helps create a more organic and welcoming atmosphere.

For furniture, choose pieces made from natural wood or painted in earth tones. Sisal or jute rugs are also excellent options to add texture and warmth to the projects.

If you want to give a rustic touch to the projects, consider adding elements like woven baskets, clay pots, or ceramics. These simple yet elegant objects help reinforce the cozy atmosphere and connection with the outdoors.

How to apply earth tones in each room

Each area of the house has its peculiarities, and earth tones can be applied differently according to the style and functionality of the space.

Living room

Cilene Lupi - A home to hit pause. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Rafael Renzo/CASACOR)

This is the ideal place to explore the earthy palette, especially with sofas, armchairs, and rugs. If the living room is small, choose beige or sand tones to enlarge the projects. A feature wall in terracotta can be the focal point of the living room. Combining these colors with lightly colored or white furniture brings a touch of sophistication.

Kitchen

Studio Lapinha, project by Ada Penna, Júlia Temponi, Gabriela Melo, and Mariana Calixto - CASACOR Minas Gerais 2021 (Henrique Queiroga/CASACOR)

In the kitchen, earth tones can be used in countertops, cabinets, and utensils. Cabinets in shades of caramel or natural wood bring rusticity and warmth. If the idea is a modern kitchen, combine these colors with copper or stainless steel accents, creating an interesting and contemporary contrast.

Bedroom

Carol Barreto - Bungalow Earth and Sea - A Breton experience. Project of CASACOR Bahia 2024. (Gabriela Daltro/CASACOR)

The bedroom is a perfect project for earth tones, as these colors help create a relaxing and calm space. Use softer shades of brown or beige in bedding and pillows. A terracotta wall or a headboard made of natural wood can add a cozy and sophisticated touch to the projects.

Bathroom

ARQTAB | Maycon Fogliene - The House of Being. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Amanda Bibiano/CASACOR)

In the bathroom, earth tones can be applied in coverings, such as tiles and floors. A touch of terracotta on the walls or a wooden countertop can bring rusticity to the projects. Combine with gold or copper metals to create a spa and wellness retreat vibe.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creation agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.