If You Like Brown Shades, You're in Luck!

When Pantone selected Mocha Mousse as its 2025 Color of the Year, it reinforced a growing trend in both fashion and interior design – one that emphasizes warmth and quiet luxury.

The color institute notes that Mocha Mousse is a rich brown hue that answers “our desire for comfort.” True to its name, the shade evokes an indulgent chocolate mousse that you might enjoy while curled up on the couch in front of a fire.

Beyond its cozy appeal, Mocha Mousse highlights a return to basics – a soft, grounding presence in a fast-paced era dominated by technology.

“Mocha Mousse reflects our longing to connect with nature, infusing warmth into our spaces while fostering a calm and soothing ambiance,” said Clara Kim, co-founder and creative director at STUTTIO, an architectural and interior design studio in Chicago. She describes the color as “a rich, earthy hue that exudes both sophistication and serenity.”

If you’re looking for ways to bring this neutral versatile tone into your home, here are a few ideas for everything from complete redesigns to subtle changes.

Starting from scratch

In new builds and major remodels, Mocha Mousse is the perfect shortcut to creating a chic and welcoming atmosphere with lasting appeal.

“[Mocha Mousse’s] understated elegance and warm, luxurious feel make it a timeless and versatile choice,” Kim said.

Consider Mocha Mousse for:

• Kitchen cabinetry: Pair Mocha Mousse cabinets with brass or black hardware for a modern, earthy take on a timeless look.
• Accent walls: Use it in living rooms or bedrooms to add depth without overpowering the space.
• Tile choices: Incorporate the color in bathroom or kitchen tiles for a spa-like vibe, especially when paired with soft whites or sandy tones.
• Wood finishes: The shade complements walnut or oak wood tones beautifully, enhancing natural warmth.

Enhancing your existing design

If you’re not planning a major overhaul, Mocha Mousse can also make an impact in smaller doses.

“Mocha Mousse can be seamlessly incorporated into your space, whether you prefer a bold statement or a more understated touch,” Kim said. Try bringing the color into your home through:

• Textiles: Add brown throw pillows, blankets or area rugs for an instant refresh.
• Painted furniture: Revamp an old dresser or nightstand with Mocha Mousse paint for a sophisticated update.
• Décor: Subtly tie the color into your space through vases, candleholders or picture frames.
• Artwork: Bring the trend to your walls with abstract prints or photographs that feature earthy brown tones.

Finding a way to complement

When it comes to adding Mocha Mousse to your space, be sure to consider how it interacts with other shades.

“Colors that balance well with Mocha Mousse include warm whites, muted pinks, olive and sage greens, as well as sea blues with subtle gray undertones,” Kim said. Here are just some of the color combinations that lend themselves to an elevated and inviting look:

• Deep teal: Teal offers a striking contrast to Mocha Mousse, creating a balanced and modern look.
• Olive green: Earthy greens complement Mocha Mousse’s natural, organic appeal.
• Soft cream: To create a serene and sophisticated space, pair Mocha Mousse with creamy whites or light taupes.
• Monochromatic: Pantone suggests creating a monochromatic color palette using Mocha Mousse and similar shades like Safari, Chanterelle and Chocolate Martini. It’s an effortless way to bring the color home.

Mocha Mousse bridges the gap between modern minimalism and cozy maximalism, making it a universally appealing choice. Whether you’re designing from scratch or adding touches to a lived-in home, it promises a calm and chic look that’s perfect for 2025.