Every few years, a new wave of color trends takes over the design world, and 2024’s palette is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. If you’re considering a fresh coat of paint for your home, you’re in the right place. I’ve worked with homeowners who’ve gone from “Let’s keep it neutral” to embracing bold hues in ways they never thought they would. This year, the hottest colors are designed to make spaces feel warm, relaxed, and connected to nature, with just a dash of bold personality.
Whether you’re planning to refresh the entire house or just an accent wall, let’s dive into the shades that are making waves this year—and help you find the one that’s perfect for your home!
1. Warm Earth Tones: Bringing the Outdoors In
Key Shades: Terracotta, Rust, and Olive Green
Nature-inspired earth tones have become a go-to for creating warmth and tranquility in suburban homes. These colors are versatile and timeless, and the beauty is that they make any room feel grounded and inviting. Think rich terracotta for a warm living room or olive green for a more calming bedroom vibe.
I had a client recently who was nervous about painting their dining room terracotta, afraid it would feel too dark. After taking the plunge, they loved it! The warm, earthy hue set the tone for family dinners and actually made the room feel cozy, not overwhelming.
Expert Tip: If you’re hesitant about going too bold, start with an accent wall or smaller space, like a hallway. Earth tones work beautifully with natural wood furniture, wicker accents, and plants to create a harmonious look.
2. Deep, Moody Blues: Elegance and Drama
Key Shades: Midnight Blue, Navy, Slate Blue
If you’re craving something a bit moodier, deep blues are making a serious comeback this year. These shades bring sophistication and a bit of drama without overwhelming a space. Navy and slate blue look fantastic in spaces where you want to make a statement, like a home office or a powder room.
One of my favorite projects last year was a home office transformation with a deep navy accent wall. My client was initially worried it would feel too dark, but with the right lighting and a few white shelves, the space felt rich and cozy—a big win, especially for those long work-from-home days.
Expert Tip: Pair deep blues with contrasting whites, soft grays, or even brass fixtures to add a touch of glam. In rooms that get plenty of natural light, deep blue tones can make a space feel cool and refreshing in the summer and cozy in the winter.
3. Soft, Calming Neutrals: Elevated Basics
Key Shades: Taupe, Warm Beige, Soft Gray
If you’re not ready to take a bold color plunge, there’s still room for you in 2024’s color palette. Soft, warm neutrals like taupe and beige are anything but boring this year. These shades create an elevated, polished look that brings warmth to rooms without demanding too much attention.
A couple I worked with last spring was set on keeping their living room neutral but wanted a fresh feel. We chose a warm beige with gray undertones, and the transformation was amazing. They loved how it paired perfectly with their existing furniture and made their family photos on the wall pop.
Expert Tip: Neutrals are your friend if you like to change up decor seasonally. These colors work with just about everything, so you can add bold pillows, throws, or wall art for pops of color when you want to switch things up.
4. Fresh Greens: Inviting and Full of Life
Key Shades: Sage Green, Mint, and Moss
Greens have taken on a new life in 2024. Homeowners are embracing shades like sage and mint to bring freshness and a sense of calm to their spaces. These shades are particularly popular in kitchens and bathrooms, as they create a clean yet lively feel.
One family I recently worked with was nervous about adding green to their kitchen but wanted to try something different. We went with sage green for the cabinets, and it turned out to be a big hit. Not only did it brighten the room, but it also worked well with the white subway tile and butcher block counters they already had.
Expert Tip: Green pairs exceptionally well with natural wood tones and matte black accents. Try adding a potted plant or two to complete the look and bring even more life to the space!
5. Bold Reds and Plums: Passionate and Unique
Key Shades: Burgundy, Deep Plum, and Crimson
For those looking to add a touch of personality, bold reds and plums are taking center stage in 2024. These colors are perfect if you want a room that’s truly unique and memorable. Rich reds and plums add a sense of luxury and pair beautifully with velvet or brass accents for a more luxurious feel.
I had a client who was itching to do something unique in their formal dining room. We chose a deep plum shade, and it instantly elevated the space, making it feel special yet cozy for gatherings. They loved how the color gave the room a welcoming vibe while still feeling elegant.
Expert Tip: Bold colors can be overwhelming in large doses, so consider limiting them to one wall or a small room like a study or dining area. Pair with metallic or jewel-toned accents for an added touch of glamour.
6. Soft Pastels: Light, Bright, and Playful
Key Shades: Blush Pink, Light Lavender, and Pale Peach
Pastels are making a comeback, but they’re no longer just for kids’ rooms! Soft shades like blush and light lavender are being used in home offices, bedrooms, and even living rooms. These shades bring a gentle warmth that’s both inviting and refreshing.
I recently helped a homeowner use blush pink in her bedroom, and while she was worried it might feel too “girly,” it ended up adding a beautiful, soft glow. Paired with neutral bedding and gold accents, it became a peaceful and chic retreat.
Expert Tip: Pastels look great with light wood furniture and white trim. If you’re not ready to paint an entire wall, consider adding pastel accents with pillows, throws, or art.
7. Bold Black Accents: The Unexpected Neutral
Key Shades: Charcoal, Matte Black, Jet Black
Black may seem like a bold choice, but when used as an accent, it’s incredibly chic and versatile. Matte black is finding its place in cabinetry, doors, and even trim work, adding a sleek and sophisticated touch to modern and traditional spaces alike.
A couple I worked with last fall wanted to modernize their kitchen without a complete overhaul, so we painted their lower cabinets a matte black and kept the upper cabinets white. The contrast looked fantastic, and they felt like they had a brand-new kitchen without a full remodel.
Expert Tip: Start small with black accents—paint a door or add black hardware for a modern touch. Black pairs well with almost anything, so you can play around without worrying about clashing.
Choosing the Right Color for Your Home
Selecting the perfect color can feel overwhelming, but don’t stress—start with the rooms you use the most and think about the mood you want to create. Are you looking for a cozy retreat, a lively family space, or a calm oasis? Each color has a vibe, and 2024’s palette offers something for everyone.
Remember, paint can always be changed, so don’t be afraid to try something new. Whether you’re leaning towards a bold burgundy or a soothing sage, trust that the right color will breathe new life into your home.
Forever Kitchens is here to help you navigate color choices, offering guidance that fits both style and function. Let’s make your home a space you love, one color at a time!
Forever Kitchens: Designing Kitchens, Crafting Memories.