When you think of fall in the Lake Lanier Area, you might picture cozy evenings by the water, the changing leaves, and, yes, a lot of orange. However, as we head into fall 2025, the interior design scene is shifting towards more sophisticated palettes.
Recent color trend reports from Homes & Gardens and Vogue indicate that the typical fall décor is evolving. This year, we’re seeing a move away from seasonal clichés towards combinations that emphasize depth, tranquility, and lasting style—perfect for both your home and potential buyers.
Whether you’re sprucing up your space for the season, preparing your home for the market, or just keen to stay in the loop, let’s explore the designer-approved fall palettes that are trending this year.
Sapphire, navy, and charcoal are standing in for black
If you want to ground a room without diving into dark and moody territory, dark blue is the way to go. Homes & Gardens highlights blue as one of the most sought-after shades this fall, particularly in deeper tones like charcoal blue and navy.
These colors shine when used in contrast. Instead of painting an entire room, consider a navy feature wall, charcoal bookshelves, or dark blue cabinetry paired with lighter neutral furnishings. Adding warm wood tones or a few gold accents can make the space feel intentional rather than heavy.
If you’re updating a room that gets plenty of evening light, these cooler, smoky shades can create a cozy atmosphere that feels elevated, rather than just seasonal.
Plum and ochre feel luxe but not loud
The combination of plum and ochre is making waves in everything from textiles to wall paint this fall. Plum is being embraced in velvets, deep florals, and statement art, while ochre—think soft gold or muted clay—appears in accent chairs, pillow fabrics, and ceramic pieces.
Both colors are saturated enough to create visual interest but soft enough to blend seamlessly with neutral tones. According to Vogue’s recent color trend feature, purples and golds are making a comeback, but in more restrained, tonal ways. This palette works especially well layered over taupe, greige, or mushroom tones, and can be incorporated through art, textiles, or accent furniture.
If you’re considering small updates before selling, these colors can make a space feel thoughtful and current without the need for a complete repaint.
Mushroom neutrals are the new go-to base
This fall, neutrals are still a staple, but the new favorite is what designers are calling mushroom. These soft grays and taupes with brown undertones are warmer than traditional gray and pair well with both cool and warm colors.
In homes getting ready for the market, mushroom works wonderfully for upholstery, rugs, and even painted cabinetry. Unlike stark white or builder beige, it adds warmth without feeling dated or flat. It also gives potential buyers a sense of calm and flexibility, making it easier for them to envision their own belongings in the space.
If you're staging or refreshing a room this fall, mushroom tones create a grounded backdrop for layering in deeper fall accents.
Burnished gold and oxblood are replacing bright metallics
This season, traditional golds and brassy finishes are being swapped out for more muted versions—burnished gold, aged brass, and brushed bronze. These finishes still bring warmth but with less shine, helping a room feel composed instead of flashy.
At the same time, oxblood is making its presence felt in small, impactful doses. You might find it in a leather ottoman, a piece of abstract art, or a bold accent pillow. It adds richness to a space and pairs well with both neutrals and other jewel tones.
Designers are using these colors to create visual points of interest. If you're adding seasonal accessories or highlighting a built-in feature, this approach adds depth without requiring a major overhaul.
Earthy greens are being used as calming accents
Greens continue to trend, but this year they’re shifting from olive and emerald to more grounded, earthy tones. Homes & Gardens highlights moss, sage, and dill as top color picks for fall. These shades are muted enough to feel subtle while still bringing a sense of nature indoors.
Earthy greens are particularly effective in kitchens, entryways, and home offices—anywhere you want a color that helps the space feel both structured and relaxed. We’re seeing them used in cabinetry, painted furniture, and even window treatments.
In homes that already lean neutral, adding this kind of green through art, vases, or soft textiles can bring just the right amount of seasonal energy without going overboard.
How to update a space without a full redesign
One of the great things about these 2025 fall palettes is their versatility. You don’t need to repaint your entire house or redo all your furniture. Many of these tones can be introduced through textiles, accessories, or a few strategic paint choices.
Try a bold wall or built-in
Accent walls are still a popular choice. A navy or charcoal wall in a bedroom, dining room, or home office can instantly change the mood. Painted built-ins or shelving units are another way to introduce color without committing to a full room transformation.
Layer texture with color
The colors designers are recommending this season also emphasize texture. Velvet, wool, boucle, and natural ceramics help reinforce the warmth of a space. A mushroom-tone boucle chair paired with a gold-toned lamp or a plum velvet throw can create a moment in a room that feels seasonal yet cohesive.
Use art and accessories to rotate seasonally
You don’t have to completely redecorate to acknowledge the season. Wall art in oxblood or moss green, decorative bowls in soft ochre, or even books grouped by color can set the tone. These items are easy to change out later, making them ideal for homeowners who enjoy variety and for sellers looking to update without making permanent changes.
Palette pairings we’re seeing this fall
Here are a few combinations that designers are working with right now:
- Navy with mushroom and aged brass
- Plum with ochre and soft white
- Moss green with charcoal and walnut
- Oxblood with taupe and brushed bronze
- Sage green with ivory and burnished gold
Each of these palettes works across a range of design styles, from contemporary to traditional, and can be adjusted with small changes in tone or texture. They’re also useful for sellers who want their home to feel current but not overly stylized.
A season for subtle shifts
As fall approaches, many of us feel the urge to make our spaces more comfortable and grounded. These updated palettes help achieve that without relying on the usual seasonal themes. They feel warm and composed, not overly decorated.
If you're considering a small refresh this season or thinking about how your home will show to potential buyers, these palettes offer a solid starting point. A few thoughtful choices can shift the entire feel of a room without requiring a major investment.
