How to Decorate with Brown Colors

Complement dark brown furniture with pieces in lighter tones. To keep the look cohesive, consider using pieces with accents that mimic the tone of the brown piece. For example, if you have a deep, espresso-brown leather couch, choose side chairs in light-colored fabrics with dark wood legs. By mixing up the light with the dark, you keep the furniture from becoming oppressive and overbearing.

Use color and reflective surfaces in rooms with brown walls to keep the space from feeling confining. To balance the dark walls, use jewel-toned furniture and accents, or opt for crisp white. Contrast brown walls with white molding and accents in natural textures, like bamboo and silk. Mirrors also help to reflect light, which keeps the brown walls from absorbing the natural light.

Use brown accents in rooms with coordinating color schemes, such as blues and greens, whites, or jewel tones. Brown is a neutral color, so it works with most colors, but stick with one palette rather than mixing palettes in one room. Brown can also bring together wood furniture with elements that come in other colors. For instance, brown throw pillows on a white sofa tie in a walnut coffee table. Brown curtains add color and drama to a space without the labor of painting an entire room. Use brown accents with different textures and patterns to keep your design from becoming drab.

Use light paint colors with brown hardwood floors to create contrast and emphasize height. Rich brown hardwood floors often boost the value of a home, and act as a neutral foundation for whatever elements you add to the room, including furniture, accents and artwork. However, if the tone of your wood floors is very dark, using another dark color on your walls may make your space feel smaller.

Take photographs of your room if you're in doubt about whether you're using too much brown. Sometimes when you're living in the space you're decorating, you're too close to the project to see the whole picture. By taking a photo, you'll get a better perspective on where you may need to add balance. Photos are also useful to carry around with you as you shop for paint colors, accent pieces, furniture or flooring.