Design Recipes: Get cozy with earth tones

Blacks, browns, oranges, reds and even yellows are often considered to be earth tones that can help add warmth and coziness to a space. Earth tones work especially well in spaces that are overly cool or large and cavernous, as they add a welcoming feeling.

Looking for ways to infuse warmth into your home? Here are some top do’s and don’ts for using earth tones.

DO’S

• Do blend a neutral palette of earth tones such as brown, black and taupe.

• Do use earth tones as foundation colors to serve as a blank canvas and springboard to a color story.

• Do use earth tones to add a sense of warmth and coziness to a space.

• Do add organic elements such as greenery or succulents.

• Do incorporate textiles to infuse earth tones into a space.

DON’TS

• Don’t overuse the same earth tone in the same space. Use tints, tones and shades.

• Don’t be afraid to black and brown together for a rich, luxurious feel.

• Don’t overlook opportunities to incorporate earth tones in unexpected ways like a piece of artwork or furniture.

• Don’t use earth tones in spaces that are overly dark, as they may make a space feel small and closed in.

• Don’t ignore black and brown as foundation colors for other earth tones as part of an overall color scheme.

Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at info@cathyhobbs.com or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.