Decorating with pink and brown is taking over contemporary interiors, and although it may have once seemed unlikely that such a light, feminine tone would match a dark and intense one, this elegant and balanced combination has won over design experts — and promises to remain on trend well beyond 2025.
While many modern color palettes rely on contrasting tones on opposite sides of the color wheel, pink and brown offer a harmonious softness when used together, as designer Lynn Kloythanomsup of Landed Interiors explains: “Brown and pink work in harmony because they’re adjacent on the color wheel. Pink is a shade of red and brown of orange. Red and orange are close, which reinforces their visual synergy.”
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Below is a selection of interiors showcasing this 2025 color trend, from living rooms and bedrooms to bathrooms and powder rooms. The ideas below show how to decorate with pink and brown in a sophisticated and timeless way.
1. Apply a soft pink with dark brown accents
The best pink wall paints are a refined choice, especially in lighter tones that create a neutral base. In this cozy living room, Ivory Lace by Sherwin-Williams is used on the walls, while the wooden beams are painted in Bittersweet Chocolate by Benjamin Moore. The result is a subtle and contemporary version of the pink-and-brown combination.
Designer Lynn Kloythanomsup comments:
“We selected soft or muted shades of pink so they would pair well with brown variations, creating visual balance.”
2. Make bubblegum pink sophisticated with brown furniture
For a more relaxed atmosphere, choose a shade like Yours Truly by Benjamin Moore, used in this traditional living room. The bubblegum pink on the walls adds lightness and contrasts with the brown elements of the fireplace, rug, and furniture, creating a rich and balanced composition.
Lynn highlights the importance of undertones:
“Even in colorful rooms, we aim for muted or earthy tones to create visual harmony and a more sophisticated feel.”
3. Choose copper and light pinks for a subtle look
In the bedroom, copper-brown tones are balanced with peachy pink upholstery. The result is a soft and elegant atmosphere, as designer Martin Horner of Soucie Horner notes:
“Pink and brown create a classic juxtaposition of light and dark, feminine and masculine — a visually refined pairing.”
4. Go for soft brown walls with pink accents
Earthy and warm tones like Antlers by Portola Paints are ideal for creating a textured neutral base. Paired with light pink curtains and rugs, the space exudes coziness and elegance. According to MK Smith:
“Brown and pink offer visual contrast and warmth — perfect for social areas and gentle environments.”
5. Add touches of pink with wallpaper
Wallpaper is a versatile solution to explore the pink-and-brown trend in 2025, especially in dining rooms. In this project by Nicole Lanteri, vibrant pink wallpaper pairs with a dark wooden table, creating a maximalist and immersive ambiance.
Nicole says:
“The blend of brown and pink offers depth, contrast, and cohesion — even in architecturally challenging spaces.”
6. Elevate a brown wood vanity with pink quartz countertops
In powder rooms, the pink-and-brown combination is enhanced with luxurious materials. Here, the pink quartz countertop by En Masse Architecture & Design complements the oak vanity, resulting in a warm and visually impactful space.
Lucas Goldbach explains:
“Pink stone is bold and warm, while the brown and brass details provide grounding and balance. The final palette is sophisticated and sensory.”
7. Introduce a third color for a bolder look
Adding mustard yellow to the pink-and-brown scheme brings warmth and joy. In this bedroom by Kobel + Co, the pink ottoman and mustard rug balance the dark wood bed, preventing the space from feeling outdated or heavy.
Designers Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett note:
“Pink and brown elevate each other, and the mustard touch adds energy and sophistication to the room.”
8. Combine wood tones with deep pinks
If your goal is visual impact, pairing vibrant pink with wood finishes adds depth and modernity. In this room by Jessica Nicastro, pink artwork contrasts with natural wood, proving that even small details can transform a space.
Jessica states:
“Even in small doses, pink and brown harmonize and stand out — without competing with each other.”
9. Use pink instead of neutral tones in the bathroom
To move away from classic white, light pink can be a warm and original choice for the bathroom. In this project by STUDIO KEETA, the pairing with wood brings comfort while maintaining neutrality and timeless charm.
Kristina Khersonsky explains:
“Pink brings lightness, brown offers a natural base. Together, they create a balanced, cozy, and visually interesting space.”
Pink and brown are a surprisingly sophisticated color duo. Whether opting for vibrant pink or sticking to soft, neutral tones, this versatile palette adapts to various interior styles, always maintaining a timeless and elegant touch.
If you’re looking for more color inspiration for interiors, it’s worth exploring other unexpected combinations that work surprisingly well.
Source: Homes & Gardens
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
