Bold Patterns and Earthy Tones Dominate Fall and Winter Home Design

This fall and winter, home design is embracing boldness and warmth, moving away from neutral tones. Thumbtack’s latest trends report highlights two major shifts: Printplosion, a surge in maximalist patterns, and Dirtcore, a focus on rich earth tones. These trends reflect a growing desire for homes that evoke emotion and personality.

Pattern mixing is becoming more adventurous, with 61% of homeowners considering incorporating at least one pattern in the next year. Florals and botanicals lead the way, followed by layered patterns, stripes, and abstract designs. Kendra Sinclair, Thumbtack’s Design Trends Expert, advises keeping pattern-mixing cohesive by choosing two or three colors and varying print scales. Popular placements include accent walls, powder rooms, and hallways.

The Dirtcore trend leans into deep, nature-inspired hues like browns, clay, terracotta, and mossy greens. Nearly six in 10 homeowners want paint to create a warm and cozy atmosphere, while half seek a sense of calm. Sue Wadden, Sherwin-Williams’s Director of Global Architectural Color Marketing, notes that these colors are richer than past neutrals, offering a more enveloping feel. Interior painting requests have increased over 30% year over year, with homeowners favoring warm taupes, herbal greens, and terracotta.

For those looking to refresh their spaces, small changes can make a big impact. Patterned ceilings, painted trim, or earthy accents can embrace these trends without a full makeover. Sherwin-Williams’s 2027 Colormix® Trend Forecast, featuring 48 organic-inspired hues, offers inspiration for those ready to experiment.