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Discover the designer-approved paint shades — from olive green to cherry red — that are perfect for creating a warm, inviting home this autumn and beyond
Adding warmth to your home is one of the simplest ways to embrace autumn – and paint colours play a big role. Whether you freshen up a whole room or just update a piece of furniture, the right shade can make a space feel instantly more inviting.
Classic hues like burnt orange and chocolate brown are always favourites at this time of year, but there are plenty of other shades that can bring the same cosy feel in a more subtle or timeless way. ‘For the season ahead, thinking beyond neutrals and exploring palettes inspired by nature’s quieter moments will be key,’ says Anna Hill, brand director and colour consultant at Fenwick & Tilbrook.
Looking for ideas? Here, colour experts share the shades that work beautifully in autumn and beyond, along with tips on how to style them.
Marrying earthiness with autumn’s embers, rusty coral has a soft brown undertone that still makes a serious statement. ‘Its impact makes it perfect for living rooms or as an accent colour in dining spaces – close your eyes, and you can almost hear the marshmallows roasting on an autumnal campfire,’ says Marianne Shillingford, creative director and colour expert at Dulux.
To style it, pair with bolder tones like cherry red or deeper shades such as chestnut brown, depending on whether you want a vibrant or moodier look. Finish with crisp white furniture and accents for a fresh, contemporary edge.
Pictured: Autumn Embers, Dulux
Bringing instant warmth to any space, mustard yellow offers a fresh twist on traditional autumnal tones. ‘This sun-baked shade echoes low autumn light, creating rooms that feel grounded and uplifting,’ explains Anna Hill, brand director and colour consultant at Fenwick & Tilbrook.
For those who loved the butter yellow trend, this is a bolder way to bring sunshine indoors during the cooler months. It works particularly well in smaller spaces – think cosy kitchens, snug living rooms, or hallways – where it creates a comforting glow. For added drama, pair it with crisp white, deep greens, or navy blue accents.
Pictured: Carnaby Yellow, Annie Sloan
Refined and versatile, warm greys are ideal for creating a calming, elegant feel. ‘Whether used as a backdrop or a main feature, it brings depth without overpowering, allowing other elements in the space to shine through,’ Anna says.
Timeless and understated, this shade works beautifully in living rooms and bedrooms. For an autumn-ready finish, layer in natural textures and cosy knits, then introduce clusters of candles in varying heights to add warmth and sophistication.
Pictured: Greylag Goose, Fenwick & Tilbrook
Natural tones have been a strong theme this year, with calming colours continuing to dominate. While sage green was the shade of spring and summer, autumn calls for olive green. ‘Olive green is a standout shade this autumn, with its smoky, earthy tones leaning into that cosy, rustic farmhouse look,’ explains Michael Rolland, paint expert and managing director at The Paint Shed.
This shift also ties into a wider rise in green/yellow tones, celebrated for their retro-inspired, mood-boosting qualities and earthy undertones. Together, these shades show how versatile green remains across the seasons.
As highlighted in our autumn 2025 interior trends report, this shift also reflects the growing rise of green/yellow tones, celebrated for their retro-inspired, mood-boosting qualities and earthy undertones. Together, these shades show just how versatile green remains across the seasons.
For a timeless update, try painting cupboards or doors in olive green and pair with antiques, dusky pink accents, and wooden flooring. To add depth, update fittings in brass tones – bonus autumnal points if you opt for leaf- or animal-shaped designs.
Pictured: Bancha, Farrow & Ball
Luxurious jewel tones like emerald green and sapphire blue always make an impact, but this season deep red is the shade to embrace. ‘Ideal for dining rooms or cosy corners, deep red colours will lend a touch of opulence whilst still remaining welcoming,’ notes Anna.
Style it with soft lighting and tactile fabrics to create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for slowing down and enjoying the moment.
Pictured: Bronze Red, Little Greene
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