The Charms of Chestnut

Chestnut is the colour I can’t get enough of this season! Warm, earthy, and effortlessly stylish, this rich, deep brown adds a cosy yet sophisticated touch to any space, whether you’re going for a modern vibe or something more classic. From statement furniture to those little accessories that make all the difference, chestnut’s natural charm looks fabulous in any room.

When combined with cream, beige, caramel and coffee colours, chestnut tones create a refined and relaxed look perfect for the seasonal change in climate. As the nights draw in, create the ideal setting in which to curl up and relax. Pay attention to textures that are tactile – velvets, suedes and faux furs – these make lovely cushions and throws.

If you’d prefer a fresher, cooler look then set chestnut wood finishes against a backdrop of an icy blue paint such as Albany’s ‘Ice Blue’ or Paint and Paper Library’s ‘Ice II’. If you don’t like the idea of dark wood then use chestnut colour fabrics as the contrast.

Lusso Chestnut from Warner House or Linwood’s Omega Chestnut are both ideal fabric options for covering sofas and armchairs. Omega is made from 60% recycled polyester and is stain resistant and washable. Adorn these rich pieces with cushions in grey, blue and white to balance the contrast of the delicate blue paint with the deeper, darker colour of the furniture.

Paint colours such as Tailored Paint’s ‘Chestnut Brown’ or Neptune’s ‘Chestnut’ are good examples of the varying interpretations of what constitutes a ‘chestnut’ colour but essentially, both are from a palette of rich, warm browns. They work exceptionally well with navy blue for use in a smart study, library or reading room. In rural properties, especially in cottages with exposed beams or inglenook fireplaces, add in the autumnal hues of mustard, maroon and pumpkin orange to give a country feel, reflecting the natural environment found outdoors.

The timeless appearance of chestnut leather upholstery never goes out of fashion. The smart but casual finish works well on both new and old-style sofas and armchairs. It is a hardwearing and practical option, great for footstools and dining chairs due to its durable finish that is easy to clean and maintain. Pair plain brown leather fabrics with cream checks, plaids and stripes; Isle Mill, Ian Mankin and Sanderson each have some lovely options, combining a range of different colours to suit most tastes and styles.

Metallic accents can look glorious when set off against chestnut backgrounds, particularly copper and brass. Add in deep green on furniture, drapes or as accessories and you will create a refined and elegant ambiance in your chosen room. For a lighter look use cream painted furniture against the darker painted walls, topped with a display featuring a ceramic cream vase.

These creamy accessories will contrast with the deep chestnut décor to create a sense of space and light in smaller rooms. If you want to add more colour then recall the tones you see working well together in nature – the russetty reds and ochre yellows of deciduous autumn leaves set against the blue of the sky; the richness of a conker in its cream and green casing, and the deep green and cream of evergreen holly tree leaves combined with the red of the berries.

The lovely aspect of this trend is the way it can embrace antique furniture. We no longer need to feel forced to part with our inherited brown pieces in walnut, mahogany or rosewood. Set these stunning, sentimental gems off against a cream or blue wall and then introduce curtains or a blind in a fabric that features one or two of the autumnal colours we’ve already mentioned.

Earthy tones have dominated 2024 and increasingly we are being asked in our showroom for fabrics and wallpapers that feature tree scenes, leaves, flowers and landscapes. Perhaps this is fed by the increasing desire to feel at one with nature and to improve our sense of wellbeing. So, what better place to start than with a palette of rich browns, the literal shade of the earth beneath our feet, to ground our scheme and provide a basis for our developing ideas to mature.