For the past year, red has been the go-to color in interior design, but as we transition into fall, a new shade is stealing the spotlight. Orange, with its warm, vibrant tones, is becoming the color everyone is talking about.
As we begin to embrace autumn color palettes in our homes, the cozy nature of orange feels especially fitting. While red can sometimes dominate a space, using orange in decor softens the impact while still providing a bold presence; it packs a punch like red but feels more inviting.
According to Kailee Blalock from House of Hive, 'Orange is definitely stepping into the limelight as the new red. It's surprisingly versatile, adapting well to many styles.' As I notice the presence of orange growing—from fresh fall styles to Taylor Swift's upcoming album release—it's clear this dynamic hue is poised for a moment in the sun.
Will Orange Replace Red in Fall 2025?
This past year has seen the rise of the unexpected red trend—an idea popularized on TikTok that highlighted how a bold splash of color can transform spaces. Red accents appeared in everything from shiny side tables to glossy decor, establishing red as the most audacious choice in home interiors. However, as we head into fall, I'm noticing a more seasonally appropriate hue emerging.
What's exciting about orange is how it captures everything red offers—energy and vibrancy—while softening its intensity.
Designer Courtnay Tartt Elias from Creative Tonic Design notes, 'We're witnessing a revival of orange in home decor, especially after its decline alongside the avocado green trend of the 70s and the Tuscan style of the 90s. I adore the rich quality of terracotta, especially when paired with crisp white linens in a bedroom to keep it modern and fresh.'
'Orange is emerging as a warmer, less intense alternative to red, yet still highly impactful. It conveys optimism and introduces a more playful, welcoming tone,' explains Caroline Milns, head of interior design at Zulufish. 'While red can feel formal or overwhelming, orange is fresh, energizing, and surprisingly sophisticated when applied thoughtfully.'
Indeed, the popularity of orange coincides perfectly with this time of year. From late summer sunsets to pumpkin spice, fall decor inherently embodies rusty colors reminiscent of the changing leaves.
Designer Lauren Gilberthorpe agrees, stating, 'Orange is particularly relevant right now as we approach autumn. Unlike red, which can dominate a design scheme, orange radiates warmth and connects us to the natural surroundings.'
Additionally, there's a cultural influence driving this trend: Taylor Swift's 'orange era.' Following the announcement of her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, she hinted at an era defined by shades of orange, igniting a fascination with this color across social media.
Swift's palette includes vibrant oranges, yet there are numerous shades with distinct personalities—from radiant amber and playful tangerine to deep terracotta and rich chestnut.
Michael Rolland, a paint expert, highlights the growing interest in warmer tones, noting that 'chestnut paint colors were searched over 10,000 times in July 2025 alone, reflecting a clear desire for warm, inviting shades that evoke the comfort of autumn.' He recommends Little Greene's Muscovado as a top choice. 'Whether through chestnut-toned paint or wooden features, this rich color brings warmth and depth to a room, reminiscent of autumn's seasonal delights.'
Designer Molly Torres Portnof of DATE Interiors favors deeper hues, saying, 'I love incorporating orange shades as they create a warm, cozy, and inviting atmosphere. While bright orange has its place, I prefer amber and earthy orange tones, as they blend beautifully with neutrals and blues.'
'I enjoy pairing burnt or terracotta shades with deep navy or soft neutrals, which instantly uplift a space while maintaining a sense of balance and elegance,' Caroline Milns adds. 'This color bridges the gap between classic and contemporary styles.'
Orange can be a versatile companion in design; it pairs well with deep blues, greens, or charcoals for striking contrast, or with creams, taupes, and natural woods for a more subdued, grounded color palette.
'If you're uncertain, start with a muted or burnt orange, which feels inviting without being overpowering,' Kailee suggests. 'Orange can even act as a neutral; it's softer and more welcoming than red.'
Texture in design often enhances how orange is perceived in a room. 'Orange's versatility stems from its interaction with different textures,' Lauren notes. 'A rust-toned velvet cushion on natural oak, or a terracotta wall paired with a sheer linen curtain, creates a layered, inviting space.'
Burnt orange and terracotta tones like Farrow & Ball's Red Earth or Marmelo work beautifully alongside natural woods and stone. For a fresher option, Edward Bulmer's Malahide offers a brightness that surprisingly complements warm neutrals and off-whites,' she suggests.
Nina Lichtenstein emphasizes the importance of texture in making orange feel intentional rather than overwhelming. 'Matte plaster walls, velvet upholstery, leather accents, and woven rugs add depth and balance, allowing the color to shine without dominating the space.'
The secret to effectively using orange lies in achieving the right balance. It's a bold color, but with careful styling, it can refresh a room without overpowering it. Personally, I find that orange looks best when layered through fabrics, furniture, or accents to infuse warmth, rather than being applied excessively to walls.
Designer Jeanne Barber from Camden Grace Interiors shares her perspective: 'The warm undertones of orange make it perfect for cozy dining rooms or spaces where people gather. I love orange so much that I've included squash-colored chairs around my dining table.'
'When introduced through textiles, artwork, or accents, orange provides a vibrant dynamic that feels both contemporary and timeless,' Caroline adds. A burnt-orange throw, a few velvet cushions, or rustic clay ceramics can add just the right touch of richness to create a super cozy atmosphere for fall.
Shop Orange Decor for Your Home
Addison Ross's lacquered trays are iconic for a reason. Made with 20 layers of high gloss and hand-polished between each, this scalloped decorative catch-all will instantly elevate your coffee table.
This burnt orange pillow from Lulu and Georgia is crafted from super soft velvet and knotted to add color, form, and texture to your armchair, sofa, or bed.
These charming plaid napkins feature the tiniest little pumpkins embroidered on them. Made from 100% organic cotton and sold as a set of four, they are ideal for both Halloween and Thanksgiving gatherings.
This delightful taper candle from the renowned fashion label Loewe is infused with the scent of orange blossom and designed in the shape of a candlestick holder. It adds a playful touch to any table or fall mantel.
This cozy throw blanket, made from 100% wool, is a timeless addition for the colder months. With a rich terracotta and bronze plaid design, it adds classic warmth to your bed or sofa.
For those wanting to prepare every room for fall, this burnt orange set from Piglet in Bed is perfect for infusing warmth and comfort into your bedroom. Crafted from 55% linen and 45% cotton, these sheets are breathable, durable, and prewashed for ultimate softness.
As someone who was initially captivated by the allure of unexpected red, I never thought I would find myself drawn to orange. However, it truly feels optimistic, versatile, and expressive, while remaining surprisingly easy to integrate into various styles. While red hasn't lost its charm, it's evident that designers are embracing orange with enthusiasm this year. 'Orange isn't necessarily replacing red; rather, it presents a more grounded approach to adding energy and color to our homes,' Lauren concludes.
