CHICAGO – Home staging is an effective way to make a property irresistible to buyers, and the right colors can make all the difference. Rich, stylish interiors can create a sense of warmth, luxury and personality.
Consider, 81% of buyers’ agents say home staging helps clients visualize a property as their future home. They’re more likely to form an emotional connection when it feels warm and well-designed, leading to quicker offers and stronger competition. The trendy colors lately can be used to help make a home stand out—and that includes using deep color schemes.
The power of rich colors in home buying psychology
Dark, moody hues — like navy, emerald, and charcoal — can add depth and sophistication, giving your listings a high-end look home shoppers crave. These tones can create a sense of comfort, making a home feel lived-in rather than cold and empty.
Leveraging color psychology, bright, warm colors—like reds, oranges and yellows—can bring energy and excitement, possibly making a home’s social spaces lively and welcoming. On the other hand, cool, subdued tones—like blues, greens and purples—can promote relaxation, which might be a perfect match for bedrooms in creating restful retreats.
Using bold, yet balanced interior colors can help buyers form an emotional connection with the home—making sure they don’t forget it.
Why home staging should embrace this ‘rich color’ trend
Deep, grounding shades can add sophistication and can give the space a polished, high-end look. For example, rich, moody tones — like those deep blues, emerald greens, and warm browns — add depth and character, making a home feel luxurious. Try these richer, deeper colors for key areas in the home, like the living room, primary bedroom, or dining space, to elevate a property’s perceived value.
For example, Pantone’s 2025 Color of the Year is all about warmth, comfort and grounded elegance. Mocha Mousse is a rich, cozy brown with subtle reddish undertones, designed to evoke a sense of stability and connection.
How to use darker colors in the home’s interior
The key to using darker colors is to strike the right balance without overwhelming the space. Thoughtfully placed color accents can highlight a home’s best features.
Here are tips to help your clients use rich colors in a home:
- Make a statement with an accent wall: Use deep blues, emerald greens or warm browns to create a focal point in living rooms or bedrooms.
- Incorporate rich-toned furniture and decor: Velvet sofas, jewel-toned throw pillows and dark wood furniture can add elegance without requiring a full paint job.
- Layer textures with deep hues: Mix materials—like leather, silk or wool—in moody shades to create depth and warmth.
- Balance bold colors with neutrals: Pair deep colors with soft creams, warm beiges, or crisp whites to make spaces feel open and airy.
- Use metallic accents for contrast: Gold, brass or matte black fixtures against rich colors create a polished, high-end look.
How to use darker colors in the home’s exterior
A well-chosen exterior color scheme also can instantly boost a property’s attractiveness. Deep colors can be used to highlight the home’s trim work or architectural details, like unique entryways or rooflines.
For example, deep charcoal siding can be contrasted with crisp white trim or warm earthy tones with rich wood accents. Remember, a thoughtfully chosen exterior can set the stage for what’s inside.
Popular exterior color trends lately are leaning toward warm neutrals, moody blues and deep greens—hues that feel timeless, yet modern. For maximum impact, focus on quick curb appeal upgrades like:
- Repainting the front door in a bold color like navy, black or deep red.
- Refreshing the trim and shutters for a clean, finished look.
- Using stylish landscaping accents, like potted plants or updated lighting fixtures.
© 2025 National Association of Realtors® (NAR)
Author fschmuff
