Chocolate brown has been a standout trend in interiors since 2024, and its popularity isn’t fading anytime soon. This warm, timeless shade brings depth and versatility to everything from classic to contemporary spaces. The key to using chocolate brown is pairing it with colours that complement its richness without overwhelming it.

Drawing on my experience as an interior stylist and designer, I've pulled together six of my favourite colour combinations featuring chocolate brown to inspire your next palette. 

1. CHOCOLATE BROWN, BUTTER YELLOW & DUSTY BLUE

This combination balances warmth with a soft, fresh contrast. Butter yellow brings a timeless warmth, while dusty blue adds a subtle playful note without overpowering. In Chloe Tozer’s Noosa home (founder of CLO Studio and interior designer) the hand-rendered butter yellow walls paired with timber coffee table creates a classic base, while a dusty blue armchair injects a fresh update, resulting in a space that feels both grounded and inviting.

2. CHOCOLATE BROWN, KHAKI & BURGUNDY

Khaki and burgundy add warmth and depth when combined with chocolate brown. Interior designer Montana Labelle's Toronto bedroom uses burgundy on the walls and ceiling, paired with an arched chocolate brown doorway and khaki bed cover to create a rich, moody colour palette.

3. CHOCOLATE BROWN & SOFT PASTELS

Soft pastels provide soft contrast to chocolate brown’s warmth, balancing cool and warm tones for a calm feel. In this home office, Caitlin Parker-Brown of Parker Studio incorporates these colours through decorative wallpaper paired with walnut joinery to create an inviting workspace. 

4. CHOCOLATE BROWN, DARK NAVY & SILVER

Dark navy brings depth, while silver adds a crisp, modern edge to chocolate brown’s richness. In a dining room I designed, a vintage walnut dining table anchors the space, complemented by ombré navy artwork and sculptural stainless steel jug to create a sleek and contemporary look. 

5. CHOCOLATE BROWN, BLUSH PINK & BRASS 

Blush pink softens chocolate brown’s intensity, and brass accents add subtle elegance. In this 1920s home renovation designed by Caitlin Parker-Brown of Parker Studio, a textured brown blanket pairs with blush cushions and brass bedside tables to create a cosy, refined bedroom.

6. CHOCOLATE BROWN, EMERALD GREEN & PLUM 

Emerald and plum add jewel-toned richness and vibrancy to chocolate brown’s base. Chloe Tozer’s Noosa bathroom features hand-rendered walls and sculptural walnut pieces alongside a bold marble vanity with emerald and plum accents for an organic yet luxurious feel.

Chocolate brown is a timeless and versatile colour that works beautifully across a range of styles and interiors. Whether you prefer soft, muted tones or bold, unexpected pairings, these combinations offer fresh ways to bring warmth and depth to your space.

For more colour inspiration, tips and advice, you can sign up for my free 2025 interior trend guide and join my email newsletter.