We’ve only just been introduced to PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, but we’re already addicted to its deliciousness. Announced as Pantone’s Colour of the Year 2025, this rich, earthy brown promises to redefine home interiors, influencing the palettes of new builds and design trends alike.
A warming rich brown hue, Mocha Mousse nurtures with its suggestion of the delectable quality of cacao, chocolate and coffee, appealing to our desire for comfort. An earthy yet refined tone, Mocha Mousse evokes a feeling of the comfort of home whether appearing on flooring or a painted wall, or in more natural materials including wood and stone, rattan and wicker, leather and linen.
But what makes this colour truly special? According to Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Colour Institute, Mocha Mousse reflects our growing desire for comfort and wellness. It honours our connection to the natural world while embracing the indulgence of life’s simple pleasures. In her words: “We look to a colour that reaches into our desire for comfort and wellness, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.”
Add a dollop of Mocha Mousse to your home décor
Ready to embrace this trend? Here’s a few ways you can incorporate Mocha Mousse into your home in 2025:
Timber Cladding
If you’re planning a new build or renovation, consider timber cladding in a warm mocha hue. While black and ashy blonde tones have dominated in recent years, richer browns like Mocha Mousse will emerge bringing depth and warmth, grounding your home in earthy elegance. It’s subtle richness creates a welcoming, harmonious exterior.
Interior Panelling
If your new build is already underway, interior panelling offers a way to refresh your spaces. Lining internal walls or ceilings with timber not only brings in the warm tones of Mocha Mousse but also provides practical benefits. Panels are durable, less likely to chip than painted surfaces, and can contribute to sound absorption, creating a cosy and inviting environment.
Painted Walls
A quick yet impactful way to integrate Mocha Mousse is by painting a feature wall—or even an entire room. Opt for a space that receives plenty of natural light to let the richness of the colour shine. For an exact match, try Resene Toast, a paint that captures the essence of Pantone’s Mocha Mousse. The result? A space that exudes luxury and comfort.
Soft Furnishings
Textiles are an easy way to dip into the Mocha Mousse trend. Think plush, velvety upholstery or billowy linen curtains in warm brown tones. Accent pieces, like cushions or throws in natural fabrics, can transform your living spaces, making them feel both fashion-forward and serene. Nothing says ‘welcome home’ like a suede couch with the same comforting tones as your morning mocha.
Furniture and Décor
Furniture crafted from wood, leather, or rattan can bring Mocha Mousse to life in subtle yet striking ways. Consider a leather armchair, a rattan side table, or even a dark-stained dining set. These natural materials echo the authenticity and timelessness of the shade, blending seamlessly into various interior styles, from modern minimalist to rustic chic.
Tiles and Flooring
For those renovating kitchens or bathrooms, earthy mocha-toned tiles can create a striking, cohesive look. Whether in a matte or glossy finish, these tiles infuse warmth into spaces that are often dominated by cooler tones. Similarly, dark wood or laminate flooring in Mocha Mousse hues adds a grounding touch, tying together your design elements.
Emotive Mocha Mousse
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Mocha Mousse resonates on a deeper level. It’s warm, earthy qualities speak to a broader trend of reconnecting with nature and prioritising wellness in our living spaces. It’s a colour that nourishes not only the senses but also the spirit, making it ideal for creating a home environment that feels restorative and welcoming.
Pressman sums it up perfectly: “It [creates] a room you want to be in. People will say, ‘I love coming to your home. It feels so warm and welcoming.’ That’s the ultimate compliment, right?”
Whether you’re designing from scratch or simply refreshing your décor, its versatility, warmth, and authenticity make it a standout choice for 2025 and beyond. So go on, we dare you to add a dollop of Mocha Mousse to your home.
