12 Earth-Tone Paint Colors That Will Make Your Home Feel Grounded and Serene

Sable by Sherwin-Williams

Don’t let the richness of this warm brown, earth-tone paint color scare you—it’s a sophisticated hue that's comforting and sensible. "Sable is a deep, rich brown that brings a sense of stability and grounding to a room. It's on the cooler side of brown, but it still has a warmth that makes a space feel cozy and inviting—perfect for creating a serene retreat," says designer Nancy Swanton, CEO of Abundant Home Design. "Deep browns are making a comeback, so it’s the perfect, not too-dark shade to dip your toe into this style moment."

Sabre Gray by Benjamin Moore

Gray is another one of those earth tones that just feels cozy and right, but how do you know which one should you choose? When in doubt, go with Sabre Gray. "We love this unique gray because in some light its undertones lean more green and in others it leans more chalky neutral," says Bria Hammel, CEO of Brooke & Lou. "We pair this cool-toned gray with warmer pieces for balance." For example, she suggests pairing it with natural wicker or deep brass.

Cardamom by Farrow & Ball

Cardamom's shifting hues from deep brown to subtle green bring a magical quality to any space. Swanton says it’s the perfect earth-toned paint for both traditional and modern décor, lending a layer of sophistication and intrigue. Plus, because it has a green undertone, it can bring a feeling of abundance and renewal to your space.

"Cardamom is stunning when used on cabinetry, in kitchens, on a fireplace hearth, or in a cozy nook," Swanton says. "Its color is enhanced in well-lit spaces where its complexity can truly shine. Pair it with un-lacquered brass hardware and natural elements like wooden decor to emphasize its organic feel."

Rock Bottom by Sherwin-Williams

If you’re in the market for a moody earth tone—say, for a jewel box bathroom or sultry bedroom—Sherwin-Williams’ Rock Bottom might be a great contender for your space. "It’s a gorgeous black with a hint of green for when you want something dark and masculine but don’t want the darkness of black to be overpowering," says interior designer Kelly Neely. 

Carab by Benjamin Moore

Benjamin Moore’s Carab is a sultry earth tone that makes an impact without overwhelming a space. "It's got some rosy undertones to the brown that makes it very soft and approachable," says interior designer Lisa Gilmore. She recommends leaning into the color by pairing it with layers of rusty earth tones and textures. Incorporate pops of teal for a streamlined finish that doesn't look too monochromatic.

Salon Drab by Farrow and Ball

Salon Drab by Farrow and Ball is the perfect shade of mushroom brown, thanks to its warm undertones, richness, and modern appeal. "It doesn’t go too dark and pairs beautifully with virtually any color," says Neely. Consider pairing it with red-based paints or contemporary neutrals to tie your space together.

Harrison Rust by Dunn-Edwards

Harrison Rust is a cozy and warm terracotta color that takes its cue from the vibrancy of the Earth. "This color is particularly effective in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in communal areas like dining rooms and kitchens," Swanton says. "Pair it with tan or golden hues for a soft palette. If you want to go bold, then try deep reds or greens. Bring in neutral furniture and textures like wood or linen to enhance its rustic charm."

Backwoods by Benjamin Moore

This green paint is satisfying in its richness and hint of warmth that shimmers in the sunlight. "We have loved working with variations of green because it can be grounding and easily complimentary to other colors," says Celestin McGlynn, interior designer at Spec + Sage Interior Design. "Green has been a wonderful way to introduce color to clients who tend to shy away from or haven't been around colorful spaces. Backwoods is neutral enough to not feel intrusive."

October Mist by Benjamin Moore

Another earthy green to consider adding to your palette is Benjamin More’s October Mist, a muted sage that doubles as a neutral. "To us, nothing is more earth-toned than a soft, gorgeous green. This one is subtle enough to feel neutral while also creating enough visual interest to feel special in various spaces," Hammel says. "This is such a fun color to integrate into millwork. It’s a fun way to pack a punch whether you choose to pair with wallpaper or leave the rest of the wall a clean white."

Creamy White by Benjamin Moore

Although technically a white paint color, Creamy White by Benjamin Moore is infused with warm tones that make it feel more like a soft and sandy earth tone. "This is the perfect shade for cabinetry. It provides the ideal amount of subtle contrast with a white wall or lighter countertops," says Hammel. 

Accessible Beige by Sherwin-Williams

If you’re looking for a soft and neutral earth tone that’ll go with everything but still feels special, you can’t go wrong with Accessible Beige from Sherwin-Williams, says Neely. It’s one of her favorite paint colors due to its versatility and pure tone. "Yellow is often an undertone in lighter beige tones; however, this color doesn’t have any yellow, making it true to its color," she says.

Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams

Not quite a green and not quite a gray, Sherwin-Williams’ Evergreen Fog effortlessly marries the two for a chameleon sort of earth tone. "This green has a lot of gray in it, which makes it a shade that works alongside many other colors," says interior designer Shannon Murray. "It can be an impactful shade in a small cozy room or as a focal point on millwork, which is how we’ve used it."