From Neutral to Notable: The Case for Rich, Earthy Palettes
If you’ve been noticing more deep greens, earthy terracottas and moody chocolates sneaking into interiors, you’re not imagining it. The crisp whites and pale grays that dominated the past decade are slowly giving way to richer, more layered tones. This shift is less about trends and more about how people want to feel at home, calm, grounded and cocooned.
Color is powerful. A warm neutral can turn a large, echoey room into a cozy retreat. A deep, moody wall can make artwork pop and furnishings feel curated. Earthier tones also connect a home to the outdoors, which is especially grounding in a place like Central Pennsylvania, where the seasons are bold and beautiful.
The key to getting it right is balance. At Fitz Haus, we test every color in the actual space it’s going to live in. Paint can read entirely differently under morning light versus evening lamplight. We also consider how the palette interacts with existing finishes, floors, cabinetry, even stonework. Pairing a clay wall tone with warm oak flooring creates harmony. Pairing the same clay with a cool gray floor could feel jarring. These are the nuances that make or break a room.
If you’re nervous about going too bold, consider where moody tones make the most impact. A powder room with a dramatic color feels like a jewel box. A study painted in deep green feels rich and sophisticated. For living spaces, we often use layered neutrals like mushroom, camel and ivory, that read warm without overwhelming.
The best part of embracing color through a full-service design process is that you don’t have to guess. We provide curated palettes, swatches tested in real light, and renderings that help you envision the result before a single gallon is ordered. You can trust that the bold choice you’re making is the right one, and that it will stand the test of time.
Color is personal, but when it’s done well, it changes everything. Your walls become the backdrop of your life, why not make them as inspiring as the experiences you bring home?
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Abby Fitzgerald is the founder and principal designer of Fitz Haus Interior Design, a Central Pennsylvania studio specializing in full-service residential interiors. Known for her confident use of color and process-driven approach, Abby helps clients move beyond safe neutrals to create bold, timeless spaces that reflect both elegance and lifestyle. Her expertise in blending architecture, function and design detail has made Fitz Haus a trusted name for homeowners seeking high-end interiors in Harrisburg, Hershey, Carlisle, Lancaster and beyond.