Each year, the Pantone Colour Institute reveals its Colour of the Year, offering a snapshot of global trends in culture, design, and aesthetics. For 2025, the spotlight falls on PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. This rich, warm brown hue exudes comfort, sophistication, and a grounded connection to nature—an ideal choice for those seeking to reflect these qualities in their homes.

Why Mocha Mousse?

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Colour Institute, describes Mocha Mousse as a hue that “extends our perceptions of the browns from humble and grounded to embracing the aspirational and presenting a discrete and tasteful touch of glamour”. This earthy tone channels the calming and indulgent pleasures of coffee, chocolate, and the natural world. As Canadians, with our vast forests, rugged landscapes, and long winters, this hue resonates deeply, offering a sense of warmth and timeless elegance.

In a cultural climate where sustainability, authenticity, and simplicity are prized, Mocha Mousse speaks to our collective yearning for comfort and groundedness. It’s a colour that encourages mindfulness and celebrates life’s quieter joys—perfect for creating a home that feels like a sanctuary.

Incorporating Mocha Mousse into Your Home

Mocha Mousse is as versatile as it is evocative, making it a brilliant choice for interiors. Whether you’re planning a full-scale renovation or simply refreshing your decor, this colour offers endless opportunities.

1. Living Rooms: Warm and Inviting

The living room is often the heart of a home, and Mocha Mousse can transform it into a haven of comfort. Use it on walls for a cocooning effect, pairing it with neutral tones like soft beige or creamy white to create a balanced look. For a more dynamic palette, incorporate accents in shades like teal or mustard yellow to add pops of colour.

Tips:

• Opt for textured fabrics such as wool or boucle in Mocha Mousse for throw pillows or blankets, creating a tactile, cosy atmosphere for chilly evenings.
• Incorporate natural wood furniture and decor to complement the organic feel of the colour.

2. Kitchens: Earthy Elegance

Brown might not be the first colour you think of for kitchens, but Mocha Mousse challenges this perception. Its rich tone adds depth and warmth, making it an excellent choice for cabinetry or backsplashes.

Tips:

• Pair Mocha Mousse cabinets with quartz countertops in a light, natural finish for a timeless look.
• Use the colour on a feature wall in an open-concept kitchen and dining space, tying the rooms together with matching decor accents.

3. Bedrooms: A Serene Retreat

Mocha Mousse is perfect for creating a restful and grounding bedroom. Its soothing qualities make it an ideal backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Tips:

• Use Mocha Mousse as a feature wall colour behind your bed, paired with crisp white linens for contrast.
• Layer textures like a velvet duvet cover, knitted throws, and plush area rugs to enhance the room’s cosiness.

4. Bathrooms: Luxurious and Grounded

For bathrooms, Mocha Mousse offers a spa-like aesthetic, invoking warmth and serenity. Use it for vanity cabinets or as a complementary colour for tiles and accents.

Tips:

• Pair Mocha Mousse with metallic accents in brass or brushed gold for an elevated, luxurious look.
• Incorporate natural materials like stone or terracotta to enhance the organic vibe.

5. Accessories and Accents: Subtle Yet Impactful

If painting walls or replacing furniture feels too daunting, you can still embrace Mocha Mousse through smaller touches.

Tips:

• Add Mocha Mousse candles, vases, or decorative bowls to your space for a subtle introduction of the colour.
• Swap out seasonal decor items, like throw cushions and table runners, to align with this year’s trend without a significant investment.

Why Mocha Mousse Matters

Choosing a Colour of the Year is more than a design decision; it’s a reflection of societal currents. In 2025, Mocha Mousse captures a collective desire for connection—to nature, to simplicity, and to each other. Its rich tone invites us to slow down, appreciate life’s simple pleasures, and create spaces that truly feel like home.

For Canadians, this colour aligns beautifully with our lifestyle. It complements the changing seasons, from autumn’s amber leaves to winter’s snowy landscapes. It’s versatile enough to feel cosy in winter yet fresh in summer, making it an all-season favourite.

Mocha Mousse, the 2025 Pantone Colour of the Year, is more than a trend—it’s a celebration of comfort, authenticity, and natural beauty. Whether you’re giving your living room a facelift, reimagining your kitchen, or simply adding a few accessories, this rich brown hue can help transform your home into a space that feels both luxurious and grounded.