Moody paint colors are one of the biggest interior design trends we've seen so far in 2024. Channeling bold paints that transform spaces from feeling light and airy to cozy and sophisticated, interior designers and homeowners are turning to this brave new way of decorating with color.
Sherwin-Williams' popular paint Urbane Bronze is the latest shade to be used in such a way by designers. A gray-toned brown, we've noticed Urbane Bronze rising in popularity, and for good reason. To lean into this intriguing paint idea, we spoke to interior designers to understand why they love decorating with this daring color.
Why are moody hues like Urbane Bronze on trend?
First, it was Joanna Gaines' dark green Rose Shed that caught our attention for fully embracing moody paint trends. In the interior designer's case, it was a sophisticated shade of deep green that reads almost black to drench a room, redefining modern farmhouse style.
Shea McGee's pantry remodel further hammered home the dark and cozy interior design trend. This small but impactful window-less room embraces its restricted proportions by leaning into a dark and cocooning color scheme, proving just how effective dark paints can be.
'I see a richer color palette dominating interiors in 2024,' says LA-based interior designer David Samuel Ko, founder of Maison Ko. 'I think a lot of people are moving away from solely white and cream-based interiors and starting to add richness whether that be color, texture, and materials.'
David continues: 'I really see warm, luxurious color palettes to bring this "old money aesthetic" not only to one's wardrobe but also to homes. There is nothing wrong with a very neutral, bright, clean space, but this cold, minimalist approach to design seems to be on its way out.'
What color is Urbane Bronze?
Sherwin-Williams' Urbane Bronze is the perfect paint color to capture that warm, sophisticated look that designers expect to see more of throughout 2024. 'Urbane Bronze is a rich, moody mix of brown with a hint of green,' explains interior designer Betsy Wentz.
As pictured above, Urbane Bronze falls somewhere between a gray and a brown, allowing you to make a statement in your interior scheme without as much saturation as you'd typically expect from dark greens or blues. Urbane Bronze can be interpreted as a neutral color, while it doesn't fail to create that desired cozy and moody aesthetic.
How are interior designers decorating with Urbane Bronze?
Interior designer Betsy Wentz designed the boot room pictured above with Urbane Bronze used on the island cabinetry. 'It is a great color for kitchen or mudroom cabinets,' she says while adding that it also 'works well for the walls in a home office or even a bedroom.'
Jennifer Davis, founder of Davis Interiors is another interior designer to enjoy using Urbane Bronze on the kitchen cabinets. She explains how this moody, dark paint color makes a welcomed shift from harsh black in the heart of the home.
'One notable transformation is the evolution from stark black to the more organic, earthy colors, like Urbane Bronze by Sherwin-Williams. While black has long been a staple in kitchen design, its harshness can sometimes dominate a space, creating a cold or overly modern atmosphere. Urbane Bronze, however, brings a warmer and earthier essence, offering a softer alternative that retains sophistication while infusing a sense of warmth into the kitchen. Its deep, muted tones allow for versatility in complementing various design elements, from kitchen countertops to hardware.'
Decorating with Urbane Bronze can work just as well elsewhere in the home, particularly in rooms such as the living room. Interior designer Melanie Coddington of Coddington Design explains how she uses it as an accent wall paired with lighter neutrals for a sophisticated look.
'Working with Sherwin-Williams' Urbane Bronze can be a design delight,' says Melanie. 'I love using it as an accent wall color in living spaces, paired with neutral tones like creamy whites or soft greys. It adds depth and sophistication without overpowering the room. Consider incorporating Urbane Bronze into furnishings, such as accent chairs or decor pieces, to create a cohesive look throughout the space.'
Urbane Bronze is versatile enough to be used in many rooms throughout the home. From using it on kitchen cabinets for a statement look to painting smaller accents in a living space paired with lighter neutrals, Urbane Bronze can be used across your home decor ideas for a timeless take on the moody paint trend.
