As winter approaches, it’s only natural to crave a home that feels cozy and inviting. This season, designers are embracing colour palettes that balance warmth and sophistication, perfect for renters who want to refresh their space without a full renovation. These fall and winter 2025 colour trends can help you transform your rental into a space with style.

1. Rich Earth Tones Take Centre Stage

Nature-inspired colours continue to dominate, but this year’s earthy hues go deeper and moodier. Think terracotta, burnt sienna, moss green, and chocolate brown. These tones bring instant warmth and help create a sense of calm, especially when paired with natural textures like wood, rattan, or linen. Try Benjamin Moore’s colour of the year, Cinnamon Slate (2113-40), for a moody and elegant vibe.

If you can’t paint your walls, try adding these shades with throw blankets, area rugs, or curtains. Even a few small accents, like clay vases or textured cushions, can give your home that grounded, autumnal feel.

2. Soft Neutrals for a Minimalist Cozy Look

While bold colours are making waves, soft neutrals remain timeless for renters who prefer a cleaner, more serene space. This year’s neutrals have a warmer twist, with undertones of almond, creamy beige, and stone grey. These hues reflect natural light beautifully, making your apartment feel brighter during those darker winter months.

To make neutrals feel a bit more elevated, layer different textures, like knit throws, woven baskets, or velvet pillows. The contrast adds dimension and creates that cozy-yet-polished look that never goes out of style.

3. Jewel Tones Add a Touch of Luxury

For those looking to add a bit of drama, jewel tones are back and bolder than ever. Deep emerald green, sapphire blue, and amethyst purple make any space feel elegant and modern. These rich hues pair wonderfully with metallic accents like brass or gold and can elevate even the smallest rooms.

Try incorporating jewel tones through accent chairs, or removable décor. Even a single statement piece, such as a velvet throw or a piece of art in a bold colour, can become the focal point of your space

4. Warm Reds and Oranges for Comfort

As the weather cools, warm colours like rust, copper, and spiced orange create a welcoming atmosphere that feels perfect for fall. These hues mimic the glow of a fireplace and pair beautifully with natural wood or neutral backdrops.

If you’re hesitant about using vibrant colours, start small. Perhaps with tableware, a statement rug, paintings, or seasonal décor. The goal is to bring in warmth without overwhelming your existing palette.

5. Muted Blues and Greens Bring Calm

Cooler tones are still trending, but this year they’re softer and more tranquil. Muted sage, slate blue, and seafoam green provide a peaceful, spa-like feeling that’s ideal for bedrooms or bathrooms. When paired with soft whites or light woods, these colours help balance out the heavier shades used elsewhere in your home.

These colours also complement Alberta’s winter landscapes beautifully, creating a seamless connection between your indoor comfort and the nature outdoors.

6. Mixing and Matching for Personal Style

One of the biggest trends of 2025 is personalized palettes. Blending multiple colours to reflect your individual taste. Rather than sticking to one dominant shade, renters are layering complementary tones for a cozy, lived-in look. For example, mix terracotta with creamy beige or pair dark warm greys with touches of light blue and wood tones.

This approach makes it easy to refresh your space seasonally. Simply swap out accent pieces as the year goes on. It’s a simple, renter-friendly way to keep your home feeling fresh and on trend.