ADVICE

Reader’s question
"I would like to paint the chimney breast but I am wondering about the color ... My living room has ivory painted walls, the sofa set is brown with orange and yellow cushions, the furniture is cherry wood, and the sheer curtains have hues of brown and golden yellow to orange".

Our recommendations

Brown is an earthy color and creates environments where people feel stability, approachability, reliability.
The orange and yellow accents on pillows and curtains add warmth, naturalness and comfort.
The ivory shade on the walls enlightens the space.
The chimney breast can be painted in a warm, but intense hue, ie terracotta or even darker, brick red color hue for example.

Alternatively, you can paint the wall behind the fireplace terracotta and the chimney breast in ivory tone.

If you do not prefer strong color contrast, you can apply striped wallpaper in pale tones of mocha.