In a recent interview with Vogue.com for a piece entitled Why Brown Is the Color Taking Over Interiors in 2022, I noted, “Everyone is wanting to feel close to and comforted by the earth, whether it’s an organic brown linen for a family room sofa or a rich chocolate silk velvet on bergères for a living room.” For me, brown is anything but a passing trend. Some of my favorite spaces of all time by the iconic interior designers that I look up to feature chocolatey brown walls and upholstery. The work of David Hicks and Albert Hadley will forever grace my mood boards. When I think of spaces that have looked great for decades and will continue to inspire me, these are at the top of the list.

On my desk right now is the scheme for a living room in the charming Chicago suburb of Hinsdale that we are installing next month. Built in 1893, this magnificent home is certainly worthy of timeless design. For the walls of the living room, I chose Mahogany No. 36 from Farrow & Ball, an earthy hue that has welcoming, warm undertones. The brilliant decorative painter Julie Lutjen Lawrence will be adding a Greek key detail around the moldings. We're also repeating the Greek key motif, one of my favorites, with trim from Samuel & Sons on the leading edge of the ivory drapery. With rich brown velvets and an exciting mix of antiques and finishes, this room is fit to be one of the chicest yet!