Shea McGee just used the perfect on trend burgundy in her latest project
As Labor Day approaches and summer slowly draws to an end, the world of fashion in interiors sees a switch quick enough to give you whiplash. It goes from the pale summery hues of white, creams, sky blues, and butter yellows to deeper, moodier shades that bring a sense of the changing seasons. Burgundy is one such color that we are already seeing in all the new fall launches of 2025.
When I think of fall color schemes, golden mustards, moss greens, and oxblood reds initially come to mind. However, interior designer Shea McGee has predicted that a more sophisticated shade is set to dominate fall trends next season. In a recent post, Shea says, ‘We’re loving rich, cozy colors for fall – especially a bold burgundy. It’s timeless and perfect for adding depth to any space.’ She includes a duo of enviable projects that both incorporate a luxurious chocolate meets burgundy paint color that I’ve hunted down and found to be Benjamin Moore’s Barista AF-175.
You’ll notice (if you’re an avid Shea follower like I am) that she features a very similar deep red/brown shade throughout her recent fall collection with Target and her own Fall line at McGee & Co.. From smaller rustic decor to large-scale furniture, the dark maroon crops up time and time again.
So, in a bid to make my home as on-trend as Shea’s this fall, I asked color experts for their thoughts on the chic shade and how to use it in the home.
You might think that decorating with burgundy is obvious for fall, but the beauty of the coffee-like red is its many layers. Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore, says, ‘Benjamin Moore’s Barista is a sumptuous, velvety dark brown with a hint of red, that brings warmth and depth to any space. As a bold neutral, it has the versatility to serve as either a confident backdrop or a more striking accent, making it ideal for creating a focal point in a range of settings from intimate, cozy snugs to expansive, luxurious kitchens.’
You’ll notice Shea has used the shade in a walk-through pantry and a downstairs powder room, both of which are smaller spaces. It might be interior design 101 to use lighter colors in tiny spaces, but dark shades can have the same space-expanded effects. Plus a deep burgundy can give a room depth and warmth, feelings that aren’t always easy to evoke in narrow spaces.
(Image credit: Studio McGee)
‘For a bold use of this color, envelop the entire room, including all walls and the ceiling, in this deep, rich brown’, says Helen. ‘The result will be a space that feels unexpectedly larger yet irresistibly inviting. Pair with brushed brass for a golden glow, creamy whites for balance and light, or soft blush accents for a contemporary take on a romantic color scheme.’ Much like Helen’s suggestion, Shea hasn’t held back with applying the burgundy paint and has used it liberally to create a sense of comfort and luxury combined.
Hannah Yeo, Senior Manager, Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore, agrees that going big is the best way to embrace the shade. ‘Immerse yourself in a color-drenched space with this rich, roasted coffee brown. A subtle, earthy red undertone adds warmth and depth, creating an inviting atmosphere.’
For a Shea-inspired look that feels heritage and cozy, Hannah says, ‘This hue pairs beautifully with leather accents and navy blues. Layer it with wood tones and creamy neutrals for a cozy, grounded look.’
Bold burgundy decor picks perfect for fall
If you aren’t on the lookout for a paint project, but still want to bring this Shea McGee-approved color into your home for fall, these are the pieces I would add to my cart.
Four Hands
Merlot Marble End Table
This luxurious marble end table is the perfect way to honor fall. It’s a timeless accessory that doesn’t need to be swapped out once the season is over, either.
Arteriors
Scarlett Pendant
The Scarlett pendant is the perfect burgundy-meets-brown shade that will give a kitchen enduring sophistication. For a cohesive scheme, scatter other warm browns for a cozy look.
Target
Accent Table Wood Round Lacquer Finish
Shea loves burgundies, evident in her recent Target collection. This lacquered side table is sophisticated but very fall-appropriate and would look best with a vase and some autumnal stems.
McGee & Co.
Broadleaf Tea Towel
Another example of the bold burgundy Shea is loving, the Broadleaf tea towel will give your kitchen a rustic charm that’s perfect for fall.
Target
Coffee Table Lacquer Finish Dark Red
Create a statement in your living room with this oxblood red lacquer coffee table. It’s not only on trend for fall, but it’ll give your space a timeless luxury that’ll never date.
For a subtle nod to the season, place the Louis vase on a coffee table or shelf for some rich color, depth, and that all-important rustic charm.
I hope we see a lot more of this deeply luxurious shade this fall. It’s rich, warm, and sophisticated, and couldn’t be easier to use in the home, whether you’re color-drenching a small space like Shea or scattering small decor picks.
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