Southern Living: Brown Furniture Is Back—And This Southern Designer Shares Exactly How To Use It Right
Brown Furniture Is Back
In analyzing design trends across both America and Europe, Patti Wilbourne, the founder of PWD Studio in Charleston, South Carolina, came to a major conclusion. "Brown furniture is not just back," she says. "It’s surging."
The designer attributes this surge to a variety of factors. "For some, this is because brown furniture offers a natural blend of vintage and modern styles; for others, it reflects an appreciation for craftsmanship and quality," she reflects. Of course, she adds, those who choose to go the secondhand route when sourcing brown furniture cite even further benefits. "The growing awareness of waste and environmental impact makes buying pre-loved or vintage furniture an attractive choice," Wilbourne says.
And speaking of preloved furnishings, Wilbourne adds that she herself has long been a believer in the power of such goods. "I grew up with a grandmother who was always buying antiques and refinishing them," she says. "Her garage was a gold mine."
As you shop for brown furniture for your home, whether new or used, be sure to prioritize those with personality. "Look for pieces that have character: carving, interesting lines, beautifully detailed hardware," Wilbourne says. And as it pertains to mixing various wood tones within a space, the designer is all for it. "Not all wood tones need to match, and in fact, I don’t think they should," she says. That said, she encourages people to be mindful of their wood flooring and/or walls when selecting their wooden furnishings. "We always want to avoid having too much of the same brown because we lose dimension," she says. "It’s a delicate balance."
If you're looking to modernize an antique wooden piece, Wilbourne offers a useful styling tip. "Pairing any chest or cabinet with a bright, possibly abstract, piece of art is always a good idea," she says. Another way to make an older wooden piece feel more contemporary is to think beyond its original purpose. "In my own home, I have paired my grandmothers mahogany bar cart as a side table with a more modern upholstered bed," Wilbourne shares. Finally, if you're drawn to a chair or sofa with a darker wooden frame, don't be afraid to reupholster it. "Think opposite the color wheel," the designer encourages. "Greens and blues often pair well with mahogany, walnut and dark oak tones."
