Over 50 years have passed since its first popularity, and there's still no color more versatile than burnt orange. The brownish, reddish, yellowish shade is the perfect complement to the living room, where it matches within a variety of color schemes and design styles. As 70s trends make a major comeback for 2026, we're returning to the iconic color as a hero shade for the coming year.
As part of this exploration, we're looking back in time to see how burnt orange was used at its advent, and Jennifer Aniston's childhood living room is the perfect example. In a photoshoot from 1975, the actress (around the age of 6) posed with her parents, John Aniston and Nancy Dow, in their home in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles.
A velvet, orange sofa (much like this one from Pottery Barn) anchors the room, adding interest to the cream walls and grounding the retro artwork. A dark wood coffee table, lamp, and side chair bring in a storied feel.
Not only do the images show how adorable Jennifer Aniston was as a child, but they also prove that orange is the new red. Given the color's longevity and versatility, it's clear that it's not going anywhere.
In fact, a fervor for the color is only increasing. Nina Lichtenstein, New-York-based interior designer, explains that it will be one of the biggest trends of 2026.
Nina tells Homes & Gardens: 'As interior design trends evolve, burnt orange is emerging as a popular color scheme. Its ability to inject warmth and personality into spaces, while remaining versatile and sophisticated, has captured the attention of designers and homeowners alike.'
Recreate Jennifer's Look at Home With The Burnt Orange Edit
Whether it's a swath of burnt orange introduced with a striking furnishing or pops of the color integrated with a textured pillow, this amber shade is ideal for warming your living room. Here are our editors' picks for recreating Jennifer Aniston's look and decorating with orange.
This high-quality, angular sofa brings color and design to the forefront of any living room.
With its neutral color and unique bohemian pattern, this throw blanket adds a charming aesthetic touch to any sofa. Made with high-quality fleece material, this plush throw is fluffy, soft, and shedding-resistant.
Corduroy might be the quintessential fall fabric, and burnt orange might be the quintessential fall color (as Gigi reminds us). This pillow cover has both, which means it must be the quintessential seasonal decoration, for inside and out.
Add a touch of sophistication to your home with the Welby Pillow from Aimee Song’s exclusive collection. Crafted from linen, it features a chic striped design and a tufted button for a polished, stylish finish – perfect for elevating any living space.
If there’s ever a scent that embodies a color, it’s this one – Pumpkin Ginger. Fresh roasted pumpkin and spicy notes of ginger, clove, and cinnamon blend beautifully with creamy coconut milk and the warmth of vanilla and musk. The result is a fragrance that feels as rich and inviting as its golden, autumnal hue – a modern, sophisticated take on a fall classic.
This geometric floral rug is both whimsical and grounding, perfect for any living space.
Furthermore, the popularity of the color is spurred by an increased interest in warm neutral schemes and cozy browns.
Nina explains: 'The resurgence of earthy tones and retro influences in design trends has propelled burnt orange into the spotlight. From accent walls and upholstery to accessories and artwork, this hue is being embraced as a statement color that adds depth and character to interiors. Expect to see more of burnt orange in contemporary homes and design magazines, as it continues to inspire creativity and evoke a sense of nostalgia with a modern twist.'
Luckily, all you need to tap into this trend is a little but of attention to balance.
Nina advises: 'Incorporating burnt orange furniture into your living room design is a transformative choice that brings warmth, style, and personality to your space. When paired thoughtfully with elements like jute rugs and concrete fireplaces, burnt orange creates a harmonious balance of textures and tones. With its growing popularity in interior design circles, burnt orange is poised to become a timeless trend that elevates living spaces with its vibrant and inviting presence.'
Burnt orange is the colorful neutral that we will be seeing everywhere this year. If the past is a predictor of the future, it will be just as chic 50 years from now.
