The Moody Design Jeremiah Brent Is A Big Fan Of (And How To Use It In Your Space)

While there's something to be said for bright colors in the home (and the joyful feelings they can evoke), some designers — including Jeremiah Brent, one of Architectural Digest's 100 most influential interior designers, who joined the cast of "Queer Eye" in 2024 — are pointing out the appeal of moody, sophisticated spaces. But finding the right moody palette for your home doesn't just mean following trends. "My concern with color has always been about making sure it's timeless," Jeremiah told Architectural Digest, but, he points out, that doesn't mean you have to opt for neutrals. To find classic decor that'll stand the test of time and also lean into a moody aesthetic, Jeremiah suggested mixing warm woods and rich velvets on his Instagram. Velvet, which is known for its luxurious and fashionable feel, is an interesting way to add texture to your home decor, and when paired with a warm-toned wood, can create a palette of neutrals and jewel tones that Jeremiah calls moody and inviting.

Popular ways to add velvet textiles to your home's interiors are furniture pieces such as sofas, and details like velvet curtains and drapes can also create an opulent flair. Some color choices for a dramatic vibe include blue and black velvet. But velvet can absorb light and make a room feel darker, which is why warm wood can be a great foil to velvet. In one project he worked on, Jeremiah and his team chose "honey-colored woodwork," an example of warm wood that creates a contrast with rich, deep tones and achieves a dramatic look.

In addition to creating a cozy feel, warm wood stains, such as honey maple and golden oak, are typically good at hiding scrapes and damages — making them a great choice for a heavily-used living room prone to wear and tear. Plus, to make things interesting and reflect your taste, you can even mix and match multiple wood stains in one room to take the room's rich, luxurious vibe even further (and to make it feel as unique as you are). Some designers even suggest adding some distressed wood to spruce things up.

Refining your wood color choice also means considering what color velvet you're interested in and where you'll place it. There are experts who claim that velvet should offer your space a pop of color, so you might opt to make your seating a rich green or deep orange. You can also get creative with the smaller touches. Some homeowners make DIY velvet frames for their photos and wall art to create an antique look and add a subtle but stylish and impactful element to their space.

While following these tips is a great place to find inspiration, there's no designer who knows your personality and taste better than you do. That's especially true of your living room, which is often said to be the heart of the home. As Jeremiah said to OUT Magazine, "I don't want you to just tell me that a space is pretty. I want you to tell me that this space feels personal." So, be sure to consider your own preferences while styling this moody interior trend.