Terracotta and Desert Reds at Maison et Objet
In September 2024, the design world converged once again at Maison et Objet in Paris, where the theme Terra Cosmos took centre stage. This year’s trend exploration revealed a compelling connection between the vastness of the cosmos and the raw, grounding beauty of earth’s natural tones. Led by visionary trend forecasters such as Elizabeth Leriche and François Delclaux, the spotlight was on Terracotta, Mars Reds, and other warm, sunburnt earth tones, which brought a deep emotional resonance to interior design.
The Revival of Terracotta and Mars Reds
At Maison et Objet, Terracotta hues—with their red, brown, and orange bases—dominated the trend halls, setting the tone for what promises to be one of the most influential colour directions of 2025. Elizabeth Leriche, known for her insightful trend foresight, curated spaces under the Terra Cosmos theme, which echoed the beauty of harsh, arid environments, such as Mars’ red deserts and Earth’s dry dunes.
Leriche’s exploration took inspiration from cosmic landscapes, where the rusty tones of Mars meet the warmth of terracotta, a colour that has been celebrated for its grounding effect and earthy appeal. These tones, much like the sun-scorched earth of our deserts, are bold yet calming, bringing a connection to nature that feels both ancient and futuristic. Leriche’s trend installations captured this balance perfectly, reflecting the harsh beauty of these environments while encouraging us to find comfort in their raw simplicity.
Similarly, François Delclaux’s perspective, with a focus on retail, highlighted how these tones are moving beyond niche markets and becoming commercial hits. Retailers at the event leaned into this palette, realising the broader appeal and versatility of terracotta and Mars red across various homewares, textiles, and furniture collections.
We’ve added an array of Orange Reds from our Colour Interior Trends Forecast, from Peach Terracottas to Deep Rusty Russets.
Emotional Connection to Terracotta Tones
Terracotta and desert reds are more than just trending colours; they evoke powerful emotional responses. These tones, often associated with sunbaked landscapes, bring feelings of warmth, grounding, and stability. In a world where many seek refuge from the overwhelming pace of life, these earthy tones offer a sense of safety and comfort, reconnecting us with the natural world.
Terracotta’s Emotional Impact:
- Grounding and Stability: With its deep ties to the earth, terracotta provides a sense of stability and permanence. These tones are timeless, reminding us of the solid ground beneath our feet, making them ideal for spaces that are designed to feel secure and welcoming.
- Warmth and Comfort: The rich, sunburnt hues of desert reds and oranges invoke a sense of warmth, much like basking in the glow of the setting sun. These colours can create warm, intimate spaces, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
- Connection to Nature: In an increasingly digital world, terracotta reconnects us with the natural environment. It’s a colour that feels organic, taking us back to our roots, and reminding us of the simplicity and beauty of untouched landscapes.
- Nostalgia and Heritage: Terracotta also carries historical significance, seen in ancient pottery and architecture. Its earthy quality brings a sense of nostalgia and connection to human craftsmanship, offering a reminder of the artistry that has spanned centuries.
Key Exhibitors Embracing Terracotta
Maison et Objet’s 2024 showcase wasn’t just about colour; it was about texture, form, and storytelling. Numerous exhibitors embraced these earthy tones, integrating terracotta and desert reds into their product lines. From handcrafted ceramics with burnt orange hues to textiles dyed in deep Mars reds, the exhibitors demonstrated the commercial and aesthetic potential of these tones.
- Ceramics: Terracotta was a star material, particularly in tableware and decorative objects. The rawness of unfinished terracotta pottery provided a tactile, rustic charm, while more polished pieces introduced a sophisticated, modern interpretation of this timeless material.
- Furniture and Textiles: Exhibitors highlighted how these colours can be seamlessly woven into furniture design. Upholstery in warm oranges and reds, paired with natural woods, brought a warm, stylish appeal to seating and soft furnishings.
Terracotta: A Key Interior Design Trend for 2025
As we move into 2025, the trend is clear: Terracotta and Mars Reds will continue to dominate the interior design landscape. These colours are not just about aesthetic appeal; they are about creating spaces that resonate on a deeper emotional level. Interiors infused with these tones offer both grounding and inspiration—an ideal combination for modern living spaces.
What Makes Terracotta a Key Trend?
- Versatility: Whether in rustic, minimalist, or contemporary settings, terracotta’s earthy warmth fits effortlessly across various design styles.
- Timeless Appeal: These colours have a long history in architecture and design, making them feel both familiar and fresh in modern applications.
- Emotional Connection: Terracotta tones speak to our innate desire for comfort, stability, and connection with the natural world—qualities that will only grow in importance in the coming years.
Final Thoughts: The Beauty of Terra Cosmos
The Terra Cosmos theme at Maison et Objet 2024 reminded us of the beauty that lies in harsh environments. It’s a celebration of both the vastness of the cosmos and the grounding energy of our planet’s deserts and mountains. As we continue to navigate a fast-paced, digital world, trends like Terracotta and Mars Red offer a much-needed return to the earth—a grounding force that feels both ancient and visionary.
For designers, retailers, and homeowners alike, embracing these tones is more than just following a trend; it’s about creating spaces that feel connected, warm, and timeless.
Above Images: Vincent Sheppard, Polspotten, Jonathan Ausseresse, Silver Sentimenti, Sheyn, Fermob, ZiiPa, Paul Delivron,