The allure of a chocolate box can be so powerful that it draws you in from across a department store floor. I'd know; I recently came across one at a store in London. The box featured a dusty pink, sage green, and oxblood motif of an enchanting forest, finished with a champagne silk ribbon. I wanted to keep it to display in my home, but what if my home's interiors could actually replicate the same allure itself?
The concept of 'chocolate box' interiors is a design style conceptually close to the cottagecore trend, sure, but it's more refined and deliciously indulgent than that. "While both styles seem to be inspired by the European countryside, cottagecore is a more rustic interpretation of rural life, while chocolate box is more elegant," explains Los Angeles-based interior designer, Meghan Eisenberg.
Chocolate box interiors emulate the decadence of rich, dark chocolate truffles (think moody yet inviting), with the comforting feeling of indulging in each sweet treat. Here's how designers create the look.
What is a Chocolate Box Interior?
First of all, chocolate box interiors are going to mimic the chic, intricate designs of the boxes at the most luxe chocolatiers. "As you can guess, the term refers to scenes painted on vintage chocolate boxes," says Meghan Eisenberg. "In my mind, this translates to a style that is romantic, refined, and cozy."
There is also a semi-nostalgic pull to chocolate box interiors. Something about the combination of rich colors, intentional patterns, and handcrafted finishes evokes a sense of familiarity. "However, I’m drawn to interpretations grounded in craftsmanship rather than kitsch or twee," adds interior designer Stefani Stein.
It's almost a culmination of the interior design trends we've seen this year. There is an obvious inclination towards warmth and quality craftsmanship, but the touch of elegance in chocolate box interiors makes it more unique and specific to individual interiors (individualism being another aspect of contemporary design).
So, what interior inspiration is there to take from chocolate boxes? Let's explore.
How to Style a Chocolate Box-Inspired Interior
The big three characteristics of chocolate box interiors are color, material, and pattern. "Spaces should balance elegance with charm — think warm neutral color palettes, timeless textiles, and vintage pieces layered with both polished and rustic woods," Stefani says.
New neutrals, like rich browns and dusty pinks, make strong base colors, while moodier shades like aubergine, navy blue, and ochre yellows help round out the chocolate box palette into something more nuanced.
And don't be afraid to play around with the patterns that inspired the design aesthetic in the first place — think florals, stripes, and even paisleys. All with an elevated twist, of course.
You might think of decorating with floral patterns as outdated, but the sophisticated way to use them is all in the specific pattern. Go for sparser floral patterns with a solid background color, and larger motifs over anything too busy or twee.
As for material, Meghan recommends, "Spicing up solid colors by using velvet, linen, and silk variations. Then, sprinkle in lived-in materials like specialty woods, burl wood decor, marquetry, and unlacquered brass accents throughout your furniture and decorative pieces."
"Really, any room can adopt this style," she adds. "The key is for it to seem natural and authentic."
Shop the Look
Is it a pouf? Or is it a tasty truffle treat? The curves on this velvet, chocolate brown pouf make it the perfect chocolate box piece.
A decorative mirror hanging on the wall is like the cherry on top of this dessert-like aesthetic.
These are the perfect style of florals to complement a chocolate box interior.
These plates are another great example of contemporary florals. Style them on your table, or even hang them on the wall.
Who knew a magazine rack could be this stunning? The blend of olive green leather and brass, shows just how creative you can get with material in the chocolate box style.
Lighting and lamps that blur the lines between frilly and organic are the epitome of a chocolate box detail. This ceiling light shade has both texture and shape.
Another detail I think would work beautifully in a chocolate box interior? A lampshade or piece of cabinetry with the drawn-on decor trend. Something about a hand-drawn detail feels like the perfect chocolate box blend of elevated and delightfully cozy.
