Brown and cream have been the predominant neutral color palette for a few years now, bringing warmth and character back into our homes. However, for 2026, we are looking for interesting alternatives to the look. The pink accents in Jesse Plemons and Kirsten Dunst's living room give a hint of what this might look like.
Their Los Angeles neutral living room is a masterclass in the use of color. Designed by Jane Hallworth, it's alive with texture. From the light brown rug to the velvet sofa to the leather chairs, it's sumptuous and inviting. However, the most striking feature is a pink Clam Chair on the corner of the rug (you can shop the exact same Arnold Madson chair at 1stDibs or similar accent chairs at Wayfair). This bright pop instantly pulls the room together and makes the colors feel all the more satisfying.
Though unexpected, the living room color combination is a stunning foray into the future of neutrals. To explore this shift, let's step inside Jesse and Kirsten's living room. I've curated an edit of products to help you get the look, and spoken to plenty of experts on why pink works as an accent color (and how to style it).
Recreate Kirsten and Jesse's Look at Home
A rare and authentic Clam Chair by Arnold Madsen, produced by Vik & Blindheim in Norway circa 1953, stands as a sculptural icon of Scandinavian modernism. With its distinctive form and masterful craftsmanship, it redefines furniture as both function and statement.
If you're not planning to invest in an accent chair, this pink cushion is the perfect way to try out the trend in your cream and brown space. It would even be a good pairing with a brown leather furnishing.
If you're looking for a new piece, this roll-arm chair brings together the traditional vintage style, while the leather will soften and change over time for the same naturally worn look.
Incorporate the chocolate brown color trend with texture using the Amira rug. It would be a great accent in a cream room like Kirsten and Jesse's space.
Don't have space for a sprawling coffee table like Kirsten and Jesse's? Try a handsome accent stool like this one. It's ideal for living rooms, dining areas, and even kitchen islands.
Burlwood is a fantastic way to add texture to a space, and this pretty one is the perfect piece to bring warm wood into your living room. The beautiful texture is an ideal pick.
Nina Lichtenstein, New York-based designer, explains: 'Decorating with pink accents in the living room is a bold, yet elegant way to introduce warmth and personality into your space. Whether you’re drawn to soft blush hues or vibrant fuchsias, pink can transform a room into a welcoming, energetic, or even serene haven, depending on how you incorporate it.'
She continues: 'Pink, in all its forms, brings warmth and softness to a living room, often creating an inviting, nurturing environment. Lighter shades like pale pink and peach can promote a relaxed, tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reading or enjoying intimate conversations. On the other hand, more intense pinks, such as fuchsia or magenta, bring vibrancy and energy to a space, making them ideal for social areas where liveliness and conversation are encouraged.'
Part of what is so chic about a pink living room is the emotion that the color evokes. 'Beyond mood-setting, pink is also a color linked to creativity, compassion, and comfort,' explains Nina. 'In a living room, it feels welcoming and fosters a sense of emotional connection, whether through soft accents like throw blankets and pillows or statement pieces such as art and furniture.'
So, what's the best way to recreate the beauty of Jesse and Kirsten's look? Texture is essential. Nina advises: 'Add pink through soft furnishings like rugs, cushions, and throws. A pink area rug can anchor a room, while blush pink pillows on a neutral sofa can provide just the right amount of color contrast. If you’re bold enough, consider incorporating pink furniture, such as a velvet pink sofa or a pink accent chair. This adds a feeling of luxury and modernity to the room while also making a statement.'
A pop of pink instantly adds interest and warmth to a beloved neutral scheme. It goes beyond trends as a timeless look that will never fade.
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