At The Shops at Carolina Furniture, we love a classic coastal palette—but this summer, we’re stepping outside the box (and the beach house). While crisp blue and white will always have a place in warm-weather design, this season is all about soft shifts in tone, natural pairings, and colors that feel sun-faded, layered, and just a little bit unexpected.
We’re seeing a rise in earthy pigments, mineral hues, and warm tonal duos that add subtle sophistication to any space—indoors or out. Here are a few of our favorite summer color pairings—unexpected, yet effortlessly at home in any space.
Clay & Blush: Warm Meets Airy
There’s a quiet richness to this pairing—earthy clay tones with soft, rosy blush—that feels effortlessly grounded yet airy. It’s a natural evolution from terracotta and rust, softened for summer with pale pinks and chalky roses. The combination adds warmth without weight, and when layered with ivory or light wood, it strikes a lovely balance between classic and fresh.
We especially love this palette in textiles and upholstery—think a clay-colored linen chair or a blush-toned throw on a neutral slip-covered sofa. Together, they create an inviting, sun-drenched space that feels curated but never overdone.
Sage & Driftwood: Subtle, Natural, Relaxed
Subtle, sophisticated, and deeply relaxing—sage and driftwood is a palette made for summer. Sage green brings a hint of color without feeling bold, while driftwood tones offer a soft, weathered base that echoes sun-bleached decks and coastal escapes. This pairing works beautifully in both indoor and outdoor spaces and pairs especially well with woven accents, imperfect ceramics, and natural textures.
Look for driftwood finishes from Lane Venture or sage accents layered through pillows, planters, or even paint. Together, these tones create a sense of ease that feels timeless and tailor-made for warm weather living.
Ochre & Mist: A Sun-washed Statement
For those who crave a little drama in their color story, we love pairing golden ochre with a misty blue gray. Ochre brings sunlit warmth, while the soft blue gray adds a quiet contrast that keeps things grounded. The result? A rich, layered look that feels simultaneously relaxed and refined.
This pairing works beautifully on larger pieces—like an upholstered headboard in pale slate paired with ochre-toned wood accents—or through a dining setup with gray-washed chairs and warm-toned linen.
Celadon & Ecru: Light, Bright, and Understated
Celadon and ecru are the answer for those who want a palette that feels fresh. Pale green with soft ivory undertones offers a sense of calm and clarity—perfect for rooms where you want to feel both grounded and light. It’s a combination we’re seeing in everything from Parisian showrooms to coastal interiors, and it translates effortlessly across design styles.
Incorporate these hues through ecru-toned area rugs, celadon ceramic accents, or upholstered pieces with texture and patina.
Berry & Sand: A Pop Without the Punch
Want to add color without overwhelming your space? Consider pairing soft berry tones—like raspberry, plum, or muted fig—with sandy neutrals. This palette adds a subtle vibrancy and feels especially right in rooms designed for gathering and conversation. Berry tones offer just enough contrast to feel fresh, while sand tones soften the look and keep it approachable.
This combination shines in entertaining spaces: berry-hued pillows on a natural linen bench, a patterned rug in plum and taupe, or a ceramic lamp with a rich glaze next to a sand-toned armchair. Highland House pieces with custom upholstery make it easy to dial in the perfect balance of color and comfort.
Curated Color, Carolina Style
At The Shops at Carolina Furniture, we believe great design isn’t just about what’s trending—it’s about finding colors, materials, and pieces that feel good to live with, season after season. These color pairings invite warmth, curiosity, and a gentle shift in perspective.
Whether you’re adding a single accent chair or starting a full room redesign, we’re here to help you discover color in a way that feels personal, polished, and entirely your own. Stop by our showroom to explore furniture, textiles, and accessories that bring these pairings to life—with all the charm, comfort, and craftsmanship you’ve come to expect from The Shops at Carolina Furniture.