Burgundy in Home Decor 2026: Warm Up Your Spaces This Winter
As burgundy continues to dominate runways and interiors, it's no surprise it's carrying through into home design trends for 2026. With winter approaching in the Western Cape and beyond, we're all craving warmer, more inviting spaces. A natural cream couch feels perfect for summer but can look cold and unwelcoming in the cooler months.
You don't need to re-upholster in rich velvet—simply add warmth with rich-colored scatter cushions and throws to completely transform the mood.
Burgundy and maroon aren't fleeting "color of the year" shades—they ground a space, add depth, warmth, and a sense of luxury. When used thoughtfully, they're timeless and sophisticated.
Unlike bright fire-engine red, burgundy is versatile and pairs beautifully with many styles and colors. As a strong, statement hue, soften it with contrasting soft tones and textures, or let it shine solo. Imagine it alongside blush pink, natural wood, greens, navy, sky blue, rust orange, gold, or copper accents.
The Difference Between Burgundy and Maroon
- Burgundy: A rich color with purple undertones—like fine red wine. It's a blend of red and purple, often appearing brighter with a reddish-purple vibe.
- Maroon (also called Bordeaux): A darker reddish-brown shade, mixed from red and brown for an earthier, more muted tone.
- Yes, burgundy tends to feel brighter thanks to its reddish-purple undertone compared to maroon's brown base.
Burgundy (left) vs Maroon (right) – note the purple vs brown undertones
How to Incorporate Burgundy into Your Existing Home
Burgundy offers sophisticated, understated boldness that adds character and an expensive feel to any room. Here are easy, impactful ways to bring it in for winter 2026:
- Start small: Add a few burgundy scatter cushions and a throw or two—your room will instantly feel elevated and cozier.
- Patterned curtains with burgundy hints bring immediate warmth and character, even in bedrooms.
- Paint a focus wall burgundy, or go bold with the "5th wall" (ceiling) in the same shade. Refresh tired bookshelves with a coat too.
- Use it in well-lit rooms to avoid heaviness—balance dark burgundy with light, soft colors for brightness.
- In darker areas, create a moody, intimate space with burgundy, softened by warm lights at varying heights and angles.
- Modern white-walled home? Burgundy accents work magic—a burgundy feature wall with a grey corner couch and remaining white walls feels fresh. All-white bedroom? Layer in a burgundy throw, or stretch it with white-and-burgundy gingham scatters.
Burgundy throw and cushions transforming a neutral bedroom into a warm retreat
I'm sure you already have ideas for adding warmth to your home. So, let's get started—winter is just around the corner!
What burgundy piece are you adding first? Share your winter decor plans in the comments, or tag us in your before-and-afters. Ready to shop? Check out our burgundy cushions, throws, and linens collection.