Terracotta is the new neutral

For a decade, grey was the safe choice. It went with everything and said very little. The homes we have been photographing this year have swapped it for something warmer: the rust, clay and cinnamon of fired earth.

Terracotta works as a neutral because it sits between red and brown, so it pairs easily with wood, cream, sage and charcoal. In Indian light, which is warm for much of the day, it glows rather than dulls.

Three ways to use it

1. In objects first: a cluster of clay vessels on a shelf
2. In textiles next: a rust cushion or a vintage-wash rug
3. On a wall, if you are brave: limewash in a soft clay tone