Want to decorate your home for fall without resorting to bright pumpkins and fiery hues? Mushroomcore is the cozy new trend for those who love earthy colors, playful textures and a touch of witchy charm.
Think mossy greens, warm taupes and soft creams with whimsical details – from sculptural ceramics and velvet cushions to mushroom-inspired motifs. The result is a cocooning space that feels deeply calming and quietly magical.
Below, design experts define the mushroomcore aesthetic, explain why it's on the rise, and offer tips for bringing the subtle, intriguing spirit into your home.
What to read next
What is mushroom seed?
A playful offshoot of the cottagecore aesthetic, mushroomcore draws inspiration from the forest floor – mossy greens, soft browns and the organic beauty of mushrooms and forest textures. “Think mushroom and forest motifs, earth tones, organic textures and nature-inspired shapes,” says Lark & Larks CEO Steve Larkin.
Why is mushroomcore so popular?
Many of today's design trends celebrate earth tones, organic textures and a sense of grounding calm – and mushroomcore captures all of this with a whimsical twist. “People crave spaces that feel calming and connected to nature, and the soft, muted tones of the mushroom-inspired decor do just that,” says Lucy Steele, color and interior design expert at V&CO Paint.
It's no wonder that mushrooms have become one of this year's most popular seasonal motifs. The #mushroomcore trend has already inspired over 30.9k TikTok posts, with brands like Hobbycraft embracing the aesthetic through wooden toadstools, hanging plush mushrooms and DIY kits like it Punch Needle Toadstool Pillow.
“We're seeing more people than ever decorating their homes throughout the fall like they would for Christmas,” says Hanna Reynolds, seasonal buyer at Hobbycraft. “It’s about creating a warm, cozy space that celebrates the changing of the seasons and it’s great to see mushrooms leading the way as a key motif this year.”
Mushroomcore feels cozy and calming in the fall and is a little more whimsical at Christmas, but can easily evolve with the seasons. The look pairs beautifully with natural materials—from wood and linen to stone—and pairs effortlessly with other styles, from rustic cottagecore to modern minimalism. The result is a subtly enchanted aesthetic that feels grounded, organic and slightly magical.
How to decorate with mushroom seeds
Start with a calming, mushroom-inspired palette—think warm taupe, soft gray, and rich maroon. “Color saturation is a great painting technique for this color palette as it helps create a unified, immersive effect in the home and enhances the cocooning effect of these hues,” explains Lucy. Don't be afraid to introduce a touch of toadstool red to create a bold but natural accent that adds warmth and depth.
To make the look more subtle, incorporate forest or plant-themed artwork. “If you want to go bolder, consider mushroom-patterned wallpaper for an even funnier take on the trend,” suggests Steve. Complement these designs with mushroom-shaped lamps or gently curved lampshades to reflect the organic shapes of nature.
Finally, apply the finishing touches. Ceramic mushroom ornaments, sculptural bookends, and soft textiles—from embroidered pillows to cozy throws—bring warmth and playfulness to the space. By mixing texture, tone, and form, you can capture the spirit of mushroomcore in a way that feels both whimsical and wonderfully livable.
Follow House Beautiful on TikTok , Instagram And Pinterest













