Every year around this time, I find myself eagerly awaiting the Color of the Year announcements from the major paint companies. These annual picks are always fascinating to me — not just for the individual colors themselves, but for the broader story they tell about where design is headed.
This year, rather than focusing solely on each company’s individual choice, I wanted to also take a step back and look at the bigger picture — the color trends shaping interiors for 2026.
Ali Henrie Design – Lindsay Salazar Photography
In today’s post, we’ll explore the key color directions for 2026, the tones and moods designers are embracing, and how each paint company’s Color of the Year fits within these trends.
Top Home Color Trends & Paint Colors for 2026
1. A Look at the 2026 Colors of the Year
Each of these colors feels natural, nurturing, and perfectly aligned with the overall shift toward warmer, more grounded interiors in 2026.
Sherwin-Williams 2026 Color of the Year: Universal Khaki
Sherwin Williams‘ 2026 Color of the Year is Universal Khaki, a warm, grounded neutral that pairs beautifully with natural wood and soft white.
Sherwin-Williams’ Universal Khaki is a soft, grounded neutral that beautifully captures the shift toward warmth and simplicity in 2026.
Its subtle taupe undertones bring depth and calm to any space, pairing effortlessly with natural textures, creamy whites, and deeper earthy hues.
Universal Khaki reflects a return to the comforting, timeless beauty of nature-inspired design, providing a versatile foundation for the modern home.
Benjamin Moore 2026 Color of the Year: Cinnamon Slate (2113-40)
Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year is Cinnamon Slate (2113-40), described as “a delicate mix of heathered plum and velvety brown.”
Benjamin Moore’s selection of Cinnamon Slate (2113-40) for 2026 brings us a beautifully rich, layered neutral — one that bridges warmth, moodiness, and adaptability in a very on-trend way.
Though Cinnamon Slate leans toward a deep plum-brown tone with nuanced attitude, it functions as a near-neutral in many contexts, offering depth without overwhelming a space.
With its dual plum and brown undertones, Benjamin Moore’s newest color of the year, Cinnamon Slate, smoothly inhabits the “in-between” category — not quite a classic neutral, but not a bold statement color either.
That kind of nuance is exactly what color forecasts are favoring in 2026: hues that feel sophisticated, layered, and adaptable.
Behr 2026 Color of the Year: Hidden Gem
The Behr 2026 Color of the Year is Hidden Gem, a smoky jade-green described as a “new neutral.”
Behr’s Hidden Gem introduces a rich jade that feels both sophisticated and restorative.
This serene blue-green tone balances boldness with tranquility, making it ideal for color drenching (see more on this trend below), cabinetry, or accent walls.
Hidden Gem reflects the broader 2026 trend toward expressive yet soothing colors that evoke a sense of connection to the natural world.
Behr paint is available at The Home Depot.
Valspar 2026 Color of the Year: Warm Eucalyptus
Valspar’s Color of the Year for 2026 is Warm Eucalyptus, a gentle green designed to bring comfort, calm, and connection to nature.
Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus (8004-28F) is a muted, restorative green with warm undertones that evoke calm and a connection to nature.
With an LRV of about 21, it carries enough depth to feel moody and grounded, yet remains versatile enough to serve as an anchor or layered accent in a wide variety of spaces.
Warm Eucalyptus fits beautifully into 2026’s trend toward warmer, grounding neutrals and organic palettes — it offers a subtle “new neutral” green that complements deeper tones and lighter pastels alike.
Valspar paint is available at Lowe’s.
Dutch Boy 2026 Color of the Year: Melodious Ivory
Dutch Boy’s 2026 Color of the Year is Melodious Ivory, a creamy, nostalgic ivory that adds gentle warmth.
Graham & Brown 2026 Color of the Year: Divine Damson
Graham & Brown’s 2026 Color of the Year is Divine Damson, a deep berry-plum with a luxurious, moody edge.
Krylon 2026 Color of the Year: Coffee Bean
The Krylon 2026 Color of the Year is Coffee Bean, a rich espresso brown for a bold yet comforting accent.
Pantone 2026 Color of the Year: (to be announced)
Pantone’s Color of the Year is usually revealed in early December, and I’ll update this post when that highly-anticipated announcement is made.
2. Warm, Grounded Neutrals Take Center Stage
After years of cool grays and crisp whites, homeowners are now gravitating toward warmer, more organic neutrals — colors that feel inviting, layered, and lived-in.
Ali Henrie Design – Lindsay Salazar Photography – coffee table
Sherwin-Williams set the tone with their 2026 Color of the Year, Universal Khaki, a soft, sun-warmed neutral that feels both timeless and quietly grounding.
It’s part of their “Foundational Neutrals” palette — a collection that celebrates simple, natural beauty.
Amber Interiors – Shade Degges Photography
Similarly, Dutch Boy’s Melodious Ivory, a creamy off-white with subtle yellow undertones, evokes calm sophistication.
Even Krylon and Minwax are leaning into warmth, naming Coffee Bean (a deep earthy brown) and Special Walnut (a soft, wood-toned stain) as their standout shades for the year.
Amber Interior Design – Shade Degges Photography
Together, these colors suggest a clear message: in 2026, neutrals are not going away — they’re just becoming cozier, more tactile, and more expressive.
3. Earthy, Organic Hues with a Rich Twist
Nature continues to be our greatest color muse. In 2026, we’ll see a growing love for earthy hues with depth — think twilight greens, sunbaked terracottas, stony taupes, and deep botanical blues.
AKB Design Studio – Sylvie Li Photography
Behr captured this perfectly with Hidden Gem, a smoky jade that balances serenity and strength.
And Dunn-Edwards is calling out Viridian Odyssey and Purple Prose — rich, moody tones that bring a luxurious groundedness to interiors.
Forecasting agencies like WGSN are spotlighting colors such as Transformative Teal, a lush blue-green that symbolizes adaptability and renewal — perfect for a world seeking calm after change.
AKB Design Studio – Sylvie Li Photography
These organic yet expressive shades pair beautifully with warm neutrals, natural wood tones, and layered textures like linen, stone, and rattan.
They bring the outdoors in — but in a more refined, soulful way than the bright botanical greens of a few years ago.
4. The Rise of “Soft Color Drenching”
One of the most exciting application trends for 2026 is soft color drenching — using a single hue across walls, trim, and millwork for an enveloping, cocoon-like effect.
Behr describes their Hidden Gem as a “new neutral,” meaning it can be used as a wall color, cabinetry color, or even ceiling color without feeling overpowering.
This monochromatic approach allows subtle shadows and natural light to create depth and movement.
Sherwin-Williams’ Sunbaked Hues and Restorative Darks palettes also support this approach, inviting homeowners to layer color intentionally — pairing warmer neutrals with darker, moodier tones for quiet drama.
If you’ve been hesitant to move away from white walls, soft color drenching might be your bridge — it adds sophistication without straying too far from calm, timeless design.
Amber Interior Design – Shade Degges Photography
5. Muted Pastels and Frosted Tints Offer Balance
While many 2026 colors lean earthy and rich, there’s also a countertrend toward soft, misty pastels — colors that evoke tranquility, mindfulness, and lightness.
Sherwin-Williams’ Frosted Tints palette includes pale lilac, seafoam green, and powdery blue — shades that almost appear to glow from within.
These hues add airiness and serenity, making them ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, or reading nooks.
The key difference from past pastel trends is that 2026’s versions are dustier and more sophisticated — think mineral-inspired rather than candy-sweet.
They pair beautifully with warm whites, blond woods, and textural fabrics like boucle or linen.
6. The Emotional Current Behind 2026’s Colors
Color trends are always reflections of the times we’re living in — and 2026’s palette tells a story of comfort, calm, and authenticity.
Ali Henrie Design – Lindsay Salazar Photography
After several years of uncertainty and rapid change, we’re craving spaces that feel steady, restorative, and meaningful.
- Warm neutrals bring familiarity and connection.
- Deep earthy tones ground us.
- Soft tints create calm.
Together, these colors form a collective movement toward interiors that nurture, soothe, and inspire — a gentle evolution of the “quiet luxury” aesthetic we’ve seen emerging across design and fashion alike.
For more on 2026 design trends, see my post sharing the 10 Most Beautiful Home Decor Trends for 2026.
And for more on the Quiet Luxury trend, see my post on Quiet Luxury Interior Design.
7. How to Bring 2026’s Color Trends Into Your Home
1. Start small
Try these colors on an accent wall, a piece of furniture, a kitchen island, or even your front door.
AKB Design Studio – Sylvie Li Photography – pendants – stools
2. Layer textures
Warm neutrals and organic colors shine when paired with woven fabrics, matte finishes, and natural materials.
3. Add depth
Contrast lighter walls with darker accents or vice versa — think deep plum or chocolate cushions against a creamy backdrop.
Alexis Andra Austin – similar stools – similar bedding
4. Experiment with color drenching
Try painting trim and walls the same shade for a cozy, enveloping effect.
5. Trust your instincts
Trends are a guide, but your home should reflect your own story, mood, and lifestyle.
AKB Design Studio – Sylvie Li Photography
As we step into 2026, home color trends are telling a beautiful story of sophistication, elegance, and comfort.
From nature-inspired greens to cozy khakis and softly frosted pastels, 2026 color palettes invite us to create spaces that feel authentic, balanced, and personal.
I hope this post inspires you to look at color in a new light — not just as a design choice, but as a way to bring more warmth, joy, and connection to your home in 2026. Wishing you a beautiful and colorful year! xo Jane
Here are a few beautiful and affordable ways to bring these color trends to your home:
Looking for more color trends, interior design ideas, and decorating inspiration? Here are a few favorite related posts from the blog:
The 10 Most Beautiful Home Decor Trends for 2026
2026 Bathroom Trends and Design Ideas for Master Bathrooms and Small Full Baths
2026 Kitchen Trends and Design Ideas You Will Love
Warm White Bathroom Ideas: Timeless Paint Colors and Design Inspiration
Warm White Kitchen Ideas: Timeless Design, Neutral Paint Colors, and Inspiration
My Favorite Nancy Meyers Inspired Interiors
A Simple Guide to Mixing Metals in the Bathroom
A Simple Guide to Mixing Metals in the Kitchen
Modern Coastal Decorating Ideas for Your Home
Modern Bedroom Design Ideas for a Dreamy Master Suite
Beautiful Living Room Ideas and Trends for 2026
Modern Kitchen Pendant Lighting Ideas
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