The year 2026 is around the corner, but some Colours of the Year have already made their debut. Paint and stain companies have jumped in to forecast next year’s hottest shades, ranging from soothing tones to energising hues. Here’s a list of every 2026 Colour of the Year so far, plus some inspiring ideas for bringing these fresh shades into your home.
1. Create a Moody Reading Nook With Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette
Silhouette AF-655 is a deep, dramatic charcoal-brown that evokes a cozy, welcoming feeling. If you’re not ready to commit to painting an entire room, use this rich shade to create a colour-drenched reading nook. It wraps the space in warmth, turning your corner into an elegant cocoon — perfect for lounging with a soft blanket and getting lost in your favourite book.
2. Go Bold on Your Ceiling With Behr’s Hidden Gem
Behr was the first company to unveil its 2026 Colour of the Year, Hidden Gem N430-6A. It features a smoky, jade-green blue that has a calming and relaxing effect. Depending on your interior design style, this shade can complement a traditional, modern or maximalist aesthetic.
Painting your ceiling in this moody colour can make a room feel sophisticated and cosy. In a room with high ceilings, it can make the space feel more intimate.
3. Boost Your Kerb Appeal With Sherwin-Williams’ Universal Khaki
Universal Khaki — a blend of beige and khaki — is perfect for elevating your home’s exterior. Use this shade on your shutters, window trim or porch ceiling for an instant touch of elegance. The secret to making it look intentional lies in basic colour theory.
A helpful trick is to use the colour wheel to decide the visual effect you want to achieve. For example, complementary colours create an energetic contrast, while similar shades create a relaxing effect. If your exterior features cool tones, adding a warm accent like Universal Khaki can create a sense of balance.
4. Bring Timeless Warmth to Your Kitchen With Glidden’s Warm Mahogany
Warm Mahogany is a rich, grounded red-brown that feels timeless and bold, making it a sophisticated accent colour. Use it to paint your kitchen island or a section of lower cabinets to create a strong, grounding anchor in the heart of your home. It’s less of a commitment than painting all the cabinets, but it adds a distinct character. This beautiful hue pairs beautifully with off-white or cream walls and natural wood tones.
5. Add a Pop of Nature With Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus
Warm Eucalyptus is a calming, nature-inspired green with warm undertones. It’s a great shade to create a colourful yet comforting patio, a spa-like bathroom or a relaxing home office. Not quite ready for a full room makeover? Try painting the inside of your bookcases or the back panel of a glass-front cabinet for a subtle pop of colour. Such projects are perfect for a fun and rewarding weekend.
6. Embrace Natural Texture With Minwax’s Special Walnut
Special Walnut is a gorgeous wood stain. Wood and natural materials are emerging as key design elements, adding a cosy feel to the interiors. It’s a look that feels both familiar and fresh, making it perfect for contemporary homes.
Give existing furniture a stylish makeover with Special Walnut. Use it to refinish a thrifted dresser or create floating shelves. These easy projects are a sustainable way to refresh your space.
A Colourful Welcome to the Year
Your home is your canvas. Whether you’re drawn to bold statements or subtle accents, there’s a shade to match every style and mood. Experiment with these colours and let your creativity guide you as you welcome another year.
