Decorating with this year’s neutral

The article explores the growing popularity of warm neutrals in home decor, highlighting their versatility and natural appeal. Dulux's Colour of the Year 2023, Wild Wonder, a yellow-gold with soft green undertones, is presented as a prime example of a warm neutral inspired by natural tones and cycles of life. Design experts anticipate that these neutral and earthy tones will continue to be a significant interior trend throughout the autumn and winter seasons, offering a perfect palette for creating a comfortable and welcoming home environment. The article provides specific guidance on integrating warm neutrals into various rooms, starting with the living room. It suggests using these tones as a foundational element for natural design schemes, especially in homes featuring greenery, raw materials, wood, and ample natural light. Experts recommend applying warm neutrals to base items such as carpets, wallpapers, and larger furniture pieces, emphasizing the spectrum of warm neutrals from pale beige to richer yellows with hints of mustard and terracotta. For the kitchen, the article points out that warm neutrals are highly susceptible to the influence of surrounding colors. It advises considering existing wooden elements, as their shades can bring out different undertones in neutrals. Recommendations include pairing warm neutrals with oaks and walnuts to enhance a cozy and natural atmosphere, drawing a connection between indoor spaces and the outdoors during colder months. In the bedroom, warm neutral shades like beige and yellow are presented as ideal for creating a cocooning effect, particularly when incorporated through soft furnishings, carpets, and rugs. The article notes the current trend for yellow hues, exemplified by Dulux's Wild Wonder, and suggests using mustard tones in accents like lampshades, blankets, pillows, and curtains for a subtle autumnal touch, or creating a bolder impact with a mustard feature wall. For bathrooms, the article discusses the emerging concept of 'spathrooms,' focusing on creating a spa-inspired, soothing sanctuary. Warm neutrals, combined with a minimalist approach to accessories, are highlighted as perfect for achieving a calm and cohesive space. The advice is to limit the color palette to avoid visual clutter and carefully select decorative items that add substance without overwhelming the room. Finally, the article addresses the hallway, emphasizing its role as a crucial transitional space. Warm neutrals are identified as an effective solution for creating a harmonious flow between different rooms, as they complement a wide range of colors and design schemes. Using pale citrus carpets or warm off-beige walls can help establish a cohesive and inviting passage throughout the home. #WarmNeutrals #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorPalette #DuluxColorOfTheYear #LivingRoomDesign #KitchenDesign #BedroomDecor #BathroomDesign #HallwayDesign

Backdrop, a direct-to-consumer paint company, has partnered with New York-based retailer Coming Soon to launch their own 'COLOR OF THE YEAR' paint. This initiative humorously critiques the traditional yearly color announcements made by industry giants like Pantone, which often influence trends in home and fashion. Backdrop and Coming Soon's collaboration emphasizes self-expression and the personal nature of color choice over prescribed trends. The newly revealed 'COLOR OF THE YEAR' is a vibrant, playful yellow-orange hue designed to inject freshness and happiness into any living space. Backdrop's co-founder, Natalie Ebel, states that paint offers the most accessible and impactful way to transform a space, advocating for individual preference rather than trend-driven decisions. This sentiment underpins the brand's philosophy, promoting a more personal approach to home decor. Fabiana Faria, co-founder of Coming Soon, highlights the collaborative spirit, noting that Backdrop encourages creative freedom in developing unique colors. She describes their 'COLOR OF THE YEAR' as a high/low mix, drawing inspiration from both high-end fashion, like Bottega Veneta rain boots, and everyday objects, such as rubber bands. This eclectic influence reflects a desire to celebrate the often-overlooked beauty in ordinary items and challenges conventional aesthetic norms. The collaboration manifests in a custom, co-branded collectible paint can. The 'COLOR OF THE YEAR' paint is available for purchase at $45 for a half-gallon and $69 for a gallon through Backdrop's official website. This pricing strategy positions the product as an accessible option for consumers looking to incorporate a bold new color into their homes. Beyond paint, the article suggests various home furnishings and decor items that align with the yellow-orange theme, encouraging readers to integrate this bold color in multiple ways. Examples include an Orange Eyes Pouf by Aelfie, an AJ Table Lamp by Louis Poulsen, a Trillium Woodblock Print by Block Shop, a Don't Leave Me Side Table by HAY, an Eames Lounge Chair by Herman Miller, and a Restore Basket by Muuto. These curated selections demonstrate how the 'COLOR OF THE YEAR' can be extended beyond wall paint to other elements of interior design, creating a cohesive and vibrant aesthetic. The article concludes by inviting readers to embrace this lively color, whether through painting walls or incorporating complementary decor items. #ColorOfTheYear #BackdropPaint #ComingSoonRetailer #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #SelfExpression #HomeFurnishings

While white paint has traditionally served as a reliable and versatile choice for interiors, offering a fresh and calming backdrop, a shift is occurring in the design world. For 2025, color experts and designers are advocating for a move away from stark white in favor of a broader spectrum of warmer, more nuanced neutral shades. These emerging neutrals offer greater design versatility and depth, helping to transform homes into inviting sanctuaries rather than appearing sterile. One significant trend identified is the rise of grounding khakis. Ashley Banbury, color marketing manager at HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, highlights khaki as a fresh alternative to white. This shade, with its subtle nod to 1990s minimalism, provides a warm and comforting foundation, emphasizing simplicity and relaxation. Khaki pairs effectively with natural elements like blonde wood and lighter colors, creating airy environments that connect spaces to the outdoors. It is particularly suitable for areas dedicated to relaxation, merging modern minimalism with a sense of comfort. Options like Farrow & Ball's Cardamom, Benjamin Moore's Light Khaki, and Backdrop's Masterpiece Theatre exemplify this trend. Cooling blues are also gaining traction as a new neutral. Katherine Cohen, associate creative director at FLOR, notes that designers are increasingly incorporating various blue hues, from navy to cobalt and indigo, into neutral palettes. These tones cultivate calm and comfort, effectively grounding a space while harmonizing with other colors. Blue can be introduced through wallpaper, accent pillows, furniture, or rugs, allowing homeowners to refresh their spaces while maintaining a neutral aesthetic. Examples include Backdrop's Blue is the Coolest Color, Farrow & Ball's Blue Maize, and Benjamin Moore's Crystal Blue. Furthermore, warm grays are replacing cooler variations. Steven Mena, CEO of AAA Fence and Deck Company, observes a preference for warmer gray tones over stark whites, as they introduce a cozy atmosphere without being overpowering. Shades like greige, a blend of gray and beige, or mushroom taupe, create inviting and versatile palettes. These grays complement natural textures such as raw wood, stone, and brass, and can be accented with bold colors like deep blues or warm yellows. They can be applied to walls, cabinetry, tiles, or as foundational colors for furniture pieces. Sherwin Williams' Anew Gray, Farrow & Ball's No.275 Purbeck Stone, and Backdrop's Morning Ritual are notable examples. Earth-inspired tones, particularly browns, are also emerging as dominant neutrals. Avalana Simpson, creative director of Avalana Design, points to mid-tone browns like chocolate and caramel as key for 2025, offering a more intense and less clinical alternative to white. These shades provide a strong foundation that can be paired with coordinating textures, such as leopard print, or shimmering metallics. Morgan Blinn, lead designer at Rumor Designs, expands on this, including terracotta, rust, beige, and light green, which create warm, inviting, and sophisticated spaces suitable for various applications, including kitchen cabinetry and ceiling accents. Sherwin Williams' Redend Point and Svelte Sage, Benjamin Moore's Ten Gallon Hat, and Farrow & Ball's Cola are recommended. Finally, "futuristic" neutrals are providing a contemporary alternative to traditional neutrals. Influenced by technology and digital spaces, shades like Digital Lavender, alongside frosted silver and pale lilac, offer a sleek, cutting-edge, and serene vibe. These colors are ideal for modern, tech-savvy homes and minimalist interiors, evoking calm and creativity. While Digital Lavender was named a color of the year in 2023, its influence continues, with designers recommending its subtle integration through accessories rather than full wall coverage to avoid an overly futuristic look. Benjamin Moore's Hidden Sanctuary, Farrow & Ball's No.270 Calluna, and Backdrop's Not So Delicate are examples of these technologically inspired shades. Overall, the trend is towards richer, warmer, and more diverse neutral palettes that offer comfort, sophistication, and a departure from sterile white interiors. #ColorTrends #InteriorDesign #NeutralColors #PaintColors #HomeDecor #DesignVersatility #WarmNeutrals #KhakiGreen #CoolBlues #WarmGrays #EarthTones #FuturisticNeutrals #DigitalLavender

Behr's 2020 Color of the Year, Back to Nature, is a yellowish-green shade inspired by indoor/outdoor living, offering a fresh take on neutral colors. This hue aims to help homeowners bring the outdoors into their living spaces. Erika Woelfel, a color expert at Behr, describes Back to Nature as a grounding and revitalizing green with universal appeal, serving as a new neutral that fosters peace and tranquility at home. The color is the cornerstone of Behr's 2020 Color Trends palette, which includes 15 complementary outdoor-inspired shades. This allows Back to Nature to be used as either a subtle accent or a prominent statement, particularly in areas where balance is desired. Interior designer and creative director Brady Tolbert suggests using Back to Nature in a bathroom design. He emphasizes that green can function as a neutral when used correctly, noting that this particular tone is softer and more serene than a deep mossy green, allowing light to interact with it effectively. Tolbert advises balancing the color with varied textures and tones to prevent the small space from appearing one-dimensional. To introduce sophistication and modernize the green, he recommends incorporating black accents, along with whites, wood elements, and brass. For specific recommendations, Tolbert suggests handmade tiles from Anchor Ceramics Tile for their warm variations, a black Waterworks Wall-Mount Faucet for a modern and sophisticated touch, a large Lawson Fleming Simi Mirror stretched across sinks, and an Apparatus Lantern Pendant for lighting to introduce iron and ceramic while promoting a calm ambiance. Kate Newman, owner of K. Interiors, offers insights on integrating Back to Nature into kitchen design. She appreciates the color's versatility, seeing it work well in various environments from coastal to mountain settings, and believes it can create a lasting impression in a kitchen. Newman suggests using Back to Nature as a bold statement color in larger kitchen spaces, allowing it to be the focal point. She advises treating it as a neutral, pairing it with warm whites for walls, trim, and ceilings to achieve a timeless aesthetic. Accent colors like navy and salmon can then be introduced through rugs, artwork, and pillows. For specific kitchen elements, Newman recommends using Back to Nature for flat-front cabinet doors to create a modern and clean look. She also suggests simple polished nickel hardware that is small in scale to avoid distraction, wide-width light French oak hardwood flooring laid in a herringbone pattern for texture, and a quartz countertop with subtle white-on-white tonality and warm veining, extending to the backsplash for simplicity. Brass lighting fixtures are recommended to wonderfully accent the color. #BehrColorOfTheYear #BackToNature #ColorTrends2020 #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #ColorPalette #NeutralColors

Farrow & Ball's Pointing, a subtle off-white paint, is gaining significant popularity among interior designers for its remarkable versatility. This creamy, warm, and neutral shade, though less flamboyant than bolder colors like Hague Blue or Railings, is one of Farrow & Ball's best-selling paints. Its appeal lies in its ability to adapt to diverse design schemes, functioning effectively in rooms with varying light conditions, from bright to low, and complementing both calming aesthetics and vibrant, patterned environments. Designers extensively use Pointing for various applications, including walls, ceilings, and kitchen cabinetry, highlighting its role as an unsung hero in interior design. Decorator Ashley Aspin emphasizes Pointing's strength in its restraint, providing warmth and freshness without overshadowing other design elements. This makes it ideal for spaces where stronger colors are introduced through art, furniture, tiles, or paneling. Aspin notes its particular effectiveness in smaller rooms and those with compromised lighting, as it brightens spaces, including south-facing ones. Patrick O'Donnell, Farrow & Ball's brand ambassador, describes Pointing as the red-based counterpart to Wimborne White, cherished for its perfect softness and suitability for ceilings and trim, offering a classic look devoid of the harshness often associated with generic whites. Its subtle red undertone makes it a harmonious choice for delicate pinks and warm neutrals, while remaining flexible enough to pair with a wide spectrum of other colors. Designers leverage Pointing for several key reasons. Will Taylor, an interiors author and content creator, utilizes it for ceilings and crown molding to introduce a soft, warm undertone that enhances coziness, contrasting with the crispness of a sludgy wall color without the starkness of brilliant white. Portia Fox, known for her luxurious and calm schemes, selected Pointing for the walls of a living room, study, entryway, and staircase after extensive trials, appreciating its fresh warmth and compatibility with various material palettes. Rebecca Fisher of Homeshaped values Pointing for its comforting, earthy quality, often employing it on room details like double doors and sills to soften edges and blend indoor and outdoor aesthetics, particularly in south-facing rooms. Pointing also finds its place in kitchen design, where Angelia Squire of Studio Squire used it for cabinetry to provide a bright white contrast against a bold marble counter, achieving a sharp, crisp, and clean look. Danielle Edwards of Moths Interiors views Pointing as an indulgent shade that imparts a sense of luxury and softness, enhancing spaces with velvets and candlelight, and capturing the warmth of golden hour sunlight. Rachael Curzons of Bailey Curzons extensively applied Pointing to joists, paneling, kitchen cabinets, and window frames in light-filled dining rooms, noting how its rich, warm undertones prevent spaces from feeling clinical or hollow. Pheobe Hollond of Studio Hollond appreciates Pointing’s versatility in north-facing rooms and against bold patterns, where its darker pigments and warm character bring an uplifting feeling. Finally, Rachel Gowdridge chose Pointing for an entire project to maintain a neutral yet warm backdrop, allowing art and accessories to stand out, and appreciating its ability to create a lived-in, timeless feel with a subtle, chalky quality that adds depth and age. Tasmin Love echoes this sentiment, choosing Pointing for a bedroom to provide a versatile, classic, and elegant backdrop that is easy to maintain and conveys warmth. #FarrowAndBallPointing #NeutralPaintColors #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #PaintSelection #WarmNeutrals #DesignVersatility #LuxuryInteriors #CozyHome

The article presents a comprehensive roundup of the leading paint brands' Color of the Year selections for 2025, offering insights into the upcoming interior design trends. A notable shift is observed towards dark browns as rich, moody neutrals, alongside a resurgence of nostalgic purple shades, positioning them as significant color trends for the year. Pantone introduced 'Mocha Mousse' as its 2025 Color of the Year, a gentle brown that emphasizes comfort and timeless interior spaces. This choice, while seemingly understated compared to 2024's 'Peach Fuzz,' reflects a preference for enduring, trend-resistant hues that foster calming environments. Dutch Boy selected 'Mapped Blue,' a mid-tone blue with warm yellow undertones, designed for its timeless aesthetic and adaptability to various design styles. This choice aligns with consumer demand for durable, functional, and classic designs that withstand the test of time. STAINMASTER's 'Truffle,' a deep brown, reinforces the trend of dark neutrals, offering depth and drama for cozy, color-drenched living spaces. Valspar’s 'Encore,' a rich navy blue, is chosen for its dramatic yet timeless quality, aiming to create welcoming and restful homes, suitable for both interior and exterior applications. HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams unveiled 'Quietude,' a cool sage green with blue undertones, as its Color of the Year. This calming, in-between hue serves as an adventurous alternative to traditional neutrals, fitting both modern and traditional homes. The brand also introduced the 'Naturally Refined' palette, featuring ten earthy and neutral shades inspired by a sustainable lifestyle. Behr's 'Rumors,' a sophisticated ruby red, signals a move away from blue-centric palettes. This choice aligns with the 'unexpected red theory' trend, offering warmth and cozy appeal, versatile for bold statements or subtle accents. Graham & Brown’s 'Elderton,' another rich brown, draws inspiration from nature, elevating neutral decorating with sophistication. C2 Paint's 'Raku' is a deep brown with warm red undertones, characterized by balance, comfort, and timeless elegance. Minwax's 'Violet' introduces purple into the mix, aiming to add joy and character to wood tones with its intriguing hue. Benjamin Moore's 'Cinnamon Slate,' an 'in-between' shade of plum and warm brown, offers a liveable approach to bold colors, alongside an earthy 2025 Color Trends palette. Sherwin-Williams presented a 'Color Capsule' of nine shades, rather than a single color, drawing inspiration from 1970s vintage palettes. Glidden's 'Purple Basil,' a warm and retro purple, further solidifies purple as a dominant trend, suitable for maximalist color schemes. Dulux's 'True Joy,' a vibrant yellow, aims to boost mood and embrace 'dopamine decor.' Dunn-Edwards' 'Caramelized,' an earthy terracotta with brown hints, offers a flattering and liveable neutral alternative, bringing subtle warmth to various rooms. Lick's 'New Nostalgia' palette, comprising eight shades, blends retro design with contemporary twists, allowing for diverse interior styles. The collective selections for 2025 indicate a leaning towards rich neutrals, bold colors, and nostalgic palettes, offering diverse inspiration for home decor trends. #ColorOfTheYear #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #HomeDecor #ColorPalette #NeutralColors #BoldColors #ColorPsychology

The entryway serves as the initial impression of a home, akin to an introduction that sets the narrative for the entire space. To cultivate a calm, welcoming interior that offers flexibility in styling and accenting with diverse colors, while also serving as a stable foundation for evolving trends, selecting a neutral paint color is recommended. Neutral shades no longer imply only white or gray; contemporary paint brands offer a wide array of nuanced, muted colors that subtly transform under various lighting conditions and adapt to surrounding hues. These modern neutrals possess intricate character, moving beyond the flat and uninteresting tones of the past. Experts have identified three highly recommended neutral paint colors suitable for any entryway. First, plaster pink is favored for its inherent warmth and the joyful ambiance it creates. This color has maintained its popularity as a key color trend, especially in creating welcoming interiors, and is increasingly considered a neutral. Designers, including Matthew Williamson, frequently employ sophisticated pink shades in various rooms, from entryways to living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. Williamson notes that plaster pink is warmer than gray, more engaging than beige, and more forgiving than white, making it a reliable choice for full wall coverage. For those considering plaster pink, extending the color to the ceiling can create a cohesive look, or it can be boldly paired with a natural green. A light pink, such as Sherwin Williams' Intimate White, costing $85.49 per gallon of Emerald Interior Acrylic Latex Paint, can infuse a joyful feeling into a hallway. Second, beige hues, particularly yellow-based tones, are currently very popular. These range from pale beige to richer browns and darker, chocolatey shades. For entryways, lighter beige tones can foster a bright and inviting atmosphere, whereas deeper, richer colors provide a cozier feel. Helen Shaw, a Benjamin Moore expert, emphasizes that the entryway dictates the home's overall mood. Beige's versatility allows for easy changes in color accents and accessories without concern for clashing with wall colors. Warm tones like Benjamin Moore's Muslin OC-12, priced at $81.99 per gallon of ADVANCE Interior Paint, establish a homely ambiance. In narrow entryways or those lacking natural light, lighter shades such as Calm OC-22 can visually expand the space. Third, pale blue is presented as an alternative for individuals who prefer cooler tones or a gray-like effect. This serene and calming shade evokes nature, offering a softer aesthetic than stark gray. Matthew Williamson advises choosing colors based on the desired emotional response in a space; for calmness and relaxation, cool tones like blue are ideal. A stylish and harmonious feel can be achieved by integrating additional shades of blue and dressing the room with larger items in complementary colors. For a striking contrast, pale blue can be paired with fuchsia. Betsy Smith, a color expert at Graphenstone, suggests that a pale blue, such as Graphenstone’s Whisper, serves as an excellent alternative to white in entryways, providing a translucent quality that adapts to light, creating an airy, clean, and uplifting sensation. Whisper, being crisp but not cold, is an ideal neutral, especially for spring and summer. It can be paired with Duck Egg for wall paneling, which complements yellow and red timber tones, enhancing their natural grain. For blue paint, meticulous attention to wall preparation and finish is crucial, as blues possess a quiet elegance that requires a high-quality finish to effectively set the room's tone. Backdrop's On Tour paint, at $49 per half gallon of interior standard paint, is an option for a calming pale blue entryway. #NeutralPaintColors #EntrywayDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintTrends #ColorPsychology #DesignTips #HomeStyling

The article discusses a significant shift in interior design color trends, moving away from gray, which has been a dominant neutral for decades, towards warmer beige tones. Designers and color experts highlight that gray, while once considered modern and crisp, is now being replaced due to a desire for softer, more welcoming spaces that evoke warmth and character. This transition reflects a broader preference for natural materials and a cozier aesthetic in homes. Mollie Ranize, a designer, notes that beige is becoming the new soothing base color, effectively creating natural warmth and pairing well with natural materials like wood and stone. This shift suggests a conscious move by homeowners to create more emotionally reassuring environments, especially given the increased time spent at home. Despite the overall decline of cool-toned grays, certain shades can still be utilized to create fresh and contemporary looks, particularly when paired with pops of color and texture to prevent the space from feeling somber or cold. Deborah Bass, founder of Base Interior, emphasizes that neutral schemes provide an excellent foundation for incorporating accent colors and interesting textures. She points out that beige, along with its darker variations, is also displacing white as a preferred neutral. This approach allows for versatility in spaces like home offices, which are often used by various family members for different functions throughout the day. Grounding these subtle shades with richer natural timbers helps to maintain balance and elegance. The article clarifies that gray is indeed falling out of style, especially the cool-toned grays prevalent in the early 2000s. The current preference leans towards warmer colors such as beige, amber, ivory, rust, and sepia. This change is partly attributed to the feeling that too much gray can lead to a dull and draining environment. Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director at 1stDibs, explains that the move away from all-gray schemes is driven by a desire to make homes feel special and layered, with comforting colors that suggest nature and warmth. For those still fond of gray, Charu Gandhi, founder of Elicyon, suggests using deeper, darker grays to create cozy and enveloping rooms, recommending pairing them with vibrant accessories to avoid somberness. Bethany Adams, another designer, agrees that beige is currently a 'design darling' but advises a cautious approach, starting with small doses to prevent the trend from quickly becoming dated. Alternatives to gray for wall paint include off-white and natural palettes, which can be enriched by layering different textures and patterns. Jane Landino, creative head of studio at Taylor Howes, stresses the importance of mixing and matching neutral patterns and introducing occasional pops of color to make a neutral palette feel deliberate rather than plain. She also suggests red-based neutral shades like Farrow & Ball's Wimborne White or Dimity for a warmer aesthetic. The article provides practical advice on decorating with beige in various rooms. In kitchens, beige offers timelessness and longevity, allowing other fixtures to stand out. In living rooms, beige can create airy and relaxing spaces, but it needs to be combined with natural textures like stone, wood, or linen to avoid blandness. For bedrooms, subtle beige nuances create a soft backdrop for antiques, art, and personalized embellishments. In bathrooms, beige can maintain a soothing environment when accented with colored glass accessories, floral fixtures, or reclaimed furniture. Entryways can benefit from a mix of warm neutrals with accents of black and hints of gray, relying on varied textures to add interest. Laundry rooms, perceived as stressful spaces, can become more inviting with beige and brown, which evoke nature and relaxation. Dining rooms can feature beige for a calm and formal setting, potentially incorporating a bold statement piece in black metal or ebonized wood. Pantries can use a plain beige backdrop to highlight interesting materials like natural wood. Powder rooms can utilize beige paneling paired with textured wallpaper for a smart and soothing scheme. Finally, sunrooms can be transformed into showpieces with a peaceful, pale beige palette and statement light fixtures. Ultimately, the choice between gray and beige often depends on the desired ambiance. Kathy Kuo, a designer, states that both are timeless neutrals, with beige leaning towards warmer schemes and gray towards cooler ones. The decision rests on the overall color story one wishes to tell in their home. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #BeigeInteriors #GrayAlternatives #DecoratingTips #WarmNeutrals

The 2026 Color of the Year announcements from major paint manufacturers reveal a design landscape in transition, characterized by a pursuit of authenticity, wellness, and connection. These selections, ranging from sophisticated neutrals to deeper, bolder hues, are influenced by several cultural forces. There is a growing inclination towards 'anti-trend' thinking, encouraging consumers to choose colors that resonate with their personal identity and comfort rather than fleeting fashion. Additionally, there is a notable return to craftsmanship and heritage, evident in the use of warm wood tones and jewel-like colors that evoke historical European interiors. The rising influence of the 'tool belt generation,' comprising young workers engaged in hands-on trades, has also contributed to the elevation of utilitarian aesthetics and earthy, practical colors. Most significantly, these color choices underscore an evolving understanding of color as a tool for promoting well-being, with paint companies consistently emphasizing the restorative, calming, and emotionally beneficial aspects of their 2026 selections. Benjamin Moore's choice for 2026 is Silhouette AF-655, a rich blend of espresso and charcoal. This selection draws inspiration from the resurgence of classic, tailored suiting and aims to counter 'micro trend fatigue' by offering a versatile and classic shade. Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams jointly selected Universal Khaki, a sophisticated beige-khaki hybrid. This color reflects broader cultural movements, including Gen Z's preference for trades over AI-replaceable jobs and a global need for comfort and stability in design amidst increasing stress. Behr's Hidden Gem is a smoky jade that adapts to changing light, appealing to a desire for statement-making yet soothing colors that can function as new neutrals. Behr emphasizes its adaptability, suitable for both subtle accents and full room drenching. Valspar's Warm Eucalyptus, a grounded green with warm undertones, aligns with the growing demand for nature-inspired, restorative design. This vintage-inspired color aims to provide nostalgic comfort and calm, particularly in spaces dedicated to relaxation. Glidden's Warm Mahogany is a rich, grounded red that serves as an 'anti-trend' choice, offering a balance between personal preference and bold statements. It is recommended for creating intimate atmospheres in bedrooms, adding depth to kitchens, and fostering a warm ambiance in dining rooms. Little Greene's Adventurer, a regal plum aubergine, signifies a natural progression towards deeper jewel tones as consumers become more confident with color. This shade is described as regal and reassuring, ideal for bedrooms, dining rooms, and bathrooms where luxury and tranquility are desired. Graham & Brown chose Divine Damson, a deep plum with dark cherry tones, continuing the moody color trend. This jewel tone is noted for its timeless and universal appeal across various design elements. Dutch Boy Paints' Melodious Ivory is a soft, creamy beige with warm undertones, chosen to embody timeless comfort, quality, and connection in the home. It is a versatile neutral that complements diverse design styles and is presented as a color for the slow living movement. Krylon’s Matte Coffee Bean, an earthy brown, reflects a cultural shift towards authentic, natural designs and celebrates the 'grit and grind' ethos, particularly for DIY furniture restoration. Finally, Minwax’s Special Walnut, a warm brown stain, highlights wood's importance as a design anchor, nostalgic charm, and the desire for enduring style. C2 Paint's Epernay, a refined earthy soft ochre, draws from European historical interiors, offering classic and adaptable qualities for contemporary design. #ColorOfTheYear #InteriorDesignTrends #PaintColors #HomeDecor #DesignPsychology #WellnessDesign #NeutralPalette #BoldHues #Craftsmanship

The article discusses the significant impact of paint colors on a home's value, particularly when preparing a property for sale. Real estate experts warn that while a fresh coat of paint can revitalize a home and boost its appeal, selecting the wrong colors can deter potential buyers and decrease market value. A recent paint color report from Fixr highlights 2024 trends, with real estate agents concurring that neutral tones are generally the safest and most effective choice for attracting a broad range of buyers. The cost of painting a home varies depending on whether it's an interior or exterior job. Exterior painting, which enhances curb appeal, can range from $1,000 to $6,000, influenced by factors such as paint quality, home size, and the number of stories. Interior painting is typically less expensive, averaging around $3.50 per square foot, or approximately $2,000 for an entire job, including primer. Homeowners often save on labor costs by painting interiors themselves, incurring expenses primarily for equipment and paint. While some homeowners have embraced bold colors in recent years, influenced by trends popularized by figures like Joanna Gaines, experts strongly advise against them when selling. Bold colors, such as eye-popping yellows, moody charcoals, or even coastal teal, can be polarizing and prevent buyers from envisioning themselves living in the space. Jenny Lenz, managing director of Dolly Lenz Real Estate, emphasizes that buyers often disregard homes with striking colors online before even a physical visit, advocating for timeless neutrals to ensure a faster and more profitable sale. Jonathan Yarton, a listing agent with the Yarton Group, reinforces this advice, suggesting that homeowners should consider the aesthetic of their neighborhood and avoid making their property an outlier with unconventional color choices. Santiago Arana of The Agency notes that white and other neutral tones consistently prove most impactful for sales, as they appeal to a wider audience and allow prospective buyers to visualize their future in the home more easily. The Fixr report specifically identifies certain colors as turnoffs for homebuyers. Red, for instance, was deemed undesirable by 59% of interior designers polled, due to its strong and potentially unappealing nature. Lime green received a thumbs down from 53% of designers, described as a "garish color" that can overwhelm a space. Other colors to avoid include bright yellow (40%), mustard yellow (19%), pink (10%), turquoise (9%), and black (4%), as they can create a negative first impression and prompt buyers to anticipate additional repainting costs. Staging a home strategically is crucial to prevent what real estate stager Karen Otto terms "price eroding." Buyers tend to overestimate the cost and effort required to neutralize or repaint a home with undesirable colors, thereby reducing their offer. Mike Fabbri of The Agency New York explains that bold colors lead to an added expense and time commitment for buyers, negatively impacting their offer price. The recommended solution is to present neutral, move-in-ready spaces with warm and inviting colors like whites, creams, and lighter beiges. These timeless shades are clean-lined, attractive, and adaptable to various design styles, helping buyers to overcome objections and more readily make an offer. Cara Ameer, an agent in California and Florida, concludes that drab or cold paint colors contribute to lower selling prices by diminishing a property's overall curb appeal, reiterating the importance of neutral palettes for successful home sales. #HomeImprovement #PaintColors #RealEstate #HomeSelling #HomeValue #InteriorDesign #CurbAppeal #NeutralColors #ColorTrends

The article explores the evolving concept of neutral colors in home design, focusing on green as a prominent new neutral. Traditionally, neutrals have encompassed shades of beige, gray, and greige, offering versatility and ease of pairing with other colors. However, a growing number of interior designers suggest that homeowners are seeking alternatives to these conventional options and are increasingly embracing green as a primary base color. Interior designer Madeline Rohner explains that the perception of a neutral palette is shifting, advocating for the adoption of green hues. She highlights that green, drawing inspiration from nature, inherently provides a calming and serene ambiance, fostering a connection to the natural world. This quality makes green a suitable choice for those desiring a tranquil environment in their homes, particularly in contrast to the potential flatness of traditional neutrals. Gemma John of Alpine Rose Interiors notes that green is emerging as a fresh yet timeless trend, leading the charge in contemporary interior design. Victoria Holly of Victoria Holly Interiors concurs, stating that green is indeed becoming a new neutral, with blue following closely behind, particularly French blue-gray and other toned-down shades that blur the lines between gray and blue. These colors, according to Holly, introduce character to spaces and are effective on architectural elements like trim or statement doors. The article emphasizes that green's versatility allows it to serve as a soft and subtle backdrop in various rooms, making it an ideal substitute for conventional neutrals. Different shades of green can integrate seamlessly with existing neutral tones such as taupe, ivory, beige, and greige. Designers recommend focusing on lower-saturated greens like sage green and olive green for this purpose. Specific green paint recommendations from designers include Benjamin Moore's Army Green, Clare Paint's Rain Check, and Benjamin Moore's Sage Tint. Carr Lanphier of Improovy also notes the increasing popularity of green as a neutral, citing Sherwin Williams' Evergreen Fog and Soft Sage as excellent choices that offer a natural hint of green while remaining versatile. Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design expresses his preference for Mediterranean Olive by Benjamin Moore, noting its deep, earthy tone creates cozy and organic rooms, serving as an effective backdrop for art and imparting an old-world sophistication. Jessica Maros, principal of Maros Designs, shares her use of Farrow & Ball's Vert De Terre, a light mint green, for cabinetry. She anticipates that mint green will become more prevalent, accentuating brown tones harmoniously within a shared palette. The article concludes by encouraging readers to consider soothing green shades instead of typical beige palettes for neutral room designs, and highlights that green interiors have been shown to positively impact mood. #InteriorDesign #ColorTrends #GreenAsNeutral #HomeDecoration #PaintColors #NeutralPalette #DesignAdvice #BiophilicDesign

For individuals who find traditional holiday decorations—often characterized by vibrant reds and greens, an abundance of bows, lights, and garlands—to be either too kitschy or conflicting with their existing home aesthetic, alternative decorating strategies can help infuse festive flair without compromising personal style. Ten interior designers offer various approaches to holiday decorating for those who prefer to deviate from classic festive themes. These methods allow homeowners to embrace the season while maintaining their distinct design preferences. One approach involves utilizing monochromatic silhouettes. This method allows for the incorporation of traditional decorative shapes without the typical holiday color palette, offering a more refined and timeless feel. Winter white is a suggested color for these silhouette decorations, as it pairs seamlessly with existing florals, candles, and tableware, and avoids the often-loud hues of conventional holiday decor. This strategy ensures a festive atmosphere that is subtle and elegant. Another option is to embrace metallic tones, particularly gold. Designers recommend using gold vases filled with rich, holiday-hued flowers. The benefit of this approach is its versatility; after the holiday season, the flowers can be replaced, allowing the gold decor to continue enhancing the home through the New Year and beyond. Metallics, including both gold and silver, are also advised for their reflective qualities, which can add a sparkle and warm glow to dark winter evenings, transitioning smoothly from the holidays to the new year. For those who appreciate a more unconventional or whimsical aesthetic, a 'whimsigoth' trend inspired by themes like 'Nightmare Before Christmas' is suggested. This can involve decorating a Christmas tree in black and white, with accents of purple or unique black ornaments. Adding elements such as cobwebs, skeletons, or other quirky items can create a playful, alternative holiday atmosphere that strays from traditional festive imagery. Additionally, incorporating woodland tones and naturalistic elements provides a subtle yet festive ambiance. This ‘winter woodland wonderland’ style involves using birchwood candles, pinecones, feathers, soft knit throws, and Mongolian sheepskin pillows. Figurines of deer, subtle twinkle lights, and fresh greenery further contribute to an idyllic, nature-inspired scene, moving away from bright, artificial holiday colors. Alternatively, an all-black Christmas theme is proposed for a sleek and elegant look. Black serves as an effective backdrop for twinkly lights and natural wood or green accents. This approach emphasizes sophistication rather than the spooky connotations often associated with black decor, presenting a chic option for those seeking a modern holiday aesthetic. Furthermore, integrating handmade or vintage items found in family heirlooms can personalize holiday decor. This method encourages selecting pieces that align with one's established aesthetic, rather than adhering to mass-produced holiday items, and can evoke a sense of nostalgia. Lastly, breaking away from traditional holiday color palettes in favor of a more prismatic and vibrant array is encouraged. Decorating with any desired colors, even those not typically associated with the holidays, allows for a more joyful and personal expression. This can also be achieved by selecting subtle seasonal centerpieces, such as bowls of green apples, pomegranates, or oranges with cloves, which offer a hint of festivity through their deep reds and dark purples, creating a fresher and lighter holiday feeling that harmonizes with a modern interior. These diverse suggestions empower individuals to personalize their holiday decor, ensuring it reflects their taste rather than conforming to conventional norms. #HolidayDecor #AlternativeDecorating #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #FestiveDecor #MonochromaticDecor #MetallicAccents #WhimsigothDecor #WoodlandTones #PersonalizedStyle

Beige, a color once associated with outdated interior design from the 1990s and early 2000s, is making a significant comeback in 2025, evolving into a sophisticated and warm neutral for contemporary homes. This resurgence is characterized by a departure from the "boring builder beige" of the past, with designers now embracing new variations that offer timeless elegance and comfort. Mikaelah Seifrit, Founder and Principal Designer at Southern Grace Interiors, and Marie Flanigan, Founder and Principal Designer for Marie Flanigan Interiors, highlight how modern beige serves as a bridge between minimalist and maximalist aesthetics, offering a versatile base that allows for easy changes in decor. According to Seifrit, the renewed appeal of beige stems from a desire for coziness and a break from the cool-toned palettes that dominated in recent years. Homeowners are increasingly seeking to reintroduce detail and warmth into their spaces, a role perfectly filled by beige. Flanigan notes a growing trend in layering whites and incorporating various textures like stone, light wood, plaster, and limewash finishes, all of which are complemented by beige. Its neutral foundation makes it a sound investment, as it can adapt to evolving trends by simply updating accessories such as drapery, pillows, and rugs. Today's beige distinguishes itself from its predecessors by moving away from yellowy-pink undertones and the greige variants of the 2000s. The current popular shades lean towards warm whites, offering a fresh take that avoids appearing dated. Designers emphasize that while there is still beauty in deeper beige tones, understanding their appropriate application is crucial. Seifrit describes beige as a safe and versatile choice, providing several recommendations for popular beige paint colors in 2025. These include Sherwin Williams' Greek Villa, a warm creamy white; Egret White, positioned between white and beige for color saturation; Benjamin Moore's White Sand, a muted and easy-going option; Sherwin Williams' Accessible Beige, a long-standing favorite for cabinets, trim, and doors; Behr's Even Better Beige, suitable for color-washing or subtle contrast; and Sherwin Williams' Balanced Beige, a deeper contrast option ideal for porch floors and bathroom vanities. A critical factor in utilizing beige effectively is understanding the impact of lighting. As a lighter neutral, beige can appear with pink, yellow, green, or gray undertones depending on the time of day, room lighting, and surrounding elements. Designers recommend sampling paint colors on multiple walls to observe these shifts throughout the day. Beyond walls, beige is gaining popularity in cabinetry, where it pairs well with warm metal hardware like antique silver, nickel, and bronze. In open-plan layouts, beige helps create depth and warmth, and can be incorporated through interior doors and ornate trim. It also harmonizes with jewel tones and moody neutrals like muted olive green, and layering different warm and cool beige tones can enhance a space's dimension. For those seeking less permanent ways to introduce beige, options include drapery, furniture, pillows, fabrics, and rugs, such as a beige slipcover for a sofa or beige curtains. Ultimately, incorporating modern beige offers a stylish and versatile solution for home interiors, representing a worthwhile investment in home aesthetics. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #PaintTrends #NeutralColors #BeigePalette #WarmNeutrals #DesignTips

The article explores the resurgence of warm, creamy neutral paint colors in home interiors, despite the lingering negative connotation associated with the term "magnolia." The author recounts a personal experience of choosing a pale straw color for a Suffolk cottage, aiming for a warm and light-maximizing effect, only to have a decorator identify it as magnolia, a color often dismissed as outdated and indicative of cheap renovations from the 1980s and 1990s. This anecdote highlights the cultural baggage attached to the specific shade, even as its qualities are appreciated. The piece notes a shift away from brilliant whites and greys towards warmer neutrals, driven by homeowners' desire for comfort, reassurance, and a mood-boosting backdrop. Despite the paint industry's public reluctance to embrace the term "magnolia," many paint companies are offering similar shades under new, more appealing names. For instance, Coat paints, despite its co-founder Rob Abrahams' strong disavowal of magnolia, has a bestselling creamy shade named "Jane." Similarly, Pickleson Paint Co, a self-described luxury, design-led company, launched "Open Sesame," a yellow-based neutral that they admit is "not a million miles away from being magnolia," and it sold out rapidly. Designer Tim Gosling defends the hue itself, explaining that while the term "magnolia" gained negative associations due to its overuse in uninspired DIY schemes, the color itself evokes warmth. He points out that celebrated designers like Rose Uniacke use similar shades, albeit with names such as "Feather," "Cream Soda," and "Wild Sage," jokingly suggesting a "secret designers’ magnolia society." The article then lists several contemporary paint options that embody this creamy neutral trend, including Dulux’s "Wild Wonder" (their 2023 Colour of the Year), Craig & Rose’s "Pale Mortlake Cream," Annie Sloan’s "Canvas," Paint & Paper Library’s "Capuchin," and YesColours’ "Mellow Neutral." To successfully incorporate these warm neutrals, the article advises using a low-sheen finish and pairing them with earthy, natural shades like terracottas, ochres, and greens. It cautions against using black, as too much contrast can create an undesirable "Tudorbethan vibe." Adding texture through natural materials such as linen, cotton, and rattan is also recommended to enhance the homely feel. Flora Hogg, an interior design consultant and color specialist, emphasizes that the calming and cheering quality of these warm, creamy neutrals is precisely why they are experiencing a resurgence, fulfilling a contemporary need for comfort and reassurance in home environments. Ultimately, the article suggests that regardless of what it's called, this warm neutral provides the restful, mood-boosting backdrop sought after in current home decoration trends. #InteriorDesign #PaintColors #HomeDecor #NeutralPalette #CreamyNeutrals #DesignTrends #HomeComfort #PaintChoices

The author shares her approach to holiday decorating, focusing on a "Woodland Scandi" aesthetic characterized by sculptural branches and twinkling lights set against a neutral, minimalist backdrop. This year, the decorating started earlier than usual, a trend observed among nearly half of her Instagram followers. A key strategy for this holiday decor was to maintain a minimalist color palette of neutral shades and natural greenery, while applying these elements abundantly. This included extensive use of garlands and wreaths on the front door, a sculptural garland on the mantelpiece, wreaths on dining room windows, and an evergreen swag in the kitchen. The lushness of the greenery allowed for simpler accompanying details, such as stockings hung from wood hangers, a delicate snow globe, and family ornaments on the tree. This method emphasizes going all-out on a few chosen elements and exercising restraint elsewhere. A central feature of this year's decor is a bold, sculptural greenery arrangement created by Gracious Garlands around the fireplace. The design aimed for a raw, free-flowing, natural look, incorporating winter branches, sticks, and wild lines to evoke the beauty of nature. This less curated approach is intended to create a welcoming atmosphere. To further adapt the living room to a seasonal, cozy feel, a large ocean photograph typically displayed above the fireplace was temporarily replaced with a classic mirror. This seasonal swap allows for a distinct holiday ambiance while maintaining the room's overall aesthetic for the rest of the year. The author also highlights the importance of integrating existing decor. Open shelving in the living room was left largely undisturbed, allowing non-holiday decorative objects to anchor the room and preserve the author's personal style. This prevents the space from feeling overly themed or cluttered. Textural ribbons, such as velvet, were used to add a touch of luxury and sophistication to simple greenery, particularly on swags. The idea extends to gift wrapping, with kraft paper combined with textural ribbons for an elegant presentation. An abundance of wreaths is a prominent feature, with swags on back doors, and wreaths on the front door and dining room windows. These were embellished with seed pods, eucalyptus, and berries, starting with a base wreath and adding foraged natural elements for texture and depth. Instructions for creating such wreaths are provided, encouraging a personalized approach. A deliberate choice of color palette for tree ornaments involved sticking to shades of white, burlap, silver, and gold. This editing of ornaments, by packing away brighter colored ones, significantly contributed to a cohesive and impactful Christmas tree design. This neutral and metallic palette is also carried over to gift wrapping choices. Holiday festivity was extended to unexpected areas, such as the kitchen, where a simple evergreen swag adorned the hood surround, tied with velvet ribbon. This small addition was sufficient to imbue the space with a magical holiday feel. For dining, Scandinavian-inspired decor was embraced with an oversized white linen tablecloth and low-lying runners of evergreen and pomegranates. This minimalist yet cozy setup allows for conversation during dinners, with plans to add votive candles and flowers for parties. Texture is emphasized as crucial, especially within a neutral palette, through the layering of sheepskin, woven pillows, and soft blankets to create warmth and comfort. Various lighting elements, including a burning fire, scattered candles, and twinkling lights on the tree and mantel garland, contribute to a magical glow, enhancing the overall cozy atmosphere. #HolidayDecor #ChristmasDecorating #HomeDesign #ScandinavianStyle #NeutralPalette #DIYDecor #SeasonalDecor #InteriorDesign #FestiveHome

The article discusses the shift in interior design trends away from beige as the primary neutral color for 2025, highlighting brown and green as its successors. While beige has been popular for its soft, warming, and comforting qualities, the evolving preferences in home decor are moving towards richer, more layered interiors that evoke emotion and a sense of place. This transition reflects a desire for neutrals that possess more personality while maintaining a calm aesthetic. Brown, specifically soft shades like Mocha Mousse, latte, espresso, and dusty cocoa, is emerging as a foundational neutral. This trend gained official recognition with Pantone's color of the year for 2025 being Mocha Mousse, though the color was already gaining traction. Experts explain that these brown tones offer versatility with a modern edge and emotional depth that beige often lacks. The interplay of light with these browner neutrals is particularly emphasized, as they can create varied moods within a space, appearing vibrant in daylight and more cocooning in the evening. The article provides examples of how to incorporate brown into home decor, including specific paint shades and furniture pieces. Green, particularly earthy and muted tones such as sage and olive green, is another dominant neutral for 2025. Its popularity is linked to the biophilic design trend, which emphasizes connecting indoor spaces with nature. Green is considered a versatile color that pairs well with most other colors, drawing inspiration from natural landscapes. Interior design experts note that green rooms offer a balance of calmness and invigoration, making them suitable for various settings. The article suggests ways to introduce green into homes, such as through swivel chairs, rugs, and paint colors, including Farrow & Ball's Green Smoke. The article emphasizes that this shift from beige to brown and green is indicative of a broader move towards more personal and individualistic approaches to home decorating. It suggests that contemporary design prioritizes warmth, personality, and storytelling through color and texture, moving beyond mere neutrality. The content encourages readers to consider incorporating these new earthy tones into their homes, or to reflect on whether they are already ahead of this trend. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorTrends2025 #NeutralColors #EarthyTones #BrownInteriors #GreenInteriors #BiophilicDesign

This article explores the versatility and application of neutral paint colors in home decorating, providing insights from designers and color experts. Neutral colors, ranging from cool grays to warm terra-cottas, can significantly transform a space, offering a foundation for various design aesthetics. The article categorizes these neutrals and provides specific advice on how to integrate them effectively into different rooms and with diverse decor styles. It emphasizes that neutrals are not limited to just whites, browns, and grays but can also include subtle shades with a hint of color, such as sage green or chalky yellow, when paired appropriately with other traditional neutrals. The discussion begins with various shades of gray, highlighting that no two grays are alike, each possessing unique intensities and nuances. Designers suggest selecting a gray based on the desired emotion for the space, whether airy, earthbound, or dramatic. Warm grays, with their inviting undertones, are presented as a versatile alternative to white, grounding color palettes for a cozy feel. Conversely, cool grays can be combined with natural elements to prevent a gloomy atmosphere. The article also touches upon the use of high-contrast black and white schemes for a bold, impactful design, suitable for bathrooms or hallways, and integrating darker neutrals like rich pewter gray to add sophistication and temper other colors. White paint colors are also thoroughly examined, noting their wide variety beyond just 'pure white.' Whites with golden undertones create a warm and relaxed ambiance, while those with subtle gray or cream tints are recommended over stark whites for a more nuanced look. The importance of layering different whites and incorporating varied textures is stressed to prevent a monotonous outcome. Creamy latte shades, a mix of specific Benjamin Moore colors, are suggested for large gathering spaces, offering a comforting yet energizing feel. Beyond just paint, the article extends to using neutrals in furniture, rugs, and home accents to create cohesive and sophisticated spaces. It advises employing different finishes and textures, such as upholstered headboards, wood, leather, and metal, to add richness and depth to neutral-colored rooms. The role of undertones in neutral paints is also highlighted, with tips on how to identify them by comparing swatches against true white. For instance, a rich cream with a brown base can be discerned by examining its undertones. Incorporating small doses of accent colors, like misty mauve, gold, or teal, can also enhance a neutral scheme without overpowering it. The article also provides practical advice for selecting and testing paint colors. It recommends getting samples of various shades, including lighter, darker, and more saturated options, to observe how they appear throughout the day under different lighting conditions. This is crucial as natural light can significantly alter a color's perception. For a cohesive home, repeating neutral hues through painted trim, fabrics, and furniture finishes across different rooms is suggested. Finally, the importance of considering the room's natural light exposure is emphasized: darker whites or ivory for naturally well-lit rooms and brighter, lighter whites for spaces lacking sunlight to achieve the desired mood and avoid a 'cave-like' effect with darker colors. Overall, the article serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding and effectively utilizing neutral paint colors in interior design. #NeutralPaintColors #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorSchemes #DecoratingTips #PaintSelection #DesignTrends #Grays #Whites