Backdrop + Coming Soon Reveal Bold Color of the Year

As 2026 approaches, interior designers are anticipating a shift in paint color trends towards warm, bold, and nature-inspired tones, moving beyond the standard creamy whites and sandy beiges that have long dominated interiors. These emerging trends reflect a desire for calming, lived-in environments, while also embracing more vibrant and dramatic hues. Deep purple, particularly eggplant-inspired shades, is identified as a significant trend. These rich, warm colors, with their red undertones, are suitable for both cabinetry and walls, adding a sense of luxury and drama while maintaining a cozy and calming atmosphere. This signals a departure from strictly neutral palettes, encouraging bolder statements in home decor. Similarly, inky blues are gaining prominence. While blue is a perennial favorite, the current focus is on deeper, muted tones like indigo, navy, and dark teal. Designers note a movement away from soft blues towards these more intense shades, which can be incorporated into walls, cabinetry, and furniture, reflecting a broader embrace of vibrant colors. For those seeking a neutral with more character, khaki is presented as a versatile alternative to off-white or light beige. This shade offers a slightly darker, yet still bright and light, option that can be used across various rooms and elements, including walls, cabinetry, furniture, doors, and trim. Yellow ochre is set to replace the butter yellow trend of 2025, offering a deeper and more timeless appeal. C2 Paints has even named an ochre shade, Epernay, as its 2026 Color of the Year. This moodier yellow pairs well with dark wood tones, making it ideal for spaces like libraries or guest bedrooms, and contributes to an elevated aesthetic. Terracotta continues its reign as a favored neutral-adjacent tone. Its earthy, warm, and nostalgic qualities make it an upbeat choice for brightening spaces and adding charm. Terracotta works effectively on flooring and complements both light and dark-toned furniture, demonstrating its adaptability across different design styles. Earthy greens, a dominant interior color in recent years, are expected to remain popular, particularly deep shades such as olive green and muted forest greens. These nature-inspired tones create a grounded and cozy feel, with Dunn-Edwards’ 2026 Color of the Year, Midnight Garden, exemplifying this trend with its sophisticated and dramatic green hue. Finally, dramatic jewel tones, including emeralds, sapphires, deep teals, and rich burgundies, are expected to continue their influence. These rich hues bring depth and drama, replacing lighter, more subdued palettes. The prominence of jewel tones in various 2026 Color of the Year announcements from brands like Behr, Graham & Brown, and Clark + Kensington further solidifies their status as a key trend for those looking to make a bold color statement. #PaintColorTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ColorOfTheYear #EarthyNeutrals #BoldColors #JewelTones #DeepPurples #InkyBlues

As interior design trends evolve towards bolder palettes, richer textures, and increased use of pattern in 2026, a paint technique known as color capping is gaining prominence. This approach serves as a more subtle alternative to color drenching, offering a method to introduce fresh energy and color into a room without the commitment of painting every surface in a single hue. It is presented as a low-effort way to revitalize a space, especially during darker seasons, by adding brightness and warmth without undertaking extensive renovations. Color capping is defined by Stephanie Hunt, founder of The Flair Hunter, as the application of a single color in various tonal variations or saturations across a space. This typically involves using a range of similar shades on multiple surfaces, such as cornices, millwork, doorways, and ceilings. Hunt's preferred method is to combine lighter walls with mid-tone cornices and a darker ceiling. This creates a sense of height and a cozy, enveloping atmosphere. While this is a common application, the technique encourages flexibility, allowing for different arrangements of tones and materials. The essential principle is to maintain a smooth tonal gradient, avoiding abrupt shifts between very light and very dark shades to prevent a color-blocking effect. Beyond paint, the concept of tonal color capping can extend to upholstery, rugs, and other decorative elements to create a cohesive, layered look. Regarding optimal locations for color capping, experts suggest it is most effective in relatively enclosed spaces, as its impact can be diminished in grand, vaulted areas. Bedrooms and living rooms are particularly suitable due to the calming and layered feel that tonal shifts can create, which is conducive to relaxation. The presence of millwork, such as baseboards and crown molding, is crucial for a seamless transition between shades. For instance, one shade might be used on baseboards and walls, a different one on crown molding, and another on the ceiling, with crown molding helping to blend wall and ceiling colors. The process of color capping begins with selecting a color, starting with an anchor hue (often a mid-tone) and then choosing lighter and darker variations. Many paint brands provide tonal cards to simplify this selection, emphasizing that the chosen shades should appear to belong to the same color family. When matching colors to a room, simple, open-layout spaces can accommodate bolder and darker hues, while smaller spaces benefit from lighter colors with neutral undertones. Inspiration for a color palette can be drawn from existing elements in the room, such as a rug, textile, or artwork. However, it's advised to limit the dominant color to just over 50% of the space to prevent it from feeling overly thematic. Testing the chosen colors is a critical step, as natural light and time of day can significantly alter how shades appear. It involves sampling a range of tones and observing them side-by-side to ensure the desired subtle gradient is achieved. This can be done by painting swatches directly onto multiple areas of the room or by using large poster boards that can be moved around to assess color perception in various lighting conditions. Thorough preparation of the space is also essential, including cleaning walls, ceilings, and trim to remove dust and residue. Any imperfections will become more noticeable with fresh paint. For older paint jobs, a high-build primer is recommended to ensure an even finish, with the primer's undertone matching the chosen color palette (warm for warm colors, cool for cool colors) to prevent unexpected color shifts. Once these preparatory steps are completed, the actual painting process can begin, transforming the space with the chosen tonal vision. #ColorCapping #InteriorDesignTrends #PaintTechniques #HomeDecorating #TonalPalettes #InteriorStyling #DIYHomeImprovement

The upcoming year of 2025 is poised to introduce a diverse palette of paint colors, with several brands already unveiling their choices for the 'Color of the Year.' These selections emphasize versatility, inviting tones, and character, signaling a shift towards deeper, more grounding hues, as well as rich, dynamic shades and sophisticated neutrals. The overall trend suggests a move towards colors that offer both timeless elegance and contemporary appeal, encouraging homeowners to infuse their spaces with personality while maintaining a sense of comfort and style. Valspar leads with "Encore 8002-45G," a deep blue hue that builds on the popularity of blue shades in previous years. This anchoring color offers an Old World charm while remaining modern, making it suitable for a variety of applications, from grounding a room's interior to adding playful accents on exteriors like wood or concrete pavers. Behr Paint introduces "Rumors," a rich, ruby red that balances nostalgic 1990s reds with contemporary earthy tones. This dynamic shade is presented as an approachable way to integrate bold color, suitable for smaller projects like front doors or kitchen cabinets, or for more extensive color-drenching in living areas or bedrooms. STAINMASTER presents "Truffle," a restorative chocolate brown, aligning with the growing popularity of warm, rich shades in home design. This versatile color can create a cozy atmosphere when applied to all walls or serve as a depth-adding accent alongside lighter neutrals. Little Greene's "Mochi," a soft, complex neutral, draws inspiration from 18th-century neoclassical design. This color is designed for "all-over" schemes, providing a gentle and subdued alternative to traditional whites or grays, ideal for creating restful spaces like bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms. Minwax's "Violet," a rich, saturated jewel tone, points towards a maximalist aesthetic, encouraging the use of intricate patterns and textures. This wood stain offers a creative avenue for upcycling furniture and adding a touch of joy to various rooms. Dutch Boy Paints introduces "Mapped Blue" (429-5DB), a versatile medium blue with yellow undertones, intended to complement a wide range of aesthetics and stand the test of time. This choice reflects a consumer desire for durable, functional, and timeless design elements. C2 adds "Raku," a burnt, brownish-red inspired by ancient Japanese pottery, to the mix. This earthy hue embodies balance, comfort, and timeless elegance, signifying a revitalization of classic aesthetics in a modern context. Glidden's "Purple Basil," another high-impact jewel tone, encourages self-discovery and self-expression through bold color choices, embracing a maximalist approach to home decor. Graham & Brown's "Elderton," a rich, neutral-toned brown, connects to nature through its namesake, the elder tree, offering a chameleon-like quality that can be sophisticated or cozy. Dunn-Edwards' "Caramelized," a warm terracotta brown reminiscent of sunbaked clay, is dubbed "the new neutral" and aims to add warmth and character, reflecting a desire for earthy and timeless paint colors. Krylon's "Hammered Black," chosen for its rich, textured allure, supports the trend of upcycling furniture, providing a modern way to revive secondhand finds without extensive preparation. Finally, Benjamin Moore's "Cinnamon Slate," a delicate blend of heathered plum and velvety brown, offers adaptability, enhancing both traditional and modern homes with warmth and comfort. Sherwin-Williams celebrates its 15th Color of the Year anniversary with a "Color Capsule" of nine complementary hues, providing a comprehensive palette for homeowners to tell their authentic color story. #PaintColors #ColorOfTheYear2025 #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #DesignTrends #DIYProjects #ColorPalettes #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign

The design world anticipates the annual release of Colors of the Year by various paint companies and aesthetic authorities, offering insights into influential and impactful hues for the coming year. While previous years featured bright and vibrant colors, the 2025 selections thus far point towards richer, earthier tones. This article compiles the announced colors, providing details on their characteristics, suggested applications in home design, and complementary accessories. James Hardie, an exterior siding company, introduces "Evening Blue" as its 2025 Color of the Year. This neutral slate blue is reminiscent of a clear night sky, offering a serene quality that integrates seamlessly with natural backdrops, particularly when paired with rich wood tones and greenery. While not a paint, it is recommended for trim pieces in contrast to softer blues or as a main siding color with crisp white accents. Accessories like a Velvet Round Pouf in Pacific are suggested to complement this shade. Pantone's 2025 Color of the Year is "Mocha Mousse," a warm, comforting brown. This mellow hue is described as subtly luxurious and effortlessly elegant, evoking chocolate, cacao, and coffee without being overly heavy. It serves as an ideal color for softening bolder shades or as a base for other neutrals and metallic finishes. Applications include matte finishes on cabinetry with warm stone countertops or a velvety lime wash in bathrooms for a spa-like ambiance. "Dainty Fantasy Floral Light Wallpaper in Mocha Mousse" by Gargi Panwar is presented as an accessory. Benjamin Moore's selection for 2025 is "Cinnamon Slate," a sophisticated mauve that blends plum and brown. This color is noted for its subtle yet powerful presence, chic depth, and enduring appeal. It is suggested for use on wood fireplace surrounds, interior doors, and molding, particularly in a flat or eggshell finish to enhance its velvety appearance. An Heirloom TENCEL™ Linen Duvet Cover is an accessorizing option. Dunn-Edwards introduces "Caramelized," a warm terracotta that offers a sunbaked, peachy appearance. This color is a versatile yet pigmented brown, suitable for those who prefer a less intense earth tone. It is ideal for home exteriors finished in stucco or plaster, where its natural variation can be appreciated, and for interior spaces with warm neutrals and light wood furniture. The Solenn Light Sand Ceramic Sculpture Table Lamp Base is offered as an accessory. Glidden's "Purple Basil" is part of a 2025 color family that includes richer, saturated purples. Described as unapologetic, maximalist, and daring, it is suggested for exterior window trim or other trim accents on specific architectural styles like Craftsman or Victorian homes. For interiors, it can be used in a powder bath with a complementary wallpaper. The Kieron Dark Purple Pillow Cover is a recommended accessory. Krylon's Color of the Year is "Hammered Black," which functions as both a color and a texture. This finish adds a modern, yet storied and stately, edge to various items. It is highly versatile, recommended for updating vases, plant pots, small side tables, vintage brass chandeliers, or mirrors. The 6th Anniversary Iron Deep Bowl is an accessory that reflects this aesthetic. Behr presents "Rumors," a deep ruby red with blue undertones. This color offers a moodier take on recent bright red trends, providing saturation without being overtly shocking. Its appearance can transform based on the chosen sheen. It is ideal for cozy TV rooms, elegant bathrooms, or offices with ample natural light. The Shallow Dinner Set by East Fork is suggested for accessorizing. Stainmaster's "Truffle" is a modern neutral, positioned between gray and brown. It is designed to complement warm jewel tones like olive green or citrine velvet, as well as creams, beiges, and oatmeals in natural textures like linen. It is suggested for color drenching in bedrooms, media rooms, or mudrooms to create an enveloping and warm atmosphere. A Deep Brown Washed Organic Cotton Velvet Throw Pillow is an accessory choice. Minwax's "Violet" stands out as a whimsical and spirited wood stain. Given its application on wood rather than walls, it offers more creative freedom. This Victorian-inspired purple is suitable for wood bathroom vanities, window trim, or children's furniture. The Osmos Studio Iris Vase is recommended for accessorizing. HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams opts for "Quietude," a classic sea glass hue with gray undertones. This milky and pleasing color is suitable for large-scale furniture or any wall within a home. It can be used on home exteriors, particularly Colonial or Craftsman bungalows with deep red accents, or on kitchen walls with deep green cabinets. A Cotton Weave Blanket Throw in Thyme is an accessory suggestion. Valspar's "Encore" is a fully saturated cobalt blue, indicating a trend for bold blues to transition from small decor items to walls and casegoods. This bright, clear blue thrives in environments with abundant sunlight, making it ideal for alcoves or rooms with floor-to-ceiling built-ins. The Honey & Ivy Mooshie Table Lamp in Midnight Blue is a suggested accessory. Dutch Boy Paints introduces "Mapped Blue," an easy-going hue similar to Quietude but with a more pronounced blue tone. It is a calming, soft color suitable for various settings and applications, particularly for those venturing beyond neutrals. It works well for kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, or on the walls, ceilings, and moldings of living rooms or sleep spaces. The "Teal And Sage II" painting print by Victoria Barnes is an accessorizing option. Finally, C2 Color of the Year 2025 is "Raku #549," a brown with a burnt brick red quality reminiscent of earthenware. Applied in a matte finish, it is designed to evoke a tactile sensation. It pairs well with deep burgundies to highlight its red tones or with sumptuous chocolate browns and blacks for a contemporary monochrome look. This color is ideal for woodwork, picture frame molding, and other intricate trimwork. The Barcelona Brown and Black Diamond Geo Tufted Wool Area Rug is an accessory recommendation. The article emphasizes that these colors provide diverse options for enhancing interior and exterior spaces, reflecting a current shift towards more subdued yet impactful palettes. #ColorOfTheYear #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #PaintTrends #ExteriorDesign #DesignTrends #ColorPalettes