When it comes to color, home design is making a big move in 2026, shifting away from stark minimalism toward a “lived-in” and intentional sophistication. Tasteful homeowners are embracing a new kind of quiet luxury defined by quality, comfort, layered warmth, and deep heritage tones with nature-inspired grounding. Icy grays and blues, as well as all-white aesthetics, are being replaced by layered neutrals and moodier, more personal palettes that nurture the soul. In fact, ELLE Decor designers connect this year’s color selections to our evolving relationship with color as a wellness tool, satisfying our desires for personal comfort and individual expression as well as our hunger for authenticity, wellness, and connection.
Top-tier 2026 Color of the Year paint selections echo this shift with soothing, lived-in colors. Imagine wrapping yourself in layers of comfort, coziness, and even a little nostalgia, all while celebrating a style uniquely yours.
Benjamin Moore: Silhouette
Want to feel like you’re cooking in a chic café or relaxing in a glamorous lounge? This espresso-with-a-twist shade brings instant drama (the good kind!) to cabinets and islands. Contrast with light grays and whites or, for a moodier effect, pair with navy, deep burgundy, or even black.
Sherwin-Williams: Universal Khaki
Imagine your whole room wrapped in a cozy blanket. This soft, laid-back tan creates a warm, grounding atmosphere that allows artwork and furniture to stand out. Pair with crisp white trim and warm wood accents for timeless tranquility.
Pantone: Cloud Dancer
This serene and billowy white inspires peaceful contemplation. Use as a backdrop to brighten small spaces, like kitchens or laundry rooms, or to create a soft and organic tranquility in any interior space. Pair with muted pastels or rich hues for a personalized comfort that defines “home.”
Behr: Hidden Gem
Create quiet confidence, depth, and coziness—and a high-drama “cocoon” effect—by painting walls, trim, and ceilings with this smoky jade blue green. Pair with warm white, wooden, and metallic accents for a soothing, elegant feel, or with dark accents for a mysterious, moodier edge.
Valspar: Warm Eucalyptus
Bring nature indoors with a hint of nostalgia and a dash of retro charm. This earthy, gray-green is a soothing backdrop for bedrooms, reading nooks, and restorative spaces—and perfect for anyone who likes to read, relax, or daydream in serene, nature-inspired surroundings.
Dutch Boy: Melodious Ivory
Soft, creamy, and just a bit peachy, this color is like your favorite latte—warm and oh-so-inviting. It offers a smooth, easygoing mood infused with nostalgic comfort and elegance. Pair with layers of natural textures, like linen, jute, and oak, for a tranquil space you’ll never want to leave.
Glidden: Warm Mahogany
Timeless, inviting, and full of character, this spicy red brown adds instant coziness to bedrooms and warmth to gathering spots. It’s like a big, friendly hug for your home. Pair with natural wood, gold hardware, brass fixtures, or marble for an authentic sense of heritage, sophistication, or drama.
House Beautiful assures us, “Choosing a paint color in 2026 is less about chasing trends and more about choosing a mood you want to marinate in.” This year, your home is a canvas for personal comfort and unapologetic personal expression—and that includes your home appliances. Whether you are considering a single statement piece or ready for an entire kitchen suite, our team of experts is prepared to help you explore your options.
