The 2026 Interior Colors of the Year
Chelsea O'Donnell
Color‑of-the-year season is officially a thing, and yes, it’s time to ditch the beige‑gray snooze fest and step into 2026 with some actual personality. This year’s palette brings a mix of mood‑boosters, nostalgic neutrals, and dramatic elegance for every vibe.
Behr: Hidden Gem
Leading the visual charge, Behr’s Hidden Gem is a smoky jade—somewhere between blue and green, with a moody but approachable richness. It’s dramatic enough for a color-drenched room, yet subtle enough to work as a trim or kitchen island accent. Think velvet coziness meets soothing nature.
Glidden: Warm Mahogany
Glidden’s pick is Warm Mahogany (PPG1060‑7), a warm, brown‑red that feels retro mid‑century but still totally on‑trend. It’s the kind of cozy hug hue that works for an entire room—or just pops nicely on built‑ins or wainscoting. In a nutshell: classic, bold, and timeless.
Valspar: Warm Eucalyptus
Want serenity with a splash? Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus is a sage‑green that feels spa-worthy. Warm undertones give it a calming, grounded vibe—perfect for kitchen nooks, bathrooms, or wherever you want a slice of zen.
Dutch Boy Paints: Melodious Ivory
If you’re still leery of color but want to keep it fresh, Melodious Ivory is your friend. This creamy, nostalgic beige goes with anything: woods, fabrics, even that weird throw pillow you can’t part with.
Minwax: Special Walnut
Let’s not forget wood lovers—Minwax’s Special Walnut brings rich, earthy depth to stained surfaces. Think furniture, floors, trim that ages gracefully. It’s comfortable, familiar, but updated.
What These Picks Tell Us
Mood Over Monochrome – Goodbye stark whites and cool grays; 2026 is about warmth, depth, and emotional resonance.
Goodbye Primary Overload – Designers are steering clear of bold primaries and neons—this year wants color with substance, not just eye candy.
Greens in Charge – From Warm Eucalyptus to the leafy vibe of Hidden Gem, green is king—always safe, now stylish again.
How to Use These Shades Without Going Overboard
Start small. Brush on an accent wall, paint that tired bookshelf, or swap cabinet doors. A little color goes a long way.
Pair smart. Hidden Gem pops against creams or jewel tones; Mahogany feels grounded with natural woods or greens; Eucalyptus calms when paired with soft blues or earth tones.
Go bold…or don’t. Full room color-drench is daring—and fun. But even a subtle application (trim, furniture, ceiling) packs style without commitment.
What not to do in 2026? Designers are collectively side-eying two things for next year: bright, cool whites (they feel cold and impersonal) and shouty neons. If you’re after a modern feel, go for cozy neutrals or moods with character instead.
Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.