The 2027 Interior Colors of the Year

If you’ve been waiting for a reason to bring more color into your home, 2027 might be your year. Interior paint companies have been announcing their “Colors of the Year” over the past several weeks, and the choices feel fresh, warm, and remarkably easy to live with, offering plenty of inspiration whether you’re planning a full renovation or just looking to refresh a room.

After years of white, gray and greige dominating interiors, color continues to make its way back into our homes. But this isn’t a return to anything overly bright or bold. The 2027 palette is earthy, muted, and inviting with greens, blues and warm natural shades that add personality while still feeling timeless. Here’s a look at some of my favorites: 

Behr: Grounded

Behr's Grounded is an earthy olive green with mossy tones and subtle brown undertones. It's rich without being overly dark and feels more like a neutral than a traditional green.

This is one I could see working particularly well on kitchen cabinets, built-ins, an office or even throughout a smaller room. Pair it with natural wood and warm whites and it feels current without screaming "2027."

Glidden: Artifact

Glidden went in a cooler direction with Artifact, a soft, muted aqua that falls somewhere between blue and gray.

Don't picture tropical turquoise. Artifact is much quieter and more sophisticated. It could work nicely in a bathroom, bedroom or living space, especially alongside warm wood, cream and other earthy colors.

Valspar: Cottage Door

Valspar's Cottage Door is another blue, but this one has enough gray in it to keep it from feeling overly sweet or coastal.

It's an easy color to imagine living with for a long time. It could work across an entire room, but it's also a good candidate for cabinetry, a bathroom vanity or built-ins if you aren't ready to commit four walls to blue.

Dutch Boy: Deep Rooted

Here's where things get a little more interesting. Dutch Boy chose Deep Rooted, an earthy orange that brings some real warmth into the mix.

This isn't bright pumpkin orange. Think clay, terracotta and the warm tones you find in natural materials. It would make a great accent in a dining room, mudroom or on a piece of furniture, and for the brave among us, it could make a pretty memorable room.

Sherwin-Williams: Celery

Sherwin-Williams chose Celery, a light herbal green that feels fresh without venturing into mint territory. Of all this year's picks, this might be one of the easiest to use throughout a home. It's light enough for larger spaces but still gives you noticeably more color than another coat of off-white.

What the 2027 Picks Tell Us

If there's one clear takeaway this year, it's that color is back, but we're using it thoughtfully. The cool gray interiors that dominated for years continue to give way to warmer, more natural colors. Greens are still everywhere, but blues, clay tones and other muted colors are joining them. Instead of choosing between "neutral" and "color," homeowners are increasingly using colors that can behave like neutrals.

What I like most is that these shades don't require a complete redesign of your house. Most work well with the things many of us already have: hardwood floors, stone, warm wood cabinetry, cream upholstery and natural materials.

How to Bring Color Home

Remember, you don't need to paint an entire room olive green just because trends say so. If you're curious about these colors, start with a smaller project. Built-ins, a bathroom vanity, kitchen island, interior door or even the back of a bookcase can completely change a room.

And always test before you commit. Greens and blues in particular can look dramatically different depending on natural light, flooring, and the other finishes in your house. A color you love on your phone may be a very different beast once it's covering 400 square feet of wall. 

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 odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

What’s New in Deck Design This Summer

Summer in Connecticut is a great time to enjoy your outdoor space and for many homeowners, that means spending time on the deck. Whether you already have one or are thinking about building or upgrading, today’s deck designs offer more options than ever before. Here are some of the most popular trends we’re seeing this year and what you should consider if you’re planning a project.

1. Low-Maintenance Composite Decking

One of the biggest shifts in recent years is the move from traditional wood to composite decking. Composite boards are made from a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibers, and they’re designed to look like natural wood without all the upkeep. They won’t splinter, rot, or fade as quickly, and they don’t require staining or sealing every year. That makes them a great choice for homeowners who want to enjoy their deck without a lot of maintenance. The downside? They tend to be pretty pricey.

2. Natural Wood Still Has a Place

While composite decking is growing in popularity, many homeowners still prefer the look and feel of real wood. Cedar, pressure-treated pine, and even hardwoods like ipe are still solid choices. Just be aware that wood decks will need more regular maintenance, especially with our New England weather, which can be hard on exposed wood surfaces.

3. Built-In Features for More Functionality

Decks are no longer just platforms with railings. More homeowners are adding built-in benches, planters, and even lighting to make the space more functional and enjoyable. In Connecticut, where the weather can change quickly, adding a pergola or covered section can provide shade and shelter during light rain or strong sun.

4. Railing Options That Improve the View

Traditional wood railings are giving way to more modern options like cable railings, aluminum, or even glass panels. These choices help open up the space and improve your view of the backyard or nearby woods without compromising safety.

5. Planning for Storms and Drainage

With frequent summer rainstorms and occasional severe weather, it’s important to think about how your deck will handle water. Proper slope, drainage systems, and weather-resistant materials can help protect your investment and extend the life of your deck.

Things to Consider Before Starting a Deck Project

• Budget: Composite decking is more expensive up front but requires less maintenance. Wood is cheaper to install but will need more ongoing care.

• Location: If your home is near the shoreline or exposed to high humidity, look for materials that resist moisture and salt air.

• Permits: Connecticut towns have specific building codes for decks. Be sure to check local regulations and get the proper permits before starting.

A new or upgraded deck can add both value and enjoyment to your home. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an outdoor space to entertain family and friends, today’s decking options make it easier than ever to create something that works for your lifestyle.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. For remodeling inquiries, call (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for general guidance only.

10 Budget-Friendly Ways to Refresh Your Home for the Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, it’s the perfect time to add a little magic to your home without breaking the bank. Here are ten affordable, creative ways to give your space a new look and impress your guests.

1. Revamp with Rearranging
   One of the easiest (and free!) ways to refresh your home is simply to rearrange your furniture. Consider swapping pieces between rooms or even shifting the focal point. Moving your sofa to a different wall, for instance, can make your space feel brand new. Experiment with different layouts to create a cozy flow for holiday gatherings.

2. Update Your Walls
   Adding a fresh coat of paint in a new shade or even an accent wall can make a big impact on a room’s ambiance. For a quick and budget-friendly update, try peel-and-stick wallpaper on a feature wall or behind open shelving.

3. DIY Seasonal Centerpieces
   Seasonal centerpieces instantly lift a room’s holiday vibe. Fill a bowl with pinecones, berries, or ornaments, and place it on your coffee or dining table. You can also create simple, elegant wreaths with fresh greenery, eucalyptus, or dried flowers, for an all-natural festive look.

4. Swap Out Pillows and Throws
   Changing your throw pillows and blankets is a quick way to transform the color scheme and feel of a room. Look for rich, cozy textures in holiday hues like deep greens, burgundy, and gold. Stores often have budget-friendly options this time of year, or you could swap covers on your existing pillows for a fresh look.

5. Revitalize with Rugs
   Rugs can anchor a room and give it warmth and style. Try layering a smaller, affordable rug over a larger one to introduce a new color or texture. You can find budget-friendly options in natural fibers or faux fur, adding a soft, inviting touch for holiday guests.

6. Add Greenery
   Bring in the outdoors with houseplants, which give any space an instant lift. For the holidays, add a few small evergreen trees, poinsettias, or mini rosemary plants, which double as décor and delightful natural scents.

7. Light Up with Candles
   Candles add warmth and ambiance that feel especially festive. Arrange them on shelves, tables, or even along your entryway for an inviting touch. For a low-cost option, grab a few pillar candles in holiday colors or a set of LED lights to keep it safe for family gatherings.

8. Introduce Festive Scents
   Scent is a subtle but powerful way to make a home feel refreshed. Simmer some cinnamon, cloves, and oranges on the stove for a cozy, holiday aroma or find affordable holiday-scented candles. Reed diffusers and essential oils in seasonal scents like pine or peppermint can also add a fresh twist.

9. Declutter and Deep Clean
   Sometimes, the best way to freshen up a space is to remove what doesn’t belong. Clearing away clutter can make a home feel more open and welcoming. Take the time to deep clean surfaces, especially in areas where guests gather like the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms.

10. Switch Up Art and Décor
    Rotate artwork or photos for a different vibe, or consider framing festive wrapping paper or postcards to make temporary, budget-friendly seasonal art. Small décor pieces like ornaments, garlands, or fairy lights in new places—like around a mirror or above a doorway—can add that holiday sparkle.

With these 10 tips, your home will feel cozy, inviting, and ready for the holiday season without requiring a huge investment.

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 www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.