The Paint Color of the Year choices are of particular interest for new-build homeowners, as paint is an easy DIY to personalize a brand-new space <\/a>and fast-track emotional connections that make a house a home. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Last year marked a bold return to color, and this year\u2019s palettes suggest homeowners have grown more confident with their choices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWe\u2019re seeing consumers unapologetically selecting colors that bring them joy, worrying less about resale value and creating more curated, personalized spaces that don\u2019t abide by a specific design theme. With this growing behavior, consumers have become more comfortable with color, and bold color too,” says Ashley McCollum, color marketing manager, Glidden.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Warmth defines 2026 color trends. With a range of earthy greens, taupes and creams, the Paint Colors of the Year are authentic and versatile. Here is a look at the paint picks (so far).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Classic and refined, Benjamin Moore\u2019s Silhouette<\/a> takes a page from the fashion industry. This beguiling blend of espresso and charcoal evokes the quiet indulgence of some of the finer pleasures, like a perfectly tailored, pressed suit, and luxe materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThe connection between fashion and interiors has always been a source of inspiration but this year in particular, we\u2019ve noticed a renewed interest in suiting and classic silhouettes; the resurgence of timeless pieces; and the growing interest in the brown color family,\u201d said Andrea Magno, director, color marketing & design at Benjamin Moore.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Timeless is on trend, and Benjamin Moore is tapping into the popularity of quiet luxury. Silhouette strikes the right balance between sophistication and approachability, which the paint brand thinks will support the color\u2019s longevity, good news for homeowners who want to try dark colors, but worry about updating in the near future as trends change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dunn-Edward\u2019s Midnight Garden<\/a> affirms that green reigns in 2026. A little darker than the other greens this year, it is a good choice for spaces where dramatic impact is the goal, such as in a jewel-box powder room, or a color-drenched dining or living room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the greens this year are clearly inspired by earth tones, Midnight Garden<\/a> takes this to heart, with hints of mossy groundcover, literally making it a grounded shade. Dunn-Edwards notes this color\u2019s compatibility with other colors, and multi-functional applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cMidnight Garden is the green that works everywhere – from cabinetry and walls to accents and exteriors,\u201d says Lauren Hoferkamp, color marketing manager at Dunn-Edwards. \u201cIts versatility makes it equally at home on interiors and exteriors, pairing effortlessly with natural textures, warm neutrals, or sleek minimalism.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Krylon\u2019s Matte Coffee Bean<\/a> is a rich, rugged brown, drawing inspiration from everyday, earthy elements, like stone, clay, and wood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Krylon\u2019s spray paints are easy to apply on furniture and accents, making them popular with DIY homeowners. Matte Coffee Bean leverages the trend towards underconsumption and a more frugal mindset among homeowners, to re-invent what you already own (or source second-hand), rather than buying new. It\u2019s elegant and transformative, in an understated way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Matte Coffee Bean, \u201cencourages consumers to focus on what matters, refresh the pieces they already own and craft with simplicity and longevity in mind,\u201d says Lisbeth Parada, Krylon\u2019s color marketing manager. \u201cIt celebrates the beauty of hard work, craftsmanship and practicality, capturing these trends in a quietly stylish and authentic way.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Green shades will be everywhere in 2026, with several variations leading the color palettes. Secret Safari by PPG <\/a>is yet another green hue on offer with the Paint Colors of the Year for 2026, but this one has distinct yellow undertones, leaning towards lime or honey dew. It\u2019s energizing and playful, with hints of Art Deco-inspired joie de vivre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Irina Hanhisalo, PPG color category lead, architectural coatings, says Secret Safari<\/a> \u201cevokes a sense of calm in natural daylight and reveals layered depth in shadowed or low-light settings.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n PPG is playing up this color\u2019s ability to blend into any palette, making color choices look intentional and curated, hence the paint color name<\/a>. \u201cSecret Safari is a versatile shade that adapts to its surroundings,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For the first time, Sherwin-Williams<\/u><\/a> and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams<\/u><\/a> have teamed up to reveal a joint Paint Color of the Year. Universal Khaki,<\/u><\/a> a mid-tone tan with yellow undertones, is grounded and versatile, and embraces a back-to-basics philosophy that practicality and simplicity are luxuries. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams, says the earthy hue was inspired by the \u201denduring elegance of the everyday, like the familiar comfort of a favorite jacket or the quiet resilience of natural materials. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The color khaki is practical and understated, yet it always feels put together. Choosing this color for 2026 speaks to a broader return to essentials in design: a focus on what\u2019s timeless and functional, without excess. It\u2019s a reminder that simplicity can be incredibly sophisticated,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n C2<\/u><\/a>\u2019s Epernay<\/u><\/a> is a pale yellow, with hints of champagne, named for a French village, nestled in the countryside. Think rolling hills, vineyards and limestone architecture. Like other paint colors for 2026, this hue has nostalgic influences, in Epernay’s case, historic style, and a nod to the Beaux-Art period, with an appreciation for craftsmanship and attention to detail <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cC2 Epernay has long been tied to European influences and is now emerging in contemporary design for its classic, versatile ambiance. This historic hue helps us retell the wondrous stories woven through history via the inseparable threads of color, art, furnishings, and nature. It reminds us to appreciate the personal touches that make a home uniquely ours\u2014and to live with reverence for the stories we\u2019re creating every day,\u201d says Philippa Radon, interior designer + C2 colors specialist. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A key theme for this year is home is a place to gather and connect. BEHR\u2019s Hidden Gem<\/a>, a smoky jade that finds the sweet spot between blue and green, is intended to be a backdrop for togetherness, with a cozy atmosphere that doesn\u2019t overwhelm. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While last year\u2019s jewel tones dazzled, Hidden Gem<\/a> is quieter, with a sense of stability that homeowners crave. It can easily transform a space entirely, or step back and play a supportive role as a neutral, letting other colors shine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThere’s a growing appetite for colors that challenge convention and bring an unexpected sense of wonder to everyday spaces,” said Erika Woelfel, VP of color and creative services at BEHR Paint. “Hidden Gem captures that spirit in both name and color.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n Warm and nostalgic, with mid-century modern vibes, Glidden\u2019s Warm Mahogany<\/a> is a deep red, with toasty brown undertones. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cWhen forecasting the Glidden 2026 Color of the Year, our team of color experts focused a lot on where warm tones are moving, specifically cinnamon browns and coppers, which are a natural evolution from the terracottas we\u2019ve been seeing in the market,\u201d says McCollum. \u201cThe push towards Warm Mahogany stemmed from the desire to return to tradition in a very curated and individualistic way.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s an extension of many of the elegant reds seen in last year\u2019s color trends, but with a more approachable vibe, part of a \u201ccolor evolution driven by consumer cravings for warmth, stability, and feeling rooted and grounded.\u201d says McCollum. The beauty of this shade is how it strikes the balance between bold, but livable and enduring. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Home is where you should express yourself freely, which is the inspiration behind Dutch Boy\u2019s Melodious Ivory<\/a>, a pleasant, creamy beige. Lisbeth Parada, color marketing manager, Dutch Boy Paints<\/a> says, “Melodious Ivory offers a classic backdrop that beautifully supports the textures, elements and personal touches that make a space truly feel like home.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n While some colors lean into bright and bold to make a statement, this neutral is strategically subdued, increasing its versatility as a foundation for whatever aesthetic a homeowner chooses, from traditional to modern. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also a nod to ivory and almond hues from the 1990s that are seeing a revival, as homeowners seek to integrate feel-good memories from childhood in their brand-new homes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Valspar\u2019s pick for 2026 is an earthy green<\/a>, the second so far this year with \u201cwarm\u201d integrated in the paint color name. It\u2019s not superlative either. This paint color\u2019s purpose is comfort. <\/p>\n\n\n\n “Warm Eucalyptus<\/a> is more than just a beautiful shade of green, it’s a reflection of the comfort we crave in our homes,” said Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar. \u201cThis is a color that encourages restoration and resilience.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n Green is big this year, but as Warm Eucalyptus demonstrates, green has many different faces. This shade is clearly nature-inspired, evoking leafy images, and the restorative effect of being surrounded by greenery. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Like with other Paint Colors of the Year in 2026, nostalgia is an influence, as this green has retro vibes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Paint Colors of the Year extend to stains and Minwax\u2019s Special Walnut<\/a> is inspired by the return to simpler pleasures: appreciation for craftsmanship, authenticity and artisanal goods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n New-build homeowners will want to take note of this stain, because of its ability to add patina and make brand new look lived in. \u201cSpecial Walnut offers a rich, layered look that adds visual weight and authenticity, creating contrast and interest in both contemporary spaces and cozy, lived-in homes,\u201d says Lisbeth Parada, color and design lead at Minwax. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Natural wood and wood tones continue to lead trends this year, thanks to \u2013 no surprise here \u2013 the ability to generate warmth in an aesthetic. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While many of the 2026 Paint Colors of the Year lean into rich hues, Pantone takes an opposite approach with Cloud Dancer,<\/a>\u00a0a dreamy, warm white that evokes blank-canvas vibes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pantone frames the color as an invitation to stop, take a breath, and think, sometimes a challenge in a fast-paced world. It’s about letting the imagination float away naturally, above the clouds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAt this time of transformation, when we are reimagining our future and our place in the world, Cloud Dancer is a discrete white hue offering a promise of clarity,\u201d says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the\u00a0Pantone Color Institute.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Traditionally, white runs the risk of looking clinical and cold. Cloud Dancer counters this with warm undertones, making it a grounding and versatile neutral. It\u2019s well-suited for bedrooms, bathrooms, and home offices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pantone suggests that Cloud Dancer is an antidote to technology overwhelm, and that stillness is now a skill that requires tools, such as this calming color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Laurie Pressman, vice president of the Pantone Color Institute, describes Cloud Dancer as \u201can airy white hue that exemplifies our search for balance between our digital future and our primal need for human connection.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"wall](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BM_CT26_B01_Cover_Silhouette_sRGB.jpg\")
<\/a>Silhouette by Benjamin Moore<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"living](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-13.jpg\")
<\/a>Midnight Garden by Dunn-Edwards<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"vase](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/kry2374570-25-coty-2026-breakfast-nook-hero-524-rgb-1-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Matte Coffee Bean by Krylon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"PPG](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/COTY_2-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/a>Secret Safari by PPG<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kitchen](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Universal-Khaki-SW-6150-7-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Universal Khaki by Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Kitchen](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/C2-639-Epernay_Kitchen.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nEpernay by C2<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Living](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/BEHR_25_03_COLORTRENDS_TC_LIV_105c__1-1-1024x690.jpg\")
<\/a>Hidden Gem by BEHR <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Bedroom](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/COTY-Bedroom_MAIN-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Warm Mahogany by Glidden <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Dining](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-11-1024x853.jpg\")
<\/a>Melodious Ivory by Dutch Boy <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Dining](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-12.jpg\")
<\/a>Warm Eucalyptus by Valspar <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Accent](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-10.jpg\")
<\/a>Special Walnut by Minwax <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"person](\"https:\/\/www.livabl.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/PTN_COY26_SecondaryImage_BackMove_2048x1152-1024x576.jpg\")
<\/a>Cloud Dancer by Pantone<\/h2>\n\n\n\n