2026 Paint Colors of the Year: A Fresh Palette for Your Home

It’s that exciting time of year again—when paint brands unveil their highly anticipated Colors of the Year. While 2026 may feel far off, these early announcements are perfect for refreshing your home. A new paint color is one of the easiest (and most impactful) ways to update your space, whether you’re planning a full room makeover or just want a subtle seasonal shift. As each brand reveals its pick, we’re gathering all the 2026 Colors of the Year in one place so you can start dreaming—and planning—your next project.

Warm Mahogany by Glidden

Wrap your home in a warm hug with Glidden’s 2026 Color of the Year, Warm Mahogany. This rich, almost-brown burnt red is a departure from the millennial grays and neutral color palettes that have dominated home decor for the last decade. The nostalgic yet modern hue feels slightly retro, with a mid-century modern flair that can be used in a variety of applications.

What sets Warm Mahogany apart is its versatility—it works beautifully as an accent color, the main event, or even a trim color, adding depth and warmth to any room. Ashley McCollum, Glidden paint color expert, assures us that this classic shade is too timeless to ever go out of style.

Special Walnut by Minwax

The wood stain brand Minwax has named Special Walnut as its pick for 2026, highlighting the renewed appreciation for wood in interior design. "With wood emerging as a key element—ranging from furniture and flooring to cabinetry—there’s a real focus on finishes that celebrate its natural beauty," says Lisbeth Parada, Color and Design Lead at Minwax.

Special Walnut offers a classic, dimensional tone that’s both familiar and fresh. Its adaptability makes it a favorite for various styles, whether you’re restoring an heirloom piece or diving into a weekend project.

Hidden Gem by Behr

After a long stretch of neutrals, Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year, Hidden Gem, promises to infuse your home with life. This beautiful green-blue shade makes a bold statement while still feeling approachable. Behr’s pick mirrors a growing desire for color in homes, emphasizing the connection to nature.

Anna Miller, The Home Depot’s Director of Trend & Design, emphasizes that greens hold a special place in our hearts because they remind us of the natural world. “You can’t go wrong with these shades,” she asserts. Whether you use Hidden Gem to color-drench a room or as a subtle accent, this color gives a refreshing escape from the mundane.

Warm Eucalyptus by Valspar

Continuing the trend of green hues, Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus takes a cooler, earthier approach for 2026. This comforting shade adds color to any space without overwhelming it, bringing a serene ambiance akin to a spa experience. Whether in a cozy bathroom or a chic living room, Warm Eucalyptus fits seamlessly into the home.

Sue Kim, Valspar’s Director of Color Marketing, describes the color as incredibly adaptable. It can serve as either a bold statement or a calming anchor, making it suitable for a variety of applications—internal and external.

Melodious Ivory by Dutch Boy Paints

If you lean towards neutrals, Dutch Boy Paints’ Melodious Ivory might be your perfect match. This isn’t your average farmhouse-style white; it’s a creamy-beige tone that transcends fleeting trends. According to Dutch Boy’s Color Marketing Manager, Lisbeth Parada, the focus of this color is to invite homeowners to embrace comfort, quality, and connection.

Melodious Ivory offers a classic backdrop, allowing the textures and personal touches within a space to shine. It’s a versatile choice that enhances rather than overpowers, making your home feel welcoming and authentic.

As you contemplate updates to your living space, consider these vibrant and thoughtfully curated colors for 2026. Whether your style leans towards rich earth tones, serene greens, or timeless neutrals, there’s something to inspire every homeowner in this year’s selections.