Paint color has a powerful impact on the look and feel of a room. It can open up the area or make it seem smaller, in addition to changing the appearance of natural and artificial light. Different colors evoke different emotions. Paint can also help to create a cohesive home that visually flows from room to room. It’s a powerful design tool that transforms how our spaces are experienced. 

From calming neutrals to confident, mood-boosting hues, we’re taking a closer look at what industry experts and leading paint brands are forecasting for the year ahead.

Let's get the controversial "color" out of the way... Even if you don’t follow design trends, you may have heard about the 2026 Pantone Color of the Year. Their choice of Cloud Dancer was met with widespread criticism because, well… it’s literally a shade of white. No shade to those with a penchant for clean and simple classics, but white is as safe as it gets when it comes to wall colors.

Luckily, other tastemakers went with something a little more inspired and bold.

For the first time ever, Dunn-Edwards announced a Color of the Century: the blue-green Viridian Odyssey.

Behr was on a similar train of thought with their choice of Hidden Gem, described as a “smoky jade.”

The other gorgeous greens in the group are the muted, earthy Midnight Garden (Dunn-Edwards Color of the Year) and Valspar Warm Eucalyptus.

Embrace your dark side with Benjamin Moore Silhouette AF-655, described as a "distinctive color that weaves luxurious burnt umber with delicate notes of charcoal.”

Glidden went with Warm Mahogany, a deep red-brown that feels both moody and timeless.

Sherwin Williams kept it neutral, but not boring. Universal Khaki is a versatile tan that can pair well with cool or warm palettes. 

Whether you’re drawn to grounding neutrals or bold statement colors, these options can help set the tone for an inspiring 2026. Have fun finding your perfect shade and creating a space that feels like you!