As we move into 2026, fresh design trends are emerging, particularly in the realm of color. Experts predict a vibrant year ahead, with a focus on inviting shades that uplift and inspire.
From serene teal to warm reds, this year promises a palette that is both bold and calming, celebrating the emotional impact of color.
Here's a look at the standout color trends for 2026 championed by designers. Whether you favor striking hues or classic neutrals, these seven colors can complement various styles.
1. Serene Teals
Teal is set to dominate in 2026, offering a modern twist on jewel tones. This bedroom showcases Mylands' Burlington Arcade No. 216 on the walls.
Combining calming blue and green tones, 2026 will see teal take center stage in home decor. This color has already made waves and is solidified as a trend with Behr's Hidden Gem named Color of the Year.
'Homeowners are embracing deeper blues and greens, searching for colors that make a statement yet remain subtle,' says Erika Woelfel from Behr. 'Hidden Gem is a smoky jade that balances elegance with adaptability for various spaces.'
Designers favor blue-greens for their natural associations. 'The finest blue-greens evoke elements like moss and lichen,' notes Lauren Saab of Saab Studios. 'They ground a space while maintaining vibrancy, pairing beautifully with natural materials.'
Marli Jones from Rebel House adds, 'Behr's Hidden Gem is a refreshing shade ideal for smaller areas or bold kitchen designs, creating impact without overwhelming.'
CB2
Bangle Teal Glass Decorative Bowl
This teal bowl is perfect for adding a stylish touch to any surface, whether for fruit or everyday items.
Joon Loloi
Frieda Pillow
This throw pillow illustrates how teal harmonizes with neutrals, adding a splash of color to your decor.
AnthroHome
Dahlia Cotton Jersey Floral Quilt
Integrate teal into your bedroom with this cozy quilt, pairing with light shades or richer tones for a dramatic effect.
2. Soft Reds
For 2026, expect soft, rich reds that elevate the traditional use of red in decor.
Red decor continues to captivate, shifting towards earthy, mellow shades that ground interiors with sophistication.
'The defining color for 2026 will surely be Red 06, a luxurious berry with lilac undertones,' says Tash Bradley from Lick. 'It's a bold yet inviting hue that adds character to any space.'
Designer Marie Flanigan echoes this sentiment, favoring grounded reds like Sherwin-Williams' Carriage Door and Aurora Brown, both excellent for intimate spaces.
'These colors are perfect for cozy rooms like butler's pantries or lounges, pairing well with soft neutrals and warm woods for balance.'
Wayfair
Joss & Main Velvet Throw Pillow
Bolster pillows are trending. This dark red velvet option pairs beautifully with soft pink sheets for a luxurious feel.
Crate & Barrel
Dark Cranberry 12" Dipped Taper Candle, Set of 2
Add some drama to your decor with these taper candles, a budget-friendly way to introduce red.
Wayfair
George Oliver Felton Table Lamp
This stylish lamp brings a portable touch of red to spaces like kitchens or bathrooms.
3. Bright Yellows
Various yellows, from bold to soft ochre, will infuse homes with warmth in 2026.
Butter yellow defined trends in 2025, and its popularity will persist in 2026, whether for vibrant yellow rooms or grounding ochre.
'Yellow will be used more often in 2026—it's clearly gaining traction,' says Courtnay Tartt Elias from Creative Tonic Design. 'The introduction of yellow appliances by Kitchen Aid highlights this trend.'
Courtnay notes, 'Yellow can transform a room's ambiance, whether using pale buttercream or a bright sunshine shade. If unsure about a full yellow room, consider adding yellow accents to a blue room for contrast.'
AnthroHome
Maeve Scalloped Stoneware Picture Frame
Brighten up your shelves with this sunny ceramic frame.
Addison Ross
Buttercream Lacquer Bobbin Lamp
This beloved lamp comes in popular shades and features remote control for convenience.
West Elm
Toulon Stripe Pillow Cover
This whimsical butter yellow pillow combines two of 2026's biggest trends.
4. Warm Blacks
Benjamin Moore's Silhouette allows you to enjoy the depth of black without the coldness.
Black remains a bold choice, yet the emergence of warm blacks makes this color more approachable.
Designer Linda Eyles anticipates a rise in warm blacks, viewing them as elegant and earthy neutrals that enhance spaces. 'Deep blacks add sophistication, making them ideal for areas like studies or bars.'
Benjamin Moore's Color of the Year, Silhouette, embodies this trend, offering a rich hue that pairs well with various designs. 'Its presence adds character and depth while maintaining warmth,' says Helen Shaw from Benjamin Moore.
Ruggable
Cyrus Black Rug, 8' x 10'
This rug features a subtle print that grounds a room without overwhelming it.
Wayfair
Velvet Throw Pillow
This warm charcoal pillow exemplifies the softness that defines this color trend.
West Elm
Asymmetrical Marble Trays
Incorporate texture when decorating with black to avoid starkness; this marble dish adds drama while enhancing depth.
5. Earthy Dark Greens
In this kitchen, Portola Paints' Highland in Roman Clay enriches the space with a natural feel.
Earthy greens continue to trend, with deep shades replacing lighter greens as the preferred choice for interiors. 'We see a strong demand for colors that evoke nature and tranquility,' says Jamie Davis of Portola Paints.
PBF Homes' Pamela Forman notes, 'Deep greens are sought after as they create restorative spaces. They work beautifully in kitchens and living areas, particularly when paired with natural wood finishes.'
Quince
Linen Duvet Cover Set | Quince in Willowleaf
This earthy green duvet set adds calm and coziness to your bedroom.
West Elm
Deco Border Handwoven Wool Rug
This rug adds warmth and style to any living space.
Macy's
Olive Large Serving Platter
This serving tray adds a touch of earthy green to your kitchen decor.
6. Rich Plum Hues
Rich shades like Benjamin Moore's Radicchio create a luxurious ambiance.
As purple tones gain popularity, 2026 will see an emphasis on rich plum shades for a sophisticated take on this color family.
Ruth Mottershead from Little Greene observes a rising interest in burgundy and plum, as homeowners embrace vibrant hues. 'Plums and purples are becoming increasingly popular for their warmth and depth.'
Florence Sherwood adds, 'Purple will provide a striking contrast to yellows, making it versatile for various schemes.'
McGee & Co.
Auburn Marble Tray
Incorporate plum accessories to introduce this trending shade without committing to full walls.
Astrid Ceramic Decorative Jug
Ceramic Jug
This vivid pinky plum jug elevates any kitchen decor.
H&M
Sunflower Plate
This plate works beautifully on tablescapes or as part of a gallery wall.
7. Taupes with Red Undertones
Farrow & Ball's Scallop adds warmth to this sunroom as a chic alternative to white.
For 2026, taupes with red undertones are gaining traction, delivering a cozy and inviting palette. 'These shades are becoming essential for creating warm spaces,' says Charlotte Cropper.
'Red-based taupes provide a contemporary twist on neutrals, allowing for creative combinations with bolder accents,' she explains. 'It's a versatile hue that homeowners are gravitating towards.'
Pottery Barn
Belgian Flax Linen Duvet Cover Rosewater
These warm hues serve as the perfect backdrop for vibrant decor, making them an excellent choice for layering.
H&M
Metal Table Lamp
The mushroom shape of this lamp effortlessly incorporates taupe into your room.
Serena & Lily
Milo Alpaca Throw
This soft taupe throw blanket adds a lovely texture to your space.
Color trends for 2026 highlight rich, comforting tones that reflect a shift towards soulful, personalized interiors. Whichever shades resonate with you, consider designers' tips to create a harmonious space.
