A beautifully designed kitchen isn't defined solely by its finishes or fixtures. Color choices play an equally important role, influencing everything from the mood of a space to how luxurious it appears.

As kitchen color trends continue to move away from one-size-fits-all neutrals, designers are embracing shades with greater depth and personality. The result is a new generation of kitchen color ideas that feel more bespoke, more characterful, and ultimately more expensive.

Whether it's a buttery yellow inspired by historic homes, a deep blue rooted in the landscape, or a rich red that adds instant gravitas, these are the colors designers are using to help kitchens look more expensive in 2026.

1. Rich Burgundy Red

Decorating with burgundy has long been used in traditional country kitchens, bringing warmth, depth, and a sense of permanence to hardworking spaces – such as in this Leicestershire kitchen in a converted mill in the UK.

Burgundy kitchen ideas are making a confident return – a perfect example shade is deVOL's Refectory Red, a heritage-inspired paint that instantly gives cabinetry a grander presence. Rich and enveloping without feeling overwhelming, it has the ability to make even simple furniture feel more refined and substantial. The color works particularly well alongside authentic materials such as black granite, slate, aged brass, and dark timber, creating the layered, luxurious look often associated with historic English interiors.

For a more subtle nod to the burgundy trend, we've just spotted Staub's Beautiful Burgundy 7-Qt Enameled Cast Iron Round Dutch Oven, on a limited-time deal at Williams-Sonoma. The classic Dutch Oven design is perfect for keeping on display on the hob or shelf, helping to bring color and character to the space.

2. Butter Yellow

Yellow may not be the first color that comes to mind when designing an expensive-looking kitchen, but the latest iterations prove otherwise. Designers are embracing soft, butter-yellow kitchens that bring warmth, personality, and an effortless sense of optimism to a space.

In a coastal kitchen in Edinburgh, Scotland, designer Ailsa MacConnell of Studio Mac used Farrow & Ball's Hay to bring warmth to the space without sacrificing its relaxed, understated feel. With its dusty character and subtle green undertones, the color responds beautifully to the cooler quality of northern light, creating a scheme that feels sunlit even on overcast days. ‘We wanted the kitchen to feel as though it was filled with sunshine, even on a gray Edinburgh day,’ Ailsa explains. ‘Hay has a beautiful buttery quality to it, and its subtle yellow undertones brought exactly the warmth and sense of joy we were looking for without feeling too sweet or overpowering.’

Unlike stronger yellows, which often demand attention, Hay has a quieter presence. It softens the room, complements natural materials, and gives the kitchen a warmth that white kitchen cabinet ideas often struggle to achieve.

Whether you're inspired to repaint your kitchen in a joyful yellow shade or start small with a stand-out yellow appliance like the iconic Butter KitchenAid Stand Mixer (now discounted at QVC), there is no denying the truly uplifting and unique feel of a butter yellow color scheme.

3. Nuanced Navy Blue

Navy has long been a kitchen staple, but in 2026, designers are gravitating toward more complex interpretations of the classic shade. Rather than crisp, traditional navies, today's most sophisticated blue kitchen ideas have a chalkier, weathered quality that feels more relaxed and connected to the landscape.

For this kitchen, designer Sarah Lederman chose Farrow & Ball's Stiffkey Blue, a shade inspired by the salt marshes of the Norfolk coast in the UK. ‘I tend to gravitate toward colors that feel as though they've existed for centuries rather than colors that feel tied to trends,’ says Sarah. Against warm wood floors and painted beams, the color feels rooted in its surroundings. Sometimes reading as navy and at other times appearing almost charcoal, it offers a softer, more contemporary alternative to traditional dark blue cabinetry.

The upholstered barstools beautifully complement the blue paint finish in this kitchen design, with the wood frame adding a perfect dose of warmth and contrast to the scheme (you can achieve a similar look with these upholstered stools from George Oliver at Wayfair)

4. Midnight Blue

In this countryside project, dark blue cabinetry was chosen to bring depth and comfort to a naturally darker room with low ceilings. Rather than fighting the lack of natural light, the design embraces it, creating a cocooning atmosphere that feels calm and welcoming throughout the day.

‘We went bold with darker colors to create a confident statement in a dark room,’ says Nicky Mudie, founder and director of Violet & George. ‘The dark blue worked well against warm oak and patinated copper worktops, aged brass and rich brown glazed tiles.’

Copper pots are definitely having a moment in current kitchen trends. Not only are they excellent for cooking, but they work wonderfully as a decorative element (as seen in the kitchen above), helping to achieve a luxurious contrast in color and material – and we've just spotted a saving on the Gotham Steel Hammered 15 Pc Ceramic Cookware Set Nonstick at Walmart.

Far from making a space feel smaller, deep blue can have the opposite effect when paired with the right materials. It blurs hard edges, softens the room’s architecture, and creates the kind of enveloping atmosphere that makes people want to linger.

5. Clotted Creams

While richer colors may be dominating kitchen trends, designers agree that a beautifully judged cream remains one of the most refined choices of all. The key to this neutral kitchen idea is to choose a shade with warmth and depth rather than the cooler, flatter neutrals that have defined kitchens in recent years.

Today's heritage creams feel inspired by natural materials and traditional interiors, allowing craftsmanship, texture, and architectural details to come to the fore – such as this Edwardian home in London clad in cream subway tiles. Helen notes these warmer neutrals are becoming increasingly popular. ‘At deVOL, we are installing cupboards in rich but pale creams; we think of it as a clotted cream,’ she says. ‘These gentler, more earthy natural colours sit perfectly with wooden or honed Carrara marble worktops to give a warm, light and airy feel to a room.’

The chic ruffle shade (you can buy a similar ruffle shade on Etsy) in this space also helps to bring elegant depth and movement to the neutral scheme, and highlights just how important your chosen finishes and accessories can be in helping to bring a neutral room to life.

As kitchen ideas continue to evolve, color is becoming one of the most effective ways to create a space that feels elevated and enduring. The shades designers are gravitating toward for 2026 interior design trends aren't necessarily louder or bolder; they're simply more nuanced, drawing inspiration from heritage interiors, natural landscapes, and time-honored materials.

Whether you opt for something cocooning or more classic, the key is choosing a color that feels connected to the architecture and atmosphere of your home. When used thoughtfully, the right shade can make a kitchen feel instantly more expensive.

Mint green is back – at Chanel, no less. Matthieu Blazy’s debut Spring/Summer 2026 and Métiers d’Art collections put the toothpaste-fresh hue back on the map, reviving a color many of us thought we’d left behind in the 2010s. Now, in a twist few saw coming, it’s finding its way back into our homes for summer 2026.

The pastel room idea may transport some of us straight back to 2016, but the mint green's references run much deeper. ‘Mint green reads very retro, think 1950s and ‘60s Americana; it also can feel very Palm Beach or Slim Aarons,’ says Gabriela Eisenhart, founder and creative director of Atlanta-based Gabriela Eisenhart Interiors. Admitting the shade can occasionally lack grounding, she notes that the key to making it feel current is pairing it with its polar opposite. ‘I like to mix it with classic profiles and materials to offset the overly kitchy feel it can be associated with.’

Bridging the gap from runway to residence is fashion designer and interior architect Aimee Song, whose recent Lulu and Georgia collection taps mint green's playful side to enliven already whimsical sculptural vases. Elsewhere, Brooklinen’s Super-Plush Mineral release offers a gentler reintroduction, swaddling our rituals in a slightly calmer cadence that could very well define another decade.

It is the color of Tiffany’s, after all. If butter yellow was the pastel of 2025, we’d wager 'Millennial Mint' may be next in line. Our 16 favorite ways to welcome it back, ahead.

The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.

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Color has the power to completely shape how a space feels – and crucially, how expensive your home looks. The difference often comes down to nuance: undertones, saturation, and how a shade interacts with natural light.

While no color is inherently ‘wrong,’ designers agree that certain tones can unintentionally make a space feel flat, harsh, or overly mass-produced. Highly saturated hues, stark contrasts, and overly clean pigments tend to lack the depth that gives interiors a layered, lived-in quality.

Instead, designers consistently favor complex, slightly muted shades to make a house look expensive – colors with earthy undertones or softness that evolve throughout the day. Below, color experts share the tones they tend to avoid and the elevated alternatives they turn to instead.

1. Non-Earthy Greens

Green is often seen as a safe, nature-inspired choice – but not all greens bring the same sense of ease. Interior designer Harriet Sale notes that many people gravitate towards cleaner, brighter greens, but without any earthiness, these shades can feel slightly artificial. ‘One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing very clean or bright paint colors,’ she says, which can leave a room feeling ‘flat, harsh or slightly mass market’.

Harriet instead favors what she describes as ‘dirtier’ or muddier greens – tones with subtle olive, moss, or brown undertones that shift gently with the light. Hattie used Light Olive Green by Edward Bulmer in a recent barn conversion project to soften the feeling of a newly built space and create interiors that felt ‘grounded, settled and as though they had evolved naturally over time’. With its soft, chalky quality, the shade moves between olive, moss, and something almost stony depending on the light, creating a relaxed, timeless backdrop. As Harriet notes, ‘the best colors are the ones that feel as though they’ve always existed in the room’.

2. Fluorescent and Overly Saturated Hues

Bright, fluorescent tones can feel energetic, but they often overwhelm a space rather than enhance it. Interior designer Chizitera Pennington explains that ‘fluorescent colors demand a lot of attention and don’t easily give space for personal treasures and craftsmanship to shine,’ which can make a room feel less considered and ultimately less elevated.

Softened versions of bold colors – think ochres, clay tones, or sun-washed yellows – create a much more refined foundation. Chizitera points to shades like India Yellow and Marmelo by Farrow & Ball as perfect examples – earthier interpretations of brighter hues that feel confident rather than overwhelming. ‘Any color in a muted, earthy tone provides a solid foundation for a room,’ she says, allowing art, furniture, and personal details to shine.

3. Flat, Primary Blues

Blue can be one of the hardest colors to get right in a space – it can either feel calming and elevated or cold and slightly clinical, according to interior designer Ailsa MacConnell of Studio Mac. ‘Colors like this often have a flat, primary undertone, meaning they don’t interact particularly well with light.’ Without that complexity, the shade can feel one-dimensional with none of the tonal variation that creates visual interest.

Instead, Ailsa suggests turning to earthier, more nuanced blues, such as Cerullian Blue by Edward Bulmer. Unlike flatter tones, this shade has a soft, chalky undertone and is rich in natural pigment, allowing it to absorb and respond to light beautifully. The result is a color that shifts subtly throughout the day, adding depth and movement to a room.

4. Ultra-Bright, Cool Whites

Some of the most popular modern white paints are also the most deceptively difficult to use well. New York-based designer Lauren Carlucci points to Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore – ‘a crisp, pure white with slightly cool blue undertones’ – as a key example. While undeniably beautiful, she notes that ‘beautiful does not always mean right.’ The challenge lies in its clarity. ‘Chantilly Lace tends to expose what a room is missing rather than enhance what it already has,’ Lauren explains. In spaces with warm woods, brass, or natural stone, it can feel cool and slightly detached, even competing with the materials it’s meant to support.

Lauren recommends Dimity by Farrow & Ball, ‘a warm white with the palest blush undertone that shifts beautifully throughout the day’. Its subtle warmth creates a more cohesive, composed feel, allowing surrounding materials to sit in harmony.

5. Stark, Brilliant Whites

While similar in theory, stark whites pose a different issue – particularly in homes with softer natural light. ‘A very stark, brilliant white can often make a room feel flat and slightly cold,’ says designer Hattie Hansard of Joanna Wood Interiors. She adds that it can make interiors feel ‘developer-led or temporary,’ while running the risk of stripping away warmth and making architectural details appear harsher.

Hattie’s alternatives include Slipper Satin and Joa’s White by Farrow & Ball, both of which offer a gentler, more enveloping quality. These tones respond beautifully to shifting light, creating a calmer, more timeless feel that works effortlessly with natural materials and traditional details.

6. Cool-Toned Grays

Once a go-to neutral, cool-toned gray has quickly fallen out of favor among designers. Los Angeles-based designer Kim Lapin says she ‘especially avoids icy grays,’ explaining that they can make a space feel ‘flat, cold, and lifeless’. Often associated with more generic, overly sterile interiors, these shades can feel uninviting even when styled well.

In their place, Kim favors more grounded neutrals – shades that feel connected to natural materials rather than synthetic or overly polished finishes. Colors like Shoji White by Sherwin-Williams, Revere Pewter and Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore have a slightly weightier, more tactile quality – rather than sitting flat on the walls, these tones work in tandem with wood, stone, and textile.

7. In-Between Pinks

Not all soft colors feel calming – some can read as uncertain or indecisive. Designer and author Libby Cameron points to shades like Hummingbird by Benjamin Moore, a muted pink paint that sits somewhere between blush and mauve. The issue, she suggests, is not softness itself but a lack of clarity: tones like this can feel ‘neither one thing nor the other,’ which can leave a space looking unresolved.

If you’re drawn to pink, Libby recommends opting for something more defined, such as Ballet Slippers by Benjamin Moore – a true, pale pink that feels calm and flattering without ambiguity.

Ultimately, creating a home that feels considered comes down to nuance. The most successful schemes rely on subtle shifts in tone – colors with the right undertones, a sense of balance, and an awareness of how light moves through a space. Rather than relying on stark contrasts or overly perfect finishes, designers tend to favor palettes that feel cohesive and gently varied. It’s this interplay, between materials, color, and light, that gives a room its sense of ease and longevity. Even the smallest adjustment, whether warming up a white or choosing a more grounded green, can transform how a space is perceived.

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Personality-led designs are dominating kitchens this year, and one clear shift we're seeing is the return to color. But it's not predictable palettes that are emerging most prominently – it's unexpected pairings that are proving the most sought-after.

Your kitchen color ideas dictate the look and feel of your scheme, and choosing an unconventional duo can take your design from basic to playfully stylish. But how can you ensure you choose colors that actually work?

Fear not – interior designers have a few unexpected kitchen color pairings they say are not only totally stylish, but they're about to be the most coveted for 2026 and beyond. From pops of red to muted hues, these are the combinations worth considering.

8 Unexpected Kitchen Color Duos to Consider This Year

Choosing your kitchen color scheme can be an arduous task, especially with so many shade variations to consider, and then thinking about complementary tones on top of that. But these designer-approved kitchen color pairings make the job easier while giving you some more unique suggestions.

1. Brown and Blue

In a bid to create a more unique scheme with moody color palettes, one emerging pairing that's proving unexpectedly complementary is rich, chocolatey browns with brighter shades of blue.

'We’re moving away from kitchens that rely on one dominant color or overly safe neutral schemes. In projects like Highgate, we’ve paired deep chocolate tones with teal and jewel-like accents to create something much richer and more layered,' says interior designer Laura Stephens.

'The contrast feels unexpected, but it’s what gives the kitchen its depth – it stops the space feeling flat and instead makes it feel more like a room you want to spend time in, not just a functional backdrop.'

2. Deep Red and Golden Yellow

There's no denying the enduring appeal of a burgundy kitchen, but if you want to bring an unexpected twist on this classic look, designers say golden shades of yellow are the perfect companion for a more playful look. It's a color that still brings brightness and warmth, but without the predictability.

'I have a feeling we’re on the verge of a burgundy-and-gold mustard moment. It’s fascinating how the colors of our childhood continue to resurface, only this time with a more refined and sophisticated perspective. A deep burgundy lacquered kitchen paired with gold-mustard walls or wallcoverings and anchored by a striking quartzite feels instantly sexy and artful,' says Joe Waroquier of Joe Waroquier Home.

'For a fresh twist, the mustard could move overhead as a lacquered ceiling, balanced by warm burgundy cabinetry below. These rich, warm hues bring personality, depth, and a touch of nostalgia, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see them making a statement in kitchens, cocktail rooms, and butler’s pantries in the near future.'

3. Butter Yellow and Walnut

Butter yellow kitchens are proving enduringly popular, but there's often a temptation to stick to whites and creams alongside these soft hues. However, designers say that richer, darker tones of brown are a great way to create contrast within your scheme.

'Butter yellow and walnut brown is one unexpected pairing likely to gain momentum in 2026. After years of stark white kitchens and cool gray palettes, homeowners are craving spaces that feel softer and more welcoming. Butter yellow brings a sense of lightness while walnut adds richness and depth. The combination brings personality into the kitchen without relying on the bold color combinations that are already starting to feel tired,' says interior designer Lauren Saab.

'One of the easiest ways to use this pairing is with walnut cabinetry and butter yellow walls. Another option is a walnut island paired with butter yellow perimeter cabinets. The key is keeping the yellow soft and creamy rather than bright. When both tones have a muted quality, the combination feels comfortable, sophisticated, and easy to enjoy for years.'

4. Merlot and Oak

Can't decide between a merlot kitchen and a wooden kitchen? Pairing two dark colors might conjure images of a dingy scheme, but when done well, these two shades are the recipe for a deliciously moody and immersive design.

'We’ve been seeing a lot more merlot and aubergine tones showing up in kitchens lately, often in unexpected applications like tiled range hoods or statement millwork. At the same time, mid-tone and lighter oak finishes are making a comeback,' Heather French, Founder of French & French Interiors, notes.

'The contrast between the richness of those deep wine hues and the warmth of natural oak feels incredibly fresh and grounded. They bring both color and texture to a space, so I wouldn't be surprised if we start seeing these two trends paired together in 2026 and beyond,' she explains.

'One approach is to use a merlot or aubergine for lower cabinetry and then go for the lighter or mid-tone oak as your upper cabinetry color. The warmth of the wood helps soften the depth of the color, creating a palette that feels balanced rather than overpowering.'

5. Pale Yellow and Light Blue

Softer, muted hues feel just as relevant right now as deep, moody ones, and as far as kitchen color pairs go, soft yellow and pale blue feel like the perfect balance of playful and classic. And in this design, it's accompanied by hints of red for a truly layered scheme.

'In a recent project, we embraced soft blue and terracotta, paired with buttery yellow accents throughout our client's kitchen and orangery. It's a playful combination that feels fresh and uplifting, creating a space full of personality while still drawing on classic heritage colors,' says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe.

'We like to use the softer tone as the foundation and introduce warmer colors through furniture, joinery, and decorative details. In this project, the blue cabinetry provided a calming backdrop, while the yellow added warmth and character.'

6. Deep Red and Airy Blue

Reds are proving a favored color, whether they are used alone or as part of a bold pairing. And if there's one pairing that really seems to be making waves, it's red and blue. There are several tones you can combine, but designers are focusing on the juxtaposition between rich reds and soft blues.

'We've explored a really subtle balance between burgundy red and softer blue tones, which on paper might feel like an unusual pairing for a kitchen, but in practice feels incredibly grounded and natural,' says Laura, explaining that the red brings richness while the blue softens and adds dimension.

'For 2026, I think we’ll see more of these quiet contrasts – color combinations that aren’t about matching, but about creating depth through carefully considered tension between warm and cool tones,' she adds. Here, light blue cabinetry pairs with a burgundy marble island for a striking look.

7. Pale Pink and Oxblood

The return of pink kitchens has proved that even the most unexpected hues can have a redemption, and it's being paired with some truly striking colors. Another hue that's enduringly popular, deep oxblood and muted pinks are a bold yet elegant way to add personality to your cooking space.

'One color pairing I think we'll see much more of in 2026 is pale pink with deep oxblood red. In our Chiswick project, we used very pale soft blush-pink on the cabinetry as a warm, almost neutral backdrop, then introduced a rich red island to create contrast and give the room a stronger sense of identity,' says Sophie Pringle, Interior Designer and Founder of Pringle & Pringle.

'The combination feels far more sophisticated than people often expect; the pink brings softness and light, while the oxblood red adds depth, warmth, and a touch of drama. As we move away from cooler, more clinical kitchen schemes, I think people are increasingly drawn to colors that feel layered, welcoming, and full of personality, and this pairing delivers exactly that.'

8. Greek Blue and Blackened Oak

A bold blue can be tricky to get right in a kitchen. Paired with white, it feels decidedly coastal, and with gray, it can feel outdated. But combined with blackened wood? That's an unexpected combination that feels truly luxurious.

'One of the color combinations I expect to see more of in 2026 is bold blue paired with blackened timber. In our Queens Park kitchen, we used a bold Greek blue across the joinery, contrasting it with black-stained oak, white quartz, tiled island, and brass accents,' says Sophie.

'The deeper timber tones add richness and contrast, preventing the blue from feeling overly coastal or decorative, while the pale stone keeps the scheme feeling fresh and balanced. People are becoming more confident with color, but they're also looking for longevity, and combining saturated blues with natural materials creates a look that feels both timeless and full of character.'

If these unexpected kitchen color pairings prove anything, it's that you don't have to follow the obvious schemes to create a kitchen that is both characterful and enduring. If you're unsure where to start, this year's kitchen cabinet color trends offer plenty of inspiration.

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Saturated shades for summer? How very flowers-in-spring. But pastels? How very Palm Beach. In 2026, designers are swapping the season’s usual Barbie pinks and fluorescent brights for softer, more effortless color trends that encourage an elegant calm.

‘Growing up in Puerto Rico and designing throughout South Florida, I’ve never viewed soft color or pastels as seasonal colors,’ notes Raisa Imar Ortiz, Founder and Principal Designer of CASARIO Design Studio, who insists they’re definitely not just for Easter brunches and nurseries. ‘On the contrary, because I grew up where summer is year-round, softer hues have always been part of everyday life. The fact is, they respond beautifully to natural light and create an effortless sense of ease.’

Think barley-there butter yellows (à la Brooklinen’s Daisy bed sheets), baby blues (Vornado makes a darling retro-style fan to keep you cool), cotton-candy pinks (a permanent resident of the Ginori 1735 universe), and matcha green, which seemed to be everywhere at this year’s WOW!house. Fashion designer Cynthia Rowley’s summer collection for Pottery Barn, incidentally, includes a healthy dose of all of the above.

You could reach for a neutral. But these 16 summer-ready accessories are so much sweeter.

The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.

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The best color schemes don't just reflect a palette of stylish paint shades; they are in keeping with how the room is used and when it is used, and they acknowledge how the natural light changes from morning to evening.

When color schemes are designed to reflect how a room is used – think light and airy kitchens that enhance the daylight to dark and moody snug rooms used for relaxing in the evenings – there is a notable shift between light and dark; day and night, otherwise known as dual color palettes.

'When picking colors for a whole home, I always look at a mix of light and dark,' says the designer Jessica Hobson. 'You need those dark, dramatic spaces in a home that create special moments and give a big impact, as well as the light and airy spaces that seem more effortless and seamless.'

Here, designers explain how to create daytime and evening room color ideas for a home that feels dynamic across the day.

The 10:00 AM Palette

10 am color palettes are for rooms used primarily in the morning: think kitchens, breakfast nooks, and open living spaces. Because these rooms typically receive lots of daylight, they lend themselves to a palette of neutrals and low-saturation colors, where lightness is enhanced.

'My approach to these spaces comes down to how I want the room to feel – it should be welcoming, soft, and easy on the eyes,' says designer Gabrielle Bove of Opaline Interiors. 'I'm drawn towards shades that are found in nature in less saturated hues and stick with warm whites that pair well with other natural materials like wood and linens.'

While light neutrals work well in these rooms, it's important to choose the right undertones to ensure the room feels soft and welcoming. 'The best 10 am palettes feel bright and fresh without feeling cold,' adds Lauren Saab of Saab Studios.

'Morning light is very revealing, so softer whites, warm neutrals, and natural materials tend to work especially well,' says Lauren. 'These palettes work especially well in lighter, airy rooms because they help the space feel calm, open, and naturally energized throughout the day.'

These types of color palettes are a favorite for designer Marie Flanigan, who often turns to decorating with neutrals. 'I gravitate toward palettes that feel luminous, soft, and quietly layered during the day,' she says. 'In light and airy rooms, I prefer to let the walls and natural light create the brightness while warmth and saturation come through materials like wood, linen, leather, and stone.'

'This approach gives a space depth without heaviness and allows the light to move beautifully throughout the day,' she adds. 'The result feels calming, timeless, and deeply connected to the architecture.'

When choosing paint colors for rooms mainly used during the day, it's important to base them on the room's orientation, since this will affect how warm or cool they look. 'Different undertones in a paint color will be revealed depending on the intensity and direction of natural light,' explains designer Sarah Fischer of Sarah & Sons Interiors.

'Elements in a room that I consider 'bossy' can also influence those undertones,' she adds. 'For instance, wood cabinetry could influence a seemingly neutral color to read as more pink or yellow. My goal is to find a paint color that complements existing elements and has a slight muddiness so that it doesn't feel too flat and can handle shifting light throughout the day.'

While warm white paints set a clarifying backdrop, something slightly more colorful can add energy to a room. 'The spaces in which you normally spend time in the mornings set the tone for how you start your day,' explains the designer Ashton Taylor. 'We tend to design these spaces to feel simultaneously soothing and energizing.'

This light green kitchen is light and airy, with extra warmth and optimism. 'It feels like a breath of fresh air first thing in the morning,' explains Ashton. 'It's the perfect backdrop to make a quiet cup of coffee or to cook breakfast with the whole family.'

Beyond paint colors, you should also consider how decor enhances the mood. 'During the high daylight hours, the more light, the better,' explains the designer Jessica Hobson. 'Open those window coverings, turn on the overhead lights, and lamps. This will give you a bright and energetic vibe.'

The 10:00 PM Palette

By contrast, 10 pm palettes are for rooms used in the evenings, taking on a much cozier, cocooning feel that nurtures rather than awakens. 'During the day, they can read heavily, but once the lamps are on and the light drops, those deeper tones start to feel softer and much more atmospheric,' says Lauren.

'Darker palettes work especially well in spaces like libraries and powder rooms because they are spaces typically experienced for shorter periods of time,' she says. 'Those deeper tones can create a strong sense of mood there without becoming visually overwhelming.'

'There is nothing I love more than setting the mood, whether it is a romantic dining room ideal for candlelight or an earthy, neutral living room begging for evening conversations by the fire,' says Ashton.

From dark green to charcoal, rich ochre to muddy neutrals, leaning into dark paint colors is often the best way to set a cozy mood in evening rooms. 'Mixed with luxurious textures and the right lighting, a dark palette feels truly inviting after the sun goes down,' Ashton adds.

Color psychology also comes into play with dark color palettes. 'Richer tones absorb light in a way that makes a room feel grounded, layered, and atmospheric after sunset,' explains Marie. 'I often think about how a home should transition emotionally from 10 am to 10 pm, and deeper finishes help create that shift in mood. Soft lighting against darker materials creates warmth that feels both elegant and comforting.'

When choosing lighting for evening palettes, lean into soft, ambient options. 'Opt for lower wattage with lamps and candles,' advises Jessica. 'A must-have for me in any room is dimmers. Placing fixtures and recessed lighting on dimmers is an easy way to allow you to have full control of the light and overall vibe of the room; I promise they are well worth the upgrade.'

Layering in interior design stops dark rooms from feeling flat. 'I like to layer in darker jewel tones, dark stained wood tones, or different layering techniques like plastered walls or wallpaper,' shares Gabrielle. 'Like in a favorite restaurant or bar, every element in the room aids in the overall experience – a dark velvet sofa, dimmed lighting, sparkle through a gilt mirror, a crystal sconce, a special fabric. All of these layers create an intriguing yet comfortable atmosphere.'

The Transition Zone: Where Day Becomes Night

While it makes sense for morning rooms to embrace lighter palettes and evening rooms darker ones, this can, in practice, create an abrupt contrast between light and dark. To keep things cohesive and ensure a flow throughout your whole home, consider in-between colors in transitional spaces, such as plaster pink paints, earthy neutrals, or mid-tone green paints.

Beyond paint ideas, you can also use clever lighting ideas to shift the mood of a room throughout the day, something that can be needed in open-plan spaces that naturally transition from day to night.

'Perhaps the easiest way to create a change in mood and energy in a room is simply with layered lighting,' Jessica explains. 'I love using multiple light sources in every room: natural light, recessed lighting, hardwired ceiling fixtures and sconces, lamp light, and finally, candlelight. These layers of light allow you to create a mood or feeling in a room without changing anything else.'

How Designers Build Dual-Palette Homes

The best way to design color palettes that work across day and night is to think of your home as a whole. 'I set a vision and concept for the entire home, and then decide on a palette for each room that is dependent on the house, the function of the room, and the overall design direction,' Gabrielle explains.

By doing so, it can help each room within your home to feel connected rather than random. 'A whole home palette should ensure the colors relate and flow from room to room, with the colors complementing each other and the overall design story,' adds Gabrielle.

Aside from rooms that follow an obvious light or dark palette, start with chromatic neutrals in transitional spaces such as entryways that work seamlessly across the day. 'I begin by creating a quiet foundational palette that allows for continuity and flow,' says Marie. 'From there, I layer in moments of depth and contrast in spaces that are meant to feel more intimate or moody.'

Another approach is to start with the hub of the home and build the rest of your schemes around this. 'When designing the color story of a house, we typically start with the room that is the 'heart',' says Nadia Palacios of Nadia Palacios Architecture. 'Whether it’s the kitchen, family room, a bar, or a lounge, whatever the most important room of the house might be, that sets the tone for the whole project. We want colors that complement each other, and we aim to create a balance between richness and neutrality.'

Across all color palettes, remember that lighting is key, helping to set the right mood for the space. 'Lighting and materiality are essential because color is never experienced in isolation,' says Marie. 'Natural light, layered textures, and warm finishes ultimately shape the atmosphere far more than paint alone.'

If you have rooms that are used in equal amounts throughout the day and in the evenings, it's important to find a color that shifts effectively with the changing light – soft in the morning light and cozier in the evenings.

'When selecting a paint color, we consider how the room feels and looks in bright morning sun versus the ambient light needed in the evening,' says Maggie Griesbark of MNG Design. 'We want the space to feel bright and joyful in the morning, but serene and calming in the evening.'

'I find that a soft blue wall paint color mixed with creamy whites and sage greens on upholstery and textiles is a color palette we frequently use in bedrooms,' adds Maggie. 'Additionally, a variety of lighting sources is needed to support the overall mood throughout the day, and window treatments are essential for filtering light properly. All of these elements weave together to create a room that feels welcoming at any time of day.'

Choosing color palettes for your home that are in harmony with the shifting daylight creates balance and helps to define different rooms. Not only do these palettes encourage the intended mood of a room – think a light and airy kitchen or a dark and moody living room – but they also add contrast and interest to a home as it shifts between palettes of varying intensities.

Choosing a kitchen color scheme should be one of the most exciting parts of planning a kitchen. In reality, it can feel overwhelming, particularly when mistakes can prove expensive. A wall color can be repainted in a weekend, but cabinets, countertops, backsplash tiles, flooring, and appliances are far harder to switch out.

The difficulty is that kitchens are built from permanent materials that all need to work together. Cabinet colors have to flatter countertops, backsplashes need to connect with flooring, and even the light can completely change how a color behaves from one room to the next.

This is why the strongest kitchen color ideas rarely begin with paint charts. More often, they are shaped by the architecture of the house, the atmosphere you want to create, or a standout material that sets the tone for everything else. ‘Before we look at a single paint chip, we look at the 'soul' of the home. We lean into its history and the client’s own story,’ explains Alissa Pulcrano, founder and principal designer, Bright Designlab. ‘This leads us toward the color palette naturally – whether it’s moody, romantic pastels, wood ceilings with marble islands, or bold jewel tones with striking patterns on a concrete tile floor.’

The easiest way to reduce the pressure is to stop thinking about one perfect color and start thinking in terms of a connected palette. A successful kitchen color scheme is not a single shade; it is a system of materials, tones, finishes, and contrasts that work together. Whether you are planning a full remodel, repainting cabinets, or simply trying to make existing finishes feel more you, this comprehensive guide explains how to create a kitchen color scheme that feels cohesive, practical, and timeless.

The Five Step Framework For Kitchen Color Success

The best kitchen color schemes are rarely chosen in isolation. Designers tend to build palettes in a specific order, starting with the most permanent materials in the room and layering everything else around them. It turns the process from overwhelming guesswork into something far more logical – a five-step framework that helps every decision feel connected, balanced, and easier to get right.

1. Start With the Fixed Elements

Begin with the parts of the kitchen that are already decided or will be most expensive to change. In a remodel, this usually means countertops, flooring, cabinets, appliances, architectural details, and any finishes that continue into adjoining rooms. In an existing kitchen, it might mean working around a stone counter, wood floor, stainless steel range, or inherited cabinet finish.

These fixed elements will tell you more than you might expect. A marble countertop with blue-gray veining will naturally pull the kitchen in a cooler direction, while a quartzite or limestone with creamy movement may call for warmer whites, taupes, or natural wood. Oak floors can introduce golden undertones; walnut adds richness and depth; terracotta, brick, or aged stone will instantly make a crisp white palette feel more complicated.

As a starting point, focus on the surfaces that carry the most visual weight:

• Countertops and backsplash
• Flooring and adjoining materials
• Appliances, hardware, and architectural details

This is why it is often wise to choose the countertop before the paint color. Stone and engineered surfaces tend to have undertones, pattern, and movement that cannot be ignored. Paint, by comparison, is the easiest element to adjust. If you are still exploring surfaces, looking at kitchen countertop ideas alongside backsplash ideas will help you understand whether you are naturally drawn to cool, crisp combinations or warmer, earthier ones.

A useful shortcut is to pull one or two tones directly from the countertop or tile. If the stone contains a soft taupe vein, that tone might become your cabinet color. If the tile has a chalky, off-white base, that may point you toward the right wall color. This does not mean matching everything exactly, but it does mean allowing the materials to lead.

2. Choose the Dominant Color

Once the fixed materials have been established, decide which color will dominate the room. In most kitchens, this is the cabinetry because it covers the largest visual area. Even a neutral cabinet color carries enormous weight because it sits at eye level, frames the appliances, and defines the mood of the space.

A dominant color can be subtle or dramatic. ‘When designing a kitchen, we like to start with a dominant color that feels timeless, soft, and reflective of the natural light in the space, then layer in complementary tones for depth and warmth,’ says Christine Markatos Lowe, principal of Christine Markatos Design.

The question is less ‘what color do I like?’ and more ‘what do I want this kitchen to feel like every day?’ For a bright, classic kitchen, the answer may be warm white cabinets, pale stone, and oak. For something calmer and more cocooning, it might be mushroom cabinetry, honed marble, and bronze hardware. If the room is large and filled with natural light, navy, charcoal, or deep olive can give it the structure it needs. In small kitchens, a softer tonal palette will make it feel more generous.

This is where researching the best kitchen cabinet colors can be genuinely helpful. Cabinetry is too expensive and visible to choose purely on passing kitchen trends. The most successful shades tend to have enough complexity to feel designed but enough restraint to live with for years.

3. Build a Supporting Palette

After the dominant color comes the supporting palette. Beware, there is a fine line between beautifully layered and mildly chaotic. A strong supporting palette includes two or three additional tones, max: one for walls or secondary cabinetry, one for the countertop or backsplash, and one accent finish through hardware, lighting, or furniture.

Some combinations are enduring because they balance warmth, contrast, and texture so naturally. Warm white cabinetry with oak and aged brass feels relaxed but polished. Sage green with marble and antique bronze feels classic without being predictable. Mushroom, travertine, and walnut create a softer, earthier mood, while navy, white quartz, and polished nickel feel more tailored and crisp.

The important thing is that the supporting colors should relate to one another without looking too matchy-matchy. A kitchen where every surface is the same shade of cream can feel flat; a kitchen where every element competes can feel restless. The sweet spot is subtle variation: colors that share warmth, depth, or softness, but bring different textures to the room.

If you are drawn to gentle, layered neutrals, greige kitchen ideas and beige kitchen ideas are useful references because they show how designers build interest without relying on high contrast. These schemes often succeed through texture: honed stone, oak grain, handmade tile, woven seating, or softly brushed metal.

4. Introduce Contrast with Intention

Contrast gives a kitchen structure. Without it, even a beautiful palette can feel too safe or washed out. It’s crucial to decide exactly where contrast should happen, rather than scattering it randomly across the room. ‘When introducing contrast into a kitchen, we like to take a layered approach that makes the space feel exciting and full of life while still remaining timeless,’ says Christine.

A darker kitchen island color is one of the most reliable ways to introduce that depth because it anchors the center of the room without overwhelming the perimeter. Contrasting lower cabinets can have a similar effect, particularly in kitchens where wall cabinets are kept pale and unobtrusive. Kitchen hardware also plays an important role here – bronze, brass, matte black, or polished nickel can completely shift the mood of cabinetry without requiring a major color commitment.

In larger kitchens, stronger contrast often helps define zones. A walnut island can warm up pale cabinetry; a dark stone backsplash can make a cooking area feel more architectural; black window frames might justify darker accents elsewhere. ‘In this kitchen, we used Stone Blue on the island, which contrasts beautifully with the warm wood tones of the chairs and flooring, alongside muted Yarmouth Blue cabinetry to create depth and dimension while still keeping the space feeling open, airy, and inviting,’ explains Christine.

In smaller kitchens, contrast works best when handled more gently. Too many sharp shifts between dark and light can chop up the room visually and make it feel tighter. That is why the latest two-tone kitchen ideas feel softer and more nuanced – think cream and oak, sage and warm white, mushroom and walnut, or deep blue paired with pale stone.

5. Layer In Material, Texture, and Lighting

Color never exists alone in a kitchen. It is changed by texture, sheen, light, and the materials around it. A matte cabinet door will make the same color feel softer than a glossy lacquer. Honed stone feels quieter than polished marble. Handmade tile adds shadow and movement. Brushed brass reads warmer and more relaxed than shiny chrome.

This is why a simple palette can still feel rich. A warm white kitchen layered with white oak, marble, zellige tile, linen shades, and aged brass will have far more depth than a room made from flat white surfaces alone. Equally, a dark green kitchen can feel heavy if every finish is smooth and dense, but elegant if balanced with pale stone, warm wood, and well-placed lighting.

Lighting is the final test. North-facing rooms can make whites and grays feel cooler. South-facing kitchens intensify warm tones. East-facing kitchens are brightest in the morning, while west-facing rooms can become golden later in the day. Artificial light also matters: warm LEDs can soften a palette, while cooler lighting can expose blue or gray undertones.

Before finalizing any color scheme, test samples in the actual room at different times of day – the same colors can shift dramatically from bright morning light to evening sundown.

How To Choose Kitchen Colors That Work Together

A cohesive kitchen color scheme depends on relationships. The cabinet color may be beautiful, but does it flatter the countertop? The backsplash may be exquisite, but does it fight the flooring? The wall color may look perfect on a paint card, but does it make the cabinets look too yellow, too blue, or too flat?

This is where kitchens become more complicated than other rooms. Living rooms can absorb decorative shifts through upholstery, rugs, art, and accessories. Kitchens are less forgiving because so many surfaces are fixed, reflective, or patterned.

The elements that most commonly affect color relationships are:

• Countertops and backsplash materials
• Flooring and wood tones
• Metal finishes and hardware
• Natural versus artificial lighting

Understanding Undertones

Undertones are the reason some kitchens feel harmonious while others never quite gel. A white may be warm, cool, chalky, creamy, grayed, or slightly pink – depending on whether its undertones lean toward warm colors vs cool. A beige may lean yellow, red, or green. Stone, wood, tile, and metal all carry undertones too, which is why seemingly subtle differences can completely change how a palette reads.

‘My best advice for identifying undertones, especially in kitchens, is to pull a few similar colors and compare them,’ says Michelle Lisac, founder of Michelle Lisac Interior Design. ‘For greens I tend to lean towards cooler, more blue undertones rather than warmer yellow undertones.’ That side-by-side comparison is often the quickest way to spot when something feels slightly off.

A warm cream cabinet may look elegant beside limestone and oak, but strangely flat next to a cool gray quartz. Carrara marble often wants cooler companions, while travertine usually sits more comfortably with warmer whites, mushroom tones, and aged brass. That said, not every element needs to be either fully warm or fully cool. Some of the most beautiful kitchens deliberately mix the two – cool marble can look fantastic against warm oak because the contrast feels clear and purposeful.

Problems usually happen when undertones are almost aligned, but not quite. ‘When assessing undertones across the array of finishes in a space, I try to ensure a good balance of cool and warm tones,’ adds Michelle. ‘I especially like to mix the metal finishes, but strategically. For example, I love a bronze or matte black with an unlacquered brass.’

Choose Tonal, Contrast, or Complementary Colors

Once you’ve got your undertones under control, it helps to decide what kind of color relationship you want. Tonal kitchens use variations of the same family: cream cabinetry, taupe walls, limestone counters, and oak floors, for example. ‘If the kitchen is open-plan and bleeds into a living or dining space, tonal almost always reads better – contrast can start to feel choppy when it's competing with other rooms,’ says Victoria Forehan, founder of Victoria Forehan Design.

Contrasting kitchens use differences to create definition. White perimeter cabinets with a charcoal island, pale stone against dark cabinetry, or black hardware on warm oak all give the eye somewhere to land. This approach works well in larger kitchens and rooms with strong architectural features.

Complementary schemes are more decorative. They bring together colors that enhance each other, such as dusty blue cabinets with copper accents or muted green kitchen cabinetry with warm terracotta flooring. These combinations can be beautiful, but they need softening. In kitchens, fully saturated complementary colors can quickly feel too loud, so muted, chalky, or earthy versions tend to be more successful.

Let Materials Do Some of the Color Work

Paint is only one part of the palette. Wood grain, stone veining, tile texture, metal finish, and even upholstery all contribute color, which is why the most sophisticated kitchens rely less on painted surfaces than you might expect. A beautifully balanced scheme usually comes from the relationship between materials rather than a single standout paint shade.

‘When pulling together finishes for a project, we always lay the materials out on our large white conference table,’ says Michelle Lisac. ‘This helps to see the pieces as a whole, and we switch out finishes until the balance feels right.’ A useful rule is to let one material lead. If the stone is heavily veined, the cabinetry may need to be subtler. If the backsplash is handmade and tonal, a simple cabinet color may already be enough. ‘The countertop stone is a major factor to consider,’ she says. ‘You can complement the stone’s colors by accenting with the paint color(s) or let the stone be the star of the kitchen by pairing it with wood cabinetry.’

The same balanced approach applies to timber tones. Beautiful oak cabinets may need a calmer countertop, while a richly colored island often sits more comfortably when the perimeter is pared back. ‘Regarding wood, I always steer away from red or yellow tones and try to find that nice neutral tone that complements almost everything,’ adds Michelle.

Test Colors Vertically, Not Flat

Paint and cabinet samples should be tested vertically because that is how they will be seen in the finished kitchen. A color lying flat on a table receives light differently from a cabinet door or wall.

Place samples next to the actual countertop, backsplash, flooring, and hardware whenever possible. Look at them in morning light, afternoon light, and after dark. If the kitchen uses under-cabinet lighting, pendants, or recessed ceiling lights, switch those on too. A color that is beautiful in daylight can shift dramatically under artificial light.

This is especially important with white, gray, green, and blue, which are all highly reactive to light. What looks soft and elegant in a showroom can feel cold, muddy, or unexpectedly bright once you get it home.

‘Lighting has such a significant impact on how a kitchen color palette reads and feels throughout the day. We always consider the room’s natural light, orientation, and LED temperatures before finalizing finishes,’ agrees Christine Markatos. ‘In this kitchen, the layered whites and soft neutrals shift beautifully with the daylight, while the warm brass and wood accents keep the space feeling inviting rather than flat.’

Popular Kitchen Colors Schemes

The best kitchen color ideas balance inspiration with longevity, and they work because they are flexible, adaptable, and rooted in materials that age well. Nobody wants a dull kitchen, but it does need to outlast a short-lived color trend cycle. The palette directions designers return to repeatedly include:

Neutral and Timeless Kitchen Color Schemes

Neutral kitchens work because they leave room for texture and materiality to bring the interest and personality. Warm whites, greige, cream, oak, marble, and aged brass create depth through subtle tonal shifts rather than obvious color. The best neutral kitchens never feel flat, they rely on grain, veining, and finish variation to add interest.

Best for: long-term renovations, smaller kitchens, and anyone wanting calm without coldness.

Warm Kitchen Color Schemes

Warm color schemes feel softer and more welcoming than the cool gray kitchens of the past decade. Cream, taupe, terracotta, olive, and walnut all bring richness without overwhelming the room. These shades pair beautifully with natural materials like travertine, bronze, and dark wood. Grounding elements like muted greens, blackened metals, or honed stone keep the palette sophisticated.

Best for: family kitchens, period homes, and spaces with good natural light.

Cool and Calming Kitchen Color Schemes

Calming kitchen color schemes, like light blue kitchens, sage greens, and blue-gray tones, can make a kitchen feel calm, ordered, and elegant. The trick is preventing cool palettes from feeling clinical. Natural textures – oak floors, woven seating, antique brass, or plaster finishes – soften the sharper edges and add warmth back into the room. Muted, muddied versions of color tend to feel more timeless than highly saturated shades.

Best for: coastal homes, south-facing kitchens, and anyone craving a serene atmosphere.

Bold Kitchen Color Schemes

Dark kitchens feel dramatic because they create contrast and depth instantly. Navy, deep green, charcoal, chocolate brown, and black all work best when layered with lighter stone, warm timber, or reflective metals to stop the space from feeling heavy. Statement color does not have to dominate the entire room either – islands, larder cabinets, or lower cabinetry can often deliver enough impact on their own.

Best for: large kitchens (or small, cozy ones), and those wanting something moodier and more architectural.

Nature-Inspired Kitchen Color Schemes

Nature-inspired palettes focus less on one standout color and more on creating an overall atmosphere. Olive, sand, stone, oak, clay, linen, and soft browns feel grounding because the combinations already exist naturally outdoors. These kitchens often feel relaxed and timeless because the palette is tied to materials and texture rather than trends.

Best for: organic modern homes, relaxed family kitchens, and spaces with strong indoor-outdoor connections.

Choosing a Kitchen Color Scheme for Your Space and Layout

The same color can behave very differently depending on the shape, size, and light of a room. A deep navy that feels elegant in a generous, south-facing kitchen may feel oppressive in a narrow galley. A crisp white that looks clean in a bright showroom may feel stark in a shaded room.

Kitchen layout should not dictate every choice, but it should shape the way color is used.

When assessing a kitchen layout, pay closest attention to:

• Natural light levels throughout the day
• Ceiling height and room proportions
• Sightlines into adjoining spaces
• How much visual contrast the room can comfortably handle

Small Kitchens

Small kitchens usually benefit from a more continuous palette. This does not mean they must be white, but it does mean avoiding too many abrupt changes in color or material. When cabinets, walls, and backsplash tones sit close together, the eye moves around the room more easily and the space feels larger.

Designers are also increasingly embracing color drenching in smaller kitchens, using very similar tones across cabinetry, walls, and trim to blur visual boundaries and reduce contrast. ‘Color drenching allows the walls, moldings, and cabinetry to read as a unified whole,’ says Tom Stringer, founder of Tom Stringer Design Partners. ‘Given this room’s architectural lines and paneling, calling out each design component with individual paint colors would have been visually overwhelming. By enveloping the room in a single hue, the space feels softened and balanced.’

A small kitchen can still handle contrast, but it often works best through hardware, lighting, or darker flooring rather than sharply contrasting cabinets and walls. Pale upper cabinets or open shelving can also reduce visual weight, while darker lower cabinetry helps ground the room and gives the overall design more intention.

Dark Kitchens

It is tempting to paint a dark kitchen bright white in an attempt to make it feel lighter, but this can easily backfire. In rooms with limited daylight, stark whites often feel cold or slightly lifeless because there is not enough natural light to soften and animate them throughout the day. ‘Warm undertones are your friend here – a white with yellow or pink in it will always outperform a cool gray-white in a north-facing kitchen,’ says Victoria Forehan, founder of Victoria Forehan Design.

Lighting matters enormously too. Layered ceiling lighting, under-cabinet illumination, and warm-toned pendants help create depth and prevent richer palettes from feeling heavy. Material choices can also do some of the light-boosting work. ‘Don’t underestimate the impact of a warm-toned stone or timber; sometimes the color you need isn’t on the cabinets at all,’ says Victoria. Pale worktops, warm oak, aged brass, and textured natural materials can all help bounce warmth around the room without forcing a dark kitchen into feeling artificially bright.

Open-Plan Kitchens

In an open-plan kitchen, the color scheme has to work from every angle. Cabinetry may be visible from the sofa, dining table, entryway, or patio, so it needs to feel integrated into the wider home rather than standing apart as a purely functional zone.

The most successful schemes usually rely on subtle repetition and material continuity. A metal finish repeated across lighting and hardware, cabinetry tones that relate to furniture elsewhere in the room, or colors pulled from artwork and textiles can all help the space feel more cohesive. ‘I always want the kitchen and living areas to feel connected through a thoughtful tonal palette, not necessarily matching, but complementary in a way that feels layered and intentional,’ explains Viki Chupik, founder of Chupik Design.

Texture also becomes increasingly important in larger open spaces, particularly when the cabinetry itself is relatively restrained. ‘A vent hood wrapped in hand-burnished brass or finished in a soft hand-rubbed plaster instantly adds warmth and character,’ says Viki. Decorative lighting can also help anchor the kitchen visually within the wider room. ‘Lighting over the island is often the jewelry of the room,’ she adds, pointing to sculptural pendants as a way to introduce personality without disrupting the overall palette.

Galley Kitchens vs Large Kitchens

Galley kitchens and large kitchens require very different approaches to color because the proportions of the room change how contrast is perceived. In narrow galley layouts, strong opposing colors can exaggerate the sense of enclosure, while tonal cabinetry, reflective finishes, and lighter worktops help maintain a more open feeling.

Larger kitchens, however, often need stronger visual anchors to stop the room from feeling flat or underdefined. ‘The bigger the space, the more contrast it can absorb,’ explains Linda Eyles, founder of Linda Eyles Design. ‘Larger, open kitchens allow us to lean into saturated tones and to confidently mix multiple types of material to create focal points and visual movement.’

This is where elements such as darker islands, richly veined stone, statement pantry cupboards, or deeper shades on tall cabinetry can help introduce rhythm and structure across a more expansive footprint. Smaller kitchens generally benefit from a more restrained approach. ‘That doesn't mean you can't use strong color and pattern, but the mix needs to be much more edited,’ says Linda. Careful scaling is essential – materials and contrasts that feel balanced in a large kitchen can quickly dominate a compact galley space.

Modern vs Traditional Kitchens

Architectural style has a huge influence on how color behaves in a kitchen. Modern kitchens often rely on minimalist palettes – warm whites, taupes, walnut, greige, and softer architectural neutrals – where the focus shifts toward materiality, proportion, and detailing rather than overt decoration.

Traditional kitchens, by contrast, can often accommodate more layered and expressive color choices. ‘The proportions, moldings and textures are inherently warm and human in a way that gives me liberty to go in unique directions with color selections,’ says architect Nadia Palacios, founder of Nadia Palacios Architecture. Rich greens, dusty blues, earthy browns, deep aubergines, and warmer creams all tend to sit naturally alongside framed cabinetry and classic hardware details.

The most successful schemes, however, avoid feeling too rigidly tied to one style direction. A contemporary kitchen in a period property can feel entirely appropriate when the palette relates to original flooring, timber tones, or surrounding architecture. Equally, more traditional cabinetry can feel fresher when paired with muddier, earthier, or slightly unexpected colors rather than predictable heritage creams. In contemporary kitchens especially, warmth often needs to come from materials as much as paint. ‘My instinct is to bring warmth through natural colors, materials and textures, like stained wood and richly veined marble,’ adds Nadia.

Common Kitchen Color Mistakes To Avoid

Most kitchen color mistakes happen because decisions are made separately. A cabinet color is chosen in one place, a countertop in another, a backsplash online, and paint at the last minute. The result can be a room full of individually good choices that do not quite belong together.

The most common problems designers encounter are:

• Paint selected before countertops or cabinetry
• Clashing warm and cool undertones
• Too many competing feature materials
• Colors tested under the wrong lighting conditions

The most common issue is choosing paint too early. Paint should usually come after countertops, cabinetry, and flooring because it is the most flexible part of the scheme. Even if you are desperate to settle on a wall color, wait until the major materials are confirmed.

Undertones are the second major trap. A cool gray counter, warm cream cabinet, yellow-toned floor, and pinkish beige wall can all fight one another subtly. The kitchen may not look obviously wrong, but it will never feel calm. This is why physical samples matter so much.

Another mistake is using too many feature moments. A bold cabinet color, dramatic veined stone, patterned tile, contrasting island, and statement hardware may all be lovely separately, but together they can become exhausting. In a kitchen, one or two strong gestures are usually enough. If the countertop is the star, let the cabinet color support it. If the island is dark and dramatic, keep the backsplash quieter.

Trend-led color can also be risky. That does not mean avoiding trends altogether, but it does mean asking whether the color suits the house, the light, and the materials, rather than simply the mood of the moment. Cabinetry is a long-term investment. A fashionable shade has to earn its place.

Finally, never judge colors from a phone screen, a tiny paint chip, or a showroom alone. Kitchens are too affected by light, scale, and surrounding surfaces. What looks soft online may be much brighter in real life; what looks elegant under showroom lighting may turn muddy at home.

Kitchen Color FAQs

The truth is, there is no universal color you should never paint your kitchen – everyone’s tastes, homes, and lifestyles are different. The real mistakes happen when colors fight the room’s light, architecture, and materials instead of bringing them together in perfect harmony.

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While there are obvious ways to make your bedroom cooler in the warmer months (namely, layering cooling bed sheets, buying a fan, or investing in an AC unit), creating a sense of light, bright breeziness can be done through your choice of decor too.

And of course, the most obvious way to do that? Color. The colors you bring into your bedroom can make it feel fresher, bounce and reflect light in a way that can make your space instantly feel much cooler. Designers say the best bedroom color scheme for creating a cooler-feeling sleep space, while still remaining on trend for 2026, is a palette of calming greens, soft pale blues, and crisp whites and creams

And you needn't pick up a paintbrush, either; in fact, layering these colors with accessories is the key to a cooler scheme, whether it's through bedding, switching out your current drapes, or bringing in a new rug.

Interior designer Jennifer McKissick created a relaxing bedroom by keeping the color palette classic. A base of cream paint creates a bright, light-filled effect, while the green and blue floral prints add charm and whimsy.

'The design process for this room, which happens to be my personal bedroom, really started with the fabric: Colefax and Fowler's Fuchsia Chintz,' begins Jennifer. 'I saw it years ago in Lee Radziwill's bedroom in her Manhattan apartment and fell in love with its organic femininity. Lee used the red colorway of the print in her bedroom, which is also lovely, but the blue spoke to me immediately. Blue has a very calming, cooling effect. I wanted this space to feel tranquil, but not plain and ordinary like some overly-simple bedrooms you see today.'

The fabric inspired the bedroom's colors, acting as a jumping-off point for everything to connect to. 'The blue, green, and white color palette and the balance of textiles helped achieve this through the juxtaposition of the bolder patterns like the chintz against the softer check.'

'When I had the room painted initially, the walls were blue, but I wanted the space to feel even lighter, so we painted them white and chose to do blue on the ceiling (Farrow & Ball Borrowed Light), which really sets the tone over the whole room, making it feel cool and peaceful. When the sunlight peaks in the morning, it feels like waking up in an English Garden.'

Interior designer Chrissy Ritter also layered green, blue, and white to create a light and cooling bedroom for her client. 'The homeowner wanted a room that felt timeless rather than trendy, and blue, green, and cream are one of those combinations that never seem to go out of style,' says Chrissy. 'It's a palette that feels fresh and relaxed while still having a sense of tradition.'

'It also felt very appropriate for the English country look we were after,' explains Chrissy. 'The wallpaper already had this beautiful blend of soft blues and greens, so we pulled those colors throughout the bedding, lampshades, and textiles to create a room that feels cohesive without feeling overly matched.'

'Bedrooms should feel restful, and cooler colors naturally lend themselves to that feeling. Blues bring a sense of calm and quiet, while green introduces an element of nature and softness.'

While green and blue tones are on the colder side, it's the lived-in layers that bring the warmth and depth to the room. 'What keeps the room from feeling TOO cold is the layering. We mixed multiple patterns, warm creams, natural textures, and antique brass accents throughout the space,' says Chrissy. 'I always say I want a room to feel cool, but not cold, and that's really what we achieved here. The palette feels fresh and serene, but there's enough warmth and depth that it still feels comfortable and lived in.'

'This is the youngest daughter’s room, so we wanted it to feel youthful, bright, and happy, but still like something she could grow into over time,' explains interior designer Katie Davis.

'Blue, green, and white is one of those combinations that always feel fresh and really cooling to me. We used Dulux's Lily White as the foundation because it’s soft and airy but still brings personality. The blue gives the room a sense of calm, while the green keeps it feeling cheerful and youthful. Together, the palette feels timeless enough to grow with her but playful enough to feel special now.'

'Cooler tones naturally create a calmer feeling, which makes them a great fit for bedrooms,' explains Katie. 'Lily White has this softness to it that feels light and fresh without feeling too cold. Combined with the greens, florals, and natural textures, the room feels airy and relaxed while still warm and welcoming.'

Shop The Cool and Calming Bedroom Edit

Blue, green, and white are colors designers say to bring into your home to make it fresher for 2026. Evocative of cool crispness and all things soothing, it's the perfect palette for a bedroom in the warmer months and beyond.

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Neutrals might've once been the safest bet, but as color and character continue to dominate trends, the forgettable shades that once ruled the design world are really falling out of fashion in 2026.

As 2026 color trends embrace all things saturated, rich, and deeply comforting, lackluster paint ideas that were once so popular (but now fall flat in today's homes) are being booted out. While many of these shades will come as no surprise (case in point: cool gray), designers and color experts say it's not just the usual neutrals that are starting to feel a little dated this year.

So, what paint colors are in and which are out? We reveal the hues going out of style in 2026 and the shades replacing them.

1. Cool Gray

'Cool gray is starting to feel dated,' states interior designer Lauren Saab. 'For years, it was the go-to choice for everything from walls to kitchen cabinets, but many of those icy gray tones now feel flat and impersonal. A lot of homeowners chose gray because it felt like the safe option. The downside is that safe often ends up looking sterile.'

While decorating with gray had its moment in the mid-2000s, today it lacks the warmth that adds character and life to our homes. Richer, deeper neutrals are replacing gray in 2026, instead, explains Lauren. 'Warmer neutrals are taking its place. Soft mushroom tones and muted taupe feel far more connected to the materials showing up in homes today, from warm woods to natural stone and unlacquered metals.'

'Cool gray often competes with those elements, while warmer neutrals allow them to shine,' adds Lauren. 'That's one reason they tend to feel relevant long after a trend cycle has passed.'

2. Sage Green

'I actually think one of the colors beginning to feel less relevant in 2026 is the very muted, grayed-off sage greens that dominated interiors over the last few years,' says Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick.

'For a while, those soft sage tones answered exactly what people needed,' continues Tash. 'Post-pandemic, there was this collective craving for calm, safety, and stillness within the home, and those cooler blue-gray greens delivered that beautifully. They felt soft, easy to live with and incredibly non-threatening.'

'But color trends are always emotional reflections of where we are culturally, and what I saw coming through strongly at Milan Design Week this year was a real shift away from restrained, desaturated color palettes and towards colors with far more vitality, warmth and personality.'

Deeper colors are replacing sage green. 'The greens dominating Milan weren’t those washed-out, barely-there sages. Instead, we saw rich olive greens, acidic chartreuse accents, muddy botanical greens, and yellow-based greens with much more energy running through them,' says Tash. 'And I think that speaks to a much wider movement happening within interiors right now. People are craving homes that feel more emotionally expressive and soulful again. We’re moving away from playing it safe with color and towards colors that feel deeply personal, comforting and full of character.'

3. Sterile White

While the best white paints will always be popular, all-white schemes feel far less relevant in 2026.

From white kitchens that feel a little clinical to overly pared-back, minimalist bedrooms that lack warmth, entirely white rooms no longer speak to us like they once did. 'I think there is a collective fatigue with white walls,' says interior designer Betsy Wentz. 'In real spaces, white often feels cold, sterile, and lacking soul for everyday living.'

While white is fine in small doses (think ceiling trim or window frames), this year, richer hues are replacing walls drenched in white. 'I’m noticing a shift toward spaces with more personality, which means embracing color that has some warmth, depth, and complexity,' adds Betsy. 'That can be anything from subtle color-washed neutrals, like a soft lavender, to saturated, moody hues like a smoky jade.'

4. Sad Beige

The sad beige era is over. While warm neutrals are sometimes required, designers are no longer relying on flat, forgettable beiges to ground their schemes.

Beige rooms are a thing of the past says interior designer Jennifer Baxter of Baxter Hill Interiors. 'More than a specific paint color, I'd say the commitment-free neutral palette is what feels increasingly dated: the cool grays, safe whites, and beiges that don't really take a position. Many homeowners have stopped finding neutrality reassuring, and it's now reading more as a lack of thought or intention. The major design shows this year like High Point and WOW!house all pointed in the same direction.'

So what's replacing beige in 2026? 'If I had to choose one direction replacing the neutral-by-default era, it would be earthy mineral colors,' says Jen. 'Soft terracottas, clay pinks, muted olive greens, and chalky blue-greens that feel connected to nature and change beautifully with the light.'

Lackluster neutrals and gray-toned sage greens are out this year. 'In my own work, clients are gravitating toward more personality through color,' explains Jen. 'They want something that feels like it belongs to their house specifically, and I love that. The common thread is that people are becoming more interested in homes that feel specific to them and to their architecture. The conversation has moved away from choosing colors that won't offend anyone and toward creating rooms with a genuine sense of identity.'

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If Brat Green’s distinctly club-kid brand of radioactive chartreuse was more than your cortisol (or kitchen) could handle, you may be relieved to learn it has a more approachable sibling trending for summer 2026.

More yellow-green than green-yellow, the citron color trend is still bright, still unexpected, but arrives without the sense that it’s about to ask where the after-party is. During the syrupy heat of late summer, the shade feels especially refreshing. Design consultant (and self-proclaimed citron supporter) Lucina Griffith compares it to ‘lime and ice in a cold drink under dappled shade,’ evoking ‘new leaves of a beech tree in spring, or young ferns uncurling themselves in the woods’ and promising ‘sunshine and shade at the same time.’

Portuguese ceramic house Bordallo Pinheiro has been working with citron since the 19th century, but its more recent Maria Flor collection proves the shade still has plenty of life left in it, animating hyperrealistic stems and petals with cheerful intensity. Newer names like GreenRow, meanwhile, have scattered citron across bedding, tableware, and planters, giving the color a renaissance far beyond the fruit bowl.

If your space is feeling a little stale this summer, don’t reach for another neutral. Shop 16 citron-colored finds injecting a fresh personality this season.

The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.

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There's been an ongoing shift in the interior design world towards richer and more colorful palettes, and while traditional neutrals still have their place, they're certainly evolving.

The risk of decorating with the likes of white, gray, and beige is that they can fall flat and appear drab, especially in naturally darker rooms. But, the solution of bold and more saturated colors isn't for everyone; chromatic neutrals are the latest color trend that bridges the gap between neutrals and color for a soft and understated scheme that doesn't fall flat.

'Chromatic neutrals offer the versatility of classic neutrals, but with far more depth and personality,' explains Helen Shaw. 'Unlike stark grays or flat beiges, these layered tones bring subtle color into a space without overwhelming it.' Here, experts explain all you need to know about chromatic neutrals and how to bring them into your home stylishly.

What Are Chromatic Neutrals?

Think of chromatic neutrals as a happy medium between traditional neutrals and colorful hues. Unlike the likes of white or gray, chromatic neutrals have distinct undertones. From dusky shades of pink to muted sage green, these hues offer a washed, low-saturation dose of color.

'Neutrals are no longer limited to flat, background tones but instead encompass a broader range of quietly confident colors with subtle undertones that feel richer and more intentional while still remaining versatile,' explains Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore.

A defining element of chromatic neutrals is their lower saturation compared to true colors. 'At Benjamin Moore, chroma is often described as colorfulness or saturation, as it describes the intensity of a color,' Helen explains. 'Chromatic neutrals occupy the more restrained end of the spectrum. Their softened saturation is what gives them their versatility and timeless appeal.'

But why are we seeing an appeal for these nuanced neutrals in 2026? According to Helen, it reflects a wider industry shift. 'After years dominated by bold, highly saturated colors, there’s a move towards more nuanced palettes that feel enduring rather than trend-driven,' she observes. 'Designers and homeowners are increasingly looking for colors with longevity – shades that can evolve with a space over time and work effortlessly across different styles, materials, and lighting conditions.'

Within the category of chromatic neutrals, there are lots of colors to consider decorating with, from soft pinks to muted greens. 'Neutrals with pink and red undertones like First Crush are becoming increasingly popular, bringing warmth and depth to bedrooms and living spaces,' says Helen. 'Plaster pinks and soft dusky rose shades like Batik add an earthy, grounded feel while providing a perfect foundation for layered decor and evolving personal style.'

Why Chromatic Neutrals Work to Elevate Rooms

Chromatic neutrals can be a bit more forgiving than bolder colors, adding a subtle wash of color to walls that's soft, relaxed, and easy to live with. They also tend to feel timeless: since they don't easily fit into a one-color category, they quietly nod to color trends without going overboard. When you compare them to traditional neutrals, which can date a room if they're too stark or drab, chromatic tones offer a softer, more welcoming look that feels a lot more current.

'Chromatic neutrals are resonating because clients want more depth in their homes,' says designer Paige Posladek of Ensley Interiors. 'They are leaning away from basic cool tones toward elevated neutrals that add something interesting and unique to simple spaces.'

Hayley Chavez of HLC Studio agrees that this color trend helps to add life to neutral rooms. 'Chromatic neutrals have temperature and personality,' she says. 'They shift with the light throughout the day and make a room feel alive without demanding attention. I think what people are really craving right now is warmth and spaces that feel inhabited and considered.'

Just like traditional neutrals, these shades also allow a calm backdrop to build upon. 'It behaves like a neutral backdrop, but it has an undertone – lilac, green, blue – that brings depth and character without sacrificing longevity,' says Florence Livingston of Florence Livingston Interiors. 'They respond beautifully to natural light, art, textiles, and architectural details.'

With interior design trends generally favoring a shift towards more colorful homes, it makes sense to see this new take on neutrals. 'I think people are tired of rooms that feel like they're playing it safe,' says Courtnay Tartt Elias of Creative Tonic Design. 'Greige and white have had a long run, and they're beautiful, but they can also feel a bit empty, almost like the room hasn't committed to anything.'

'A chromatic neutral like Misty Blue offers the same versatility and livability as a traditional neutral, but with a point of view,' she adds. 'It reflects light differently depending on the time of day, it shifts with the seasons, and it gives you something to design with rather than just designing around.'

How to Use Chromatic Neutrals in Your Home

This color trend is proving to be one that's incredibly versatile, whether you use it in bedrooms, bathrooms, or living rooms. Whichever room you plan to decorate with one of these low-saturation colors, consider color-drenching for a modern, cohesive look.

1. Use Gray-Blue to Create a Light and Airy Bathroom

Baby blue paint shades can look a bit too themed, especially for bathroom color ideas. Instead, go for a gray-toned blue that helps to add timelessness and subtle color. 'We chose Sherwin-Williams' Gray Clouds as it pairs beautifully with the Carrara marble slab countertop, as well as the Carrara marble basketweave flooring,' says designer Amy Wellnitz of this bathroom.

'Chromatic neutrals play really nicely with changing light throughout the day, making the space feel dynamic rather than static,' she adds. 'Before we renovated this bathroom, it was depressingly dark with minimal natural light.'

When using a blue-gray paint shade, make sure to add natural materials to your scheme to stop it from feeling sterile. 'Marble is one of our favorite materials, and we try to incorporate it into every project,' says Amy. 'With Carrara marble, you can easily warm it up with beiges and brass tones or lean into the cool undertone with chrome fixtures, soft blues and grays – which we did in this bathroom.'

2. Go for Lilac-Tinted Neutrals in Living Rooms

If you're looking for living room color ideas, a soft lilac paint can help to add warmth without coming across as overly colorful or bold. 'This home was built in 1905,' explains designer Florence Livingston. 'We wanted to embrace the history of the home and create a layered, moody, and quietly sophisticated interior.'

This room was painted with Benjamin Moore's Edgecomb Gray, which 'creates a soft and nuanced envelope, reading as a neutral, but with enough chroma to create depth and atmosphere, especially as the light shifts throughout the day,' explains Florence.

To keep lilac-toned neutral paint shades feeling fresh, pair them with white paints and warm wood tones. 'It gives the off-white wainscoting and beams more presence, creating contrast without heaviness,' she adds. 'The lilac undertone gently balances the warmth of the wood tones, vintage pieces, and woven textures, while still feeling calm and livable.'

3. Choose Putty Shades to Add Depth to Bedrooms

The likes of beige and gray tones can be predictable choices in bedrooms, but choosing a slightly richer shade with warm undertones can help add depth and make the space feel more cozy.

In this bedroom, Benjamin Moore's Natural Cream was used on the walls, which reads as a grounding putty shade. 'I chose it because this room needed to feel like it had always been there – soft, warm, and at ease with the home's history,' explains Hayley Chavez. 'It lets the four-poster bed, the textured linens, and the layered rug do the talking without competing.'

'In a historical home, especially, the wall color should feel like it came with the house, not like a decision someone made last year,' she adds. 'Natural Cream does that quietly and beautifully.'

4. Set a Calming Backdrop With Blue-Green Neutrals

Although technically a gray paint, Sherwin-Williams' Magnetic Gray has both blue and green undertones, which give it a tranquil feel. 'I love Magnetic Gray because it’s so versatile,' says designer Katie Davis, who used it in this mudroom.

'Even though it reads blue, it still functions like a neutral, which is what makes it so useful,' she explains. 'It has this beautiful blue-green-gray quality that shifts throughout the day depending on the light, so it adds personality and depth without overpowering a space.'

As well as in small rooms, this gray paint also works well in larger, more open spaces. 'I’ve used it in kitchens, bathrooms, and everywhere in between because it works in so many different settings,' notes Katie. 'It gives you a little more interest than a traditional neutral, while still feeling timeless and easy to live with.'

Chromatic neutrals work so well because they don't just add gentle color to a room; they create a soft, soothing atmosphere. When you use these shades in place of neutrals, your space will feel richer, warmer, and more interesting, while they're often a more timeless choice than bold and highly saturated colors.

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Citron green: while some might love it, and others daren't brave it, we can all agree this zesty hue packs a punch. It may be bright, but it's got quietly grounding powers, too, making it the perfect vibrant color to embrace this summer and beyond.

A color that falls somewhere between lime green and lemon yellow, 'citron' is the zingy summer color trend for 2026 that blends playfulness with sophistication. Bright yet surprisingly liveable (designer Lucinda Griffiths is quick to say she has never grown tired of her citron green bedroom walls pictured above), here's why it's a hue worth considering.

'Citron green has a generous dose of yellow in it, which gives it a wonderfully optimistic, uplifting quality,' explains Lonika Chande. 'It’s a surprisingly versatile color that can feel playful and energetic in one setting, and sophisticated and elegant in another. It works well with rusty reds, chocolate browns, and other warm, earthy colors, which help to ground its vibrancy.'

Citron green 'is like the new leaves of a beech tree in spring, or young ferns uncurling themselves in the woods,' says design consultant Lucinda Griffith. 'It has the promise of sunshine and shade at the same time, the yellow base giving a warmth, but the acidity of the green making you think of lime and ice in a cold drink under dappled shade.'

While decorating with greens like citron can feel daring, Lucinda swears by the vibrant hue as a timeless choice. 'I am not a lover of a trend as it suggests that it will come, and then go, but I think that it is a color that is being discovered and loved for its versatility. In winter, it has a sun-filled glow that reminds us of summer, and in the summer, it is like living in the boughs of an apple tree. If you embrace the color, you are not going to want to let it go when the next trend comes along,' explains Lucinda. 'My room has been this color for seven years now, and I can’t imagine wanting it to be any other shade.'

Remember to consider the colors that go with green when bringing citron into your space. 'If you have a house that is all white, this is going to feel like a leap, and it will feel almost highlighterish in its sharpness,' explains Lucinda. 'But put it near off-whites, gentle pale sand colors or soft pink, for instance, and then give it some company with deep blues or darker shades of green and you will have created a space that, like a garden, you are constantly wanting to be in.'

'Citron green feels fresh, uplifting, and slightly unexpected,' says interior designer Charlotte Simpson, founder of Lotte Studio. 'Sitting between yellow and green, it brings warmth while still feeling natural and grounded.'

Not far off chartreuse, which is also a growing color trend for 2026, part of citron green's charm is its sharp, eye-catching quality that brings immediate contrast into a room. 'Confidence is essential when working with a color like citron green,' explains Charlotte. 'In this project (pictured above), it was balanced with natural materials and softer tonal elements, alongside joinery in a deeper green, which added contrast and depth while grounding the overall scheme.'

'Citron green does feel particularly relevant right now, alongside a wider shift towards colors that feel energising and optimistic,' says Charlotte. 'It sits comfortably within that, bringing a real sense of freshness.'

'Citron green shades such as ‘Pale Lime’ and ‘Citrine’ from the Little Greene palette bring an instant sense of freshness and vitality to an interior,' explains Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene. 'Sitting between yellow and green, these uplifting hues feel both energising and optimistic, making them perfect for sociable spaces such as kitchens, or as vibrant accents on furniture, woodwork, and architectural details, like the living room pictured above.'

'Greens are one of the easiest color families to layer together; in nature, we instinctively see everything from bright lime through to deep forest tones sitting harmoniously side by side,' says Helen. 'This makes citron green shades ideal for a ‘Double Drenching’ approach, where an entire room is enveloped in color. Rather than using a single shade throughout, combining two or more related tones across walls, ceilings, woodwork and furniture creates a richly layered scheme with real impact.'

While sage green is a quiet color that creates calm, mixing green tones can create an equally grounding feel. 'Pairing colors from different ends of the green spectrum, such as the leafy brightness of ‘Hopper’ with ‘Citrine’ and the depth of ‘Dark Brunswick Green’, brings both cohesion and subtle contrast,' says Helen, 'resulting in an interior that feels immersive, balanced and full of character.'

While a citron green might feel too bold for your walls, painting furniture is a great place to start for those braving the zingy hue for the first time. 'I would start with a single piece of furniture or a joinery element,' suggests Lonika. 'The inside of a bookcase is a great place to introduce color.'

To balance its acidity, pair it alongside earthy, organic materials. Lonika says, 'Citron green works particularly beautifully with natural materials, for example, rush and rattan. We recently re-finished a vintage set of Vico Magistretti rush chairs in a vivid citron, and the result was both striking and surprisingly timeless.'

'What I love about citron green is that it feels timeless, rather than a color trend. When paired with natural materials and antiques, it feels enduring and characterful, which is something I always consider when designing.'

Citron Green Shopping

While citron green is undeniably a 2026 color trend, it's ability to elevate and cheer a room makes it a shade that's set to last beyond this year.

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Believe it or not, the secret to making a room look more expensive isn't always about investing in costly furniture; it can be as simple as choosing the right paint colors.

According to interior designers, there are certain shades that tend to give off a more expensive-looking, elevated feel than others. Generally speaking, these colors seem to fall into two camps: soft, considered neutrals that create a calm backdrop, or rich, warming tones that feel cocooning and refined.

Here, you can browse the exact colors designers recommend as a cheat code for making a home look more expensive. While paint ideas are perhaps the most impactful, you can also incorporate these hues through decor for a more subtle approach.

1. Rich and Earthy Neutrals

Decorating with neutrals is timeless, and the right tone can quietly elevate a room with sophistication and calm. Warm beige tones in particular are said by designers to feel expensive, but consider going for a slightly deeper shade than you might usually, such as Sherwin-Williams' Renwick Beige, which was used in this bedroom.

'We chose this deep, enveloping tone for its high level of complexity, with layered undertones that subtly shift as the light changes throughout the day,' explains designer Mallory Robins of Kobel + Co. 'Rather than reading flat, it creates depth and dimension, allowing light to pool softly across the space in a way that feels intimate, elevated, and reminiscent of a boutique hotel.'

2. Deep Olive Green

Much darker colors can create an equally expensive-looking scheme, especially the darkest of olive greens. 'To me, dark greens, browns, and blues are wonderful colors for elevating any interior,' says designer Gabrielle Bove of Opaline Interiors Studio. 'These rich jewel tones and earthy hues feel dramatic yet sophisticated and bring a luxurious feel to any space.'

Paint shades such as Sherwin-Williams Ripe Olive work especially well to create an elevated look in small rooms, says Gabrielle: 'This deep olive color is rich in black and blue undertones, so it feels sophisticated and rich as the backdrop for a small room, especially layered with warm wovens to create a very chic space.'

3. Delicate Off-Whites

If you're looking to create an expensive-looking scheme that's also light, airy, and tranquil, consider decorating with white. 'Warmer whites tend to feel more elevated than stark or cooler-toned whites because of the way they reflect light,' explains designer Aileen Warren of Jackson Warren Interiors. 'They make a space feel softer, more inviting, and generally easier to live in.'

When using white paints, choosing a variety of paint finishes can help to add movement, according to Aileen. 'Typically, the walls are matte, the trim is satin, and the ceiling is flat,' she says. 'Even though the color stays consistent, the different sheens catch and reflect light differently, which gives the room a more layered, nuanced feel.'

The designer Sabah Mansoor also enjoys using white to make a room look expensive. 'Off-white tones have a way of making a space feel instantly elevated because they bring warmth, softness, and depth without overpowering the room,' she says. 'Softer whites create a quieter backdrop that allows architecture, materials, and furnishings to really shine.'

'When decorating with off-whites, layering is key,' adds Sabah. 'Incorporating natural textures like linen, oak, stone, plaster, and woven materials adds richness and keeps the palette from feeling flat. We also love mixing tonal whites and creams throughout a space to create dimension and a more collected, refined feel.'

4. Soft Mauve

If you're looking for something slightly more colorful that still reads as muted and easy to live with, consider a soft shade of mauve. 'The color I chose for this room, with soft mauve and gray undertones, feels low-key and sophisticated,' says the designer Christy Allen of Christy Allen Designs.

Benjamin Moore's Desert Light was used on the walls, which is so delicate that it can come across as a neutral paint. 'The color doesn't hit you over the head, but you notice it immediately for the way it makes you feel: easy and relaxed,' says Christy. 'It's a refined and subtle color that almost feels like a neutral but is so much more interesting. The sophisticated color palette and the considered furniture choices help make this feel elevated and high-end.'

5. Rich Burgundy

For a moodier take on elevated schemes, burgundy can work well, especially in rooms you also want to feel cozy and cocooning. 'Jewel-toned purples have a long history of feeling expensive,' says designer Rebecca Letwin of Full Bloom Interior Design.

In this living room, Benjamin Moore's Dark Walnut was used on the joinery, a rich purple-ish red paint that feels immersive and dramatic. 'I chose Dark Walnut to instantly elevate the built-ins and anchor the space,' says Rebecca. 'This deep, rich plum color magically makes the room feel sophisticated, luxurious, and a little whimsical all at the same time.'

When using a shade as rich as this one, contrast in interior design is key, according to Rebecca. 'You want to use decor that stands out against the dark background and really catches your eye,' she explains. 'A deep color like this is especially great for displaying lighter objects that would otherwise get lost on a basic white bookcase. For these built-ins, I used warm brass accents and fresh pops of white to contrast against the rich plum.'

Making a room look more expensive isn't just about choosing the right colors, but also about how you use them. For an elevated look, contrast, texture, and layering are key to keeping the whole room feeling interesting and considered. Whether you're drawn to soft neutrals that feel timeless and quietly confident or much richer tones, your colors should feel in sync with the overall mood you're trying to create.

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The week that WOW!house opens its doors is always an exciting one at Homes & Gardens. Twenty-one rooms make up this year's showhouse, created by leading interior designers and iconic brands, and while each felt distinctly unique in design and message, a few hero colors really stood out.

We gathered an idea of what's hot in almost every aspect of interior design (striking Art Deco lighting and luxe curved seating were common themes throughout the WOW!house 2026 trends), but five exciting color trends were really clear this year. Out of all the twenty-one rooms, these five color trends excited us the most, providing a glimpse of the power of color in its many forms, from bold to subdued.

1. Deep Burgundy

The Parlour by Martin Kemp Design was woven with moody colors, namely deep plums and burgundies. 'The palette came from an unexpected moment. I walked past a small boutique that was completely color-drenched and was struck by the confidence of it. It wasn't something we'd explored before, but I was intrigued by the idea of immersing a room in a single, rich tone. Around the same time, one of the team was wearing Rouge Noir nail polish, and I immediately thought, that's the color. It's such a classic and iconic shade. It felt entirely in keeping with both the room's intimate atmosphere and our inspiration, Grace Jones, whose style is fearless, glamorous, and timeless.'

'While we're certainly seeing a renewed appreciation for richer, more enveloping colors,' explains Martin. 'I think these shades have always had a place in interiors. Deep burgundies, chocolate tones and inky hues are classics for a reason; they bring depth and a sense of permanence. Trends may ebb and flow, but these colors remain enduringly relevant.'

'Moody colors work particularly well in smaller, more intimate spaces where conversation and atmosphere are the priority,' continues Martin. 'That's exactly why they suited the Parlour Room so well. Rather than trying to brighten everything, embrace the cocooning quality of darker tones and lean into the sense of comfort and intimacy they create. In the right setting, they can feel incredibly welcoming and sophisticated.'

2. Matcha Green

Sage green is the quiet color designers are using to create calm. From the matcha green range oven to the muted marble countertops, soothing pale green brought the serene Martin Moore Kitchen designed by Samantha Bartlett to life.

'We wanted the cooking space to feel calm, grounded, and connected to nature rather than overly clinical or trend-driven,' explains Samantha. 'The overall palette was inspired by natural materials and muted, earthy tones – colors that reference Mother Nature. The green acts as a soft anchor within the room, bringing warmth and depth while still feeling light and fresh.'

'The aim was to create a room that feels timeless, welcoming, and lived-in, somewhere that feels like home,' adds Samantha. 'Our work is deeply inspired by Mother Nature, so these softer greens are part of a much broader design language rather than a seasonal color decision. Greens have been used in interiors for centuries because they're inherently calming and versatile, sitting beautifully alongside natural materials such as timber, stone, linen, and clay.'

'Perhaps what's changing is not the color itself but the wider cultural desire to bring nature indoors. As people increasingly seek spaces that support wellbeing and connection, palettes rooted in the landscape naturally resonate. That's why we believe sage and matcha greens have a timeless quality: they reference something enduring rather than something fashionable.'

3. Warm Neutrals

The Turnell & Gigon Group Drawing Room by Albion Nord gave new meaning to decorating with neutrals. Threaded with deep browns, warm beiges, and an unexpected yet soothing duck egg blue, the sitting room balanced comfort, tranquillity, and richness.

'We always try to play with texture and materiality when using neutral tones in a room,' explains Hero Dalrymple, Creative Director at Albion Nord. 'We often use a specialist paint on walls, as this immediately adds a subtle depth and warmth to a neutral color. When considering neutral fabrics, mixing textures such as linens, mohairs and velvets helps make the material palette more visually exciting and layered, especially when offset by richer timbers and antique brass.'

While blue can sometimes feel cold, the domed roof provides ample daylight in the space, bringing an openness that pairs beautifully with the palette. The hand-painted alcoves are painted in a bespoke Benjamin Moore blue, matched with coordinated fabric walls and ceiling that soften the room. Each brings an added layer of thoughtfulness to the overall design.

The warm browns and beiges are a clever move against the blue backdrop, providing an all-important punchy dose of richness that counteracts the cooler walls and coffered ceiling. Albion Nord 'Fenton' sofas provide a sense of comfort and neutrality, and the chocolate brown slipcovered armchairs tick the richness box.

4. Playful Primaries

The Benjamin Moore Minhwa Salon by Young Huh made a compelling case for the return of primary colors. While the room featured a neutral backdrop of Chantilly Lace, each wall was covered in lacquered inset boxes, painted in a vibrant hue or embellished with a hand-painted mural inspired by Korean folk art.

The colorful boxes (reminiscent of lacquer trays) acted as murals in their own right, each slotting into a portion of the room's walls. From bold Galápagos Turquoise to the lime-meets-lemon Citron, Young didn't hold back on the acidic hues. A fiery orange called Picante sang against deeper plums and jade greens, like Jade Garden.

5. Seafoam Blues

'My concept is a quiet, uplifting analogue sanctuary; a room that resists the velocity of modern life – a fantasy really,' says interior designer Sara Cosgrove on the Phillip Jeffries Morning Room. 'The space references couture thinking – proportion, drape, tension and finish. It is also informed by nostalgia for slower rituals, such as reading print magazines and long conversations.'

It was the seafoam color palette that made Sara's serene morning room truly come to life. A sense of calm was palpable instantly, made possible with such a delicate, grounded palette of muted greeny-blues and creams. From the abstract walls reminiscent of waves (created by the room's sponsor, Phillip Jeffries) to the architectural ceiling painted in a green-tinged blue, the muted seafoam palette only added to the calmness of the design.

Organic textures and neutral tones (colors that go best with pale blue) bring a grounded touch, transforming the morning room into a space that combines two inherent qualities – function and emotion.

From nature-inspired greens to luxurious burgundies, this year's WOW!house was filled with exciting color trends that have inspired us until the next one comes around.

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Gray might be experiencing a slight hiatus in interior design in recent years, but this certainly doesn't apply to Benjamin Moore's iconic Boothbay Gray HC-165. Woven with powdery blue notes, the silvery gray paint color has proved popular ever since its debut in 1976.

Relied on by interior designers for its sophisticated feel that quietly enhances any setting it's applied to, there's a reason Boothbay Gray is one of the best gray paints on the market. Able to master the balance between light and dark, the sophisticated gray-meets-blue is layered with an array of tones that make it far more than your average one-dimensional gray.

'The most appealing grays go beyond simple blends of black and white,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'They’re layered with nuanced pigments that create richness and visual interest. Boothbay Gray is a timeless blue-gray known for its quiet versatility and refined character.'

How To Decorate With Boothbay Gray

Boothbay Gray is the ideal gray to be using in 2026 because it's a slightly more neutral take on a powdery blue – a huge color trend right now, but because it leans slightly more gray than blue, it has a more timeless appeal. 'This timeless blue-gray is effortlessly adaptable,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'Neither too blue nor too gray, Boothbay Gray HC-165 finds an easygoing balance between refined and welcoming. It is a great option for a cool gray that doesn’t feel austere or dull, and works beautifully as a color palette staple in interiors or exteriors.'

1. Apply It To Bedroom Walls

There are times when you should never paint a room gray, but in the case of a light-filled bedroom, these rules don't apply. 'Boothbay Gray is a sophisticated blue-gray,' says interior designer Chelsea Kasch, founder of Chelsea K Designs. 'I consider it an elegant and timeless color vs the usual grays that have been trendy.'

While the off-gray paint blends into hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms, its quiet depth complements bedrooms beautifully. 'Bedrooms are my favorite areas to use Boothbay Gray. I love using it on a door in an entryway, too.' In the sleep space pictured above, Chelsea chose it as the main wall color. 'I have paired it with Gray Mist by Benjamin Moore as well as Steam by Benjamin Moore for a more neutral blend. Also, accenting it with dark slate or charcoal can also be unforgettable.'

2. Color Drench a Den

If you're planning on using gray in 2026, Boothbay Gray is a timeless alternative to the cool-toned neutrals that can read a little drab. 'It's a statement blue without being too saturated,' explains interior designer Kelly Sutherland. 'Blues can be challenging if you don't select one that is a bit grayed down. Too pale goes nursery, and if it's too saturated, it loses its sophistication. I used this color in my den (pictured above) at 75% in a high gloss, and it was the perfect, happy color!'

'I've used this color in a primary bedroom and a casual den. I think it is a versatile color. It would also look fabulous in a laundry room. I do prefer this color in a room with at least a few windows for the natural light to highlight its beauty.'

'The easiest part of using this color is that it is complementary to so many other colors,' adds Kelly. 'I used it in my den with Rose Tarlow's Carmen fabric, and the gold popped against the blue backdrop. It also pairs well with greens, yellows, pinks, or any warmer toned colorway.'

3. Make It Your Exterior Color

Muted and gentle, Boothbay Gray is an enduringly classic exterior paint that brings a heritage feel to facades, from colonial-style homes to shingle-style properties.

'I love to use this color on exteriors with crisp white trim in Decorator’s White OC-149, explains Arianna. 'The soft notes of blue bring just the right amount of color while still creating a classic look.'

An exterior paint color to make a house look more expensive, Boothbay Gray uplifts without feeling juvenile or overly bright. It's not just a clever exterior paint choice; it transitions seamlessly inside the home, too. 'For interiors, this color really shines in well-lit rooms bathed in natural sunlight,' explains Arianna. 'I love it on kitchen cabinets with softly shaded walls in Classic Gray OC-23 or Silver Satin OC-26 for just the right amount of contrast.'

4. Use It On Kitchen Cabinetry

'To me, Benjamin Moore’s Boothbay Gray is a soft, coastal gray-blue that feels timeless and calming without reading overly trendy,' says interior designer Jessica Koltun. 'It has enough warmth to feel inviting while still bringing in that subtle, moody sophistication that works beautifully in luxury homes.'

In the kitchen pictured above, the pale gray-blue brings just the right amount of charm without compromising the bright and airy feel of the space. 'I think the color looks best in spaces with good natural light, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, living spaces, and even cabinetry. It creates a very serene atmosphere and can shift beautifully throughout the day depending on the lighting.'

'Boothbay Gray pairs especially well with warm whites, creamy off-whites, natural wood tones, unlacquered brass, limestone, and soft earthy neutrals,' explains Jessica. 'We also love layering it with textured materials to keep the space feeling warm and elevated rather than too cool.'

Boothbay Gray-Inspired Shopping

A refreshing variation on lackluster grays that ruled the 2000s, Boothbay Gray feels neutral yet noticeable. It's uplifting and cheery, yet still restrained and understated, making it perfect for almost every space. When decorating with the powdery hue, always consider the colors to never pair with gray for a well-balanced scheme.

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Gray has had some bad press in recent years. Once the most loved neutral of them all, it's fallen out of favor in color trends, replaced by softer neutrals like creams and beige. However, gray still has its place, and with this cool tone, the shades you pair it with can really make or break how it shows up.

'Gray does still have universal appeal, serving as a timeless and elegant backdrop upon which to build character, and has been at the root of historical decoration for centuries,' explains Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene. 'Gray paint colors embrace tonal variations – from the palest, almost white tones through to stone, charcoal, brown and blue-black hues.'

It's such a varied, chameleon shade, so there are no hard rules when it comes to decorating with gray. That being said, there are some shades that designers warn rarely work with gray, creating schemes that feel flat and unwelcoming.

1. Black

Either decorate with gray or decorate with black, but you shouldn't do both, advises Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'I would avoid pairing gray with overly cool tones like deep charcoal grays or stark black, since the combination can make a space feel cold and sterile instead of warm and inviting.'

One of the biggest mistakes to avoid when decorating with gray is pairing it with other cold colors. Black and gray can both lack warmth, so when next to each other, they can read overly flat and cold. Instead, opt for warmer, more playful shades to balance out the hue's coolness.

'Instead, I recommend pairing gray with warmer and softer tones like creamy whites, earthy browns, muted blush pinks, and nature-inspired blues or greens,' advises Emily. 'Shades like Shoji White SW 7042, Drift of Mist SW 9166, Sea Salt SW 6204 and Upward SW 6239 help gray feel more relaxed, modern, and welcoming. Warm wood accents also pair beautifully with gray to create a grounded, lived-in look that feels current and timeless.'

2. Yellow

'Sharp golden yellows can also clash with softer gray tones and create a look that feels harsh or disconnected,' says Emily. 'Homeowners are moving away from these cooler combinations in favor of palettes that feel more organic, layered, and comfortable.'

We understand the appeal of pairing yellow with gray. A cheery shade that, in theory, should balance out gray's coolness, it sounds like a match made in heaven. However, decorating with yellow can overwhelm a home and only make gray feel even more out of place. Instead, opt for less vibrant bright colors, like deep warm oranges or grounding terracotta.

'When opting for cooler grays, pair with touches of bright color,' advises Ruth, naming 'Orange Aurora' as an example of a stylish choice. If brights aren't your thing, try a sage green or blue. 'Alternatively, consider complementary colors, 'Vulcan' offers the sophistication and boldness of a charcoal grey, but has the perfect mid-tone balance, ensuring it never makes a space feel cold or austere. Pair with a rich but restful blue green, such as ‘Livid', for a gentle contrast.'

3. Red

'Although gray pairs well with almost every other hue, the trick to choosing color combinations that will complement this go-to neutral is to opt for colors with similar undertones, explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'For instance, a gray with blue undertones may clash with warmer colors such as red or yellow.'

Instead of decorating with red and gray, pair the cool neutral with a deeper yet equally striking jewel tone, like a deep navy or emerald green. 'Instead, pair gray with a cooler tone such as Hale Navy HC-154. Following this technique is a foolproof way to create unusual and eye-catching color pairings without forming an accidental color clash.'

'For a bolder look, pair with jewel-inspired tones such as deep forest green or a rich navy,' adds Helen. 'This combination creates a glamorous and sophisticated classic scheme that is great for a kitchen or ‘thought-heavy’ area such as a home office or library.'

The key to a color combination that works is to test it in situ – check what it looks like in your home, with your lighting throughout the day. But as a rule of thumb, designers and color experts are in agreement that gray shouldn't be paired with high contrast colors. The best approach is to layer it with other neutrals to create a tonal look, and decorate with lots of texture too to soften the cooler tones.

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White is no longer the go-to color in small kitchens. Instead, designers are increasingly gravitating towards warmer, more characterful shades that showcase a bit more style and personality.

And this year's small kitchen trends are truly showcasing that shift. From softer spaces and unexpected hues emerging, 2026's small kitchen color trends are proving a feast for the eyes.

Choosing the right color for your small kitchen is a big decision, and while we never recommend simply following trends, they can be a great source of inspiration, especially if you want to create a space that feels unique and considered. These are the six that designers are most excited about this year.

1. Deep Blue Hues

We're seeing a huge return to shades of blue in 2026, particularly in small spaces in need of color. And while so many tones feel increasingly stylish this year, it's the deeper hues that are making their way into small kitchens.

'Blues are currently dominating small kitchen trends. Saturated hues bring depth to a compact space. We love to create high contrast between cabinetry and wall color,' says Michelle Vassallo of MV Architects in Washington, DC.

'We've previously paired Farrow & Ball De Nimes cabinetry with Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace painted walls. This high contrast makes the room feel intentionally bespoke rather than cramped.

2. Muted Greens

Green is one of those colors that almost acts as a neutral, and its muted hues feel particularly elevated in 2026. It's not just about the color itself, but the colors and materials you pair it with in a small scheme, too.

'For small kitchens, we’re seeing muted greens paired with warm whites and natural wood tones continue to gain popularity because they create a fresh, organic look while still helping the space feel calm and open,' says Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams.

'Shades like Sea Salt SW 6204 and Evergreen Fog SW 9130 work especially well in smaller kitchens because they bring in a nature-inspired softness without overwhelming the room. Homeowners are also gravitating toward earthy green-and-cream combinations because they feel warm, welcoming, and timeless.'

3. Wood Tones and Earthy Hues

Offering a reprieve from the cool neutrals of past years, small kitchens in 2026 are embracing natural wood and earth tones for a warmer take on a classic. It feels timeless, yet has more depth than drenching a space in white.

'In recent months, homeowners have been gravitating to warmer, softer materials that feel more connected to nature, rather than overly sleek or sterile ones,' says Natalie Rebuck, Principal Designer at Re: Design Architects, who highlights it as an alternative to whites and grays that have dominated in the past.

'This includes wood tones and earthy colors, such as sage greens, terracotta tones, warm taupes, and mushroom shades. I’m also seeing more options and interest in wooden cabinetry, such as white oak, and richer medium wood tones, to again, help give more warmth and depth to the space.'

4. Rich, Moody Color Palettes

The appetite for decorating with moody colors is going nowhere this year, and it's particularly gaining ground in small kitchens as a way to embrace smaller proportions rather than fight them.

'I think we’re going to see small kitchens become dramatically moodier and more layered in 2026. Rather than trying to make compact spaces disappear with all-white palettes, we are leaning into creating kitchens that feel intimate, collected, and full of personality,' explains interior designer Jennifer Davis.

'I expect rich, nature-inspired tones to dominate. Deep olive greens, earthy teals, clay browns, and aged aubergine tones paired with softer organic neutrals. We’re also seeing a strong movement toward tonal layering rather than high contrast. For example, a muted olive cabinet paired with a warm veined stone and unlacquered brass feels incredibly elevated and timeless in a smaller footprint.'

5. Chocolate Brown

The appeal of deeper tones is a clear trend this year in small kitchens, with rich, chocolatey browns proving to be an enduringly popular color choice. It's dark and immersive, yet still has warm undertones that allow the hue to feel inviting.

'We’ve seen browns gaining traction and people opting for them over grays and charcoals. Chocolatey hues – like Stone Brown 2112-30 and Bittersweet Chocolate 2114-10 – bring a softer approach to deep color,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, noting that your cabinets are the best place to start.

'These colors pair beautifully with creamy hues, dove grays, brass hardware, and warmly veined marbles for a sophisticated but still warm and welcoming look. If you are hesitant to go all in and paint the uppers and lowers in a deeper or more playful hue, consider just doing the lowers,' she suggests.

6. Mediterranean-Inspired Palettes

European style has become a source of inspiration, especially in kitchens of every size, as of late. But color really is the focus in this year's small kitchen trends, with warm, Mediterranean palettes proving more coveted than ever.

'We also see more organic, sun-soaked hues finding their place in the home. Terracotta, mustards, and olives all have an inherent ease and comfort to them that make them an ideal option for kitchens,' says Arianna.

'Colors like Patina 1195 and Spiced Apple Cider 1201 would pair beautifully with warm wood tones, clay colors, and subtle pops of navy. While colors like Da Vinci’s Canvas 208, Chopped Dill 496, and Ivy Lane 523 bring a lived-in, natural feeling to the space,' she suggests.

'The biggest shift overall is that people are becoming less afraid of color in small spaces. A smaller kitchen actually permits you to be bolder and more expressive because the scale naturally creates intimacy,' summarises Jennifer of this year's small kitchen color trends.

'When done thoughtfully, deeper or more saturated tones can make a compact kitchen feel incredibly custom, sophisticated, and memorable.'

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A timeless white paint that feels warm yet never yellow, Benjamin Moore's Cloud White OC-130 is a bestseller for a reason.

Loved by interior designers across the country, Cloud White is often named one of the best Benjamin Moore white paints for its enduring feel and ability to both brighten and warm a room at once. While shades like Swiss Coffee and Simply White will always be firm favorites, Cloud White is making its mark in interiors everywhere this year.

'Soft and beautifully balanced, this versatile white brings an effortless sense of lightness to any space,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'It delivers a clean yet gentle appearance, with a warm undertone that avoids any hint of yellow. Subtle and sophisticated, this soft white evokes the airy quality of vapor clouds drifting across a clear sky.'

When choosing the best white paint, Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, says Cloud White is perfect for spaces that require both brightness and warmth. 'Cloud White OC-130 is a versatile off-white paint color with a subtle hint of warmth. It has more yellow than the perennial favorite White Dove; so if you’ve sampled White Dove but are looking for something a bit creamier and warmer, Cloud White is a great option to consider. I love to use it in rooms with cooler lighting or spaces that are more dimly lit because its yellow undertone can help to lift and soften the space.'

'I love to use this hue for both interior and exterior paint projects,' adds Arianne. 'Cloud White is a great option for an exterior because it is a brighter, crisper white paint color without being too stark. Colors will cast brighter in the natural light, so choosing a white paint color with a bit of warmth is a great way to balance the light.'

Interior designer Marie Flanigan names Cloud White as one of her favorite white paints and uses it in many projects. 'Cloud White is a soft, luminous white that feels effortless and lived in. It carries a gentle warmth that reads beautifully as a global finish, which is a color I thread throughout the home in different applications.'

'When used in a bedroom, it creates a calm, cocooning backdrop that lets the architectural details and furnishings take center stage,' explains Marie. 'It pairs especially well with a mix of materials. In the bedroom (pictured above), an architectural wood headboard, soft muted drapery, and layered linens all sit comfortably within its tonal range. It is a white that supports both contrast and harmony, which makes it incredibly versatile.'

'Let Cloud White carry across walls and millwork for a seamless, quiet envelope,' she adds. 'It thrives in natural light, where it can shift subtly throughout the day. I also love how it allows texture to do the work, whether that is panelling in the bath or the interplay of textiles in the bedroom. It is a foundation color that feels intentional without ever calling too much attention to itself.'

Cloud White excels in already bright spaces. 'It performs best in bright, well-lit spaces and pairs seamlessly with warm, earthy palettes,' explains Helen. 'Use it as a crisp contrast for deeper wall colors or combine it with shades that share its warmth, such as medium tans with golden undertones or soft, neutral beiges. For a more classic look, it also complements elegant, old-world blues, making it equally at home in both traditional and contemporary interiors.'

While white can sometimes feel sterile or stark, the beauty of Cloud White is its gentle warmth that makes light-filled rooms feel welcoming rather than harsh. In this bright and airy bathroom, Marie wanted to lean into its open proportions, opting for a classic white paint with the right amount of yellow. 'When it was placed in a client’s bathroom, it reflected the natural light in a way that felt fresh and not overly clinical.' She adds, 'The warmth of a wood vanity and antique brass fixtures in a bath feel elevated against it.'

A timeless white that does all the work for you, Arianne says, 'If you are looking for a soft and subtle backdrop, with just the right amount of warmth, Cloud White is a great option to consider. Use it on the walls, trim and ceiling for uninterrupted color flow.'

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While a striking highlighter-orange might not be for everyone (hats off to you if it is), in its more nuanced forms – faded terracotta, burnt rust, and pale apricot – it can be a chic, almost neutral that adds warmth and depth to a room.

It's time to give decorating with orange a second chance. While it might come as a surprise to some, orange can be sophisticated, warm, and deeply grounding, and interior designers are embracing the underestimated paint color in 2026.

'Orange is emerging as a powerful comeback color for 2026,' explains Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'Driven by its inherent association with optimism, vitality, and emotional uplift. During times of uncertainty, consumers gravitate towards energizing hues that convey warmth and confidence. Orange delivers just that.'

While orange can sometimes dominate, it can also gently brighten and warm simultaneously. 'This is a very dark back hall with no natural light, so we wanted to lift it up with a joyful color,' explains Nels Crosthwaite Eyre of Eyre Interiors regarding the pictured entryway.

'My clients are always very scared of orange,' Nels adds. 'They take some convincing! I think it very much has to be the right shade, too bright, and you are in Orangina territory, and it feels childlike. A historical lean, such as Edward Bulmer Dutch Orange here, lends a certain gravitas to the color, and it automatically feels more grown-up.'

When braving the saturated hue, Nels advises, 'The orange has to be allowed to shine and be the main focus of the room – keep everything else around it muted. Here, the black and white chequered marble feels fresh and clean against the strong color, and the door curtain is soft and paired back, providing a tapestry-like texture more than a dominant palette.'

'I think a lot of the more vibrant, rich colors are making a comeback,' explains interior designer Tess MacGeachy of Amber Yard. 'We like to call them the sunset hues because they do provide a lovely glow to any space. In the right context, whether on an accessory or shown here on a large piece of joinery (pictured above), it makes the beholder smile.'

In the bedroom above, Tess opted for clashing colors, orange and pink, as the two hero choices. Despite being an unexpected color combination, pink and orange feel similar in tone, gently working together to inject warmth into the bedroom. 'We used Edward Bulmer Malahide on the joinery, as it worked beautifully with the Rapture and Wright May Tree Coral wallpaper. The client adored the color orange, and I think it is a color that works very well as an accent in a room, providing a joyful warmth to any space.'

When decorating with orange, Tess advises, 'Layer it within the room, allowing the beholder's eye to travel around the space fluidly. Place a hint of it on your rug, then on a cushion, and then (as shown here) on joinery. On large-scale items, the orange will pop, so it is important to create flow and position it on other elements around the room, too!'

An orange kitchen sounds intense, but this kitchen bathed in warm terracotta may convince you to give the saturated hue a try. Color-drenched in Farrow & Ball's Fake Tan, the paint color feels noticeable yet not overwhelming.

While colors that go with orange are typically warm neutrals, in this eclectic kitchen, playful pops of color dance beautifully against the grounding hue. 'Apricot pinks and faded terracottas can be seen as a tricky color family to work with, but they are brilliant for adding warmth,' explains Patrick O’Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

'These shades were used widely in the middle of the 20^th century and had a mini revival in the 1980s,' Patrick continues. 'When used wisely, they can warm up an unpromising space and look great when flooded with natural light, where the apricot notes get knocked back and create a sunny glow. One of my favourites is Fake Tan from our Archive.'

Orange Shopping Picks

Want to give orange a try but not quite ready to brave paint? Try these playful picks put together by Homes & Gardens instead.

'To style orange in a timeless way, balance is key,' advises Emily. 'A terracotta orange or a deeper rust orange pairs seamlessly with warmer neutrals and biophilic elements like natural wood, stone, and greenery, grounding the color and softening its impact. Within the home, it works best in spaces centered on comfort and connection such as living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and entryways, used in smaller doses within upholstery, floor tile, applied to a front door or used as a kitchen island color.'

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For years, the home office has been treated as a purely practical space – all white walls and just enough personality to pass as inoffensive on a video call. But we deserve better than that.

In this New York brownstone, designer Sarah Brown created a pair of ‘his and hers’ colorful offices that, at first glance, don't scream 'home office'.

Connected by pocket doors, both spaces embrace as much pattern and color as any other room in the house. 'Working spaces that are decorated with stronger colours have atmosphere and are much more inviting than those painted in stark white,' says Sarah.

Initially, these two offices read as entirely different spaces – one a classic gentleman’s study, the other a softer, more decorative sitting room-style office for the wife.

As Sarah explains, 'We wanted to create two rooms that felt distinctly British, a gentleman’s office for him with a traditional desk and a feminine sitting room for her that felt like a living space rather than an office.'

The room color distinction is key to how each connecting room functions. His office leans into blue tones with a traditional feel, while hers is intentionally more relaxed – a space that blurs the line between work and unwinding.

Crucially, they were never designed to exist in isolation. 'The rooms needed to sit happily next to one another in terms of their style, as the pocket doors between the two would often be open and each room visible from the other,' Sarah continues.

In his office, Sarah chose Farrow & Ball's Oval Room Blue, 'a mid-mood blue that worked well with the dark stain of the casement windows and the other antique wooden furniture in the room,' she explains of the blue room idea.

Next door, the mood lifts with a wash of Pink Ground, a soft, warm hue that, as Sarah notes, 'paired well with Oval Room blue and worked as a backdrop to the delicate fabric choices in her office.'

Where the blue leans masculine, the pink room idea introduces an almost romantic quality, softening the room and allowing the layered textiles to take center stage.

'We often use bold colors in offices as it allows us to bring more decorative items in and create ‘real’ rooms that can be multi-functional,' Sarah advises.

Color aside, both offices were designed from the furniture up – with one key piece in each space setting the tone for everything that followed.

In his office, the large antique home office desk takes center stage. The scheme is deliberately restrained, with minimal upholstery to keep the focus on the craftsmanship and patina of the wood. 'His office is slightly smaller, so we chose a Soane armchair for comfort and size, with an accompanying footstool,' giving him a comfortable spot to step away from the desk to read documents.

Sarah also approached the pattern palette in his space with the same restraint. 'We kept the fabrics to a minimum, and only the chair and footstool are upholstered,' she explains.

'It felt right to have fewer fabrics to create a more masculine feel and make the large antique desk the focal point in the room,' Sarah adds. 'We didn’t use any window treatments in the offices as the windows had been newly restored, and we wanted the beautiful detailing and shutters to be visible.'

In contrast, her office begins not with a desk, but with comfort. 'The antique Howard and Sons sofa in her office is wonderfully comfortable and upholstered in a Claremont fabric. This gave us the idea to create a mini sitting room for her,' says Sarah.

From there, the layout unfolds more like a living space than a workplace, with layered seating that includes a frilly footstool in Soane fabric, side tables, and an antique bookcase. 'This was our chance to indulge her taste in country house style.'

'We used three or four fabrics, all of which worked together to balance the room; a check on the desk skirt, a small print on the footstool, a blousy floral on the cushion – they all have a job to do to make the room feel considered and not overwhelming,' Sarah explains.

For all their charm, these rooms are designed to work hard behind the scenes. Much of that functionality is cleverly concealed by Sarah.

In her office, a skirted hidden desk makes an unexpected focal point. 'It was a trick to make the room feel less like an office and more like a small sitting room,' she explains. 'There are a multitude of wires hidden under the desk that don’t distract from the pretty look we wanted to achieve.'

'His office has a jib door where all the files are hidden away from view,' Sarah adds. Elsewhere, practicality is addressed more directly.

'It is essential that an office chair is both comfortable and ergonomically suited for work. This is sometimes the one compromise we make for clients when it comes to aesthetics, but we may also suggest re-upholstering in a fabric or leather that works with the scheme,' Sarah continues.

'Including adequate home office storage and keeping the room as uncluttered as possible helps with focus, and decorating in a way that feels connected to the rest of the house, hopefully makes our clients want to spend more, not less time in their offices.'

The success of these two offices lies not just in how they look, but in how they’re arranged.

Originally one big space, Sarah divided up the room into two, ensuring both benefited from their own windows. 'We added the pocket doors to give the clients flexibility over the two rooms, sometimes it’s nice to have company and other times we all need time for quiet work.'

It’s also the personal details that give these rooms their depth. Each office is styled with pieces that reflect the clients’ lives and interests. In his office, an antique map of New York shipped over from London, introduces a sense of place and narrative.

Across the way, her office takes a more expressive turn, with 'Henrietta Mollinaro prints that tie in with the color of the sofa fabric and the large antique framed suzani bought by our client.'

'It was important that their offices should feel very personal to them too so we have included their wedding photos and special mementoes,' Sarah adds.

Together, these two offices make a case for rethinking what a workspace can be. Rather than defaulting to blank, utilitarian schemes, Sarah's approach shows how color, comfort, and character can sit comfortably alongside practicality – and enhance it.

Where one room is traditional and masculine, the other softer and more decorative, both are united by a shared design language and a clear understanding of how the spaces will be used day to day.

Every choice, from the palette to the patterns, has been made to support focus while making the experience of working from home so much more enjoyable. Ultimately, these are spaces you actually want to spend time in – how many of us can truly say that about our WFH set-up?

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A taster of what's to come, an entryway sets the tone of your home. While it can be all too easy to treat pass-through spaces as purely functional rooms, this tranquil, blue-drenched entrance proves that the best entryways are those that create an instant impression that stays with you.

A refreshingly serene space, Daniella Villamil covered her client's entryway in pale blue paint, transforming the room from already architecturally beautiful to all the more soothing and special. A walk through that comes to life through color, it's a refreshing rethink of conventional entryway design (for the better).

'Ultimately, the foyer became the heart of our story,' explains Daniella, 'with its blue walls mimicking the sky, a nature-inspired mural, and layered, intentional details that make the space feel curated, immersive, and deeply personal, like a piece of art you don’t just view, but live within.'

'I started thinking about the space as a book: the obvious choice for the introduction was the entry foyer,' explains Daniella, 'a small yet opportunity-filled space that had a gilded dome and an ornate chandelier, something very typical for a Las Vegas condo.'

'Rather than compete with these traditional architectural elements, we leaned into contrast, introducing something more playful and artistic to completely reframe the space. I looked at it as an opportunity to weave a narrative throughout the home that could find its roots in the foyer, as the starting and ending point of our dialogue.'

'Because we had worked with the clients before and were acquainted with their art collection and interior design style, we had a good idea of the style and colors they preferred. They favor bold choices and like to be surprised with ideas that elevate their homes and make them feel special. When they gave us free rein, we were ecstatic! But at the same time, I was nervous; this was a great opportunity to showcase our creativity and surprise them.'

Known to be soothing yet cheery, pale blue feels like the obvious choice for an entryway with a bold ceiling mural at its center. Daniella used Farrow & Ball's Borrowed Light for the walls of the room. 'The blue color palette sets the perfect background for all the bold choices we made in the space, just as the sky sits in the background of a color-rich world, our blue walls were the perfect backdrop for colorful art and furniture. The pale blue also helps soften the architecture and visually expand the space, allowing the more saturated tones in the mural and furnishings to stand out while keeping the overall feeling light and inviting.'

Paying attention to the colors that go with pale blue for the mural and the decorative details (the red Jean Royère sconces clash beautifully with the cool-toned hue), Daniella wanted to create as much contrast as possible when designing the ceiling mural, using pinks, reds, and deep greens for the ceiling paint.

'I commissioned a mural from Abel Macias after visiting the LA Proper; I was enamored with his work and knew my clients would resonate with him too. The process was highly collaborative, translating his artistic language into a spatial experience that could live beyond the canvas. His piece set the tone for the space; we extruded colors, textures, and shapes from it and carried them throughout in obvious and not-so-obvious ways.'

While a bold paint color is a timeless entryway trend, the mural adds a layer of story and injects the owners' artistic personality into the design. 'The foyer ceiling mural is the main piece of the space, or the “heart” of it; it sets the tone and provides the storyline for the rest of the home.' Daniella adds, 'It changed the feel of the home and created a much more curated and bespoke narrative, it elevated the space and made it feel deeply personal and entirely unique.'

To avoid a two-note feeling and create harmony between two visually different shades, Daniella used grounding hues to connect the pale blue with the pink. The dark green paint provides depth and warmth against the pastel hues. 'I painted the ceiling mural in the same green I used in the front door and kitchen, small details that create a dialogue between the spaces and keep the storyline flowing from one space to the next.'

'I love that as you enter, your eye is drawn upward first, creating a moment of pause before the space opens up, almost like a reveal. We kept the center moment sculptural and minimal with the pedestal table to allow the ceiling to remain the focal point, while still grounding the space.'

Shop the Look

The Las Vegas entryway designed by Daniella Villamil is a reminder that truly good design is more than functional; it transports you to a place of inspiration and escape.

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The living room is the heart of the home, and often where we spend most of our time, so when it comes to decorating, it deserves ample attention. While color is always important to get right, choosing the right shade for your lounge is one of the biggest design decisions you can make.

When deciding on a living room color idea, it's important to consider that it's a hardworking space that wears many hats, so it needs to be pleasing on the eye but also functional and work alongside your other pieces. Of course, you'll want to take inspiration from trending styles, but considering how you spend your time in the room (be it relaxing and watching TV or socializing and entertaining with friends) will also ensure your palette works for you for decades to come.

With a spectrum of shades at your fingertips, deciding on a color scheme that's suited to your living room can feel overwhelming. But with an array of ideas that showcase the brilliance of every hue, these expert-approved suggestions will guide you on exactly how to style whichever shade catches your eye.

1. Go Clean and Classic With a White Living Room Color Scheme

Sometimes you just can't beat a classic white color scheme. A white living room is timeless and unlikely to date, and looks sophisticated when decorated in any interior design style.

Co-Founder and Creative Director of Backdrop, Natalie Ebel, agrees, 'For me, a classic, pure white will never go out of style. It keeps a space fresh and clean while still feeling warm. SUPERMOON (Backdrop's pure white) is a go-to for living room spaces. It’s been one of our consistent best sellers since launch. I think SUPERMOON has resonated so strongly because it doesn’t skew too warm or cool in its undertones, but does have an interesting depth. It's bright and soft without being clinical, a perfect foundation that will live beautifully in any space.'

'Crisp, clean the best white paints will add a sense of tranquility, serenity, while also remaining welcoming. There is just something about a classic white that feels physically peaceful, mentally soothing, and calming in a living room,' says Gaelle Dudley, color specialist and founder of GLDESIGN.

Savannah Buttler, designer at Britt Design Group, also suggests choosing white for a living room color scheme, explaining: 'White paint is known for allowing the brain to feel unstimulated and can have tranquil effects.'

2. Choose a Deeply Soothing Plaster Pink Living Room

Chalky, pale tones have always been an attractive choice for interiors, giving rise to delicate, light rooms that are easy to live in. Create relaxed, elegant schemes by pairing these hues with bold accent colors, or opt for impact with one sugary shade.

Pale shades of rose are becoming firmly established as the new neutral of choice in the most stylish of schemes, yet it is in combination with bolder pastels that its delicate allure really comes to the fore, perfect for pink living room ideas.

'Neutral pink is best in living rooms; it’s surprising yet subdued,' says paint expert Annie Sloan. 'Pairing with deep burnt reds, it will create a sophisticated tonal palette with a lot of warmth; alternatively, bright oranges and turquoises with neutral pinks give more of a tropical, jungle intensity.'

Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick, says, 'For a lighter, fresher aesthetic that suits any room aspect, Pink 02 is a favorite. This soft, peachy pink is physically soothing – it feels like a warm hug, wrapping the room in comfort and calm. This color is particularly lovely when paired with red accents, or for an earthy feel, bring in sage green accents for a timeless scheme.'

3. Opt For a Warm Cream

In the cases where white paint feels too stark, cream paint is usually the solution. Able to provide warmth whilst injecting light into a living room, it's a timeless color that lasts beyond its years.

'I chose a neutral tone so the walls could act as a calm backdrop, allowing the color and pattern in the artwork and furniture to really come into their own,' says interior designer Sophie Garland. 'It creates a sense of balance, and the room feels rich and considered, but never too busy.'

Taking a calm and cozy paint color, Dimity by Farrow & Ball, Sophie covered the walls of the eclectic living room (pictured above), the perfect neutral against the colorful pops of furniture and decor. 'It’s a very easy color to work with,' she explains, 'as it’s such a gentle, warm off-white. It pairs beautifully with a wide range of tones, so you can layer in color through furniture, textiles and artwork. I particularly like it with soft greens and blues, as the warmth of the paint stops the overall scheme from feeling too cool.'

4. Create Warmth With an On Trend rich Chocolate Brown

An enveloping, moody chocolate brown, as shown in the elegant living room above, designed by Studio Indigo, almost always makes a living room feel cozy and snug.

Brown room ideas have had such a revival this year; it's a warming and sophisticated color choice for the living room, especially. Ruth Mottershead, Creative Director at Little Greene, says, 'The trend for rich, cocooning living spaces that bring a sense of comfort continues with a move toward the soothing power of darker and mid-tone caramels. Rich and indulgent mid- brown ‘Affogato’ perfectly combines the warmth of coffee with the gentle sweetness of vanilla hues to create a cocooning and comforting color.'

A rich and warm brown living room can create a calming feel, too, say experts. 'For a cozy living room, embrace earth tones and hues derived from nature. Warm browns, rich chestnuts, and deep mahogany; these colors bring biophilic benefits into the living room and instill a sense of comfort that makes a space feel more inviting,' explains Sue Kim, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams.

5. Contrast With Walls and Woodwork

As one of the main rooms in the home, your living room should be treated as a canvas for an exciting and uplifting design that celebrates your favorite colors and design ideas. While a living room that features too many colors can feel overwhelming, a space that incorporates all of your favorite shades in small doses can feel deeply personal and uplifting.

If you're unsure where to start when using contrasting colors, always consult the color wheel. Whether you're using a pink paint on a bookcase or a blue shade to highlight ceiling molding, these small accents can make a living room feel playful and personalized.

Kate Guinness also advises, ‘If you are nervous about using a bold hue in a living room, painting woodwork adds a color shot without overwhelming,' as shown in her project, which brings a soft green into a neutral space using the built-in shelving.

6. Be On Trend With a Pale Blue Scheme

Blue is one of the most popular colors to use throughout the home, and blue living room ideas can come in a variety of beautiful designs. But for 2026, it's pale powder blues replacing neutrals, bringing a fresh but subtle backdrop that you can still throw most colors at.

'I opted for this shade of blue in the space because it lends itself to so many beautiful color combinations,' says interior designer Kaitlin Smith. 'The dusty blue creates the perfect backdrop for the warm shades of green and deep coral.'

'I wanted to create a layered interior full of color and pattern, leaning into the architecture of this Tudor home,' she explains. 'Blue paint lends itself to so many different color stories within a home. Try using complementary colors for your fabrics if you want to create a more dynamic space.'

7. Opt For a Grounded, Earthy Green

Green has been named one of the best colors to paint a living room by color experts, with its roots in the natural world often creating spaces that make us feel more calm, grounded, and connected with the outside world.

Green living room ideas promise to renew your connection to nature, and the color green is said to evoke feelings of serenity, vibrancy, and good fortune. For a more subtle nod to green, opt instead for a muted gray-green to channel the quiet luxury trend while creating a peaceful feel.

Helen Shaw, Director of Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore, explains: 'Understated and refined, quiet luxe is calming and subtle yet never boring. Opt for a new neutral such as Hazy Skies, a color with mysterious depth that will add intrigue.'

To style this look, Helen suggests: 'Elevate this captivating base color with layers of texture – dark woods, tactile bouclé textiles, and sleek stone surfaces such as marble and quartz. These will all work together beautifully to create a feeling of peace and calm.'

8. Go For a Modern Organic Color Scheme

'I love the calmness that you create when you have a neutral living room palette,' says interior designer Tamsin Johnson. 'But this choice definitely doesn’t have to mean boring: you can create an interesting and exciting space by layering different tones, such as off-whites and beige, then introducing a range of caramels and even accents of black.'

'Natural textures, whether they are stone or wood or linen, can help to anchor a beige living room color scheme. It means that the overall look doesn’t feel too contrived or uptight or overly designed. They bring a laid-back quality that always works well.'

A modern organic living room typically follows a neutral color palette but still feels warm, inviting, and cozy due to its layers of textures and natural materials. Layering neutral browns, creams, and whites is a surefire way of making your living room feel well-designed but also welcoming.

9. Invoke happiness with Sunny Yellow

There's no denying that yellow can be a tricky color to work with, and although yellow living rooms are few and far between, this space is a lovely example of how to bring this cherry hue into one of the most used rooms in your home. You don't need to color-drench the walls for a color to have impact.

In this space designed by Anna Spiro, a high-gloss white paint on the walls bounces around a light, making the surfaces nearly appear liquid with shine. Architectural details have been picked out in a beautiful, deep yellow, adding not only color but an excellent grounding element. Furniture and accessories in similar but not quite matching tones create a warming spectrum of sunshine across the space.

10. Enrich With Color Drenching

A color-drenched living room is guaranteed to always feel cozy and luxurious. Whether it's a deep burgundy, bold blue, or dark green, drenching a room from head to toe in a paint shade creates a statement that showcases your style as the room's rightful designer.

Tash says, 'My go-to tip is to embrace color drenching: painting the walls, woodwork, and ceiling all in the same shade. This creates a more cohesive, immersive feel, avoiding the stark contrast of colored walls against a white ceiling. It helps the room feel more relaxing, cocooning, and inviting.'

This technique works particularly well as a small living room color idea. While the rules used to be, go for lighter colors in a smaller space, taking a darker color across all the surfaces can trick the eye and create the illusion of more space.

11. Embrace the Warmth of Red

Contemplating red living room ideas? While the color might sound like a dramatic choice, it’s actually a hue that’s easy to live with. Its warmth, the ability to make the room feel cocooning, and its appearance under artificial light make it a wonderful choice for many living spaces.

It's a living room paint color you kind of have to commit to, don't attempt an accent wall, as this will actually look more dramatic against the other neutral walls. Instead, take it across all the walls, and the ceiling, and you'll be surprised by how liveable it is.

12. Layer Earthy Colors For an Organic Scheme

Reinvigorate your living room with a fresh and soothing color palette of limestone, lichen, and sage. Choose a subtle shade of limestone for walls, then layer different but tonal shades of creams or greens on furnishings to create a restful scheme.

A patterned couch will add a punchy highlight to a neutral living room; layer it with cushions depicting foliage and forest scenery.

Finally, bring the garden indoors: mix plants and cacti with fresh spring blooms and accessorize with striking botanical prints, faux coral and crystal geodes for a scheme that is at one with nature.

13. Go For a Heritage Look With a Fresh Coastal Palette

Coastal decor doesn't need to be cliché signs and motifs; a coastal color scheme is simply a fresh, yet cozy palette that can be ideal for living rooms.

Take this room as a lesson. Choose a creamy off-white paint for the walls, and rather than add in blue with the paint to create that coastal feel, bring it in more subtly with the furniture. And be sure to introduce plenty of texture to the room too, which really softens the white and blue color combination.

14. Go For a Moody Purple That Radiates Luxury

Purple was once thought of as a bit of a 2000s interior design trend, but when done right, it can exude luxury and coziness. A living room painted head to toe in aubergine feels dramatic and encompassing, the perfect retreat after a long day.

Caitlin Parker-Brown, founder of Parker Studio, used a spectrum of purple paints in the pictured project. 'I wanted the room to feel immersive and a little unexpected,' she explains. 'Purple can go very wrong if it’s too pastel, so I kept it quite subdued and tonal. Color-drenching helps it read as a neutral rather than a “feature.” It makes the space feel calm and cocooning.'

'The bones and architecture of the room are quite traditional, so the idea was to respect that while making it feel more current. I didn’t want it to feel overly decorated. The palette is quite restrained, then layered with contemporary furniture. It’s that balance of old-world and new that I’m always drawn to.'

When using purple paint, Caitlin advises, 'Keep everything tonal, letting variation come through texture rather than contrast. Softer browns, warm neutrals. Avoid anything too crisp or stark, as it kills the mood. And lighting is key, it needs to feel warm and a bit moody for the color to really work.'

15. Go For an On Trend Gray-Green

Gray can sometimes be seen as a little sad or lackluster, but a shade that balances the right amount of warmth can give a living room a real warmth and classic feel. Meet the gray green color trend, a timeless balance of two shades we all love, sage green and gray.

Jojo Barr of House Nine Design used Coat Paint's Jojo's Green in this country living room. 'Jojo’s Green naturally evokes that English Heritage aesthetic – cozy, comforting and quietly timeless – which suited the snug setting within this Cotswolds home beautifully. It brings depth without overwhelming the room, creating a space that feels both intimate and enduring.'

'It’s an endlessly characterful gray-green paint with a slightly earthy, ‘muddy’ quality that gives it real depth and sophistication,' she adds. 'There’s a calming, natural energy to it - grounding, reassuring and incredibly easy to live with. It works particularly well in more intimate spaces such as snugs, mudrooms, studies and libraries. You can use it as a trim against a patterned wallpaper for a layered, traditional look, or lean into its richness and color-drench the entire room.'

16. Mix Vibrant Shades

For a living room that sings with joy, try colorful living room ideas full of clashing combinations. This is a space for both socializing and retreat, so you want shades that both enliven and comfort you.

‘Pink and green is one of my favorite color combinations for living rooms – they play really well off each other, and it’s a great way to cheer up a room,’ says Lucy Barlow, founder of Barlow & Barlow. Balance is key when using a mix of colors. Integrating more neutral tones to offset your bold hues can help bring calm when you need to focus, but then you can turn around and be energized when it’s time to switch off for the day and allow the room to return to its primary function.

Clara Ewart from Kitesgrove says, 'Don’t be afraid to choose bright, bold hues in rooms that are regularly used for entertaining. The joyous burst of color will add to the ambiance and enjoyment of the space. Walls of bright color can also be broken up with artwork and mirrors to soften the impact of the hue. Trusting your instinct is really important when working with color. You should surround yourself with colors you are drawn to and make you happy – just as you do with your wardrobe.'

17. Create Warmth with a Light-Shifting Moody Hue

The beauty of decorating with moody colors like earthy brown is the cocooning qualities they bring to already snug living rooms. Referring to the country living room pictured above, interior designer Nicky Mudie, Founder of Violet & George, said, 'It was a dark room anyway, so we leaned into that rather than trying to fight it. We wanted to create a cozy nook in the middle of the house, as the rest of the rooms are quite open and cavernous. The color worked as a great contrast against the green of the garden outside.'

Using Farrow & Ball Salon Drab on the walls and Mouse’s Back on the woodwork, Nicky created a deep, rich palette that leant into the room's encompassing proportions. 'The palette is quite restrained, so the textures, artwork and collected pieces can do the talking. We layered in softness through upholstery, rugs and antiques to take the edge off.'

When using light-shifting moody hues like earthy browns, Nicky advises, 'It really comes into its own with art – darker walls make everything feel more considered. It works especially well when you’ve got contrast – here it plays off the bright, cavernous rooms on either side and the color coming in from the courtyard. And don’t be afraid to go all in – it’s much better fully embraced than used sparingly.'

18. Color-Clash With Red and Pink

While color clashing can feel daring, when done well, it can create a striking focal point in a living room. Red and pink are known to clash, but that didn't stop interior designer Isabel Ladd from pairing the two hues together. 'I love the energy of red,' she explains, 'and it's so appropriate in a game nook in a living room, where zeal and enthusiasm are already high when playing games!'

'I want to inspire people to decorate boldly. Since red is a tricky color for some people to embrace, showing them how it can be done will hopefully encourage people to use red in their decor. Additionally, as this living room doubles as a games room, I intentionally chose a color that conveys passion, zeal, and zest.'

'I like styling bold colors with bold accessories and layering on patterns upon patterns. If you're going to go bold, then commit to the BOLD!', she says. 'Note the juxtaposition of the olive-brown trim and the pink behind the bookshelves – two additional colors that are anything but subtle. '

19. Go For a Gentle Mustard Yellow

There are ways to use yellow without overwhelming a home, but perhaps the best way to ensure the hue doesn't feel too striking is to choose a mustard paint. Yellow with brown undertones, it's warm yet still vibrant.

'In this sitting room, the walls are enveloped in Farrow & Ball’s India Yellow – a rich, saturated mustard that creates an atmosphere both cocooning and quietly uplifting,' explains interior designer Rebecca Hughes. 'It’s a hue that brings warmth without overwhelming, especially when balanced thoughtfully.'

'When working with a color like India Yellow in a living room, I always recommend leaning into texture and layering: tactile fabrics, relaxed upholstery, and a mix of finishes. The goal is to keep the space informal and inviting. Done well, it becomes a retreat – elegant, certainly, but never at the expense of comfort.'

20. Keep Things Fresh With a Mint Green

A quiet color that creates calm, mint green might not be conventional, but for living rooms in need of light and some subtle vibrancy, it's a clever choice.

'This room was previously quite dark and cocoonish', says Amy Kehoe of Nickey Kehoe Studio. 'With a young family and a baby on the way, the natural instinct was to enliven and lift – but we still loved the idea of complete color immersion. A single, all-over color immediately shifts the atmosphere of a space, and this celadon-leaning mint struck exactly the right balance: sophisticated but inviting, atmospheric but warm.'

'We chose a celadon-leaning mint and applied it to every surface – walls, ceiling, trim, built-ins,' Nickey explains. When decorating with pastel greens, she suggests, 'Lean into the undertone of your specific shade and let it guide everything else. This mint has celadon qualities, so it shifts with the light and softens rather than dominates. From there, smoky ebonized or rich brown wood finishes are a tried-and-true pairing – they ground the palette without flattening it. Dusty pinks and warm umber tones, as you see here in the rug and the Tree of Life fabric, bring balance and richness. The key is to think of the paint not as a backdrop but as an active participant in the color story.'

Choosing the right living room colors needs research. Firstly, never commit to a color without sampling. Order plenty of samples, both ones you expect will work and throw in something a bit unexpected too, just in case it surprises you. Paint or stick these swatches on the wall and live with them for a while, see how they change in the space as the light changes.

While you are working out what's going to work in your space, collate images from magazines and social media, collect swatches, fabrics, and photographs to paint a picture of your desired scheme. This will give you a vision to stick with.

Call in the experts, too, if you need to. Paint is more technical than you think, and if staring at a color wheel is providing you with no living room color ideas, ask for advice in your paint store, or sign up for a consultation with a color expert, you'll find many of the big paint brands offer this as a service.

At its chicest, color doesn’t shout; it whispers. But when even our former go-to subtlety – butter yellow – starts to feel a little too eager to insist, ‘I’m relevant!,' the pendulum starts to swing. Lighter, quieter, and just a touch more elusive, we’re coining the next iteration ‘mellow yellow’: a barely-there wash that reads less pastel, and more like actual age.

Think aged parchment paper, early morning light, or Tallow by Farrow & Ball – closer to a cream, though part of a broader family of softly buttery tones grounded in earthy neutrals for depth. ‘That ubiquitous family of colors used so readily in the 1980s is making a little comeback but madly welcome in my opinion,’ notes the legacy paint brand, which describes the spring/summer 2026 color trend as ‘restful, discreetly elegant, and all rather superbly easy to layer with prints and texture.’

It’s a hack for conjuring sunshine where there is none. ‘They are, as we are often told, a great family of colors for those rather poorly lit or north-facing spaces, adding a little warmth to stop a space feeling too bleak and unloved.’

From Peter Dunham’s marigold-meets table linens with Hudson Grace to sneakily striped borosilicate glass by Sophie Lou Jacobsen, consider this your cue to introduce a quieter kind of sunshine with this season's least-basic shade yet.

The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.

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Nothing shifts your home from one season to the next quite like color, and for summer 2026, the on-trend shades are wonderfully livable – easy to inject into your home with paint, rugs, drapes, bed linens, and decor.

There's a notable theme of nature-inspired hues this year, with designers turning to earthy versions of classic summer colors – olive greens, soft sky blues, and creamy, muddy yellows. Among these tried-and-true summer shades are new arrivals: bright reds and acid greens that still feel perfect for the warmer months. Much like the season itself, it's a palette of two sides – soft and serene, and bold and unexpected.

Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore, sums up the attitude toward color right now perfectly: ‘This summer, the focus is on fresh, easy-to-live-with color, grounded by a sense of earthiness. Palettes draw inspiration from traditional spring tones but with added depth and complexity, encouraging a celebration of the present moment,’ she explains.

‘That organic feel comes through in a range of hues inspired by both nature and the kitchen – like mint and celery tones energized with a pop of electric blue; buttermilk, citron, and cream; and orange and pumpkin. The bright summer colors we associate with this time of year still feel familiar, but their deeper undertones give them a more refined, mature quality.’

Looking ahead to the summer, these are the color trends designers are most excited about.

1. Pale Yellows

Butter yellow was the color of last summer, so it's no surprise to see it on many designers' radars for summer 2026. However, this year the trend is even softer, even paler, almost a cream that's slightly more timeless than its buttery counterpart.

'Cream and mid-buttery yellows are a big color trend for summer 2026,' says Farrow & Ball ambassador Patrick O'Donnell. 'That ubiquitous family of colors used so readily in the 1980s is making a little comeback but madly welcome in my opinion, restful, discreetly elegant, and all rather superbly easy to layer with prints and texture.'

'They are, as we are often told, a great family of colors for those rather poorly lit or north-facing spaces, adding a little warmth to stop a space feeling too bleak and unloved. Sudbury Yellow, Cat’s Paw, Farrow’s Cream, plus the delicious and underrated Tallow as your empathetic woodwork or ceiling color will finish everything off with aplomb.'

Designer Shannon Eddings of Shannon Eddings Interiors, who designed the cozy small living room above, agrees that almost-cream yellows are making a comeback in 2026. 'Summer has us itching to use the prettiest shade of yellow,' says Shannon. 'We can’t get enough of the color Hay by Farrow & Ball, seen here in a sunny, third-story living room for a busy family.'

2. Terracotta

Terracotta is the perfect summery shade, it's warm and deep and reminiscent of European trips where terracotta roofs clash wonderfully with bright blue skies. At home, however, it's a surprisingly versatile shade that spans a spectrum of the palest orange-y blushes to deep, almost reds. It's a color to be brave with, and suits being color-drenched over an accent shade.

'Used wisely, terracotta is a wonderful color family to use,' says Patrick O'Donnell. 'These are not shrinking violets and need to be considered before taking the leap. A good application is cabinetry, such as kitchens or boot rooms, but they are rather charming for guest bedrooms, as the color, which can feel overwhelming, is a rather welcome delight for the occasional overnight. Think Porphyry Pink, Fox Red, Loggia, and Red Earth.'

3. Chartreuse

Chartreuse, an acidic yellow-green named after a 17th-century French liqueur, is a welcome break from all the muted greens that have dominated trends the last few years. It's vivid and zingy and unexpected and just feels a lot fresher for summer 2026. And don't be put off by its boldness, in the right space, it can look very chic if you avoid anything too limey.

'Chartreuse feels bold, unexpected, and slightly irreverent in the best way,' says designer Cortney Bishop.' It has a vibrancy that can read playful and sophisticated at the same time, depending on how it’s used. In the right application, chartreuse makes a house feel fresh, fearless, and deeply personal.'

4. Blue Greens

Blues and greens are a classic addition to a summer color scheme, but this year, designers are turning to a blend of both. Greeny blues and bluey greens that shift in the light and add a fresh but soft touch to any room.

'Blue-greens are one of the biggest stories for summer 2026 because they feel both calming and alive at the same time,' says designer Kati Curtis. 'They bring in the freshness and ocean vibes that people associate with summer, but use them in a way that feels less predictable than a soft "coastal blue".'

'I’m seeing everything from mineral teal to softer sea-glass tones, and what makes them so appealing is that they can read as serene or saturated depending on how they’re used. I typically go for the more saturated versions, but this tranquil bedroom is an example of soft blue done right.'

5. Pistachio

Sage green gets stage time all year round, but really comes into its own over the spring and summer months, but for 2026, designers are shifting slightly off the ever-popular sage green to an equally beautiful muted green – pistachio.

'The greener side of the palette feels especially fresh right now because it adds energy but also can add tranquility to a room, depending on the hue,' explains Kati. 'Pistachio tones with just the right amount of gray have a slightly unexpected quality, which keeps them from feeling too safe or traditional.'

'I love these colors when they’re used as a base – whether in upholstery, wallpaper, painted millwork, or even just a single accent piece, because they instantly deepen a space.'

6. Tomato Tones

Not all summer color trends are about pastels, as the weather warms, hot colors like reds, corals, and pinks come back into color schemes. For 2026, hot but rich tomato reds are on trend, and the best way to do them? Make them glossy. A glossy red paint is as chic as paint gets, but you can introduce it in smaller decor accents too, think lamps, vases, frames, and furniture.

'These warmer shades feel incredibly right for summer because they bring a sense of vitality and warmth without overpowering a room,' says Kati. 'Coral, persimmon, and tomato tones feel sun-drenched, a little Mediterranean, and emotionally warm. I think people are gravitating toward them because they make interiors feel more comfortable but at the same time expressive, especially after years of cooler, more restrained palettes.'

7. Pale Mint

Another green is on the radar of Melissa Lee, Principal of Bespoke Only, in the palest form. The mint green used in this otherwise neutral kitchen is barely detectable, but paired with warm white and dark wood, it adds a cool calmness to this kitchen diner.

'We love pale mint for summer 2026,' says Melissa, 'cooling, sun-washed, and touched by a hint of sea breeze. There’s a sense of summer to it, almost like a melted scoop of mint ice cream – nostalgic and luminous.'

8. Nature-inspired Neutrals

Summer color trends are so much about, well, color. tend to take a back seat at this time of year, but as Kati Curtis notes, they do have a role to play when paired with the bolder shades of the season.

'What keeps all of these brighter summer shades from feeling too playful is the return of deeper notes underneath them,' she explains. 'Chocolate brown, umber, smoky olive, and richer clay tones are acting almost like an anchor. They give the palette depth and maturity, so even brighter colors feel elevated rather than decorative for decoration’s sake.'

Designer Sabah Mansoor agrees that certain smoky, nature-inspired neutrals are on trend this summer. 'As we shift into summer months, we are noticing a continued preference for rich, moody hues and warm, earthy neutrals,' she explains. 'While they seem like autumn favorites, we are drawn to the emotions evoked by smoky undertones and jewel-inspired depth, and their ability to mark a space with a bit of drama.'

'Neutrals that remind us of nature (stone, mushroom, olive, and sand) continue to trend, offering a soothing effect. Softer colors and pastels have a nostalgic quality, making them a classic, slightly romantic choice for spring-to-summer transitions.'

Shop This Season's Biggest Color Trends

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A dark sage green that shines in historic settings as well as new, Farrow & Ball's Calke Green is the perfect herby paint color that feels refreshing yet timeless.

Inspired by the iconic green dining room in Calke Abbey, in England's Derbyshire countryside, Farrow & Ball's iconic green paint is designed to complement interiors steeped in history, like many of their coveted archival colors. Best described as a deep sage with powdery notes, it's a paint color that shines in almost every setting.

There are endless ways to embrace this mid-green hue, but here's how interior designers decorate with Farrow & Ball's Calke Green.

'Farrow & Ball’s Calke Green is one of those colors that instantly brings a sense of richness and calm to a space,' says Sara Braham of Braham MacNicoll Studio. 'In this open-plan dining and lounge area, we decided to fully embrace it – color drenching the walls and cabinetry to create a cocooning, sophisticated room. It became the perfect backdrop for the client’s artwork and carefully collected furniture, allowing each piece to really shine.'

'The brief was to create a space that felt grown-up but still had a sense of playfulness, while also connecting to the greenery outside the beautiful, large windows of the Victorian villa. Calke Green did exactly that – it subtly draws the outside in, without feeling too literal.'

'What we love about this shade is how versatile it is,' adds Sara. 'Here, we paired it with Sobek on the back panels of the cabinets, which added a lovely contrast and gave the joinery a real sense of depth. It also helped to frame that mix of modern and vintage pieces, making everything feel intentional and layered rather than overly styled.'

'Calke Green is such a grounding color,; explains Kate Cox of Studio HÁM. 'It has that deep, earthy quality that feels both historic and completely liveable. In the hallway, I used it on the dado rail to feel welcoming and calm, even alongside the busy wallpaper.'

Much like the dill green color trend that took the interiors world by storm last year, Calke Green evokes a refreshing yet deeply timeless feel that couldn't be more complementary with neutrals.

'It's strong enough to hold its own beneath a pattern, which is exactly what it's doing here,' says Kate. 'As for companion colors, warm whites and dusty pinks sit beautifully with it, as does a deeper forest green if you want to go more enveloping.'

'Our clients for this project chose the color scheme for the house,' explains David Smokcum, senior architectural technician​​​​ at Verity Beverley Architects. 'They did a fantastic job, and I can’t think of a more suitable color for the paneling of this dining room.'

Breathing life into the historic space without compromising the room's integrity, Calke Green feels like the perfect middle ground for this traditional dining room. Gently uplifting the space without straying into the stark or harsh, it gently evokes the outside in and makes the color the star of the show.

'For this project, all of the timber paneling and detailing was painted with Farrow & Ball Calke Green, with the ceiling and beams being finished with Farrow & Ball's New White, explains David. 'The adjacent rooms are decorated with Farrow & Ball's Light Blue to the living room and Farrow & Ball's Light Stone to the hallway.'

'Calke Green suits houses in the countryside, bringing the vibrant green from outdoors in,' says Olivia White-Hamilton, founder of Olpol & Co. 'It works well alongside natural materials like stone, terracotta and wood.'

While decorating with Calke Green is surprisingly easy, it's best to consider the colors that go with green to ensure your scheme feels balanced and cohesive. Opt for classic neutrals (with a hint of warmth) like cream or stone grays, as well as powdery pinks or blues.

'We paired the Calke Green paint on the panelling with Farrow & Ball's School House White on the walls and a pinky red fabric,' adds Olivia. 'It’s a strong color, so it suits being used with off-white and can work well with other bold colors in a passing space.'

Shop Calke Green-Inspired Decor

A quiet green that enhances historic homes, Calke Green has long been loved for its sophisticated, timeless feel. Able to uplift a dark living room or make a hallway feel more interesting, it's versatile and enduringly elegant.

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A striking color that falls somewhere between fuchsia and magenta, raspberry pink is one of those rare paint shades that's hard not to love. An impactful hue that packs a punch in every form, it feels vibrant, playful, and summery, making it perfect to decorate with as the days become warmer.

While pale pink paints have stolen our hearts in recent years, raspberry might be taking their place this summer. A scheme drenched in raspberry paint can't help but lift the mood, and even the smallest of doses of raspberry makes a scheme feel joyous.

'Raspberry pink is a confident, statement-making shade – an electric hue that instantly brings warmth and a welcoming richness to a space,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'To create a bold, colorful scheme, pair it with accents of yellow or gold – rich ochre tones work beautifully. A little goes a long way, so use raspberry pink as your main wall color, then introduce small pops of yellow or orange through accessories to build contrast and visual interest.'

Inspired by royalty, this raspberry pink cloakroom evokes a luxurious feel that's evident as soon as you enter. A fitting color choice that feels playful but still praise-worthy and high-end, it transforms the cloakroom into a work of art.

'When we learned that we had been assigned the formal powder room and neighboring cloak room in the Lake Forest Showhouse, we immediately began to daydream about all that had transpired in this cloak room,' explains interior designer Sarah Vaile. 'It was while watching the uber chic series "The Crown” that it dawned upon us that cloak rooms were made for women like Princess Margaret. It is the room that provides an escape to an otherwise formal affair, where you can sneak away throughout the affair to do as you please. Thus, she became our muse for the space.'

'No color better represented Princess Margaret’s flamboyant lifestyle than her burgundy Rolls-Royce,' adds Sarah. 'When we stumbled upon a Sherwin-Williams paint color named for raspberry fermented cocktails, Framboise, we knew it needed to be that color.'

'I wanted this living room to feel like a cocoon; bold, immersive, and deeply personal,' explains Nusrat Pathan, founder of Studio Orangeworks. 'The raspberry tone felt instinctive; it brings warmth, depth, and a quiet drama that transforms the room into a statement. The panelled detailing adds shadow and character, giving the color a more timeless, layered feel.'
Acknowledging the colors that go with pink, Nusrat embraced deep, rich, grounded tones to create a sense of luxury in the living room. 'With a color this strong, I kept the styling grounded. Muted neutrals and the plaid upholstery soften the intensity, while the deep green ottoman adds a rich contrast. Warm wood, woven textures, and subtle brass accents bring in balance and a touch of understated elegance.'

Unexpected yet joyous, raspberry pink paint brings this small bathroom to life. 'The room is a guest bathroom when you come into the house on the lower floor,' says interior designer Ana Engelhorn. 'I love strong colors, and a small room where you only go occasionally is the best room to do this. Mostly because whenever you go in, it surprises you anew.'

Bringing a contemporary flair to a historic setting, the raspberry pink feels even more impactful in a smaller, more compact setting, enveloping the room entirely. While a large room drenched in raspberry would be impactful, Ana's favorite ways to use raspberry pink are, 'by using it either for accents, balancing out, or having it in a small room you are not constantly in. Or, you love it so much you put it in your living room! I believe that the most important thing is that you figure out how much you like something and in which way you like it, and you use it for that.'

Interior designer Mimi Shin made a wise choice, color-drenching this girl's bedroom in a vibrant raspberry pink. 'This room was designed for a little girl who was about three or four at the time,' she explains. 'We had a grown-up Josef Frank print in red, a wood and red bookshelf, a color-blocked pink and orange rug, and a great printed fabric with white and red from Molly Mahon at Schumacher for the window coverings, so the pink we chose had to balance these colors.'

Mimi adds, 'This is a very spirited and quite funny little girl, so the vibe was definitely uplifting and fun. The way we use color is almost definitely a reflection of the clients. Some prefer to be much more reserved about it, and we'll use it sparingly,' she explains.

'These clients love riotous color, and we have to figure out how to balance it from room to room so it's a continuous narrative rather than individual vignettes. I always suggest to a client who wants to explore using color like raspberry to start with a room where you can close the door (bedrooms, bathrooms, dining rooms, etc).'

Raspberry Pink Shopping Picks

Vibrant yet timeless, raspberry pink injects a little life into any scheme for spring, summer, and beyond. Striking and whimsical, like raspberry pink, the red and pink color trend achieves a bold feel that couldn't be more fitting for summer.

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Choosing the right exterior paint colors for your house is an important task – one that needs longevity front of mind to ensure it'll look good, and last, for years to come.

Beyond the comparatively simple task of curating a color palette that reflects your style, the best paint colors for the exterior of a house need to complement the existing materials while respecting the home's architectural style and its surroundings.

With that in mind, we've rounded up all you need to know here. From the most stylish paint color pairings for 2026 to how to actually go about finding the right palette for your house, the experts below explain the ins and outs.

Exterior Paint Ideas

From classic white house exteriors with black accents to more colorful options that make a statement, these are the best exterior paint colors to take inspiration from.

1. White Exterior With Dark Green Accents

Pairing classic white with richer accents of dark green is perhaps one of the most timeless exterior paint colors.

'We wanted something that felt timeless, but still had enough presence to stand out,' explains the designer Jennifer Hunter, who selected the colors for this home's exterior. 'The siding is painted in a warm white that shifts beautifully throughout the day, adapting to different qualities of light without ever feeling flat or too stark. It creates a clean, inviting backdrop that lets the architecture speak.'

'The green accents were very intentional,' she adds. 'Rather than defaulting to black, we chose a deep, nuanced green to introduce richness and depth.'

2. Modern Gray With a Pop of Red

Gray exteriors are a classic, modern choice if you're looking for something less bright than white, but a pop of color can be needed to add interest and vibrancy. In this case, a red front door brings contrast.

'There is nothing more vibrant than a glossy red front door, and you can't go wrong with Benjamin Moore's Heritage Red, as it is the king of classic reds,' explains Emilie Munroe, principal at Studio Munroe.

3. Classic White With a Black Front Door

While color can add personality to a home's exterior, don't rule out the classic pairing of white with black accents if you want to keep things classic.

'We chose Benjamin Moore's White Dove for both the siding and trim to achieve a seamless, tonal look,' explains Kerith Flynn, founder of Margali & Flynn Designs. 'This approach allows the architecture itself to take center stage rather than relying on contrast within the body of the home.'

'To introduce contrast in a more deliberate and elevated way, we incorporated a lacquered black front door,' she adds. 'The high-gloss finish adds depth and a subtle sense of formality, creating a striking focal point without disrupting the overall calm, cohesive palette.'

4. Soft Neutrals With Bronze Accents

Choosing a paint color for your home's exterior should complement the non-painted materials, such as the window and door frames. Here, the warm white paint feels in keeping with the warm bronze details, while aligning with the latest exterior paint trends that are all about warmth and earthy palettes.

'This exterior palette pairs white painted brick with bronze window frames and a coordinating front door, creating contrast through tone rather than bold color,' explains Catherine Brooks Giuffre of CBG Interiors.

'I’ve always loved how bronze brings a certain depth and warmth, especially against a crisp backdrop like this; it keeps the home from feeling too stark while still reading clean and timeless,' she says.

5. Creamy Whites With Red Brick

Along with the red-toned roof and patio brickwork, the warm neutral paint of this home's exterior feels in keeping with its overall style. Stark white paints can feel too harsh in a setting like this, while this off-white paint feels soft.

'This traditional-style home called for a classic neutral color palette,' says Alex Yeske. 'We wanted a color that paired well with all of the greenery surrounding the home and wasn't too stark against it. Shadow White is a beautifully creamy neutral that looks great in the Southern California light.'

6. Tonal Muted Greens

To avoid harsh contrast with your exterior paint colors, take inspiration from this home that layers various shades of muted green paint. Not only does it create a softer look, but it is also in keeping with the history of this home.

'Homes from this era were originally designed with tone-on-tone trim rather than stark white contrast, and this one captured that intention beautifully,' explains Joelle Nesen, lead designer at Maison Inc..

7. Mid-Tone Blue With White

Blue and white is a classic exterior color combination, but choosing the right shade of blue paint is key. Rather than anything too bright or saturated, go for an earthy, muted blue that feels natural in its outdoor context. Paired with white accents, it feels both classic and sophisticated.

'The soft, muted blue-gray tone mirrors the ever-changing surface of the water, creating a seamless connection between the home and its landscape,' explains Elizabeth Taich. 'It's a color that feels both timeless and organic, ensuring the home always feels perfectly attuned to the shoreline.'

8. Pale Blue Accents With a White Exterior

This home is another example of blue and white, but the much lighter shade of blue paint creates a more neutral look, while combining two of the most welcoming exterior paint colors.

'Blue and white is a classic color combination that never goes out of style,' says Michelle Vassallo, principal at MV Architects. 'White is incredibly versatile and works beautifully across almost any architectural style. We tend to gravitate toward classic colors that still feel fresh – nothing too bold, but a thoughtful variation from the expected.'

9. Warm White With Light Brown

This home has a warm white exterior with a light brown accent color used on the porch, along with a dark brown front door. 'Our clients knew they wanted a brighter exterior but not your typical modern farmhouse bright white,' says Katelyn Gilmour of KBG Design. 'So, we opted for a tonal, more creamy and slightly warm combination of paint colors. We selected Dunn-Edwards' Birch White for the body color, then Dunn-Edwards' Stucco Tan for the accent color seen on the shakes within the gables and covered entry porch.'

'For the trim, eaves and entry door, we selected a dark brownish gray, Sherwin-Williams’ Urbane Bronze, which complements the black windows without being matchy-matchy,' she says.

10. Dark, Muddy Green With Charcoal

Muddy shades of green paint used on a home's exterior, along with charcoal accents, create a tonal look that can easily blend into its surroundings. 'The main body color is Dunn-Edwards' Shutters, but we did a 25% increase of the pigment ratio to make it a bit more vibrant than the original color,' explains Katelyn Gilmour.

'For the trim, we selected Sherwin-Williams’ Iron Ore and a clear stain on the Doug Fir for the wood accents,' she says. 'The Iron Ore reads more like a warm charcoal color and pairs nicely with the other black elements on the home.'

How to Choose Your Exterior Color Scheme

While there are endless options to choose from, knowing exactly how to choose an exterior color scheme can be tricky. To simplify the process, experts discuss the main considerations to help you on your way.

One of the most important rules for choosing exterior paint colors is to work with your surroundings. 'I always encourage homeowners to begin with what already exists,' says designer Jessica Whitely. 'Fixed elements like stone, roofing, brick, or even the tone of the surrounding landscape should lead the conversation. When you work with those elements rather than against them, the result feels grounded and timeless.'

'From there, I recommend limiting the palette to two to three primary colors,' Jessica continues. 'This keeps the home feeling cohesive and allows the architecture itself to stand out rather than compete.'

You should also consider the architectural style of your home when deciding how many paint colors to use. 'For Craftsman, Victorian, or Gothic Revival homes, seeing four to six colors is quite common, as there’s usually a lot of detailing and variation in materials,' explains designer Louise Copeland of L.B. Copeland. 'With Federal or Colonial styles, it’s typically more restrained – one to three colors tends to work best.'

When selecting your paint colors, contrast between shades can help to add interest and depth. 'Contrast is important, but it should feel soft and natural,' advises Jessica. 'I tend to lean into muted, earth-based tones that create depth without feeling stark.'

When curating a color palette for your home's exterior, you should make sure that the undertones work well together. For example, those with a shared warmth will feel more harmonious than a mix of cool and warm tones. 'Two colors may appear similar, but if their undertones clash, the overall effect can feel off,' says Jessica. 'Reviewing colors in natural light is key. Whether wooded, coastal, or urban, the palette should respond to its environment. The most successful homes feel like they belong to the land.'

Lastly, think about how much sunlight your home gets, and how this will affect the look of your paint colors. 'Natural light can dramatically shift how a color reads throughout the day, and materials will wear differently depending on exposure,' says Jessica. 'I always recommend testing samples on multiple sides of the home and living with them before making a final decision.'

To give you more paint ideas for your home's exterior, we've rounded up examples of stylish color palettes for certain home types and architectural details.

Trim and Door Coordination

Your front door and exterior trim don't have to match, but using the same color can create a harmonious and timeless look.

For this home, a palette of subtly warm colors was used to complement the roof, with Benjamin Moore's October Mist used on the shutters and front door. 'This soft, muted green adds a layer of contrast while still feeling natural and understated,' says Kerith Flynn. 'The combination of warm ivory and gentle green creates a relaxed, coastal aesthetic that feels fresh, inviting, and appropriate to the home’s setting without feeling overly themed.'

Louise Copeland usually follows a similar approach with matching window trim colors and the front door. She cites a common mistake as when 'the door and shutters don’t relate to each other tonally', and explains that, 'If there are shutters, I usually prefer them to match the door or at least sit in a similar tonal range, otherwise the facade can start to feel busy.'

Colors for Red Brick Homes

If you're looking for colors that go with a red brick exterior, letting the warmth of the exposed brick shine while complementing it with a darker trim color can create an elevated look.

'When approaching red brick homes like this, the key is to work with the material’s inherent warmth and variation rather than trying to override it,' Jessica Whitley says. 'I typically recommend a nature-driven palette of muted greens, warm charcoals, deep taupes, and softened blacks. Slightly desaturated tones with depth tend to perform best, as they harmonize with the complexity of the brick.'

'Ultimately, the goal is balance, allowing the brick to remain the focal point while the surrounding materials create a layered, timeless composition that feels connected to its setting,' she says.

Colors for Stone Homes

For stone homes, choosing your paint color palette based on the existing tones can create a cohesive, natural look. 'We enhanced the stone by painting the house body a tertiary undertone that was present in the existing stone accent,' explains designer Sophia deDomenico of Et Sal Interiors. 'Amidst the bolder white, brown, and gray tones was this perfect putty color. We painted the body Tony Taupe by Sherwin-Williams.'

'The process described above is the same thing I tell every client: short of pulling everything out, lean into what's already surrounding you,' she adds. 'Look for the most subtle colors and pull them to be the star of the show as your backdrop.'

Colors for Modern Renders

If you have a modern home, one of the best pieces of advice when choosing paint colors is to base them on its surroundings. 'This color pattern was developed to reinforce some of the existing landscaping – old striking green pine trees, warm wood mulch and bark, and rocks,' explains Sophia deDomenico.

'The biggest trick is that the palette is muted in tone – the lack of saturation allows the architecture and surrounding plant life to be the statement, while the house palette supports,' she adds.

'For a neutral sunrise-inspired theme, think Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore for the body, Cavern Clay by Sherwin-Williams as an accent – perhaps on a door, and a warm wood trim like a cedar or a teak,' says Sophia. 'If paint must be used, think medium-toned brown.'

Exterior Paint Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your home looks timeless and stylish, you'll want to steer clear of these exterior paint mistakes.

• Focusing too much on trends: 'Exterior materials are long-term decisions, and what feels current today can quickly feel dated,' says Jessica Whitley. By following a trend-led approach, you may make the exterior of your home look dated quickly.
• Not sampling paint colors: You should always sample paint colors first. 'It’s worth testing colors in a few different spots around the house, especially where the light changes, as they can look completely different depending on sun and shade,' says Louise Copeland.
• Going for a white paint that's too stark: This is a mistake that can make the outside of your home look cheap. 'Overly harsh whites or high-contrast combinations can feel disconnected if they don’t soften into the environment,' says Jessica.
• Choosing colors that are out of sync with the home's surroundings: 'Another misstep is choosing colors that stand out too aggressively from their surroundings,' says Jessica. 'A home can feel distinct while still respecting the broader context of the neighborhood.'
• Not focusing on undertones: 'Ignoring undertones is another subtle but impactful mistake – colors that don’t align can make even a well-intentioned palette feel off,' says Jessica.
• Forgetting about longevity: It's key to think about how well your color palette will last. If your home gets lots of sunlight, the colors can fade over time, and not factoring this into your decision-making 'can lead to results that don’t hold up,' says Jessica.

Exterior Paint FAQs

What are the trending exterior paint colors for 2026?

'Exterior color trends for 2026 reflect a continued shift toward warmth, nature, and a timeless aesthetic,' says Lauren Hoferkamp, color and trends marketing expert at Dunn-Edwards. 'Warm neutrals like creamy whites, soft taupes, and light greiges continue to lead the way, offering a versatile and inviting foundation.'

In addition to the current appeal for warm and grounding neutral palettes, there is a particular focus on green right now, says Hannah Yeo, senior manager, color marketing at Benjamin Moore: 'From muted sages and refined olives to deeper forest tones, green offers a subtle entry point into color while still feeling timeless and rooted.'

What exterior colors make a house look more expensive?

Exterior paint colors that make a house look more expensive focus on timeless colors. 'Warm neutrals, creamy whites, and soft beiges are consistently associated with luxury, creating a clean, cohesive backdrop that allows architectural details to stand out,' says Lauren.

While warm neutrals and soft colors tend to look more elevated than anything too bright or bold, it's also about how the colors complement the existing materials, says Hannah: 'It all begins with choosing hues that harmonize across the home’s varied surfaces, creating cohesion while allowing materials and architectural details to shine.'

When is the best time to paint the exterior of a house?

The best time to paint a house exterior is when you have the right outdoor temperature, dry weather, and moderate humidity. 'In most regions, this typically occurs from late spring through early fall,' says David Underwood, technical marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

'It is important to be mindful of both the ambient air temperature and the temperature of the surface being painted,' David explains. 'Most exterior paints can be applied to surfaces with temperatures as low as 35°F and as high as 100°F.'

'Moderate humidity is ideal, as high humidity slows evaporation, increasing dry times and the risk of surfactant leaching or poor film formation,' says David.

'Surfaces must be completely dry before painting, and no rain or heavy dew should be expected during the coating’s specified drying and curing window,' he adds.

How much does it cost to repaint a house?

'The cost to repaint a house depends on many different factors, such as the size of the home, the type of primers and paints used, and the extent of surface preparation required,' says Lauren Hoferkamp.

'Proper preparation, including cleaning, sanding, and priming, is essential for a long-lasting finish,' she says. 'When hiring a professional painter, their estimate will typically include these preparation steps, along with the product and labor.'

The best way to approach exterior paint ideas is to focus on what's already there. Whether that's red brick or metal accents, choosing your paint colors to complement these, while respecting the surroundings, will help your house to feel timeless and quietly elevated. 'I’ve found the most successful homes aren’t trying to stand out, they’re resolved,' says Jessica Whitley. 'Every material, tone, and detail works in quiet alignment with the architecture and the land.'

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If I told you beige was making a comeback, you might question my sources. It wasn't long ago that we all unanimously agreed to ditch the lackluster neutrals that ruled the last decade – beige, cream, gray, etc. However, no neutral stays out of style for long, and most of them have a resurgence, just in a new, more 2026-appropriate form.

And for beige, it's making its return as what top designers are calling 'peige', a soothing, warm but subtle neutral that I first heard Leanne Ford claim as a neutral she was loving using right now.

'Piege is an earthy, grounded, tertiary version of pink,' Leanne told me. 'You really can’t go wrong with color when you stay in earth tones – you’re pulling from the palette of the world around us every day, which always feels timeless, easy to live with, and most of all calming.'

A color replacing beige in 2026, peige is the perfect balance of pink and beige. And although peige may not be a color trend you have heard of just yet, designers are embracing nuanced neutrals, particularly pink-toned browns that feel warm and complementary with daylight, so it's undeniably a hue you'd recognize.

'I find myself pulled toward neutral and monochromatic spaces because they simplify a room and calm whatever is going on in this busy brain of mine,' explains Leanne. 'So that’s something I’ll always return to in my own homes and projects.'

'I actually just did an all 'peige' house with my best friend, Grace Mitchell (pictured above), on one of our shared projects down in Round Top, Texas. It's a pinky-beige tone used throughout the entire house in the same monochromatic way I would normally use white, and it functions as a neutral in the space because everything there shares the same tone.'

When I started to speak with other designers about peige, I found many were using it as there go to neutral.

Jessica Summer says, 'I love using pinky beige paint hues for several reasons. They are warm yet have a touch of earthiness, so never look sickly or too bright.' Referring to the bedroom pictured above, Jessica adds, 'I also love the combination of it with dark timbers, and I knew we had several antiques going in of this material.'

'This is actually a specialist paint effect and a bespoke paint color,' she adds. 'I worked this up in situ with my specialist painter – it was to have just the right balance of fresh and earthy tones. I recall it’s a mix of Farrow & Ball Setting Plaster, Dimity, and a beige paint.'

More than a neutral paint, peige 'is a little bit more than a neutral, but not such an intense color choice,' explains Jessica. 'And this brings color in a gentle way, which suits many people and interior concepts. Also, I think these color tones are actually a flattering light to be in, as they reflect well on people's skin tones (often why a pink-hued bathroom is a good idea!), and I think this all adds to building a pleasing atmosphere in the home, like you might with a well-designed lighting scheme.'

Alice Gaskell, founder of Alice Grace Interiors, also uses peige tones when creating light but cocooning rooms that shift beautifully throughout the day.

'In the case of our living room (pictured above), selecting Coat's Out of Office for our woodwork – the bookcases, the skirting, the cornice – was partly influenced by the light conditions, but also this is a room that we use to relax, to wind down, and to spend evenings with friends and family,' explains Alice. 'It needed to feel like a warm and inviting space, whilst setting a mood of contentment and ease.'

'A pinkish, stony neutral', Out of Office is the perfect example of 'peige' at its best. Upon first sight, it reads as a gentle, chalky neutral, but actually the more time I have spent with it, I’ve realized that, like many paint colors, it is far more nuanced than that,' Alice says. 'There’s a warmth running through it, a softness that keeps it from ever feeling lifeless and flat, which makes it ideal for areas that sit at eye level and above, and that don’t get a huge amount of natural light.'

'One of the reasons Out of Office works so beautifully is how it behaves in different light. This is a south-west facing room that receives relatively little light, given that it is quite a deep room with a single window,' she explains. 'In the morning, when the room feels a little brighter, it feels fresher, particularly on a sunnier day, lifting the space without brightening it too much.'

'As the day goes on and the light darkens and cools, the color deepens slightly, revealing its underlying warmth. In the evening, under side lights and candles, it becomes particularly soft, and provides a flattering backdrop against the rich fabrics, patterns and bolder pieces of artwork in the rest of the room.'

'We chose Farrow & Ball’s Oxford Stone for this bedroom because of its beautifully balanced pinky-beige undertone,' says interior designer, Rebecca Hughes. 'Which brings warmth without overwhelming the space. It creates a soft, cocooning atmosphere that feels both calming and quietly sophisticated – perfect for a restful retreat.'

When choosing a neutral paint, look for tones that feel layered and warm, advises Rebecca. 'Beiges with a pink undertone are a particularly clever choice in interiors because they soften the often flat or cold feel that standard neutrals can have. The gentle warmth is flattering, enhances natural light, and pairs effortlessly with both cool and warm materials – making the space feel more inviting and layered.'

'For styling, I’d recommend leaning into that warmth: incorporate natural textures like linen, wood, and wool, and layer tonal shades – think soft taupes, muted blushes, and warm whites. Adding contrast through darker accents, such as bronze or deep brown, helps ground the scheme while keeping the overall look serene and cohesive.'

Pretty 'Peige' Shopping Picks

The trending colors of 2026 may have so far been on the bolder side, but we all know that neutrals will always have a place; they are just getting more interesting, more nuanced, and peige is the perfect example of an easy-to-use color that never looks boring.

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Named after a painter's cloth that's draped across the floor, Farrow & Ball's Drop Cloth is the perfect airy neutral that feels gentle yet uplifting.

Falling somewhere between beige and gray, Drop Cloth is a versatile neutral paint, loved for its balanced, light-changing qualities. A shade that looks different depending on the time of day, it's not too yellow but still warm and cocooning, making it a timeless neutral that can work in any light.

Muted yet never bland, Drop Cloth is a designer favorite. From serene bedrooms to light-filled mudrooms, these spaces might inspire you to try Farrow & Ball's coveted neutral in your own home.

'Drop Cloth is a lovely grounded stony color, and is a beautiful backdrop to dry textured linens in khaki green and lichen colors, as well as rusty red linens and velvets,' says interior designer Olivia Outred.

In the project pictured above, Olivia used Drop Cloth on the walls of the bedroom to create a sense of serenity. Richer hues like a deep indigo headboard and a mustard throw contrast beautifully with the calming neutral.

Its depth makes it perfect for pairing with white, too. 'I use Drop Cloth on skirtings and architraves a lot,' Olivia adds, 'and when I want a crisp contrast and bright walls, I team it with Wimborne White, which is a warm white and one of my favorites.'

A versatile shade that brings depth into light spaces and vice versa, Laurie Fulkerson, interior designer at Twin Companies, used Drop Cloth to adorn the walls of a client's mudroom.

Laurie has used Drop Cloth in many settings. She explains, 'I use it often on cabinets and for walls. It is a great neutral with some depth that brings attention to a space when you want a neutral color, but not a white or cream tone on the walls. It is just one of those colors that works pretty much anywhere!'

'I think it would be a great trim color with wallpaper, painted floors, and of course, cabinets and walls,' adds Laurie. 'I am going to try it for an exterior color on an upcoming project, and I think it would look amazing with pretty green or blue windows – and of course, bronze. I like it with a warm color palette and think it would look great with a light blue, navy, sage green or a mossy green, and one of my favorite colors, a sophisticated pink!'

'Drop Cloth is a perfect mid grey‑beige,' explains Patrick O'Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball. 'Calm, balanced, and never too warm or too cool. It has this effortless, lived‑in neutrality that works in pretty much any style of home.'

In the case of the pictured dining room, Drop Cloth is a clever choice that feels warm yet still uplifting. It contrasts with the darker wood furniture and provides a brightening effect, particularly useful in a room situated at the back of the house.

'Using Drop Cloth as a soft, all‑over neutral or on cabinetry creates a warmer alternative to white,' advises Patrick. 'It pairs beautifully with natural textures like linen, oak, and stone. For the best complementary whites, Shaded White and Shadow White create a subtle, timeless gradient that feels incredibly considered.'

Drop Cloth-Inspired Decor

A noticeable neutral with grounding and uplifting qualities, Drop Cloth is one of those rare paint colors that works in every room, of any size or style. From kitchen cabinetry to bedroom walls, Drop Cloth is a timeless neutral that will always endure.

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‘It’s not turquoise. It’s not lapis. It’s actually cerulean,’ still lingers as the now-legendary takedown delivered by Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada (2006), the moment that crystallized the once-obscure color into a cultural icon.

Aspiring journalist-turned-assistant Andy Sachs, of course, had no idea that Oscar de la Renta had shown cerulean gowns in 2002, or that Yves Saint Laurent sent out military jackets in the same shade. Two decades on, and with the highly anticipated sequel finally here, the color idea is back en vogue – splashed across SS26 runways thanks to houses like Tory Burch, who’s befittingly gone trend-to-table with her Spongeware Collection, hand-painting the bright blue across English 19th-century-inspired stoneware pitchers, dinner plates, and serving bowls.

H&M Home hasn’t missed the memo either, recently rolling out a strictly cerulean lineup of indoor and outdoor decor. Whether this is clever timing or just the fashion cycle doing its usual déjà vu, one thing’s for certain: we’re having a cerulean summer (again).

Below, 16 not-just-blue decor pieces we suspect even Miranda would approve of.

The Round is Homes & Gardens' collection of the must-have pieces shaping styles, trends, and ideas. It brings together thoughtfully curated products that express a single moment – offering readers inspiring ways to style their homes through seasonal themes, emerging looks, and everyday pieces.

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Kitchens are increasingly the most important room in the home – a space used to gather and entertain as well as a cookspace. It makes sense, then, that kitchen color schemes are moving away from uninspiring neutrals toward a palette of warm and welcoming shades.

Since kitchen color schemes are often a long-term design investment, it's important to find the right balance between trending colors and those that offer timelessness. To do so, what better way than to hear firsthand from designers about the colors they're using above all else in the heart of the home for 2026, and beyond?

I spoke to over 30 designers across the US to find out just that. While many colors came up, from warm 'new neutrals' to blue, there was one color that came up time and time again, one that I expect to be the biggest kitchen color trend for 2026, while also feeling completely timeless.

The ‘Winning’ Color

One kitchen color kept coming up when I asked designers for the color that they're most drawn to right now for the heart of the home: green. From soft, neutral-leaning greens to much darker and richer shades, designers are loving this nature-inspired hue for kitchens this year.

But why are green kitchens a standout? According to designers, this soothing shade is a rebellion against the all-white and neutral kitchens of years past, while feeling grounding and livable. It's a happy medium between color and neutrals.

Why Are Green Kitchens So Popular in 2026?

Green is a universally-loved color, one that feels as at home in traditional kitchens as it does in modern homes. Below, designers explain why they're drawn to this nature-inspired hue for kitchens this year.

Green Represents a Shift Away From Stark Minimalism

Arguably, the most prominent reason designers cite for the appeal of green kitchens is the shared fatigue surrounding white kitchens that feel stark and lack warmth. 'Green offers something that so many all-white kitchens have been missing for years: a sense of warmth, permanence, and personality,' explains the Washington, D.C., designer Christopher Boutlier.

'Kitchens became so focused on being bright, polished, and universally appealing that many started to feel a little sterile,' he continues to explain. 'Green brings life back into the space.'

Designers agree that the overly perfected kitchen feels outdated in 2026, championing a return to something more relaxed and warm. 'There was a period where perfectly neutral kitchens with a little wood were all the rage,' comments designer Ashton Taylor. 'I think people are growing tired of everything looking the same and are back to craving color and originality. Green makes a statement, light neutrals play it safe.'

Green Offers a Sense of Calm

Color psychology tells us that green makes us feel calm, not least because it feels closely linked to the natural world. In 2026, in a time of digital fatigue, it makes sense to use this color in interiors to create spaces that restore and provide balance. 'Nature is the ultimate stress reliever; if we bring a little of that indoors, our homes can also be a source of calm,' says the Atlanta, Georgia-based designer Laura Jenkins.

'Green continues to resonate because it feels inherently grounding,' add the designers Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins from Kobel + Co. 'In a moment when kitchens have become the true center of daily life, there’s a desire for spaces that feel calm, collected, and connected to nature.'

Gabrielle Bove of Boston-based Opaline Interiors Studio also comments on the desire for homes that feel like a sanctuary – something that green can help to create: 'I think people are craving warmth, shelter, refuge, and coziness in their homes as a direct foil to their busy lives.'

Kitchens Are Being Redefined as Living Spaces

There is a wider shift in the interior design world that is repositioning what are typically utilitarian rooms into lived-in, cozy spaces that offer warmth and character.

'Kitchens are no longer purely functional,' says Florida-based designer Lauren Lichko. 'They are true living spaces. Color, especially green, adds depth and character in a way neutrals often cannot. It brings dimension without overwhelming the room.'

When seeking to create cozy kitchens that are as welcoming as they are functional, green is often an effective color choice since it feels natural, while generally pairing well with the materials typically found in this room. 'Green introduces nuance, adding warmth without heaviness, and color without chaos,' explain Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins. 'It also creates a natural bridge between materials like wood, stone, and brass, helping the kitchen feel more layered and intentional.'

'We are seeing more focus on the furnished kitchen: built-in cushioned banquettes, café-style sofa and lounge chair arrangements, hutches with cherished displays of family heirlooms and collections,' adds Gabrielle Bove. 'Richer color schemes promote this and feel more personal.'

Green Offers Versatility and Timelessness

It's clear that designers are favoring, in general, a shift away from stark minimalism and towards cozy, lived-in spaces that are led by personality. When considering which colors work best to reflect this, green feels like a fairly 'safe' choice. Unlike bolder color trends – think burgundy, yellow, or certain shades of blue – green somehow feels more livable, and, with the right shade of green, almost like an extension to neutral color palettes.

'There is a versatility to green that is driving its popularity,' says Kristina Khersonsky of Los Angeles-based STUDIO KEETA. 'Green kitchens have a way of feeling both fresh and interesting and yet also grounding at the same time.'

What's more, green is a versatile color that adapts well to different styles, homes, and kitchens. 'Green can be tweaked to work with many different styles – from Victorian to more contemporary,' says Laura Jenkins.

Designer Perspectives on Green Kitchens for 2026

While vibrant variations of green have cropped up in recent trends, with the likes of sour shades such as chartreuse, designers are placing particular focus on earthy variations of this color.

'We’re especially drawn to softened, complex greens,' say Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins. 'Think sage or earthier, nature-inspired hues. These hues create a quiet, layered backdrop rather than a bold statement, allowing the kitchen to feel both tailored and relaxed. They reflect light beautifully and shift throughout the day, giving the space a sense of depth and movement without overwhelming it.'

'Soft, muted greens feel the most relevant,' agrees Dallas-based designer Lauren Saab. 'Tones that lean slightly gray or olive read more elevated than anything overly bright. They create a calm backdrop in a kitchen, which matters in a space used all day.'

While soft shades of green seem to be a favorite right now, some designers are also enjoying using dark green paints in kitchens. 'I’m much more drawn to olive, moss, and smoky brown-greens than anything bright or overly fresh,' says Christopher Boutlier. 'Benjamin Moore’s Rooftop Garden is a favorite because it has depth without feeling heavy, and it reads almost like a natural material rather than a strong color statement. Those deeper greens create a mood that feels calm, grounded, and slightly moody in the best way. They make a kitchen feel established and architectural, almost as though it has always been there.'

Some designers are also more drawn to vibrant shades of green. 'We have created many a moody kitchen, but lately I am drawn to the brighter shades of green,' says Laura Jenkins. 'I find that these brighter hues allow the natural light to shine through and feel lighter – brightening the mood. Maybe we are leaning towards 'happier' colors because the world feels heavy.'

When designing a kitchen scheme around green, natural materials always work well. 'Green pairs really well with wood, no matter the depth of wood tone,' says Kristina Khersonsky.

'I am drawn to green kitchens – both light and dark hues – because it is such a seamless color to layer,' adds Meg Lonergan, who's based in Texas. 'We pair it with blue, yellow, pink, coral, white, and cream. Almost everything looks good with green, as it’s nature’s color.'

For metal fixtures in a kitchen, designers say that brass is a go-to pairing when decorating with green, providing warmth and enhancing its lived-in feel.

Were There Any Close Contenders?

While green was the most popular kitchen color trend among the surveyed designers, warm-toned neutrals are also worth mentioning. Instead of the stark and bright white kitchens that have hugely dropped in popularity, some designers are favoring a revised palette of warm neutrals for 2026.

'We love Farrow & Ball's Shaded White for its rich, saturated quality,' explains the Utah-based designer Ali Henrie. 'It’s a timeless, versatile white that works beautifully across a range of kitchen styles. It creates a strong, neutral foundation, allowing elements like hardware, millwork, cabinetry details, and countertops to layer in seamlessly and feel cohesive, regardless of the selections.'

Along with soft, warm-toned neutrals that feel timeless and subtly welcoming on the walls and cabinets, designers are using warm woods such as walnut to elevate neutral kitchens. 'I genuinely believe walnut in the next 'it' color,' says designer Theresa Ory. 'The warmth, depth, and softness walnut affords is top of the list lately.'

How to Use Green In Kitchens Stylishly

From green kitchen cabinets to painting the walls, there are lots of ways to add this trending shade to your space. Below, we've rounded up a few of our favorite ideas that feel design-forward and elevated.

Pair Light Green With a Bold Color for a Playful Look

Pairing light green paints with more colorful accents in kitchens creates a fun, design-led look, as seen in this modern kitchen with the blue wall tiles. 'I like using greens in a slightly more unexpected way – whether that is as a stain on a heavily grained wood or an unexpected sheen of green or the green alongside an expected color like an electric blue,' says Kristina Khersonsky.

Use Warm Neutrals Alongside Green for a Timeless Space

Alternatively, for a timeless and overall neutral look, use an earthy green paint on lower cabinets or a kitchen island, along with warm neutral walls and upper cabinets. 'I almost always pair it with unlacquered brass or aged bronze because those finishes develop character over time and keep the room from feeling too crisp,' says Christopher Boutlier. 'Accent colors like deep oxblood, warm cream, and muted blue can also work beautifully in textiles or adjacent rooms.'

Pair Green Cabinets With Marble Countertops

In this green kitchen, the marble countertops create an elevated and sophisticated look. 'We pulled soft sage tones from the Calacatta Monet marble,' explain Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins. 'It reads as a neutral, making it incredibly livable while softening the hard surfaces typical of a kitchen. These soft sage greens bring a sense of ease that homeowners are craving right now. '

It's clear that green kitchens are going to be significant this year. Many designers are favoring this shade above all others, whether it's with soft sage greens or more earthy olive tones. Either way, green is a grounding, nature-inspired hue that offers a sense of timelessness. By using this shade to complement the existing elements of your kitchen, from wood tones to marble countertops, it will feel quietly confident rather than trend-led.

From living rooms layered with earthy brown tones to bedrooms swathed in pale peachy pinks, 'hue drenching' makes one single color (and its many tones) the star of the show.

While the color trend doesn't sound all that different from the much hyped technique of 'color drenching', hue drenching has more nuance and can create even more interesting, layered spaces with a simple color scheme. Unlike color drenching, where a room is bathed in a single paint shade, hue drenching embraces both ends of the color spectrum, layering the lightest to the darkest tones (that make up one color) through decor, furniture, as well as paint.

While one feels deeply encompassing and sometimes rather statement, the other gently builds around one shade, infusing a room with richness and luxury without feeling overwhelmed, in-your-face, or overly coordinated. Here's how designers are embracing one single color in 2026, and layering schemes with a spectrum of hues.

The beauty of hue drenching is that it's more than a paint idea; it's up to you how far you take it. Whether it's layering warm brown throw pillows on a chocolate brown sofa or tying your rug in with your wallpaper, it's a look that doesn't strive for coordination, but rather, common ground.

'Hue-drenching harks back to quite a traditional aesthetic,' shares interior designer Caroline Riddell. 'Consequently, it has its place in both a contemporary and classic interior. We think it will last the test of time!'

Referring to the brown living room pictured above, Caroline explains, 'We worked closely with our client to create a sophisticated yet intimate atmosphere for this room. By using different brown hues and materials (e.g., grass cloth on the walls, mohair on the sofa), the different textures added interest while retaining its cohesive palette. Brown has warmth and depth, perfect for this north-facing room.'

'Using different hues of the same color calms the space but still allows for pattern and interest in the choice of accent pieces,' Caroline says. 'For example, the beautiful Vanderhurd rug we used in this room. Using the predominant brown tones throughout the scheme allowed us to be quite bold with the geometric design. This helped to ground the space! If you’re using very dominant pieces of furniture or art, hue-drenching can be a great blank canvas to build a scheme.'

'Hue-drenching is about taking a shade of color and interpreting it throughout a scheme, so you see variations of it across every surface and element,' says interior designer Uns Hobbs. 'It quite literally envelops you in the space. I think it's a trend that will last, precisely because it isn't about one flat, uniform color. It's nuanced and considered, and when done well, it creates rooms that feel intentional and immersive.'

Creating a pink bedroom that feels gentle and soothing, Uns layered pinks from both ends of the color spectrum. 'Firstly, our client loves pink,' she explains. 'So there was never any question that it needed to be the heart of this space! But the decision to use a whole spectrum, from peach through to pale pink and all the way to crimson, was very deliberate. We wanted the light to refract across the different shades, so they worked harmoniously together without feeling overwhelming. A single shade would have felt flat and a little one-dimensional.'

While a plaster pink paint, much like Farrow & Ball's Setting Plaster, sets the tone of the room, hue drenching can be introduced in less bold ways, such as bedding, furniture, or smaller decorative accents. 'By layering the tones, the crimson has somewhere to pop, the peach wraps you in warmth, and the mid-pinks sit beautifully in between; they push and pull against each other, and yet somehow they all work together perfectly,' Uns explains.

'The beauty of working within the same color family is that the space feels wonderfully tonal, but you can still achieve real contrast and visual interest,' adds Uns. 'Rather than things feeling matchy or safe, you get depth and movement. It also creates a feeling of serenity, which makes it an ideal approach for a bedroom, where you want to feel calm and cocooned the moment you walk in.'

'Trends always come and go, but the idea of using one color to create a space that feels warm and cozy will always stay in some form,' shares interior designer Sara Leonor. 'Over time, it may become softer, with lighter, less intense colors, but the concept will remain.'

A spectrum of zingy, grassy tones is layered in the galley kitchen pictured above, a bold choice in a smaller space, but the hue drenching techinique means it totally works. 'When we started the project, the client had one main request for the kitchen: they wanted green metro tiles for the splashback,' says Sara. 'As we explored different options through sketches and physical samples, we found that using a range of green shades, along with the black-and-white floor tiles, made the space feel warmer and more inviting. The kitchen is right at the home's entrance, so this approach helped it feel less like a typical kitchen and more like a welcoming room.'

'Using different colors together can be more difficult and can sometimes feel busy or overwhelming,' adds Sara. 'Working with shades of the same color creates a calmer, more balanced look. It helps the room feel more relaxed and put together.'

This vibrant blue living room, designed by Katie Ridder, proves blue can feel just as sophisticated and timeless as any neutral hue.

'The room faces a lake, so it was a way of bringing the outdoors inside in a sophisticated way,' she explains. 'There were also disparate architectural details, and by decorating the room in various shades of blue, it quiets the space and brings cohesion to the room. '

'Hue drenching is a timeless way to incorporate color without overwhelming the senses. It can also help rooms feel cozier and more intimate.' 'Cohesion' is one of the main benefits that comes with color drenching,' Katie explains. 'To mask details, you may not want people's eyes to be drawn to. To help clients introduce colour into a space without overwhelming them if they are color-shy. It is sophisticated and can be calming when done right.'

While color drenching isn't going anywhere this year, hue drenching is a more subtle, layered take on the concept of using a single color in a room. It's a technique that can be gentle and bold, it has the power to feel encompassing or gentle, no matter what color you land on.

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Shopping for paint is a key part of most decorating projects, but it's often one that involves endless deliberation when finding the right color, finish, and quantity, especially if you're buying from a brand you haven't used before.

And while there are plenty of ways to actually shop for paint – online, at your local paint stores, or at brand showrooms – feeling unsure about where to start isn't uncommon. With that in mind, we're taking away the guesswork with our guide that covers pretty much everything you'll need to know about the paint-buying process.

From a deep dive into each of the best paint brands available in the US (as recommended by interior designers), to useful paint ideas for the sampling process and mistakes to avoid, this will help you shop smartly.

How to Choose the Right Paint Brand

Choosing a paint brand is the first step in the paint-buying process, and there are lots of factors to consider when comparing brands. The first consideration, and perhaps most obvious, is the color selection – some brands lean classic, while others feel much more contemporary, so you should start with a brand that feels aligned with your interior style.

The quality of the paint is equally important, and, as you'll find out below, certain brands are praised for their pigment-rich paints and durable paint finishes. Some brands have a limited range of finishes to choose from, while others have an extensive. If you have a particular finish in mind, high-gloss, for example, it can be useful to choose a brand that is widely known for its reflective finishes.

Price is also an important consideration. If you have a decorative look in mind for a certain room, perhaps a specific shade of red, investing in a design-forward paint brand that specializes in its color palette can be worth the money. If you're looking for a neutral paint to coat many surfaces throughout your home, the likes of Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams are safe bets.

The Best Paint Brands in the US

From Farrow & Ball to Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore to Behr, designers reveal what makes them shop at their respective favorite paint brands, helping you to find the best match for your priorities when it comes to paint.

Benjamin Moore

Dating all the way back to 1883 in New York, Benjamin Moore is a well-known paint brand across the US, and its paint shades are incredibly popular among interior designers. It offers an extensive range of colors, primers, and paint finishes, covering interiors and exteriors.

'We really love their color selection,' says the Philadelphia-based designer Michelle Gage, who often uses Benjamin Moore paint colors in her projects. 'They offer over 3,500 premium paint options, which is wonderful when we’re looking for that “just right” shade. We love Benjamin Moore’s tools and resources; it makes our job easy, and we’re also confident that the end result will make our clients happy.'

When it comes to choosing colors from Benjamin Moore, Michelle says that it covers all sorts of interior design styles. 'Every project we do is different, so what we’re looking for changes with each design – we may be looking for bold and bright hues to provide a punchy backdrop or something more neutral to let, let’s say, the sofa shine,' the designer explains.

Aside from its extensive color range, the brand is also celebrated for its durable finishes. 'My go-to choice is Regal Select Interior,' says Michelle. 'It’s crafted with precision, and the outstanding washability and scuff resistance mean my designs hold up to real life. I feel at ease knowing the product and color will stand the test of time.'

It's also easy to get hold of Benjamin Moore paint, not least because it is stocked in over 7,500 retailers throughout North America, which you can search with its store locator. 'Benjamin Moore paints are available through locally owned retailers, and you can find products, colors, and inspiration both online and in-store,' explains Michelle.

Sherwin-Williams

Sherwin-Williams is a popular US paint brand that dates all the way back to 1866. Offering an extensive range of colors, finishes, and coatings, it is known for its professional products, while it also has lots of helpful tools, such as an online color visualizer and an app for color recommendations. It also highlights seasonal shades with its 'Color of the Month' series.

The Texas-based designer Marie Flanigan regularly turns to Sherwin-Williams paint products for her interior projects. 'I return to Sherwin-Williams because the color library is expansive but also dependable, which makes it easier to design with confidence,' she says.

Many of Sherwin-Williams' best-selling paints are white paints, from Alabaster to Shoji White, but Greek Villa is a standout shade for Marie. 'In my own home, Greek Villa offered a soft warmth that felt inviting without being too creamy,' she adds. 'I recently used Carriage Door in a lacquered finish for a lounge, and it created a rich, tailored mood that felt very intentional.'

Its wide range of paint finishes is another pull to the brand for Marie. 'I am especially drawn to higher gloss and lacquered finishes when I want depth and a more elevated feel,' she explains. 'In contrast, their matte and low sheen paints are beautiful for everyday spaces because they soften light and feel timeless. The finish always supports the overall mood I am trying to create.'

In addition to shopping online, there are thousands of Sherwin-Williams paint stores across the US, making it easy to shop for their products in person.

Farrow & Ball

Founded in Dorset, England, Farrow & Ball is a coveted British paint brand that's known for its pigment-rich colors and eco-friendly approach: handcrafting each of its products with sustainable ingredients. Although British craft is its core, it has a cult following in the US, with showrooms in various states, from California to New York.

'I’m consistently drawn to Farrow & Ball for a few key reasons, but it really comes down to the quality and intentionality behind their colors,' says the NYC designer Jennifer Hunter. 'First, their palette feels incredibly considered. Rather than overwhelming you with endless options, every shade is curated, which makes it much easier to find colors that feel timeless and cohesive. There’s a restraint to their collection that I really appreciate as a designer.'

'Farrow & Ball offers what I would call a refined approach to the color wheel,' agrees the designer Katherine Shenaman. 'Their palette usually appeals to a more mature audience, whether in age or in experience, when it comes to design. The clients who appreciate their colors usually have an educated eye, as far as design, and appreciate interiors that are sophisticated and elegant, while still having a bit of depth and perhaps even a bit of gravitas.'

While Jennifer praises Farrow & Ball for its curated palette, the quality of the paint itself is what keeps her coming back. 'Their paints are so richly pigmented that the shades shift beautifully throughout the day, depending on the light,' she explains. 'A color never feels flat as it has dimension and movement.'

You'll likely have heard of Farrow & Ball's most popular paints, from Hague Blue to Setting Plaster, most of which have a slightly darkened, aged quality to them. 'Inchyra Blue is a perfect example of a beautifully deep ocean blue that has green, blue, and gray,' says Katherine. 'Pink Ground is another favorite, and I’ve used it multiple times in nurseries and young girls' rooms.'

There are various paint finishes available at Farrow & Ball, from flat to eggshell, but its gloss finishes are a favorite for Jennifer. 'We love using Farrow & Ball in Full Gloss because it completely transforms how a color reads in a space,' she adds. 'Full Gloss is their highest-shine finish, which means it reflects a significant amount of light and gives that almost lacquered, mirror-like effect.'

To shop Farrow & Ball, you can visit one of their showrooms and order online, or you can head to one of their many stockists, which include the likes of Ring's End and Catalina Paint. 'The Paint Store at Ronald Shaffer Interiors in West Palm Beach is the local supplier for Farrow & Ball,' explains Katherine, who is based in Florida.

While you can easily order directly from their site, you can also browse all of Farrow & Ball's showrooms and stockists here.

Backdrop

Founded in 2018, Backdrop is a Los Angeles-based paint brand that has a cool and contemporary edge, reflected in its streamlined paint finishes and design-forward color range.

Modern interior designers turn to Backdrop when selecting paint shades for their projects. 'We’re drawn to Backdrop’s edit of colors,' say Chelsey Cox and Rachel Rector of Florida-based design studio Chinotto House. 'There’s a confidence to the palette, whether it leans bright and playful or deep and saturated. The tones land with a clear sense of mood.'

Kristina Khersonsky, the designer behind LA-based STUDIO KEETA, is another fan of Backdrop. 'Backdrop has a thoughtful, edited color palette,' she says. 'They offer a tightly curated set of colors that feel interesting and current and help with decision fatigue. Their colors are named and marketed in a way that helps visualize the essence, not just the hue. They are also of great quality with low VOC and are Green Wise Certified.'

'I love a wide range of their colors,' Kristina adds. 'Our go-to white paint is Harvest Moon. It’s a crisp white with a subtle warm undertone that doesn’t lean too yellow or too pink. We’ve also used Masterpiece Theatre in a powder bathroom, which is one of my favorite colors they offer at the moment. It’s an opulent olive brown that feels both unusual and familiar.'

When shopping for Backdrop paint, it has selected stockists across the US, including Schumacher, which is where Kristina sources it. Or, you can shop for Backdrop paints directly from their website. 'Backdrop’s team is a big part of why we keep coming back,' say Chelsey and Rachel. 'From swatches to final orders, the process feels supported and easy. That level of service matters to us, especially when we’re sourcing across multiple elements for a project.'

Fine Paints of Europe

With products manufactured in the Netherlands, Fine Paints of Europe prides itself on the quality of its products: paint formulas that result in an elevated look while offering longevity to last for years to come.

The Texas designer Courtnay Tartt Elias of Creative Tonic Design turns to Fine Paints of Europe for her projects, citing its impressive quality and color range. 'If you know me, you know I love a high-gloss finish, and that quality is key,' she says. 'Fine Paints of Europe gets it right every time.'

'Beyond the quality, the colors are a huge draw,' she says. 'The range is extraordinary, and the intensity of the shades is unlike anything else on the market. They've got a depth and richness that reads so beautifully in a finished space. I keep coming back to them, project after project, because I know I can find the color I want and never have to doubt the quality.'

'Their Hollandlac line produces a finish that is truly in a class of its own,' she explains. 'If a project of mine involves high-gloss lacquer (and quite a few of them do!), it is almost certainly going to involve Fine Paints of Europe. The Hollandlac Brilliant is incredibly densely pigmented and dries into an almost mirror-like finish.'

To shop for this Dutch-based paint brand, head to one of its retailers across the US. 'Here in Houston, I source mine through Moxie – I love everything in their store, paint included,' adds Courtnay.

Behr

Based in Santa Ana, California, Behr Paint Company is available exclusively at The Home Depot. In addition to its interior paints, it is known for its exterior paints, from wood stains to floor paints.

The Pennsylvania-based interior designer Leanne Ford is a fan of Behr's paint products, using various shades for her projects – most notably, its neutral paints.

A favorite of Leanne's is Ultra Pure White. 'You can get this one right off the shelf and paint away,' she says. 'My friends will write to me constantly to ask which paint to use, and this is my forever suggestion. It’s the perfect white for a modern space – no tint, and it works well in high gloss or flat. I love it.'

When looking for something warmer, Leanne turns to Behr's Crisp Linen. 'I am currently on my third project where I am covering both the interior and exterior in it,' she says.

Another go-to white paint from Behr for Leanne is Blank Canvas. 'It’s warm and welcoming but still clean and fresh with a hint of vintage,' she says. 'And, quite literally, creates a blank canvas for you to create on.'

In addition to visiting your local Home Depot, you can also shop online and order directly from the Behr website.

C2 Paint

Focused on its craft and timeless approach to color, C2 Paint is an independent American paint brand that offers artisan products. Each of its paints – from interior finishes to exterior – is low VOC, making it a good choice if you're looking for an environmentally-conscious brand.

Its paint colors don't feature any black ink, instead focusing on dynamic colors that feel inspired by the natural world. 'As a designer, what I really like about C2's paint shades is the color mix of their complex pigment formulas, not just adding white to a few tints,' says the Chicago designer Elizabeth Drake. 'It makes such a difference how the sunlight bounces off the color, giving more of an artistry feel than functional.'

'I’ve loved using Margarita C2-657,' she adds. 'It’s a fern green but with enough lemon and lime undertones to give it life – perfect for north-facing rooms. It brings its own sunshine to the room.'

You can use its helpful store locator to find a retailer where you can shop for C2 Paint in-person across the US, or you can order paint online. 'I got hooked on C2 when the dealer was near our studio, but when he retired, I started ordering it online from the website,' says Elizabeth.

Additional Paint Brands to Explore

• Little Greene: A British paint brand known for its environmentally-friendly paint products. Its color range is steeped in British heritage, making it a good option for more traditional decorating ideas. It has a showroom in Greenwich, Connecticut, and is stocked at various US retailers.
• Graham & Brown: In addition to its wallpaper designs, British-based Graham & Brown offers paint colors that feel timeless, livable, and full of charm. It recently held a temporary pop-up in NYC, and you can order paints directly from its website.
• Valspar: Valspar is a 200-year-old paint brand that offers an extensive range of colors and finishes, from wood stains to floor paints. You can shop Valspar products at Lowe’s, as well as at independent retailers.
• Clare: With a focus on making shopping for paint easy, Clare is an online paint brand with helpful swatch bundles to simplify the selection process. Its products are also zero VOC.

Where to Buy Paint: Online vs In-Store

Ordering paint directly from a brand website is often the easiest way to purchase paint, but visiting a showroom to browse color selections can be a great way to gain room color ideas and get first-hand expert advice.

If you know which general color you want for a room, but don't have a specific shade in mind, comparing various tones in a showroom or paint store can be really useful, and it means that you don't need to order endless samples. You'll also be able to see what paint finishes a brand offers, and chat with an expert about the best suit for your project – something that can be tricky to understand if you're not already familiar with the brand and its products.

Aside from project-specific shopping, visiting paint brands' showrooms in person can be a wonderful way to gain fresh ideas for future projects, and you may find yourself drawn to a color that you wouldn't have looked twice at online.

How to Buy Paint Online

Buying paint online is easier than ever, with many of the biggest paint brands providing useful tools to make the whole process straightforward. That said, it's important to consider various factors before purchasing.

Firstly, order samples online of your chosen colors. In addition to the more traditional sample pots, you'll find that some brands also offer peel-and-stick color cards that allow you to move the sample around the walls to test in different lights. 'We always start by swatching the paints in the space,' says Jennifer Hunter. 'Even if it’s a color we’ve used before, we’ll swatch it again in the new space. Light changes everything, and a color can read completely differently depending on orientation, time of day, and surrounding materials.'

Once you've chosen your colors, you also need to compare the different finishes. Gloss finishes create a statement look and reflect lots of light; satin paints are mid-sheen and wipeable, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas. Eggshell is a popular finish for interiors, offering a subtle level of sheen, while matte finishes provide a rich, chalky look with even less sheen. Flat paints have no sheen, offering a velvety look and disguising wall imperfections the most.

With your paint colors and finishes selected, think about how much you will need for your project. Helpfully, many brands, such as Benjamin Moore, have a paint calculator on their website so you can get a good idea of how many tins you'll need. Do your research to find out how many coats of paint each brand generally requires, too. If you're on the cusp of needing another tin, it's usually a good idea to purchase this at the same time, since there can sometimes be slight differences between batch numbers.

Before placing your order, make sure to check the specific return and exchange policy of your chosen brand. And, if you don't already have all the painting equipment you need, some brands also sell brushes and rollers on their site, so you can order everything all at once.

Designer Tips for Getting it Right

• Always Sample Paint Shades: 'As far as sampling, it is always best to have painters do 2' x 2' samples on at least two walls in a room, to truly understand how the light moves around the space,' says Katherine Shenaman. 'Colors which are critical to a specific room should be viewed multiple times during the day as well.'
• Compare Paint Colors Against Existing Decor: 'Test colors against any key elements, including the flooring, the stone, millwork, and fabrics,' says Kristina Khersonsky. 'The paint should always support the materials, not compete with them.'
• Focus on Undertones: 'Pay close attention to undertones, especially with neutrals, since they can shift more than expected,' says Marie Flanigan. 'I also like to compare a few options side by side to make sure the final choice feels balanced and considered.'
• Invest in a Professional Painter: 'A good painter is worth the money: they should verify quantity and will usually handle the purchasing, and they will know how to prep and prime a space properly,' says Katherine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The main mistake you'll want to avoid when shopping for paint is ordering large quantities when you haven't properly sampled the color. Paint colors change vastly depending on the lighting of a room, so you should ensure you're happy with it at all times of day. 'Paint never reads the same on screen or even on chip,' says Kristina Khersonsky. 'The lighting in the room also dictates how the color shows up.'

If you're going to be color-matching a paint, don't rush the process. 'If someone encourages you to buy from another source, and has your Farrow & Ball selection color-matched, I suggest doing samples of each, side by side,' advises Katherine Shenaman. 'The depth of the pigments in Farrow & Ball is unmistakable, in comparison to their competitors.'

When choosing high-gloss paints, you may want to turn to the expertise of a professional painter, warns Courtnay Tartt: 'I think it is so important to find a painter with experience and expertise in high-gloss lacquer finishes if that's what you plan to use. The application process is genuinely complex and quite specific. There's an involved method of tinting the primer, then spraying and sanding, spraying and sanding, and on and on! It's like an art form, so an experienced professional is your best bet.'

By taking the time to properly sample shades and research the various paint finishes from your chosen paint brand, you'll hopefully avoid making any color mistakes. While shopping online for paint is easier than ever, sometimes the best starting point is visiting your local paint store or brand showroom, especially if you are using a new brand and need some expert advice.

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Not so long ago, the idea of an interior space drenched in red and pink would, for lots of us, feel like a bold move, but as we continue to embrace more color in our homes, this warm-on-warm pairing suddenly feels endlessly chic.

In the spring and summer months, it feels only natural to welcome more color into our homes, not least to mimic the increasingly colorful outdoor landscapes. To do so, pink and red might just be our favorite spring color combination of 2026, and it seems that designers are equally on board.

So, how do you actually style pink and red in a way that feels grown-up and livable? Designers share their decorating ideas below to help you master this joyful color trend throughout your home.

Why Red and Pink Works Now

The color combination of red and pink feels representative of the way interiors are heading: led by personality and a rebellion against the once-dominant neutrals and ultra-minimalist interior design trends.

As well as bringing a color-confident look to rooms, these two colors naturally work well together thanks to their shared warmth, resulting in a tonal color scheme. 'Pairing red with pink is a playful and energetic approach to incorporating a true red,' explains Ruth Mottershead, creative director at paint brand Little Greene. 'As a lighter shade, pink shares a sense of warmth with red, creating both contrast and tonal harmony.'

'There remains a strong appetite for colors that spark happiness and joy, and this combination will do just that,' Ruth adds. 'Even a small touch of this joyful color pairing can introduce personality and positivity to a room.'

As we approach the summer months, we're seeing this color combination crop up as a somewhat unexpected spring color idea. Instead of the pastel yellows and blues that balance warm and cool tones, soft pinks with terracotta reds feel like a rule-breaking way to bring seasonal color to your home.

How to Use Red and Pink in Your Home

From painting the walls to smaller decor additions, we've rounded up our favorite red and pink rooms to give you some fresh decorating inspiration this spring.

1. Add Pink and Red Decor to a Neutral Kitchen

Decorating with red and pink doesn't need to be loud – subtle additions of these two warm hues can work well to elevate neutral rooms. Here, they were used at this breakfast nook with the glossy, deep red dining table and patterned upholstery.

'My client owns a women's clothing boutique, and I wanted her kitchen to feel like an extension of that world – playful, feminine, and entirely her own,' explains the designer of this space, Cecilia Casagrande of Boston-based Casagrande Studio.

'Red and pink are one of my favorite pairings precisely because of the tension it holds: red brings confidence and strength, while pink softens it into something warm and inviting,' she adds. 'Together, they create a balance that neither color achieves alone. Layer in a creamy white wall and the warmth of antique wood, and the whole room just sings.'

2. Bring Softness to Bathrooms With a Dusky Pink Paint

Soft pinks and a pop of red can work wonderfully in bathrooms, softening a utilitarian space that can risk looking cold. By using a soft, dusky pink paint on the walls and adding in a smaller dose of rich red, in this case, the bathtub, the space feels cozy and design-led.

The walls in this bathroom were painted with Farrow & Ball's Pink Ground, which is more of a plaster tone than a true pink. 'Introducing the bath in a rich, lacquered red in Farrow & Ball’s Eating Room Red was a more unexpected move, but it’s exactly what gives the space its depth and personality,' explains the designer Melissa Hutley, co-founder of Hutley & Humm.

'Rather than feeling jarring, the deeper berry tone sits beautifully alongside the softness of the pink; because both colors have a warmth to them, they work in harmony rather than contrast,' says Melissa. 'I think people can sometimes shy away from using red in a bathroom, but when it’s grounded in a palette like this, it feels incredibly sophisticated and enveloping.'

If you're after more paint ideas, go for those that add contrast, suggests Ruth Mottershead: 'Consider deeper reds such as burgundy or aubergine hues combined with more muted paler pinks. These higher contrast combinations, such as deep red Arras with plaster-like Castell Pink or sumptuous Adventurer with restful Dorchester Pink, will exude warmth, sophistication, and a sense of luxury, making a room feel indulgent.'

3. Add Coziness to a Bedroom by Color Drenching

In bedrooms, the combination of pink and red adds warmth, coziness, and depth. By color-drenching with a plaster pink paint, bedrooms feel cocooning and cohesive, while layering richer red tones brings life to the space.

'We chose Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster as the foundation, a beautifully soft, muted pink with a gentle warmth to it, layering it with richer terracotta and red tones through the textiles,' explains designer Melissa Hutley. 'This combination of pink and red feels incredibly natural; it has an earthiness that makes it both comforting and sophisticated, rather than overly sweet.'

'By using a continuous color across the walls and ceiling, we allowed the room to feel seamless and immersive, which enhances that cozy, cocooned atmosphere,' Melissa adds. 'The more solid applications of color on the headboards and blinds then introduce contrast and structure, grounding the scheme without overwhelming it. It’s a gentle, layered approach to pink and red that feels timeless.'

4. Make a Statement With Nostalgic Shades of Red and Pink

While soft and earthy shades of pink paint are no doubt leading the way right now, that's not to say you can't go much more vibrant with this color trend. Nostalgic shades of pink paint offer comfort and a sense of nostalgia, while creating a much more playful look. When teamed with red, the space is bound to feel charming and unexpected. 'Powerful primary Atomic Red will create real impact when paired with a softer, romantic pink such as Confetti,' explains Ruth Mottershead.

'I used pink and red for this space because they create such a warm, enveloping mood, especially where the light hits,' explains the designer of this bedroom, Alexis Warren. 'They work together because the red is grounded and brings depth, while the pink is airy and soft, balancing each other out. The Stray Dog light fixture was the room's starting point, leading me toward a pink and red palette with complementary accents throughout.'

5. Let Pattern Lead the Way

For more eclectic, decorative interior styles, turn to pink and red patterns for a soulful, cottage-inspired scheme. When muted pink and red patterns are used, alongside a backdrop of warm neutral tones, the space feels cozy and time-worn, and, as proven by this pattern-filled bedroom, sometimes more is more.

'The brief for the house was to create a sense of magic and joy throughout, and the bedroom follows this approach,' explain Mary Graham & Nicole Salvesen, founders of Salvesen Graham. 'The palette stems from our Floral Spring fabric – soft pinks and deeper raspberry tones sit naturally together, translating beautifully into the layered textiles across the room.'

'These colors are echoed from the eiderdown and valance through to the desk, creating a clear sense of continuity and joy,' they add. 'We really had fun with this room.'

Shop Spring-Ready Red and Pink Decor

While light pinks and terracotta reds feel in keeping with the spring and summer months, this is a color pairing that works year-round, without feeling too seasonal. While soft pinks make a versatile and timeless wall color, red always looks great as an accent, bringing a pop of unexpected color to a room.

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Associated with serenity and a sense of calm, cool-toned grays and beiges were once the go-to color choices for bedrooms, but in 2026, designers are opting for far more characterful, personality-driven tones.

We all want our sleep spaces to feel tranquil, but that doesn't mean that our bedroom colors need to be boring. We are officially bidding farewell to the millennial gray that ruled bedrooms a decade ago. While neutrals are still part of 2026 bedroom color trends, they're being reinvented as warmer, more saturated shades that envelop bedrooms rather than stripping them back.

'2026 is going to see a shift from the more saturated colors seen in previous years and will focus on a more subtle and comforting take on color,' explains Helen Shaw, Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'These ‘quietly colorful’ hues are easy to use in the bedroom and won’t tire over the years as your style evolves and furniture or décor swaps in or out.'

1. Cool Grays

'We think the era of the cool, pale greige bedroom is over,' explains Flora Slater, founder of Studio Flora London. 'That particular shade, the one that sits somewhere between grey and beige and promises to 'go with everything', tends to go with nothing. It creates bedrooms that feel unresolved, like the decision was never quite made.'

Instead, softer neutrals are replacing gray in 2026. 'What we're loving instead is genuine color commitment. In one of our recent bedrooms (pictured above), we painted the tongue-and-groove panelling in a soft sage green all the way up to dado height, which immediately gave the room a sense of identity and coziness. The red-striped upholstered headboard pops against it in a way it simply never would against a safe, greige wall.'

Sage green paints like Edward Bulmer's Tea Green (used in Flora's bedroom project) or Farrow & Ball's Pigeon will bring far more depth to a bedroom than a cool-toned gray ever could. 'The colors we're moving away from are anything that hedges its bets,' adds Flora. 'In 2026, rooms need a point of view. Commit to the sage, commit to the blush, commit to the terracotta, just don't commit to the color that tries to be everything and ends up being nothing.'

2. Beige

While neutral bedrooms will always be popular, beiges and taupes are no longer dominating this year's color trends.

'When it comes to bedroom color trends for 2026, traditionally popular beiges and grays are gradually being overtaken by the ‘new’ neutrals with pink and red undertones,' explains Helen. 'These hues add a touch of warmth to the bedroom space while remaining the perfect foundation for a laid-back neutral scheme.'

Beiges are being replaced by richer pinks and terracotta tones that feel neutral but far more noticeable. 'Plaster pink shades such as Whispering Peach 2014-60 and Venetian Portico AF-185 work perfectly for this look. The soft, dusky rose tones in both add a wonderful, earthy and grounded feel, perfect for a bedroom where we unwind and rejuvenate.'

3. Off-Black and Navy

'Darker, super saturated tones that create a moody space – like dark gray, off-blacks, and navy – are starting to go out of style,' says interior designer Barrett Oswald. 'They can feel a little heavy for a room you’re actually trying to unwind in.'

While decorating with moody colors brings richness and warmth to snug home libraries or family rooms, they can feel a little too encompassing for bedrooms designed to soothe and comfort.

'Instead, bedrooms are leaning more toward warmer tones, lighter, brighter retreats, and spaces that feel more relaxed and livable. Softer neutrals, muted colors, and added texture, especially through wallpaper in fresh tones, give the room depth without relying on one dark color to do all the work.'

Warmer grays like Farrow & Ball's Elephant Breath or Pinky Beige by Sherwin-Williams will bring a balance of airiness and depth that isn't overly moody.

Cool-toned, lifeless paint colors that lack depth are officially out this year. Instead, interior designers are opting for colors with substance and vibrancy, reaching for earthier, grounded hues that feel neutral but noticeable. On the other end of the spectrum, we're also saying goodbye to overly rich tones that dominate bedrooms rather than soothe.

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Choosing a front door color can involve more deliberation than you might imagine. Responsible for setting the first impression of your home, you'll want to choose one that aligns with your style while offering a timeless look in its exterior context.

And while the most stylish front door color ideas are a helpful starting point, it can be equally important to know the colors designers are moving away from, to avoid your front door looking dated. Here, designers share five shades they're ditching, along with the more stylish alternatives that feel in keeping with the latest design trends.

Keep in mind that while designers may be bidding farewell to these colors, color is subjective, and it's important to consider the context of your home. 'There's no one-size-fits-all answer when selecting a color for your front door,' says the designer Michelle Morgan Harrison. 'The right choice always depends on the surrounding materials, your personal style, and the story you're trying to tell.'

1. Black

Black front doors have, for a long time, been a popular choice for front doors. But, in 2026, as color trends increasingly favor richer and warmer colors that add personality, some designers are saying goodbye to this dark neutral. 'Black has long been the “safe” choice for front doors, but that’s precisely the issue,' says the NYC-based interior designer Jennifer Hunter. 'It’s become a bit too predictable, almost like the default setting rather than a considered design decision.'

If you still want to add richness and depth to your front door, try a dark shade of green paint instead. 'Instead of a flat black, I’m drawn to Farrow & Ball’s Carriage Green,' she adds. 'It’s actually an archive color that has a richness and complexity that shifts beautifully in different light. That subtle variation is what makes a front door feel intentional. It still reads as classic, but with far more personality than a standard black.'

2. Cool Gray

Lighter than black but still a neutral, it's easy to understand why gray front doors have been a popular choice for many. And although it's a versatile shade, gray front doors are beginning to fall out of favor for the very same reason they did in interiors: they lack warmth and can appear drab.

'Trendy gray colors have become less popular in recent years,' explains the Dallas-based designer Lauren Saab. 'Especially those flat, mid-tone grays that dominated the last decade. They tend to drain warmth from a home’s exterior and can make an entry feel lifeless rather than inviting.'

3. Safe Neutrals

While Michelle Morgan Harrison, the principal designer behind Morgan Harrison Home, doesn't rule out any shade entirely, she notices a shift away from predictable neutrals paints for front doors, such as white. 'Generally, we've found that clients are branching out beyond classic whites, grays, and blacks, and we love getting to play with bolder choices for a front door,' she says.

This home demonstrates the impact of a welcoming front door color that also feels a lot more interesting than white. 'We'd used a palette of shades of pink and eggplant throughout the home, and this specific paint color in the home's mudroom, so it felt only natural to extend that choice to the home's entry point,' explains Michelle.

4. Pillar Box Red

For designer Cecilia Casagrande of Boston-based Casagrande Studio, the classic primary red front door is one to skip in 2026. 'The classic red front door and dark gray are feeling tired to me – too expected, and honestly, neither reads that well in flat daylight or on a cloudy New England day,' she says.

While this nostalgic shade of red may be on its way out, that's not to say bright colors should be avoided altogether. Far from it: warm and vibrant orange paints are a favorite for Cecilia, adding excitement to the entrance of a home. 'Orange is different,' she says. 'It's a burst of sunshine in any season – retro on the right house, completely modern on another. Charlotte's Locks by Farrow & Ball will certainly do it.'

5. Navy Blue

Although this front door color can make a home look expensive, some designers are ditching navy blue this year. 'Saturated navy is another color falling out of favor for front doors,' says designer Lauren Saab. 'It had a strong run as a safe alternative to black, but it can feel heavy and predictable, whereas warmer tones bring more depth and a more refined, current feel.'

The Nashville and Houston-based designer Minnette Jackson also sees similar, contrasting shades going out of favor. 'There’s a quiet shift happening away from high-contrast, statement front doors toward tones that feel rooted in nature,' she says. 'Colors like soft, mossy greens – such as Farrow & Ball Lichen – offer a sense of warmth and approachability while still feeling elevated and intentional. These organic hues blur the line between architecture and landscape, allowing a home to feel more connected to its surroundings.'

From overly dark colors that can appear harsh to neutrals that can easily be lacking in personality, it's easy to see why designers are moving away from these front door colors this year.

If you're looking for more guidance in the color-selection process, turning to the colors inside your home can be a great starting point. 'I love for the front door to reflect or hint at the palette of the interiors, letting what's inside guide our front door's color choice,' says Michelle Morgan Harrison.

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Beige has always been a staple paint color for many homeowners, and that’s because you know what you’re getting when you open the tin – it’s a ‘safe’, neutral shade that’s totally livable and creates a warm and welcoming environment. But let’s be frank, it’s a pretty obvious choice that can sometimes feel a bit underwhelming and visually flat, especially if it’s overused.

Increasingly, designers are gravitating towards more nuanced color trends that still offer the comfort that beige does, but they are achieving warmth through more complex, layered hues with plenty of depth and character. These color palettes aren’t extreme though – they’re muted and sophisticated, but they pack more punch when it comes to creating dynamic interiors with personality and atmosphere.

If you’re after an interesting alternative to beige, but don't want to stray too far from decorating with neutrals, these five key shades are designer-approved replacements that still feel timeless but deliver on individuality.

1. Cola Browns

In the dining room of this project by Of Place Studio, rich greens, natural wood, brown-patterned drapery, and a pop of terracotta on the light enhance the richness of the dark wall color

Bronze-like hues are having their moment in interiors, with cola browns particularly popular given their depth and richness. Even paint brand Benjamin Moore has revealed ‘Silhouette’ as its color of the year for 2026, described as an ‘alluring cross between chocolate and charcoal’.

‘The underlying red tones in this rich brown hue embrace and enhance the coziness of smaller spaces, which is why I chose cola for this petite bedroom – it envelopes the space in a really lovely way,’ says Amy Knerr, founder and principal designer at Of Place Studio.

‘Like beige, cola is a really versatile color, but what sets it apart is how luxurious it feels, as well as being incredibly grounding,’ adds Amy. ‘It shifts in intensity as the light moves; in the morning it can feel a bit cooler and lighter, and as the day progresses the color intensifies and feels richer and warmer, perfect for bedrooms or after-dark entertaining.’

Amy suggests layering browns, like Klamath from Portola Paints used in the bedroom, with rich marbles, warm oaks, bronze finishes, and heavy linen drapery to amplify the warmth and comfort of the space.

2. Soft Mauves

Interior designer Anna Haines took a two-tone approach in this entrance hall, contrasting aubergine woodwork with a gentle mauve wall color to create a space that’s interesting yet calm

While decorating with purple is often a no-go in interiors, mauve is a complex, sophisticated shade that is a soft, muted pastel – warmer than greige, but cooler than pink, making it a great choice for those who want a neutral that’s not too saccharine.

‘Mauve has the same softness and warmth as beige, but the subtle plum and reddy undertone gives it more of a richness and quiet sense of depth, so the color shifts beautifully with the light rather than sitting flat,’ says Anna. ‘In daylight it feels quite soft and uplifting, whereas in the evening it becomes more enveloping and feels a little deeper in hue.’

In this project, Anna chose the mauve tones as she wanted it to feel like a rich but relatively neutral backdrop to the spaces leading off each landing. ‘The client has quite a bold art collection, so the depth of color works well with the tones in the artwork without competing with it,’ she adds.

Anna says she loves pairing mauves with tactile materials like painted timber, linens, and softer, more muted tones such as dusky pinks and chocolate browns, which allow the color to feel relaxed rather than overly decorative.

3. Butter Yellows

Soft, creamy, and mellow, buttery yellows offer gentle warmth and create an uplifting feel, providing a great alternative for cooler, north-facing spaces where beige might read as gray.

‘Using yellow is brighter and a much more effective way to really bring joy and visually warm up a very cold and dull recently remodeled Paris apartment,’ says Jessica Helgerson, principal at Jessica Helgerson Interior Design. ‘The kitchen cabinets were already built, and we wanted to create a subtle distinction between the two shapes by using a soft, warm neutral and a slightly cooler neutral combination.’

‘So many things are working together to warm up the open-plan space. The Farrow & Ball India Yellow ceiling, the rich red velvet sofa, the yellow enameled lava stone counters and yellow tile backsplash,’ adds Jessica. ‘I love the buttery hues with the soft gray of Stony Ground; it’s such a pretty, sophisticated combination and very French!’

4. Muted Greens

While beiges can often feel flat, these greens with their earthy undertones have greater depth and feel more ‘alive in a way beige never can’, according to Bari Jerauld, founder of Blank Slate. Taking their cue from nature, soft sages, olives, and mossy shades are soft and enveloping – never cold. ‘They have that warmth beige tries for but with so much more character,’ says Bari.

‘I use earthy greens in every single project – it's almost become a signature for us,’ she reveals. ‘In this project, the kitchen was tiny, and I wanted something earthy and timeless – not trendy. This muted green helped maximize the space, especially with full-height cabinetry. It made the room feel bigger and less boxed in than beige would have.’

Bari says muted greens are a great way to bring the outside in and pair well with other natural materials, bringing out the warmth of timber, while living brass accents enhance that sense of warmth.

5. Muddy Pinks

A perennial favorite among designers, muddy pinks have a soft, understated hue, often with earthy, dusky or plaster-like undertones. Offering a more sophisticated alternative to sugary pinks and more charming than beige, this versatile neutral is gentle and soft in bright sunlight and calm and more beige-brown in low light.

Creative director John Law of Woodhouse & Law believes, ‘the key to using this color successfully lies in varying texture and finish, allowing muddy pink to reveal different depths across textured or painted walls, layered soft furnishings and subtle pattern, alongside furniture pieces that harmonise with the hue, such as natural wood, marble or soft velvet.’

In this deVOL kitchen inspired by Manhattan bistro bars, the earthy pink wall color creates a velvety backdrop and makes the space feel chic and contemporary with contrasting cabinets in Printer’s Black. ‘In our showrooms we like to use a very soft pink, such as Farrow & Ball’s Setting Plaster or Dead Salmon with dark cupboards as it softens the walls without the appearance of too much color,’ says Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL.

Helen says that black is a bold yet brilliant bedfellow for muddy pinks. ‘Black is our new love… Think late-night bars, speakeasies, and restaurants in New York City for the look,’ she continues. She also notes how the copper accents are ‘essential’ in this scheme. ‘They add understated shine and warmth and enhance the pink tones in the space.’

Shop The Colors

What all these paint colors have in common is their complexity and muted nature, which means rather than being flat and one-dimensional, as beige can be, they have more depth and interest, as the light shifts throughout the day, creating a cocooning atmosphere by night and a calm and welcoming space by day.

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The idea of pairing yellow with blue can seem like a bold move, but when carried out with a considered approach, there are few color pairings as fitting for the spring months.

Designers are turning toward soft shades of yellow (think buttery shades that feel sophisticated rather than vibrant) and rich ochre tones, and pairing them with cool, muted, and crisp blues that provide balance. Together, they feel slightly unexpected but full of charm.

If, like me, you're feeling inspired to give this color trend a go this spring, read on to get designers' takes, from the best paint shades to decorating tips. While this color pairing looks endlessly stylish as a whole-room color scheme, you can also add it to existing palettes for a more subtle and seasonal approach.

Why Do Yellow and Blue Work Well Together?

Yellow has been a hugely popular color in interiors lately, adding warmth and a touch of nostalgic charm to many a space. In some cases, it works in place of neutrals – think creamy butter yellows that aren't too saturated – while in others, it brings vibrancy and sunshine-inspired happiness to rooms. With any variation of this joyful color, choosing the right color pairing is key, and blue seems to be the leading choice among designers right now.

Since yellow is a warm color, pairing it with cool-toned blue can cut through the warmth and create a much more modern feel. It's a color pairing that brings balance and a slightly playful feel, while color psychology tells us that yellow brings optimism and energy, while blue brings calmness.

While the combination of yellow and blue would make for a stylish color scheme year-round, it feels especially fitting for this time of year as a spring color idea, with its association with coastal settings and sunny days.

How to Use Yellow and Blue in Your Home

The key to pulling off this colorful pairing is to choose variations of yellow and blue that feel balanced and easy to live with, avoiding anything too saturated or jarring – as shown in these swoon-worthy projects.

1. Pair Powder Blue Walls With Butter Yellow Kitchen Cabinets

In the heart of the home, soft shades of blue and yellow add warmth, personality, and make a welcome change from predictable neutrals. Here, a light blue paint was used on the panelled walls, while the kitchen cabinets were painted a butter yellow.

'The idea to color drench in blue was born out of my love for green and blue together,' explains the interior designer Holly Vaughan of Vaughan Design & Development, since the kitchen looks out onto lots of greenery. 'I love to pair yellow with blue as this adds the warmth, and brings a bit of sunshine to the space,' she says.

'These colors replicate the colors we find in nature, which is why they work so well together,' she adds.

2. Add Warmth to Small Rooms With a Rich Ochre

This bathroom uses yellow as the deeper shade, teamed with a light, fresh shade of blue that adds contrast and balance. While pale butter yellow paints work well in well-lit spaces, you may find that going for a richer ochre is more effective in small rooms, adding plenty of warmth and depth.

'The paint is Farrow & Ball's India Yellow, which contrasts beautifully against the pale watery blue-green of the tile wainscot,' explains the interior designer Jessica Helgerson, based between Portland and Paris. 'The warm yellow comes back again on the floor, as it does throughout the house,' she adds. 'It brightens each space without feeling overwhelming to the house as a whole.'

3. Introduce Red as an Accent Color

This cozy kitchen proves that sometimes more is more when it comes to color, teaming the soft yellow and blue color palette with a pop of red on the kitchen tiles.

'We chose a buttery yellow because the clients wanted the space to feel warm, uplifting, and full of joy the moment you walked in,' explains the designer and founder of Studio Mac, Ailsa MacConnell. 'For me, yellow does exactly that. We used Hay by Farrow & Ball, which is the perfect soft, buttery shade – subtle enough to feel timeless, but with enough depth to make a statement.'

'Blue and yellow work so beautifully together, so choosing Jane Churchill’s Firle Stripe for the seat upholstery felt like an easy decision,' she adds. 'The checkerboard tile backsplash added that extra sense of fun and personality to the kitchen, tying everything together beautifully. I always love incorporating small pops of red into my schemes. For some reason, they always seem to finish a room off perfectly.'

4. Add Soft Yellow and Blue Decor to Neutral Rooms

If you're looking for a way to add the stylish color combination of yellow and blue to your home without painting the walls, choose soft furnishings to elevate your existing scheme. In this transitional living room, the muted yellow sofa with light blue pillows adds warmth and interest to the space, while the clean white walls keep things crisp and timeless.

'I love the combination of muted blue and yellow together,' says the NYC designer Jennifer Hunter. 'When softened, blue becomes grounding rather than cold, and yellow reads as warm and inviting instead of overly bright. Together, they strike this really beautiful balance that feels both cheerful and composed.'

5. Decorate With Wallpaper for a Classic Look

For a more decorative, traditional take on this color combination, consider adding a patterned wallpaper to your scheme.

At this breakfast nook, a soft yellow and blue wallpaper was chosen to lighten the space, explain the founders of Illinois-based design studio Park & Oak, Christina Samatas and Renee DiSanto: 'The house initially felt dark and masculine, so our goal was to introduce a softer, more feminine touch while making the space feel light and cheerful. We were drawn to the Rose Tarlow wallpaper to help brighten the room, which beautifully blends the muted slate blue with the warm, creamy meringue yellow, giving the space a bright and happy atmosphere.'

6. Create a Coastal-Inspired Bedroom

This bedroom showcases the blue and yellow color pairing in a much more subtle way. With creamy pale yellow bedding and a pop of blue from the artwork and throw pillow, this room is one to take inspiration from if you want to add these colors to a neutral bedroom.

The interior designer behind COAL Architecture & Interior Design, Emily Reilly, says that the color palette took inspiration from coastal settings. 'The color scheme of blue and yellow for the bedroom and adjoining bathroom was inspired by a sunny day at the beach,' she says. 'Photographic prints on the walls show scenes of a golden Cornish summer's beach day where the sea sparkles in many shades of teal, turquoise, and deep blue, and the yellow gorse on the coast path makes the air smell of coconut. These two colors together never fail to feel happy.'

Refresh Your Home With Yellow and Blue This Spring

You don't need to completely redecorate a room to bring this color trend to life – a few simple decor additions can be all that's needed. Below, I've rounded up some of my favorite picks for you to shop.

Whether you're in the midst of a room redecoration and plan to use this color trend to inspire its whole palette, or are looking to refresh your home for spring with decor in these seasonal colors, it's all about adapting the trend to your personal style – from soft and muted to vibrant and energizing.

Reaching for the white paint is often the automatic go-to in a small living room – but this can actually create the opposite of the desired effect and leave a space feeling flat instead of lifted.

When looking for the ideal small living room color, layout, orientation, natural light, and the feeling you're looking to achieve in the space, all need to be taken into account. The right color can add depth, create a cocooning, cozy atmosphere, or lighten and brighten the room.

When we spoke with designers on the top shades to choose for a small living room, Benjamin Moore got a lot of stage time. So here we have delved deeper into the most popular Benjamin Moore paints for small living rooms – why they work and how to use them.

'Small living rooms are often misunderstood, white doesn’t automatically make a space feel larger,' says designer Marie Flanigan. 'In fact, it can sometimes leave it feeling flat or undefined. The beauty of color is in how it shapes perception: it can expand a room by softening edges, cocoon it with warmth, or introduce depth and quiet drama when used with intention.'

'I often turn to Benjamin Moore for this reason,' she adds. 'Their palette is incredibly nuanced, offering shades that respond gracefully to light and architecture rather than sitting statically on a wall.'

1. Smoke – A Luminous, Clean Blue-Gray

The color story of a room guides the narrative of its overall feel and ambiance, and in this small living room by Henry & Co., Benjamin Moore's Smoke (2122-40) was used to create a 'calm, enveloping' feel in the bijou area, explains founder Stephanie Woodmansee.

'Given the boldness of the fireplace, surround, fender, and oversized mirror, we were looking for the color to be a calming foundation for the room and set the tone,' she explains. 'Benjamin Moore Smoke was our 'neutral' to then layer upon with textiles, rugs, and art.'

The soft gray toned blue paint was then used in corresponding spaces in the home for a curated feel. 'This room opens up into another formal living room, hallway, and sunroom. This specific color is used in small doses in these spaces as a way to connect them.'

Stephanie adds that she will often use color – as opposed to bright white – to blur boundaries in a small space, which helps to make it feel bigger. 'We love to amp up the hues in small rooms when we want the walls to recede. Perfect for ambient light and cozy corners. It comes down to the purpose of the space.'

Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, agrees that Smoke is ideal for 'brightening up' a small living room. 'The most popular grays are not just simply gradients of black and white; instead, they are comprised of other pigments that add to the complexity and appeal. For instance, Smoke has a slight blue-green undertone, so it creates a cooler hue. Clean and luminous, this light blue-gray instantly gives the illusion of extra light and space, making it perfect for smaller living rooms that need brightening up.'

Her top tips on using it? Color drenching. 'Drench walls and woodwork in this refreshing color for a contemporary pared-back feel that blurs the edges of the room, then introduce an accent color with similar undertones to create a contrasting yet harmonious scheme. If incorporating elements of white, opt for a crisp and slightly cool, wintery white to enhance the flattering combination, as seen in the fireplace surround and navy and teal accents above.'

2. Mysterious – A Deep, Cocooning Dark Blue

It’s not always a choice of light or dark – this welcoming room by Marie Flanigan Interiors shows how you can pair them both together to create a space that’s both warm and airy.

'This small living room pairs Benjamin Moore Mysterious with a Benjamin Moore Cloud White trim to create a more enveloping, intimate atmosphere,' says Marie. 'The deeper tone adds dimension and gently blurs the boundaries of the room, while the warm trim provides balance and definition.'

'In a small space, color is 'not about playing it safe,' adds Marie. 'Rather, it is about choosing a tone that enhances light, mood, and the way you want the room to feel.'

Helen Shaw is also an advocate for going bold in a small space that doesn’t receive a huge amount of daylight, whether for layout or orientation reasons. 'Small living rooms naturally lend themselves to a strong color palette, especially when they don’t benefit from a huge amount of natural light,' she says. 'Using a deep hue in such spaces can instantly create a glamorous, cocooning sensation.'

'Painting the room from floor to ceiling in rich colors such as Mysterious, a compelling denim blue that can read as a black paint color or a rich navy, can look particularly striking, and you can play with light sources to create mood and ambience,' adds Helen.

Helen also suggests considering a higher paint finish, like semi-gloss or high-gloss, to 'bring reflection and dimension to these spaces. This finish is particularly effective if the space features period details, panelling, or when used on trim to create depth.'

3. Black Forest Green – Like a Rich, Comforting Blanket

Sometimes the best thing you can do with a small living room is really lean into the space with a deep, moody hue. Benjamin Moore's Black Forest Green does what it says on the tin and is a blackened shade of green that works to envelop the room and create a cocooning sanctuary.

'The smaller the room, the bigger the statement it can handle,' says Victoria Sass, Principal, Prospect Refuge Studio, who designed the space above. 'This is exactly the place to play.'

'You have to know the emotion you're after first. Is this a sleepy space? A seductive one? High energy or low? Color is one of the most powerful tools we have for getting a room to feel a certain way, but it only works if you're intentional about what you want to feel when you walk in,' she explains. 'The request for this space was to make it as cozy as possible, and washing it in a shadowy green helped accentuate the books, the textiles, and the firelight from the fireplace.'

On working with moodier colors in a small living room, Victoria adds, 'Whatever you do, commit. Don't water down your color, don't skip the ceiling or the trim, don't toy around with accents. Dive into the deep end. You'll be glad you did.'

4. Hasbrouck Brown – A Sumptuous Shade that Delivers on Elegance

A beautiful brown is an on-trend choice (Silhouette is Benjamin Moore's Color of the Year 2026 after all) that also oozes a timeless appeal. Hasbrouck Brown is a gorgeous, rich shade of brown that will add depth to a small living room.

'The goal in this small living room-meets-library was dark and dramatic, but we didn't want this space to read as overly masculine or feminine – so a shade of brown with a heavy purple undertone for the wall-to-wall bookcases hit all those marks,' explains Victoria.

5. Vapor Trails – A Cool Green for Brightening a Small Space

'Green feels vital and alive,' says Victoria Sass, explaining why Benjamin Moore's Vapor Trails works so well in the gorgeous small living room above.

Vapor Trails on the walls and fireplace was paired with Benjamin Moore Sea Haze on the trim and Amazon Soil, a smoky plum, on the ceiling beams.

'We wanted to quiet all the trims by going monochromatic on the walls, but we didn't want to completely flatten the look,' explains Victoria. 'By going tonal, we achieved a hint of definition between the walls and trim without the noise of a dramatic color change. Accentuating the ceiling beams with a rich, dark color helped make the low ceiling feel less oppressive.'

Choosing the perfect color for a small living room can feel overwhelming. But if you choose with intention and knowledge of how you want the space to feel, you're already halfway there.

'There's an order of operations,' explains Victoria Sass. 'Start with hue. That's your broadest lever, the one that shifts the energy of a space most dramatically. Red is seductive, blue is calming, green feels vital and alive, yellow and gold feel joyful.'

'From there, think about value: how light or dark. Lighter reads fresher and younger, but push too far into the pale end and you risk something closer to a nursery than a sanctuary. Darker values feel older, more considered, more settled.'

'Finally, adjust saturation, meaning how pure or muted the color is,' she adds. 'Saturated colors are intense and commanding. Desaturated ones are quieter, more livable. For a statement space, go big on at least one of the two.'

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While gray was popular in the early 2000s, valued for its versatility and fresh, contemporary feel, the shade has undeniably fallen out of favor over the last decade.

Today, it often receives a cool reception from interior designers, who avoid it for fear of it feeling too cold, drab, or overused. In recent years, we’ve become increasingly focused on how interiors feel, not just how they look, prompting an evolution in the tones we choose to surround ourselves with. As a result, once-popular gray is being replaced with warmer tones that feel comforting and soothing.

There’s no denying gray will always have its place, but with the growing desire for more grounding spaces and natural hues, it seems to have taken a back seat to a spectrum of warmer neutrals. But what exactly are the shades designers are using to replace gray? In search of answers, we reached out to color experts and interior designers to explore the neutral 2026 color trends, along with their practical advice for navigating neutral palettes.

What Colors are Replacing Gray in 2026?

Fueled by a desire to create calming, grounding, and sustainable spaces, steely, cool grays are generally being replaced with warmer neutrals such as beige, greige, taupe, and putty shades, experts say.

However, to answer this question more accurately, it’s important to understand that the world of neutrals is becoming increasingly nuanced, and the definition of what constitutes a neutral has broadened in recent years. While neutrals were once regarded simply as white, gray, and beige, we’re now becoming more attuned to the power of undertones, with paint companies offering a vast spectrum of tonal shades.

‘We’re seeing a broader shift toward warmer, more dimensional neutrals that feel comfortable and timeless. Green-leaning beiges, soft greiges, putty tones, and creamy whites are all gaining momentum as homeowners look for colors that bring warmth and softness,’ explains Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. ‘These shades offer the versatility people love about gray, but with a softer, more inviting, and natural feel.’

In addition to more traditional warm neutrals, designers are turning to soft, earthy pinks, greens, and deeper shades of caramel and brown for their ability to provide gentle foundations with a hint of color. For many designers, these shades are now regarded as ‘new neutrals.’

‘As foundational elements in home design, neutrals are becoming more nuanced than ever before. Today’s neutral palette extends beyond basic beiges or grays – embracing earthy, warm, and richly complex hues. These can range from sandy, sun-washed tones to cool, moss-inspired grays, to soft mauves and in-between hues,’ explains Hannah Yeo, senior manager of color marketing at Benjamin Moore. ‘Comforting and easy to work with, these refined neutrals enhance the architecture and decor of a home, creating spaces that feel harmonious, timeless, and beautifully layered.’

If you’re looking to decorate with neutrals in 2026, you’re in the right place. With help from the experts, we’ve highlighted five key neutral tones to consider, along with some handy decorating tips.

1. Warm Whites

It may seem like an easy choice, but as any designer will attest, the world of white paint can be overwhelming. Open any color card and you’ll see a whole host of white shades to choose from, all with subtly different undertones.

Reflecting our growing desire for more comforting spaces, many designers are opting for warm-toned whites over grays to achieve a bright yet cozy feel. However, when decorating with white, many steer clear of tones with too much yellow, with those featuring brown undertones taking the lead. Benjamin Moore's Swiss Coffee is a particular favorite. ‘To many people, white paint is just white paint, but in actuality, the white paint selected can have a profound effect on a room and impact the overall ambiance,’ says Sag Harbor–based interior designer Allison Babcock.

‘Classic and creamy, Swiss Coffee from Benjamin Moore is the perfect warm white without any yellow or pink undertones. It is an ideal shade for any room in the house when you want spaces to feel light and bright, yet still evoke a sense of warmth and peace,’ explains Allison. ‘The shade is highly versatile and works with any style, from traditional to contemporary,’ she adds. ‘It really allows art and textures from accessories and decorative items to shine, including pillows, throws, and wooden features.’

2. Greige

While some avoid gray, fearing it is too cold, many designers still value it as a timeless neutral. As a compromise, greige – a fusion of gray and beige – continues to be a popular alternative to cooler grays. This warm paint shade is loved by designers looking for bright spaces with subtle warmth, but that don’t read too yellow.

‘Gray has not disappeared entirely, but it has evolved. Cooler, steely grays are fading in popularity, while softer, warmer grays with beige or taupe undertones remain relevant. Shades that bridge the gap between gray and beige continue to perform well because they feel balanced, flexible, and easy to live with,’ explains Emily Kantz at Sherwin-Williams.

When it comes to decorating with greige, Farrow & Ball’s Drop Cloth is a designer favorite. ‘Drop Cloth is a soft putty color that is pure perfection,’ says Alexandra Azat, founder of California-based interior design studio Plaster & Patina. When choosing neutral colors, it is important to pay attention to the undertone of the shade. ‘We love using Farrow & Ball because they are such masters of undertone.’

Here, Alexandra used Drop Cloth on the bedroom walls to create a calm atmosphere, pairing it with the deeper greige of Mouse’s Back on the ceiling to enhance the cocooning feel. ‘No matter the lighting, these shades remain strong, rich, brown-backed neutral colors. Be cautious not to choose taupes that can lean purple, red, or yellow, as this cheapens the look.’

3. Green-Toned Neutrals

Soft, earthy greens, alongside whites and beige paints with green undertones, are on the rise this year as a more calming alternative to gray. Not only are they extremely serene, but they also provide an easy backdrop for layering on-trend earthy olive greens, browns, and natural materials as part of comforting schemes. Cementing their position as a hot color trend, experts at Sherwin-Williams selected Universal Khaki – a mid-tan with green undertones – as its 2026 Color of the Year.

Although they might be in the spotlight, earthy greens and green neutrals have long been admired by designers for their versatility and soothing qualities. ‘Green-toned neutrals are proving that green is a gorgeous, fresh take on neutral. For a lighter side, we love Sherwin-Williams’ Soft Sage. It has a warmer undertone that brings calm to any space,’ says Jody Jones, founder of Blue Indigo Designs. ‘We tend to incorporate wood tones and other organic elements to really highlight the beauty of Soft Sage.’

Deeper, earthy greens and gray-greens also continue to be perennially popular and are often used in place of stormy and charcoal grays by those looking for atmospheric interiors that still feel soothing and conducive to well-being. ‘Adding a bit more drama, Settlement is quickly becoming a favorite shade. We love the sophisticated tone for a moody space – think bourbon rooms,’ says Jody. ‘Settlement invokes an almost heritage vibe with its deep saturation. We tend to pair leathers, wood tones, woven fabrics, and textured baskets to accent this gorgeous color.'

4. Soft Earthy Pinks

When Millennial Pink stole our hearts back in the 2010s, interior designers quickly rediscovered the value of soft pink as a versatile and flattering base color for interiors. Since then, the shade has continued to evolve, and today soft, earthy pinks and pink-toned neutrals are proving popular alternatives to traditional neutrals like gray, due to their ability to bring warmth alongside a touch of feminine charm.

‘Soft muted pinks, such as Benjamin Moore's Tissue Pink, have become prominent players in today’s interior color palettes. Their warmth and versatility make it easy to incorporate into everyday spaces – whether on walls, textiles, or accessories. In recent years, soft, muted pinks have further established themselves as a gender-neutral choice, creating inviting environments that feel both modern and timeless,’ explains Hannah Yeo, senior manager, color marketing at Benjamin Moore.

Here, Rhode Island-based interior designer Alison Hammatt chose soft shell pink as the base for this characterful, timeless living room scheme. ‘The color is Aristocrat Peach by Sherwin-Williams. I chose it because we wanted warmth in the room, but not at the expense of style and character. This particular shade of pink works so well with wood antiques and patinated pieces. We love how this turned out.’

5. Brown

Venturing to the deeper end of the spectrum, for those looking for intimate and atmospheric spaces, caramel, tan, and honey shades are finding favor with interior designers, taking over from moody steely greys and charcoal.

‘The trend for rich, cocooning living spaces that bring a sense of comfort continues with a move toward the soothing power of darker and mid-tone caramels,’ explains Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. ‘Our Sweet Treats palette shows how beautiful, brown-based hues can be used in every room. Due to their gentle nature, they are the perfect choice for bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, or any space you wish to create a restful feel.’

In this living room, interior designer Alexandra Azat leaned into layered tan and brown tones, pairing them with the natural materials of dark wood, textural wool, and rich woven tapestry artwork, which all help enhance the coziness and tactility of the space. ‘For this project, I chose Dunn-Edwards’ Riverbed. I just love this color, and I wanted the room to feel soft and soothing,’ explains Alexandra. ‘The sofa is in a soft Holland & Sherry tan wool – it inspired me as it reminded me of the horse blankets I used to use when I was a competitive horseback rider. I love the equestrian palette, grounded in beautiful browns.’

For those looking for warm caramel and brown paint colors, Hannah Yeo at Benjamin Moore suggests rich neutral hues like Silhouette AF-655 and Sherwood Tan 1054 for creating a comforting, inviting atmosphere. ‘These classic hues work beautifully in small accents or in full – enveloping the backdrop for a cozy space. Pair them with navy for a timeless combination and keep the space warm and welcoming with sandy neutrals, soft linens, and blush accents. Natural wood textures and tactile fabrics add a subtle dimension.’

In recent years, warm neutrals have been replacing gray as the go-to neutral shades, and this trend shows no sign of abating in 2026. Colors with brown undertones are proving popular, including warm whites, greige, earthy greens, plaster pinks, and caramel browns.

‘Designers and homeowners are looking to personalize their spaces with more nuanced neutrals spanning from soft off-whites and warm beiges to taupes, rich browns, and charcoal shades,’ explains Hannah Yeo. 'Their beauty lies in their complexity, with layered undertones that shift depending on lighting and surrounding materials. These earth-anchored colors convey a sense of permanence and reassurance – qualities that homeowners continue to seek.’

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Last year, we were all obsessed with moody red and purple shades. From burgundy and plum to oxblood and merlot, these deep hues dominated kitchens of every size and style.

But if you thought these looks were a fleeting kitchen color trend, think again. Not only is this palette enduring, but it's widely considered a truly timeless color scheme for your cooking space, cementing itself as a true mood maker for 2026 and beyond.

If you need any more convincing that this kitchen color idea is far from a phase, look no further. We've turned to interior designers and color experts to find out exactly why this moody scheme has surpassed trends to become a beloved kitchen color.

The Enduring Appeal of Deep Red and Purple Kitchen Colors

What started with burgundy kitchens quickly evolved into shades of plum and oxblood, and eventually even merlot. It was perhaps the biggest color trend of the year. But as it continues to endure, can we even really call it a kitchen trend anymore?

'Deep burgundy, oxblood, and plum have that perfect mix of warmth and drama. They’re rich without feeling overpowering and instantly make a kitchen feel cozy and warm,' says interior designer Uns Hobbs.

While these hues might sound bold on the surface, they really act as quite the opposite. 'They’ve stuck around because they behave like strong neutrals; they pair easily with wood and stone and don’t date the way trend-led colors can,' she explains.

Maggie Burns of Maggie Richmond Design agrees, adding, 'Shades of burgundy have always felt like more of a neutral to me. They can add warmth and depth to a space in a similar way that incorporating elements of wood can do, but in a different and bolder way.'

Rich reds and purples may have had their rise to the spotlight recently, but they actually have some quietly traditional roots. 'Burgundy is a very traditional colour that was very often used in country house kitchens,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens.

'It works anywhere and can make a piece of furniture feel instantly grand and smart,' she adds, highlighting its natural pairing with the growing desire for freestanding pieces, another kitchen idea showing strong signs of longevity.

How to Use These Timeless Colors

There's no doubt that burgundy, oxblood, and plum shades will be a continuous presence in kitchens in 2026 and beyond, but expect more creativity and boldness in the way they are introduced.

'We’re seeing these tones used on cabinetry, islands, and accent areas, often paired with warm metals, natural wood, and stone to create contrast and balance,' says Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams.

'In 2026, we’re using them more intentionally, with a statement island or lower cabinetry rather than the whole room, often layered with warm woods, soft neutrals, and aged metals,' adds Uns.

'For something that lasts, you can’t go wrong pairing these tones with creamy whites, neutral paint with a pink tone like Farrow & Ball Oxford Stone, with walnut or natural stone like a black granite or marble – it keeps the look timeless, chic, and easy to live with,' she notes.

If you want something a bit more unexpected, move away from paint colors and look to kitchen materials that blend style and function. 'We're exploring some beautiful burgundy stones right now for the countertops in a kitchen in the West Village, and I couldn't be more excited,' says Maggie.

Burgundy marble countertops have proved to be a striking choice, bringing drama and personality to schemes. And tiles work just as beautifully. 'We're also working on a project using a beautiful oxblood zellige tile as the backsplash in an appliance garage – such a fun hidden pop of color in an otherwise neutral kitchen,' she adds.

The On-Trend Pairings To Try

Perhaps the greatest appeal of deep red and purple is their versatility. Depending on the colors and materials you pair them with, you can create a totally different style and atmosphere in your kitchen.

If you like the more traditional look, Helen recommends pairing burgundy or oxblood kitchen cabinets with 'black granite or slate for a truly authentic look.' These darker countertop materials still provide a contrast to the deeper tones, just a bit more subtly. But that doesn't mean you can't also embrace lighter tones and neutrals, too.

'These deeper hues pair beautifully with warm whites, soft neutrals, and natural materials like wood and stone,' says Emily. These materials really complement the richness of the burgundy and oxblood tones, providing a balance of tones.

'Carnelian SW 7580 is one of my favorite shades to recommend in kitchens for homeowners, and it can be paired with softer shades like Alabaster SW 7008 or Natural Linen SW 9109 to create a balanced, elevated look that feels both classic and current,' she recommends.

It's clear to see why this once-trending color has evolved into a staple hue for a timeless kitchen. 'These shades bring depth, richness, and a sense of warmth that makes kitchens feel more inviting,' says Emily.

'They add personality, drama, and mystery while still feeling grounded and sophisticated. Their connection to natural, earthy tones gives them staying power and versatility across styles.'

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As the season of new life and rejuvenation, spring is the perfect time to give your home a refresh, and, being an instant mood enhancer, there’s no better way to transform a space with a fresh pop of color. Of course, redecorating from season to season is not always practical, but switching up a few accessories may be all you need to give your space a lift.

When it comes to spring decor, pastel shades have always been the go-to, with soft pinks, blues, mint greens, and butter yellows ever popular. However, this season we’re noticing some unexpected spring color trends replacing the classics.

From vibrant coral and captivating ocean shades, perfect for banishing winter blues, to mellow yellows and earthy terracotta tones that will endure throughout the year, these are the colors designers are decorating with this spring.

‘A spring refresh should feel full of character, breathing new energy into the spaces we love,’ says renowned interior designer Kit Kemp. ‘Choose fabrics that feel light and inviting, replacing heavier layers with linens and cottons in happy, uplifting tones. Introduce unexpected color, perhaps a vivid trim on a cushion, a painted side table, or a bright, energetic lampshade tucked into a quieter corner. These small, surprising moments bring a room to life and create a sense of character.’

‘For spring, I love taking cues from nature. Marigold yellow, fuchsia, violet, and chartreuse are perfect go-to colors if you want to inject a spring-like mood after a long, sunlight-deprived winter,’ adds R. Jane Morgan, owner and founder at R. Jane Morgan Interior + Design. ‘Replacing your pillows and pottery are easy and cost-effective ways to create a change in a room. Contemporary art in strong colors like periwinkle, bright lime, and kelly green instantly kicks a room up a notch.’

1. Coral

Soft pinks are a staple of the classic spring palette, but for something with more energy and vibrancy, why not introduce accents of coral? A lover of bold, playful room accents, interior designer Sean Symington has set coral pieces against a neutral backdrop in this dining space to make them really stand out. A few branches of spring foliage in an equally vibrant spring green are a simple but effective way to style the space.

‘This coral sits on the punchier side, injecting real energy into a space and brightening it in a way that feels entirely at home with the spirit of spring,’ explains Sean. ‘There’s a warmth and vibrancy to this tone that speaks to that sense of renewal and freshness, which makes a room feel genuinely optimistic and inviting.’

The warmth of coral and orange tones is particularly effective for bringing life back into a room after the colder months, agrees Cait Barker, co-founder at the online vintage store Bessette. However, there’s no need to splash out on brand-new accessories; sometimes, simple vintage finds will do the trick. ‘One trick we love when styling is using vintage books to introduce a little color. Stacking a few with coral or orange spines on a coffee table or bookshelf is such an effortless way to work the color into a space. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference and add depth and dimension to a room. These tones look especially beautiful paired with darker woods.’

2. Indigo

Reminiscent of Mediterranean seas, saturated indigo and teal blues are instantly soothing and uplifting, whatever the weather. The beauty of ocean blues is that they are versatile and timeless, plus they pair beautifully with neutrals. It’s a fabulous choice for spring accents due to its vibrancy and energy, but as it pairs effortlessly with neutrals, it also makes a great shade for enduring schemes.

In this sunshine-filled dining room, Louise Copeland, founder of L.B Copeland, chose layered soft blues to create a tranquil feel, adding indigo seat covers to bring a punch of color and pattern.

‘An unexpected accent color can feel especially uplifting in spring, and here the brighter blue on the chair cushions brings that energy while still feeling connected to the rest of the palette,’ explains Louise Copeland. ‘The yellow pendant overhead adds warmth and keeps the room from feeling too cool. I also love a kitchen chair with a wooden or woven back to keep the space from feeling too fabric-heavy and to add a bit of natural texture.’

3. Teal

‘Teal is another color taking the design world by storm this spring. Using it on custom furniture and millwork adds a level of hopeful optimism,’ says Lindsay Thornton, interior designer and founder of Cornerstone Design Build. ‘Teal pairs well with sunny yellow, orange, pinks, or reds, which all find their way into your tulip garden, and so they naturally give off spring vibes.’

The beauty of decorating with jewel-toned teal blue is that a little can go a long way. Simply painting some bookshelves or adding a vase is enough to enliven a neutral space. Sitting opposite orange on the color wheel, zesty shades make a natural match for teal, but as it has green undertones, it also works surprisingly well with verdant shades, as demonstrated in this scheme by Courtnay Tartt Elias, founder of Creative Tonic Design.

‘Teal blues work as a counter-neutral, especially when you want to add a little pop or call attention to an architectural detail or a specific area of a room. I love a color pop on a bookcase, kitchen island, or even in a small area like a bar. It’s fun to draw attention or highlight with a color rather than just accessories.’

For those who love to decorate with vintage, there are plenty of unique pieces featuring teal and deep ocean blues to pick up at affordable prices, says Cait Barker of Bessette. ‘Teal shows up often in vintage decor, especially in dining sets or artwork with layered blues and greens. One trend we’ve been seeing with our customers lately is a growing interest in vintage nautical books, artwork, and home decor. Oil paintings of sailboats, maritime signal flags, seascapes, and old harbor scenes all tend to carry those beautiful teal, blue, and green tones.’

4. Terracotta

Warm, earthy colors show no sign of abating this spring. With moods leaning toward nostalgic, comforting interiors, many homeowners are avoiding intense, punchy shades and instead opting for more muted tones to create schemes that feel more soothing and grounding.

‘Terracotta is one of the easiest ways to bring warmth into a space, especially as we transition into spring. It instantly gives a room that relaxed, European feel without trying too hard,’ explains Cait Barker. ‘Decorating with terracotta or rust accents, like pottery, lamps, or small homewares, instantly brings a room to life.’

When decorating bedrooms, these shades can make an elegant alternative to pastels, which are no less romantic, as this space proves. ‘For this main bedroom, we wrapped the walls in Antoinette Poisson’s Mignonette wallpaper, and from there, the room bloomed! We didn’t go the obvious spring route with bright pastels; we were more drawn to ochre, dusty rose, layered greens, and sienna, inspired by the wallpaper and the French or English countryside garden,’ explains Blair Moore, founder of Moore House Design. ‘The custom Roweam bed is wrapped in pink pinstripe upholstery for pattern blocking, yet it stays within the same color palette to blend seamlessly. The bolster cushions in the bedroom are custom Roweam in a burnt sienna, a warm, earthy reddish-brown.’

5. Chartreuse

Chartreuse and vibrant yellow-toned greens are shades we’re spotting everywhere this season. Whether added through cushions, tableware, fresh bedding, or a simple candle on the coffee table, this punchy shade will instantly breathe vitality into a space and pairs particularly well with blues.

‘I love working in those brighter greens and yellows because they just make a room feel more alive,’ says Katie Davis, founder of the Houston-based interior design studio Katie Davis Design. ‘They’re a little unexpected, but still classic enough that they don’t feel trendy or overdone. It’s an easy way to bring energy into a space without it feeling loud. In the bedroom, adding a touch of chartreuse through textiles keeps everything from feeling too soft or one-note. It adds just enough contrast to make the space feel layered.’

‘The color that most embodies spring for me is green, especially if you live in the North, where you are dominated by white for many months of the year. Blades of grass popping out of the ground in their bright, hopeful shade signal that a change is coming and the world will once again be awash in color,’agrees Lindsay Thornton, an interior designer and founder of Toronto-based Cornerstone Design Build. ‘Green, as so commonly found in the outdoor world, pairs so well with browns, creams, and blues and carries a sense of calmness, even when in a brighter shade.’

There are many shades to work with, and layering them can help bring a room together, explains Autumn Pochiro, founder and principal designer at Autumn Dawn Design. ‘Picking the right green is a personal choice. If you want an energetic feel, go for greens that are closer to yellow, like chartreuse or lime. If you prefer a more natural, calming look, try deeper shades like olive or moss.’

6. Ochre

Buttermilk, sunshine, and lemon yellows are often associated with spring decor, but if you’re after something more sophisticated with greater longevity, try leaning into ochre and honey shades. Perhaps fueled by our desire for comforting, grounding interiors, this year we’re noticing plenty of accessories in earthier yellows, which are perfect for layering with natural materials.

‘What’s exciting is that people are becoming more comfortable with color, but in a way that still feels livable – shades that mimic what you’d find in nature rather than anything overly saturated or synthetic are proving popular,’ says Amy Burstyn Fritz, founder of the online home store Misette. ‘There’s growing interest in warmer tones like amber and ochre this spring. At Misette, we use a signature amber tone that sits somewhere between a burnt orange and a neutral – it’s incredibly versatile and transforms depending on what it’s paired with, especially against wood, where it takes on a more grounded, almost neutral quality.’

There’s no denying pretty pastel shades are a wonderful way to welcome spring into the home, but if you’re looking for a change – or if decorating with pastels isn’t your thing – it needn’t limit your seasonal decorating. For those looking to make spring decor a little less predictable, there are plenty of joyful colors to turn to that can make your home feel just as uplifting and vibrant.

Gone are the days when pastels reigned supreme during the spring season. With character and playfulness replacing stereotypical interior design, more unexpected hues are cropping up in this year's spring color trends.

Woven with familiar muted tones and zingier, more unpredictable hues, Benjamin Moore's spring color palette sets the benchmark for a spring filled with color. From subdued yellows that feel traditionally seasonal to a fiery red that sets off the hushed tones, the palette is a refreshing move away from the usual pale pinks and baby blues that dominate color trends this time of year.

Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore, explains, 'This palette takes its cue from classic spring tones, reimagined with added depth and complexity to celebrate the beauty of the present moment.'

Composed of six serene shades, Benjamin Moore's spring color palette feels refreshing yet livable. While each shade feels seasonal (without being obvious), they're also room colors that add subtle vibrancy that lasts beyond the spring season.

While it wouldn't be spring without some muted tones, from a soft sage green to a pale lemon yellow, these light shades feel spring-appropriate without straying into the obvious or juvenile pastel room ideas.

'Lighter, brighter shades that lean into soft pastels bring a sense of freshness and uplift,' explains Helen. 'They thrive in sunlit rooms, where shifting light reveals their subtle undertones. Raindrops on Roses carries the gentlest hint of lavender, energizing yet flattering, while Fresh Dew, a delicate blend of green and gray, both soothes and invigorates with its feather-light presence.'

No color scheme is complete without a good white. Benjamin Moore's Simply White is the grounding neutral that pairs beautifully with the hushed pastels and brighter shades. Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, says, 'Simply White OC-117 is a brighter white paint color with a hint of yellow. This Benjamin Moore staple has just the right amount of cheer and warmth. The perfect use-anywhere hue, pair it with warmer neutrals and off-whites for a fresh but still welcoming look. Bring in pale pastels, leafy greens, and sky blues for the ultimate spring vibe.'

Fresh Air 211 is a more stripped-back take on butter yellow. Helen explains, 'Nothing captures the essence of spring quite like the soft glow of lemon and buttermilk, and Fresh Air embodies this beautifully. Its pale yellow base, grounded by subtle brown undertones, strikes a perfect balance of fresh yet gently anchored, never overly sweet. Swept across all four walls, it creates a space that feels calm and quietly uplifting. Layered with natural textures or offset by playful accents, it delivers an understated brightness that endures.'

Grounding earthy neutrals bring depth and contrast against the pale hues. While colors like Mountain Lane 488, (Arianna describes it as 'An earthy hue that conjures up thoughts of lush hillsides') might be unexpected, they couldn't be a more welcome respite from the muted tones. Helen says, 'It evokes the calm sophistication of a plant-filled veranda and pairs effortlessly with other nature-led tones like soft browns, warm beiges, and gentle greens.'

Perhaps the most playful, unexpected shade of them all, Benjamin Moore's Raspberry Blush 2008-30 sets off the deep green and pale pastels, bringing some much-needed vibrancy and surprise that makes this palette feel so unique.

Arianna says, 'A vivacious shade of coral-tinged with pink, Raspberry Blush brings personality and vibrancy to a color palette. Take a playful spin on the classic red dining room by using this charismatic shade.'

Helen adds, 'Shades tinged with coral, such as Raspberry Blush, come alive throughout the day, especially in sunlight, radiating a charismatic, vivacious energy inspired by the vibrant colors of the kitchen. This lively coral, touched with pink, feels bold yet approachable, offering the perfect unexpected pop of color for a modern take on the unexpected red theory.'

Colorful Spring Shopping Picks

Benjamin Moore's spring color palette is delightfully refreshing. Filled with sophisticated pastels, an earthy olive green and a zingy red, it's a palette that perfectly balances light and dark and everything in between.

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Once deemed timeless and classic, cool-toned grays and stark whites might have been the inevitable choice for living rooms only a few years ago, but in 2026, cooler, 'safe choice' colors have fallen out of favor.

We're not saying neutrals are being left out of living room color schemes for good; in fact, in their softer, warmer forms, they are as popular as ever, but it's the crisp whites and cool grays that designers warn are going out of style.

These are the colors designers are leaving out of their living spaces this year, and the warmer, most characterful shades they are decorating with instead.

1. Cool Toned Neutrals

While rich charcoals and warm whites continue to be popular amongst designers, it'll come as no surprise that cool-toned grays and whites are no longer factored into 2026 color trends.

Millennial gray and bright white may have been in every living room during the 2000s, but today, they feel a little lifeless. Interior designer Nina Long, Principal Designer at Mathews Design Group, explains, 'It seems like I'm seeing a move away from overly cool, flat palettes, especially icy grays and blue-based whites. They tend to fall a bit short in living rooms, where you want depth, warmth, and a sense of ease.'

Nina adds, 'White-on-white schemes are also starting to feel less relevant. While classic in theory, they can read a bit stark without the nuance and layering that make a space feel truly collected.'

'I'm always drawn to palettes that feel timeless, livable, and quietly layered,' she continues. 'I've been leaning into warm, complex neutrals, chalky creams and soft ivories that create a beautiful backdrop for antiques, art, and beautiful patterned fabrics. These tones feel far more inviting and allow a room to evolve over time.' Warm whites like Benjamin Moore's Swiss Coffee or Farrow & Ball's Joa's White are a great replacement for starker variations. Alternatively, for gray lovers, Sherwin-Williams ' infamous Agreeable Gray balances warmth with neutrality.

2. Sage Greens

Not long ago, sage green paint was everywhere. While it's recently crept back into the world of interiors, designers are still choosing earthier, deeper variations of the organic hue for living rooms this year.

Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick explains, 'What I’m noticing, is a shift in the type of green people are choosing. Those cooler, blue-undertoned greens think sage (Green 02) are starting to feel a little less popular. They can sometimes feel slightly flat or a bit cold, especially in living rooms where you want that sense of warmth and comfort.'

Tash adds, 'Instead, people are leaning into much richer, yellow-based greens, more olive, moss, chartreuse, even slightly khaki or bronze-leaning tones. (Green 05 and Green 18). These colors have so much more depth and soul to them, and they feel incredibly versatile. They work beautifully in natural daylight but also come into their own in the evening under softer, warmer lighting, which is exactly what you want in a living room.'

While sage will always be popular for front doors, window treatments, or kitchen cabinets, deeper hues will replace sage green in living rooms this year. 'I think we’re going to see these warmer, earthier greens continue to grow in popularity into 2026 and 2027, they just bring such a lovely sense of grounding, warmth, and connection to nature into the home,' explains Tash.

3. Bright Colors

While it's possible to decorate with yellow without overwhelming a home, overly striking, in-your-face brights are no longer the color family of choice for living rooms this year.

While it's true that 2026 interior design trends are all about personal decorating that makes a statement, overly harsh, colorful rooms tend to feel unlivable and too bold, particularly in living rooms designed for relaxing. Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore, explains, 'As we enter 2026, color trends are gently shifting. While bold, highly saturated hues were popular in the early 2020s, these are now giving way to more nuanced and versatile shades.'

Instead of sunny yellows or electric blues, try more muted variations of your favorites. Earthy colors bring quiet warmth and saturation without dominating a living room. Helen says, 'The new direction embraces “quietly colorful” tones – subtle, comforting hues that feel fresh yet timeless. Neutrals with pink and red undertones are becoming increasingly popular, bringing warmth and depth to bedrooms and living spaces. Plaster pinks and soft dusky rose shades add an earthy, grounded feel while providing a perfect foundation for layered décor and evolving personal style.'

4. Bland Beiges

Lackluster neutrals like taupe and beige are no longer the go-to color choice for living rooms. Show-home-esque and lacking depth, these familiar neutrals lack the character and personality that all living rooms in 2026 should exude.

Helen explains, 'Traditional beiges, although long-time design staples in living rooms, are evolving as designers and homeowners explore warmer, more layered alternatives. Rather than fleeting microtrends, the focus is now on colors and designs that have lasting appeal and flexibility over time.'

Richer browns such as Farrow & Ball's Mouse's Back and Benjamin Moore's Dark Chocolate are replacing beiges and taupes, bringing intimacy and warmth to lounge spaces.

Helen explains, 'Brown is emerging as a sophisticated alternative to beige, black and gray. Deep chocolatey tones, such as Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year 2026, Silhouette, offer a rich and versatile option. With subtle charcoal undertones, it can anchor a variety of interiors, creating depth and sophistication. It works beautifully both as a backdrop for color-drenched spaces or as a contrasting element with lighter textures, balancing elegance with a relaxed, approachable feel.'

While cool-toned neutrals and overly bright paints are going out of style this year, earthier, richer shades are expected to dominate. When picking a paint color for your lounge, steer clear of fleeting trends and instead opt for shades that evoke a sense of relaxation and calm. Nina says, 'Ultimately, it’s about creating living rooms that feel collected and comfortable, never overly trend-driven, but always relevant.'

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You're not in the minority if you spend hours browsing paint colors online, sampling them to find the perfect shade for your walls, only to default to painting the ceiling bright white. Indeed, there seems to be an unspoken rule that ceilings must be painted white, but the emerging paint trick known as ceiling blurring says otherwise.

Instead of playing it safe with white ceilings, ceiling blurring is the technique of continuing the wall color onto the fifth wall, but in a slightly lighter shade to gently draw the eye upwards and, crucially, avoid the harsh contrast that stark white often creates. While this ceiling idea works in basically any type of room, it's especially effective in small rooms where the lack of contrast helps to make the space feel larger.

Here, interior designers explain all you need to know about this clever paint trick – from the best paint shades to use to the most flattering finishes – along with stylish examples to inspire your next decorating project.

What is Ceiling Blurring?

'When considering how to paint a room, it can be tempting to default to a white ceiling,' says Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'However, a far more cohesive scheme can be achieved by considering the ceiling as part of the room’s overall palette. Using a softer tone on the ceiling, known as "ceiling blurring", softens edges rather than making the ceiling a focal point, creating a more seamless and enveloping feel.'

Essentially, ceiling blurring is where the same color as the walls is used on the ceiling, but in a lighter tone. 'The graduation in color is gentle on the eye, helping the ceiling feel less imposing and the room more harmonious,' adds Ruth.

Not only does this paint trick avoid the harsh contrast of a white ceiling with a bolder color on the walls, but it can help to make small, boxy rooms feel more expansive – guiding the eye upward without a strong endpoint.

While bold, colorful shades allow for a fun, unexpected look for ceiling blurring, it works with any color palette, from neutrals to bright tones. 'Soft, neutral, natural, and stone-inspired colors work beautifully within a graduated scheme, creating a sense of calm and restoration,' explains Ruth. 'By moving from deeper, richer tones to lighter, airier shades, the room achieves a natural, effortless flow, where colors gently combine.'

When it comes to choosing the right paint finishes, Ruth recommends going for a matte finish: 'the surface feels soft to the eye and rich to the touch, diffusing light gently and adding subtle depth.'

Stylish Examples of Ceiling Blurring to Inspire Your Project

From bedrooms to kitchens, ceiling blurring works as a clever paint technique in lots of rooms, enhancing its proportions and making a space feel soft, cozy, and considered.

'In bedrooms, ceiling blurring works particularly well, as the sense of continuity helps the space feel calm,' says Dominic Myland, CEO of Mylands. In this bedroom, a gray-green paint was used on the walls and doors (Mylands' Lamb's Ear BH.06), while a lighter gray-green, Uncle Maths BH.05, was used on the ceiling.

'In rooms with detailed trimwork or architectural moldings, it can be effective to carry the wall color up and across these features, using the ceiling as a subtle point of contrast,' adds Dominic. 'This approach allows the architectural details to remain defined, while still maintaining an easy transition between the wall and ceiling.'

Before choosing colors for your scheme, keep in mind the difference between light and darker palettes. 'Using two different paints in the same lighter tone helps reflect natural light, making a space feel more open, while two deeper shades can create a more intimate atmosphere,' says Dominic. 'In both cases, matching tones closely maintains a sense of continuity and blurs the boundary between wall and ceiling.'

Using wallpaper in place of paint on the ceiling can create a similar effect, while adding extra depth and movement to the space. In this home office, a textured sisal wallcovering in a muted shade of blue was used on the ceiling, while a dark blue paint, Sherwin-Williams' Sea Serpent, was used on the walls.

'The client wanted a dramatic and moody feel in this study, so Sea Serpent was a great fit for the walls,' explains the Washington-based designer Shannon Adamson. 'The sisal lends a subtle texture to the space and helps with sound absorption. It also keeps the ceiling from feeling too heavy and oppressive, which can happen when deeper paint colors are continued onto the ceiling, even in smaller spaces.'

In kitchens with full-height cabinetry, you can follow the same approach to ceiling blurring, painting cabinets in a richer color, and then using a lighter version on the ceiling.

'For this kitchen, I wanted to maintain a burgundy color scheme for the cabinetry, painting them a shade of Brinjal,' says the designer Cecilia Casagrande of Boston-based Casagrande Studio. 'I also chose Setting Plaster for the ceiling color to complement the cabinets and prevent them from overwhelming the space, as can happen with dark cabinets and white ceilings. In this case, the ceiling plays a significant role in the overall design.'

Light gray-green paints work wonderfully in bedrooms, setting a tranquil feel, and taking them onto the ceiling creates a cocooning effect. 'For this bedroom, our goal was to create a relaxing atmosphere that showcased the beautiful window treatments,' says Cecilia. The designer settled on Farrow & Ball's Mizzle for the walls, with the slightly lighter tone of Cromarty for the ceiling. 'This subtle color change added a touch of brightness without altering the overall aesthetic,' says Cecilia.

Not only does painting the fifth wall a tonal version of the wall color create a cohesive, soft look and create the illusion of more height in small spaces, but it also feels more current than bright white ceilings that can come across as dated. If you're looking for some inspiration for choosing a color palette for this paint trick, browse the bold shades that transform small rooms.

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While it's hard to imagine pastels not being associated with spring, a true spring palette includes not just muted blues and butter yellows, but unexpected colors that feel just as uplifting but more unique, in keeping with 2026 color trends.

A time to get creative with color, spring is the season many await to give their homes a much-needed refresh. With ample sun filling our homes, embracing spring color palettes that reflect the season's freshness is one of the most impactful ways to transform your space, not just for the season but for the year beyond.

While Farrow & Ball is best known for its heritage colors that complement historic settings, their refreshing spring color palette takes all the usual hues we see this time of year and gives them depth. A palette composed of nine shades designed to dance beautifully with daylight, these joyful colors are sure to make your space feel alive and inspiring.

From lavender to pastel pink, typical room colors around springtime tend to feel a little juvenile. While muted tones are in keeping with the season and work beautifully with natural light, they can feel a little overdone at times. Farrow & Ball's seasonal spring palette acknowledges color traditions, keeping the overall family relatively subdued, but features a few brighter tones to create contrast and vibrancy that feels fitting for 2026.

Undeniably colors that will make a home feel fresher, some familiar faces are balanced by unexpected additions. Scallop, a pale pink with a plaster-like feel, falls somewhere between a neutral and a pastel, making it perfect for any room in the home. Whether it's covering an entryway (matched with white trim) or covering a ceiling to add softness living room, Scallop is subdued but still interesting, a refreshing variation on pale pink that will last beyond the season.

It would be wrong not to see a yellow paint included in a spring color scheme, but for this year's selection, there's no butter yellow in sight. The shade received ample love last year, so it's about time another hue took the limelight.

Babouche, a zingy, cheerful yellow that's warm and bright all at the same time, features in Farrow & Ball's spring color palette. Ideal in darker rooms in need of some joy, yet equally as complementary in light-filled spaces that are only enhanced by vibrant hues, Babouche feels like one of those paint colors that's always uplifting, and always appreciated, not just around springtime.

Last spring, there was a clear trend that bolder colors are replacing pastels, and it seems in 2026 that rule still applies, as it's not just Babouche included in the mix; Acid Drop (zingy and acid-like as the name suggests) is the striking hue that offsets the muted tones we all know and love. This chartreuse-like green is spot on for right now, with chartreuse being the unexpected rising color trend this year.

Those on the fence about the return of pink should look to Farrow & Ball's Cinder Rose. A rosey hue with cool undertones, yes, it's a pretty pink, but unlike many of the sickly sweet pale pinks we see around spring time, its depth makes it feel liveable and rather contemporary.

Best paired with earthy greens (Yeabridge Green, we're looking at you) and muted blues (this is where the powder blue, Kittiwake, comes in), the dusty rose is perfect for those braving pink for the first time, or for pink aficionados looking to commit to a spring shade that strays from blush tones. Cover an entryway in the hue, or lease some life into your kitchen with a pink wall to make the (often chaotic) art of cooking feel a little more fun.

Powder blue is getting a lot of stage time this year. It feels rather close to pastels on the color spectrum, but with more vibrancy than a baby blue, it's a slightly more sophisticated take on a pastel.

Powder blue was an unexpected fall color trend in 2025, and continues to remain popular into spring, with Farrow & Ball including Kittiwake in their spring color palette and plenty of designers continuing to embrace similar variations of the powder-like blue.

Described as having 'a touch more black pigment creating a warmer, more relaxed feel', Kittawake would look its best in living rooms or home offices, bringing playfulness matched by comfort. If you're not quite ready to committ to a pastel room, revamp old furniture with a lick of Kittawake or try a bold window treatment, instead.

As expected, Farrow & Ball's spring color palette is the perfect blend of playful and traditional. With familiar muted tones contrasted by zingier hues that let the imagination run wild, we can't think of a better palette to embrace this spring, for a home that feels life-filled and joyous this season and beyond.

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Benjamin Moore has revealed its best-selling paint colors specifically for the bathroom, and if you’re after a soothing, relaxing shade, the hunt is over. These top four are whisper-soft and pale without being bland.

We spoke with Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, and Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager, to find out how to decorate with these calming bathroom colors and why they are an endlessly popular choice.

Benjamin Moore's Most Popular Bathroom Colors

'These four shades are popular picks for bathrooms as they offer an innate sense of calm and wellbeing, transforming the space into a sanctuary,' explains Helen. 'Bathroom designs are increasingly geared towards comfort and relaxation, where a spa-like sanctuary is central, and every element is chosen to facilitate this as well as the room’s practical needs.'

'Soft, gentle colors paired with refined finishes make spaces feel serene and naturally confident, inviting you to pause and unwind,' she explains. 'Each of these shades, whether crisp white, pale gray, airy blue or soft sage, promotes a soothing atmosphere while keeping the space feeling open and welcoming.'

1. Simply White

Benjamin Moore's Simply White is an endlessly versatile, forever timeless white paint color that works in any bathroom, no matter its size.

'With just a whisper of warmth, Simply White has become a modern classic,' Helen explains. 'Celebrated for its clarity and ability to enhance natural light, this clean, crisp white keeps bathrooms feeling bright and fresh while remaining soft and welcoming rather than stark. Paired with veined marble and delicate metallic accents, it transforms a bathroom into a tactile, luxurious retreat reminiscent of a serene spa.'

Simply White works with a variety of finishes. Arianne Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore, says, 'Simply White OC-117 is a brighter white paint color with a hint of warmth. Pair it with warmer neutrals and off-whites for a fresh but still welcoming look. Bring in weathered wood tones and creamy stone-inspired tile to lean into a more earthy, natural style.'

2. Angelica

Muted and gentle a touch romantic, Angelica, a pale lilac with gray undertones, is one of Benjamin Moore's most popular bathroom colors.

Helen says, 'This pale gray with a hint of lavender, Angelica, brings a gentle, spa-like calm to the bathroom. Gray tones with pink or purple undertones soften tiles and hard surfaces often found in bathrooms, adding warmth and subtle depth. Finish the look with sheer curtains that catch the light and touches of greenery for a refined, serene space.'

Angelica is subdued enough to uplift bathroom walls without dominating, making it one of the best colors for a small bathroom. Arianne adds, 'Angelica AF-655 is a pale gray with a delicate touch of lavender, bringing just the right amount of charm to a color palette. Pair it with beadboard, hand-painted tile and vintage finds to lean into a cottage look with cozy but eclectic appeal.'

3. Breath of Fresh Air

Breath of Fresh Air, Benjamin Moore's highly popular pale blue paint, loved for its subtlety, is highly versatile. A timeless pastel blue that complements traditional bathrooms and coastal bathrooms, it soothes, calms, and lifts.

Helen says, 'Breath of Fresh Air is a soft, airy blue that brings a refreshing energy to any bathroom. Perfectly paired with crisp white accents, it evokes a coastal-inspired feel. Light-filled spaces benefit especially from this hue, as its gentle undertones soften bright sunlight while creating a serene, restorative environment. Tongue-and-groove panelling, natural woodwork and textured floorboards add structure and warmth, grounding the palette without overwhelming the airy, nautical vibe.'

Arianne adds, 'Breath of Fresh Air 806 is a classic light blue paint color. It brings a breath of ease to any space. Pair it with natural linens, wicker accents, and fish scale tiles for a coastal look that emanates relaxation.'

4. Bassett Hall Green

A deep sage green that grounds a scheme, Bassett Hall Green is vibrant and muted all at the same time. Popular for its earthy feel, Bassett Hall Green brings a relaxed, organic feel to the bathroom.

Helen says, 'A sophisticated, modern sage green, Bassett Hall Green adds subtle color without overpowering the space. Its calming undertones make it ideal for creating a bathroom sanctuary, offering a fresh, fashionable alternative for those looking to experiment with color. This shade balances style and serenity, allowing the bathroom to feel both elegant and restorative. For decorating, pair it with warm neutrals and natural wood to create an organic, grounded look.'

While zingy green bathrooms can feel stark, Bassett Hall Green is popular due to its natural feel. Arianne adds, 'Basset Hall Green CW-480 is an earthy green that feels classic but still refreshing. Pair it with creamy whites, penny round tile and warm marbles for a more traditional look.'

From a classic crisp white to a romantic lilac, these four Benjamin Moore paint colors are the most popular choices for a reason.

'There is a versatility and softness to these four colors, which makes them very appealing for spaces like bathrooms that have hard surfaces – like tile,' Arianne says. 'When choosing a paint color for a bathroom, you need to make sure it works well with everything else in the space. All four of these colors take an easygoing approach to color, making them inherently adaptable. Most people want their bathrooms to feel calming and serene, and a cohesive color palette plays a key role in that.'

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Gray hasn’t had much attention in interior design of late, in any form. However, there is a gray-adjacent color that’s been a rising trend this year so far: gray-green. Not quite gray, not quite green. Not as soft as sage, and not as ethereal as celadon, these gray-green tones are calming and grounded.

Gray-greens are shades that dance in natural light – so naturally they are beautiful in light-filled settings – but because they can shift so dramatically, they can be tricky to get right. You need to pay close attention to the undertones: too much gray can appear cold, while too much green, and you lose the depth.

Here to guide you through the green-to-gray scale, these five spaces showcase the versatility of this complex color trend and will help you decide where you sit on the spectrum – and which shade suits your space.

Understated and refined, this green kitchen comes to life through its thoughtful layers of color and texture. A bold Carrara marble crowns the center of the room, while the pale gray green paint sits calmly around it, providing respite from the marble's striking effect.

James and Sara Horsfall, founders of The Bath Kitchen Company, sought a muted gray-meets-green to complement the kitchen's overall minimalist vibe. They explain, 'We wanted a color that still had a neutral aspect to it and wasn’t over-dominating. Ash Grey was very soft, not too cold, and a perfect accent to a pared-back home.'

Described by Farrow & Ball as, 'The underlying green in this shade means that it will appear more intensely colored in natural daylight and greyer in areas of low light,' Ash Grey not only works beautifully beside organic materials but also comes to life with daylight. James and Sara add, 'Inviting, soft yet warm, Ash Grey works well with the English light that flooded the kitchen.'

While gray-green hues are complex, understating their undertones will help you decide which tone works for your space. While Benjamin Moore's Nantucket Gray has a grayer undertone than Farrow & Ball's Ash Grey, which edges on the darker side, placing it slightly further along on the gray-green spectrum.

On the lookout for a paint color that felt in keeping with her client's historic home, interior designer Chloë Rideout selected Nantucket Gray for its grounding powers and ability to enhance without jeopardizing a room's integrity. She explains, 'The mudroom is located in a small New England town (called West Newbury, Massachusetts) as part of an addition to a house that was built in the 1790s.'

'Nantucket Gray is one of my favorite chameleon paint colors to use, especially on millwork and cabinetry, as it acts as a neutral base for a room but still provides an interesting depth with the green undertones. To me, it is a green first and then a gray.'

Chloë explains, 'I chose it in this mudroom as I felt it would change beautifully throughout the day as the sun travelled, shifting from green to more of a warm gray at night, and contrast nicely with the brick floors.'

A gray-meets-gray that perfectly blends the two hues, Benjamin Moore's October Mist feels pretty central on the gray-to-green color spectrum. With distinct notes of depth matched by muted tones of green, it's a versatile color that feels fresh whilst still able to envelop.

Emily Sandford, founder of Sanford Collective Interiors, says, 'We chose October Mist for the trim in the adjoining living room, where the walls are a very soft white. In the mudroom, we carried the color onto the walls, ceiling, and casework to create a more enveloping moment. Because the flooring transitions between the two spaces, it helps establish a sense of continuity while still giving each room its own identity. There were also existing elements at play, including the cedar bench and slate floors, and we wanted to gently balance those warmer undertones with something soft and grounding. October Mist felt like the right way to gently anchor those without competing with them.'

Emily adds, 'October Mist is a soft, silvery sage that sits between green and grey. It is quite nuanced and shifts throughout the day depending on the light. In a more enclosed space like this mudroom, it deepens and settles into more of a moody tone, while the adjoining living room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows, it reads almost luminous. There's a softness to it that keeps it from feeling heavy, and enough complexity that it doesn't read as flat. It's the kind of color that feels considered without announcing itself.'

A significantly grayer looking green, Farrow & Ball's Pigeon falls on the gray end of the color scale, making it the perfect choice for rooms in need of depth that's restrained yet still rich.

Emily Ruff, Founder of Cohesively Curated, explains, 'I call Farrow & Ball's Pigeon a chameleon color depending on what you put next to it. In some spaces, it can feel more gray than green, and it also has blue undertones in some lighting. It is a really beautiful and calming color that goes well with everything.'

Emily explains why the gray-green worked as a living room color. 'Our clients purchased this home and loved these original built-ins, but didn't love the wood tone they had. They really didn't want to paint the entire main floor, and the walls had a lovely warm white that we could easily work with. We wanted to bring in a color on the built-ins that didn't feel too bold and distract from the beautiful view out of all of the windows. Pigeon is definitely green, but it is subdued, so it feels like a neutral.'

Described as 'a calming gray with natural energy', Coat Paints' Jojo's Green is one of the darkest gray-green paints out there. A charcoal gray mixed with green, it's a sympathetic choice that's perfect for historic homes.

Jojo Barr, founder of House Nine Design, says, 'It's an endlessly characterful gray-green paint with a slightly earthy, ‘muddy’ quality that gives it real depth and sophistication. There’s a calming, natural energy to it – grounding, reassuring, and incredibly easy to live with.'

'Jojo’s Green naturally evokes that English Heritage aesthetic – cozy, comforting and quietly timeless, which suited the snug setting within this Cotswolds home beautifully. It brings depth without overwhelming the room, creating a space that feels both intimate and enduring.'

The Gray Green Shopping Edit

While sage green might feel a little overdone at times, the gray-green trend combines sage's heritage charm with gray's moodiness. While it's easy to style gray-green tones, be wary of the role of light when choosing a paint color by considering the far-reaching spectrum of pale sage to gray.

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Small kitchens, which can often be lacking in natural light, typically welcome a palette of light neutrals in efforts to make them feel more roomy, but going for something more colorful in these hardworking rooms can be much more effective.

When choosing the best colors for small kitchens, designers often turn to the much-loved paint brand Farrow & Ball, using its nuanced, earthy shades to add character and depth.

Here, we've rounded up five Farrow & Ball paints that are favorites among designers, ranging from dusky greens to soft pinks. While each of them is a bolder choice than neutrals, they feel livable and calm, while adding plenty of design flair to small kitchens.

1. Cooking Apple Green No. 32

Cooking Apple Green is one of those colors that feels soft enough to use in place of traditional neutrals. If you're looking for a paint shade that adds a hint of color to bring interest to a small kitchen, without going too bright or bold, this one could be for you.

'The starting point for this kitchen was the backsplash: an antique-feeling but lively tropical ceramic tile,' says the Florida-based designer Katherine Shenaman. 'The client wanted her small kitchen to feel like a "jewel box", so we chose a complementary green that felt understated yet luxurious at the same time. Aged brass hardware throughout and the reclaimed oak flooring also added to the overall feel of this lively but timeless kitchen.'

'Some people may think an all-white kitchen feels larger, but in general, we find that the opposite is true,' she adds. 'People seem tired of the predictable and more eager to explore more creative ways to design small spaces, especially kitchens.'

2. French Gray No. 18

French Gray is a popular Farrow & Ball paint color – an in-between shade that sits somewhere between gray and green. Because of its gray tones, it feels calm and easy to live with, especially when compared to gray paints, which can fall flat.

Here, it was used on the cabinets, adding depth and a refined feel to the room. 'The colors of the kitchen cabinets help meld the period of the house with the more contemporary aesthetic of the homeowner,' explains the designer Ryan Kopet of Tennessee-based Miles & Kirk. 'I find the color to be expansive and warm, while not diluting the charm of the space. As our primary goal was to highlight the homeowner's art collection, we love this palette as a great backdrop to modern art.'

3. Stiffkey Blue No. 281

Dark blue paints add drama to small kitchens, and shades like Stiffkey Blue lend a sense of sophistication, especially when paired with warm brass fixtures.

The designer of this small kitchen, Kristin Kostamo-McNeil, principal designer at Anne Rae Design, recalls discussions with the client to find the right shade of blue: 'We agreed that a deeper tone was essential to achieving the drama he envisioned for the space,' she says.

'We paired the paint with a slightly deeper blue tile backsplash to complement rather than compete with the blue-washed cabinets,' she adds. 'Stiffkey Blue is a wonderful choice for a small kitchen when you're after something dramatic and intimate, with a feel that's both luxurious and unexpected.'

4. Green Smoke No. 47

Green Smoke is a dark green paint that has a dusky, muted quality that makes it feel soothing and mellow. 'This shade of green works beautifully in a small kitchen because it offers a richness of color while still acting like a neutral,' says NYC designer Jennifer Hunter.

'Greens that are slightly muted with gray undertones tend to recede visually, allowing the cabinetry and walls to feel layered rather than busy,' she explains. 'Instead of relying on white or beige to make the room feel open, the green creates a calm backdrop that adds character without overwhelming the space. In a compact kitchen, it brings warmth and personality while remaining timeless and versatile.'

5. Pink Ground No. 202

Pink paints make a comforting, stylish choice in small kitchens. Soft shades feel like just a step away from neutrals, while adding warmth, character, and a cozy feel. Here, Pink Ground was used on the walls, a dusky shade that doesn't lean too sweet, along with Farrow & Ball's Pointing on the cabinets.

'Pink Ground is one of my favourite colors to use because it has such a lovely warmth to it,' explains the interior designer Sophie Garland who use in her own cozy country cottage. 'It’s especially good in smaller spaces, as the pale tone brings in color while still keeping the room feeling light and fresh.'

Landing on the right paint color is one of the most important steps in decorating compact spaces, but there are lots of other creative ways to make a small kitchen look more luxurious, from lighting to countertop ideas.

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