Beige has suffered from a bad reputation for many years. Though popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, over the decades, many designers have taken aim at beige, labeling it as bland, unadventurous, dated, and ‘builder-grade.’ Instead, many have sought to champion a more courageous use of color.

But decorating with beige has many perks. With more grounding, comforting shades topping color trends in recent years, beige is making a comeback, with interior designers rediscovering its value as a versatile warm neutral – perfect for creating a light yet cozy backdrop for both contemporary and timeless schemes.

That said, it hasn’t completely shaken off its stigma and can still be seen as a safe or boring choice, making many hesitant to embrace it. To banish the myths about beige, we reached out to experts for their advice on how to make this controversial color work in a living room.

‘Beige has lived under the shadow of its own reputation for too long,’ says Kayla Kratz, senior director of color and design strategy at Behr. ‘In practice, it’s one of the most versatile and quietly powerful colors in design. The trouble is that it’s treated like a conclusion when it’s really a starting point.’

In other words, beige only means bland if you leave it one-dimensional – but used as a base for a layered scheme, and with a little interior design know-how, it can be a sophisticated, timeless choice. ‘Beige becomes compelling the moment you treat it as a foundation rather than a fallback,’ adds Kayla. So, if you’re drawn to beige but worried the results could end up looking drab, then fear not – there’s no reason it has to be boring.

What Are the Pros of Choosing Beige for a Living Room?

The beauty of beige lies in its versatility. Beige offers a warm, neutral base that will endure over the years. As tastes and needs change over time, our homes are ever-evolving; decorating with neutrals makes it easy to restyle and reconfigure schemes without redecorating.

Because it pairs well with most colors, it can sit happily among furnishings, homewares, collectibles, and artwork. ‘Beige tones will always be in style and have always had a home in traditional design. They are a timeless, classic choice,’ says Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore. ‘It doesn’t compete with other colors, giving you a lot of options when it comes to choosing the design elements for the space.’

Another key selling point of beige is its warm undertones. In recent years, we’ve become more attuned to the way rooms make us feel – not just how they look – and we’ve discovered the power of warmer neutrals to nurture feelings of comfort, security, and overall well-being.

What Are the Cons?

While there’s a strong case for a beige living room scheme, there are pitfalls. For those looking for wall colors, finding the right shade is notoriously tricky. ‘The biggest mistake is ignoring undertones,’ explains Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. ‘A beige that’s too yellow can quickly feel dated, especially if it clashes with flooring or lighting.’ Add to the mix room orientation, size and the materials that exist in the space, and the whole decision becomes even more complex. The answer? Always sample.

‘The biggest mistake we tend to see is people not sampling colors before painting,’ says Arianna. ‘Neutrals are a very nuanced color family, and the lighting and other colors in the space can all affect how the undertones cast once the color is painted on the walls. There is a misconception that beige is a safe or easy paint color, but you really want to pay attention to everything in the space to find the beige that will work best for your project.’

Even once your base tone is decided, there’s still a careful design path to tread to ensure success; without the right treatment and layering, beige rooms can easily feel lifeless, say the experts. ‘Another common issue is a lack of contrast; when everything in the room is the same tone, the space can feel flat. Beige needs grounding elements, texture, or deeper accents to feel elevated and contemporary,’ adds Emily.

How Can You Elevate a Beige Living Room?

So, by now we’ve established that beige can be a wonderful base for a room scheme. It brings warmth to schemes without overwhelming. But where to go from here? To help make your neutral scheme stand out from the crowd, we’ve shared some key ways to make beige beautiful.

1. Choose the Right Paint Shade

Choosing a neutral palette is notoriously tricky, with many factors to consider. To make navigating shade selection easier, here are a few industry favorites.

‘Shaker Beige HC-45 is an iconic Benjamin Moore color and one of its most popular beiges. ‘It is what we consider the quintessential beige, which is why it has such staying power,’ says Arianna Barone at Benjamin Moore. 'In rooms that have a lot of natural light, Shaker Beige has enough depth that it doesn’t wash out and still has a presence in the room. In rooms with cooler lighting, it can add warmth, creating a welcoming space. ‘

At Sherwin-Williams, shades like Accessible Beige SW 7036 and Natural Linen SW 9109 continue to be top requests, along with light, warm neutrals such as Neutral Ground SW 7568, explains Emily Kantz. ‘This reflects a shift away from the cool grays and a strong desire for warmth and comfort in interior spaces,' she adds. Rather than yellow undertones, neutral shades with brown or green undertones seem to be on the rise, such as Sherwin-Williams' color of the year, Universal Khaki.

At Behr, Even Better Beige is a consistent seller. ‘It has a grounded presence that feels livable on day one and still feels right two years later. That kind of staying power is rare,’ says Kayla Kratz. ‘Blank Canvas is the white I recommend when someone wants light without coldness. It breathes without disappearing, bringing warmth without weight. And Wheat Bread is for the homeowner who wants a beige that commits. Its toasty undertone holds through different light conditions.’

The big risk with picking a beige paint is choosing one that leans yellow. This can look dated. Opting for ‘greige’ – beige tones with hints of gray – is an alternative designers often turn to. Despite having gray in its name, Benjamin Moore’s Edgecomb Gray is a popular choice for those looking for an easy neutral.

'Beige paint can be incredibly sophisticated when it has the right undertones, and Benjamin Moore Edgecomb Gray is a perfect example,’ says Tracy Morris, principal, Tracy Morris Design. ‘It reads warm and soft, not flat, which allows architectural details and furnishings and layered artwork to really stand out.’

Benjamin Moore's Tapestry Beige is another of Tracy's go-to greige neutrals, as it offers depth without overpowering a space, she explains. 'It carries a subtle, brown-based green undertone that warms up beautifully in natural light, making it especially lovely in rooms like this that are filled with windows. The result is a calm, layered backdrop that pairs effortlessly with both soft neutrals and deeper accent tones.'

2. Pair Beige With the Right Neutral Tones

While color-drenched rooms can look effective, using beige in isolation can make a room feel flat and lifeless, so it’s important to pair it with the right supporting tones to get the most out of the shade. White is a popular choice, with some designers preferring warm, soft whites and others turning to more crisp whites.

‘Pair beiges with crisp white paint colors – like Simply White OC-117 or Chantilly Lace OC-65 – to bring out its depth. Or bring in darker charcoals and browns – like Kendall Charcoal HC-166, Silhouette AF-655 or Fresh Brew 1232 – to make it feel lighter and softer,’ says Arianna Barone.

On the other hand, Lauren Saab prefers warmer whites. ‘Benjamin Moore's Cloud White works beautifully with a beige interior as it has a subtle, warm quality to it. This quality adds to the softness of the palette without disrupting it.’

'For a harmonious feel, using shades from the same color family is a good way to add interest in a subtle way,' explains Ruth Mottershead, creative director at Little Greene. 'A good palette to utilize is the Little Greene ‘Color Scales’ collection. Our most popular colors sit within families of four graduated tones, made using the same pigments, but in different strengths. These groups of colors are a timeless choice if you are looking for soft, neutral tones to provide natural movement throughout the home.'

3. Introduce Texture

Texture is vital to the success of any interior scheme, but arguably even more so in neutral rooms. Designers can't stress the importance of layering texture enough to prevent spaces from feeling flat. ‘Add in texture, texture, texture: or in designer speak, layers. Your beige living room will not fall flat if you incorporate different textures in your furniture choices, textiles and lighting,’ explains Lindsay Norton, founder of Cornerstone Design & Build. Here, her living room design has a minimalist palette, but by mixing organic materials like textural linen, chunky knits and wood, the scheme remains inviting.

‘Wooden coffee tables, cane chairs, or a rattan focal mirror will instantly add visual interest and much-needed warmth to an all-beige living room, helping to anchor the room amidst the calm neutral envelope,' adds Lindsay.

One way to introduce grounding texture at a foundational level is to opt for a textured wallpaper, as done here by New England-based interior designer Alison Hammatt. ‘We chose Thibaut’s vinyl grasscloth in Wheat. This is a family room, and we wanted something durable, lasting, and attractive on the walls,’ says Alison. ‘I love the texture that this wallpaper adds to the space. It is a large room, and the grasscloth makes the walls feel cozy.’ This is a great option for rooms that might lack architectural interest.

4. Pair Beige With Rich Accent Colors

We've established that beige needs to be layered and lifted in order to shine. Fortunately, beige can carry a wide range of tones, making it a great base for building a deep, interesting color scheme. When it comes to accent colors for beige shades with warm, earthy undertones are a natural fit, such as caramel, brown, olive green, and deep red.

‘Try pairing Even Better Beige with a grounding olive green, a decadent burgundy, or an earthen terracotta,’ advises Kayla Kratz. ‘For an elevated, organic pairing, Behr's Sorrel Leaf brings a grounded, almost botanical richness that makes beige feel collected rather than cautious. Together, they're calm but deeply intentional. The room feels connected and curated.’

'When using beige in a living room, I recommend balancing it with deeper accent colors and warm metals, so the space feels intentional and elevated rather than bland,’ says Tracy Morris, principal at Tracy Morris Design.

Alternatively, for more greige tones, blues make a wonderful accent color, as demonstrated in this open-plan living room scheme by Cohesively Curated. 'Benjamin Moore's Swiss Coffee was the perfect foundation for this home because it brings warmth and softness without feeling overly creamy or yellow. The client really wanted the space to be primarily neutral, and we incorporated greens and blues through the vintage rug and the pillows,' explains Emily Ruff, founder of Cohesively Curated Interiors

While there aren't too many colors that fight with beige, some designers suggest that colors to avoid pairing with beige include citrus yellows, purple, vibrant greens, and blues.

5. Embrace Pattern

Introducing soft furnishings and window treatments in patterned prints will instantly liven a beige living room. Here, Alison Hammatt cleverly layered prints in different scales, motifs and textures against walls in Farrow & Ball's Shaded White to create an engaging and comfortable space. ‘My client lives in coastal Rhode Island and wanted her home to feel decidedly not nautical. She wanted something that felt a bit more soothing and neutral, so we chose this great "greige" color as our foundation,’ explains Alison.

‘The sofa is in a brown performance fabric, forgiving for a home with three young children. We layered in neutral Fermoie sconce shades for texture and beautiful Soane Scrolling Fern pillows for some movement. The drapery is a subtle James Malone Ikat stripe.’

6. Play with Finishes

Paint finishes are a great way to bring contrast and depth to beige-painted rooms, creating subtle differences in tone and texture. ‘If you want to use the same beige on multiple surfaces – think walls and trim – you could use eggshell on the walls and semi-gloss on the trim. This creates a softer contrast,’ explains Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore.

When it comes to finishes, you always want to consider the surface that is being painted, and how it is being used, she explains. ‘The higher the sheen, the more durable but less forgiving of imperfections, so you want to make sure the surface is prepped properly. Doing a beige in a higher sheen on the walls will reflect more light around the room and create a more unexpected look.’

7. Add Black to Ground a Beige Scheme

According to several designers, the addition of black – or other dark tones – is essential to a successful beige scheme. ‘Do not forget the best-kept designer secret for neutral spaces: adding black,’ reveals Lindsay Thornton. ‘The eye needs a focal spot within a space, and the best neutral rooms have small pops of black throughout for this very reason. Whether that is a picture frame, curtain rod or the legs of a coffee table, elements of black will help anchor the neutral room and bring another dimension to the space.’

Emily Kantz agrees that skipping deeper tones and structural details can cause interiors to lack focus. ‘Another common issue is a lack of contrast; when everything in the room is the same tone, the space can feel flat. Beige needs grounding elements, texture, or deeper accents to feel elevated and contemporary.’

What Are Good Alternatives to Beige?

Fuelled by a desire to create calm, comforting and warm spaces, warm neutral tones like beige are on the rise. If you’re after a paint to create a stylish yet cozy foundation, then these are some of the best warm neutral paints designers recommend.

Warm whites – Warm whites, which have subtle brown or yellow, are ideal for creating spaces that feel bright and fresh yet not cold and sterile. Slipper Satin is a chalky, warm off-white by Farrow & Ball favored by designer Alexandra Azat of Plater & Patina. 'I love this shade – it is for the person that wants the light and bright white, but wants to still feel calm, the undertones are simply perfection.'

Ballet White by Benjamin Moore is a go-to neutral for Tracy Morris. 'It strikes the perfect balance between cream and taupe. It feels warm and sophisticated without reading yellow, and it shifts beautifully throughout the day depending on the light.’

Benjamin Moore's White Dove is a top choice for Lindye Galloway Interiors. 'White Dove is one of my favorite creamy whites – soft, nuanced, and perfectly balanced in its undertones.'

For those who prefer whites with brown undertones, try Alabaster by Benjamin Moore. 'It’s a white with warmth and taupe undertones, making the room feel soothing instead of stark. It is a soft white that mixes well with earth tones and natural materials,' says Tracy.

Greige – Beiges with notes of gray are ideal for those seeking a rich neutral without too much yellow. Farrow & Ball’s Drop Cloth is a great option and is a favorite of Alexandra Azat. ‘This sits between Slipper Satin and Mouse’s Back – it's a soft putty color that is pure perfection.’

Green beiges – Beige tones with a hint of green are proving popular and are perfect for pairing with trending earthy green tones like sage and olive. ‘Right now, we are also seeing people leaning towards green-beiges like Grant Beige HC-83 or Jute AF-80,’ says Arianna Barone. ‘These hues have a subtle green undertone, bringing just a touch of color to the space without overwhelming it.’ Universal Khaki, Sherwin-Williams' color of the year, is another great option, as is Portland Stone by Little Greene.

Caramels – Moving to the deeper end of the neutral spectrum, mid-tone neutrals with brown and ochre undertones, such as honey and caramel tones, can make a great alternative to beige for those looking for comforting and cocooning spaces. 'Warm, neutral shades of honey, caramel and chocolate will bring warmth and comfort into our homes, creating cozy enveloping interiors that appeal to all the senses,' says Ruth Mottershead. 'Perfect for use in ‘all-over’ schemes in both contemporary and traditional settings, these delightful neutral hues work really well in a color-drenched room as an alternative to white, gray or stone.'

Despite its fair share of negative press, it seems beige has always been a trusted shade in the interior design toolkit and is valued as a versatile backdrop for both contemporary and traditional living rooms. ‘Beige is anything but boring – it’s the warm, earthy foundation that lets everything else have a moment,’ explains interior designer Susan Feffer, principal and founder of Chain Bridge Design. Today, with our yearning for comforting spaces, the shade seems to be coming to the forefront once again.

Although often labeled as ‘safe’ and sometimes ‘boring’, don't be put off, as designers insist that with careful planning and a few design tricks, beige rooms can be full of interest and character. ‘Beige works best when it feels intentional and layered, not one-note. The key is contrast and layering,’ says Emily Kantz. ‘Choose a beige with subtle clay undertones to avoid yellowing. Then add depth through natural materials like wood, stone, and linen. Pair it with architectural contrast to keep the space from feeling flat.'

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Brown and blue aren't exactly an obvious color pairing. Cool and warm are often tricky to mix. Many might pair brown with an earthier hue from its own color family, such as olive green or burnt orange. And the same goes for blue; the easy choice would be to couple it with a hue similarly cool in tone. But real color aficionados will know that whether it's a deep teal paired with a chocolate brown or a cheery powder blue beside a toffee-toned taupe, brown and blue is a combination that, if done right, can look ever-so chic.

And it's a color trend you can introduce into your home without having to commit to a total overhaul with paint. Many recent fall collections feature this unexpectedly autumnal color palette. Greenrow's latest homeware launch is threaded with pale blues and organic browns, and Joanna Gaines' latest drop at Magnolia gives this hot and cold combo a heritage feel with chocolate browns and dusty cornflower blues.

Inspired by the color combination of the moment, we've put together a collection of twenty little luxuries to give your home some style and substance, for this season and beyond.

'A rich blue and brown color palette transcends trends,' says Hero Dalrymple, Creative Director at Albion Nord. 'This combination is rooted in nature and evokes a sense of peace and permanence. Blue exudes calmness and works beautifully with browns and the naturally warm tones of wood.'

Interior designer Nina Farmer swears by the marriage of brown and blue. 'I love pairing blue and brown because it's one of the most timeless color combinations,' she says. Referring to a recent living room project, she says, 'Walnut paneling brings warmth and richness, while the soft blue upholstery adds a sense of calm and keeps the room feeling light. By layering these tones throughout the furnishings, textiles, and artwork, the palette feels collected, balanced, and inviting rather than overly coordinated. It's a classic combination that never feels dated.'

Expect to see plenty more brown and blue in the same room this year. The perfect balance of luxurious and warm yet cheery and unexpected, it's a color trend that works in every home, regardless of style.

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Those who approach decorating with color with a slight caution will know all about the power of muted pastels. Not so neutral that you hardly notice them, but subtle enough to gently cocoon rather than dominate, sun-faded pastels are the answer to schemes in need of a little quiet but not silence.

While pastel rooms have gained a reputation for erring into juvenile territory (think lemon yellows, candyfloss pinks, and sky blues), sun-faded pastels are the chicer, far more enduring color trend, still offering delicious color but in a more muted dose.

'Sun-faded pastels are pastels that have lived a little,' says designer Amy McCoy of McCoy Design Studio. 'The colors feel like they've been softened by years of afternoon light rather than mixed straight from a paint chip. Think a blue that reads more "worn chambray" than "baby blue," a green that feels like sea glass rather than mint. They have warmth and depth to them, and as the trend leans toward color, I think sun-faded pastels are a great way to dip your toe into color without fully committing.'

Laura Hammett, creative director of the eponymous design studio, knows a thing or two about decorating with a muted color scheme. 'When developing our Laura Hammett Living Paint Collection, I was inspired by the enduring beauty of traditional interiors and the calming effect of nature. The palette spans warm neutrals, gentle blushes, and earthy greens – all chosen to layer effortlessly in both period and contemporary homes.'

'Heritage-inspired colors like blush pink, sage, soft olive, and warm linen offer an instant sense of refinement,' says Laura. 'They’re timeless and elegant, adding subtle character without ever feeling overdone.'

'These tones often echo the materials and patinas found in historic buildings – from the soft smoke hues of aged stone to the warmth of sun-faded plaster. Our Mulberry shade, for example, takes its cue from the deep, rich berry tones often seen in old English estates, adding drama and richness to schemes.'

'Sun-washed tones feel especially relevant right now when they’re paired with unexpected, slightly softened color combinations rather than strict palettes,' say Mike Shively and Lucas Goldbach of En Masse Architecture and Design. 'Homeowners are gravitating toward interiors that feel comfortable, safe, and lived-in, and using these pared-down tones in unexpected ways helps achieve that while still keeping a sense of uniqueness.'

'Mauve with sage green works beautifully in bedrooms or softer living spaces where you want calm but still a sense of dimension,' add Mike and Lucas. 'Mustard with blue-green tones is another combination we use often in living rooms for contrast that still feels easy.'

There's a steer away from cool-toned cooking spaces in favor of muted pastel kitchens. 'We’re using butter yellows that sit in that middle ground – stronger than a soft pastel but not overly saturated. There’s a real appetite for yellow kitchens right now, and we’ve done one recently and are working on another.'

'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,' says Helen Shaw, director of marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'Similarly, traditional grays and beiges are evolving as designers and homeowners explore warmer, more layered alternatives. Rather than fleeting microtrends, the focus is now on colors that offer lasting appeal and flexibility over time.'

'This new direction embraces ‘quietly colorful’ tones – subtle, comforting hues that feel fresh yet timeless,' Helen continues. 'Neutrals are no longer limited to flat, background shades, but instead encompass quietly confident colors with subtle undertones that feel richer and more intentional while still remaining versatile.'

'This shift towards warmer, more nuanced palettes has created the perfect environment for sun-faded pastels to come to the forefront. Shades such as dusty rose, butter yellow, and sage green offer the softness of a neutral while introducing warmth and personality and can now stand on their own as primary design elements, often forming the foundation of entire palettes.'

Sun-Faded Pastel Decor

'Sun-faded pastels offer the versatility of classic neutrals, but with far more depth and personality,' explains Helen. 'Unlike cool-toned whites, which can sometimes feel stark or clinical, these layered shades introduce subtle color and warmth while maintaining a calm and adaptable backdrop.'

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Not quite blue, not quite green, and not quite gray, Sherwin-Williams' much-loved Oyster Bay is a complex pale blue paint that constantly shifts depending on the light. It's known for its tranquility and how it balances being both calming and warm.

'Oyster Bay is a soft green-gray with subtle slate-blue undertones that creates a calming, sophisticated feel,' explains Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'Its balanced undertones allow it to shift beautifully throughout the day, making it feel fresh and airy in brighter spaces while taking on a cozier, more grounded appearance in lower light.'

'Oyster Bay is a sophisticated blue-green defined by its soft gray undertones and a muted, organic character,' explains interior designer Staci Steidley of Studio Steidley. 'Neither overly blue nor distinctly green, it strikes a harmonious balance that feels refined, tranquil, and effortlessly timeless. It has an understated warmth that gives it incredible versatility. Depending on the light, it can feel serene and airy during the day while taking on a richer, more intimate character in the evening. It's one of those colors that quietly adds depth without overwhelming a space.'

'One of the reasons we love Oyster Bay is its versatility,' continues Staci. 'It works beautifully in bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, and living spaces where a sense of calm is desired. It is definitely a go-to color for us in certain environments. In this project, we selected it because it creates a sophisticated backdrop to the home office, while allowing the furnishings, artwork, and architectural details to shine.'

'It's especially successful in rooms with abundant natural light but also performs beautifully in spaces that benefit from a cozy, enveloping feel. No matter what lighting it gets, it still reads beautifully, and we don't have to worry about whether our clients will love it – they will!'

'I see Oyster Bay as a mid-tone gray-green with a dash of slate blue,' says Jennifer Verruto, founder of Blythe Interiors. 'It's a dynamic color and can vary a lot depending on the lighting. It's so versatile that it can work in any room! It's a lovely color for living room and bedroom walls; when it comes to kitchens and bathrooms, we especially love it on millwork and cabinetry (pictured above).'

Due to its chameleon-like abilities to shift, Oyster Bay can be a tricky one to pair with, but a tried and tested timeless look is to layer it with soft neutrals and plenty of natural textures. Think calming beach house. You could also ground it slightly with some darker blues and grays for a less summery feel.

'Sherwin-Williams colors we love to pair with Oyster Bay are Greek Villa (a creamy white) and Iron Ore (a deep charcoal),' says Jennifer. 'We love color drenching, but if you want to add a little drama, go two shades darker and use Retreat by Sherwin-Williams on the trim, ceiling, and doors.'

'For materials, stick to organic options like stone, warm woods, and linen. For furnishings and decor, consider adding some richness with chocolate browns or saffron tones,' adds Jennifer.

'Oyster Bay pairs also beautifully with warm whites like White Duck, soft greiges like Shiitake, and deeper accents like Rock Bottom,' adds Emily. 'It really complements natural materials such as light and medium-toned woods, marble, limestone, brushed brass and woven textures, creating a layered and timeless aesthetic.'

'Oyster Bay is always well suited for spaces where a sense of comfort and relaxation is desired,' concludes Emily, 'including bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and home offices. It also works beautifully in kitchens and laundry rooms, bringing a subtle connection to nature while remaining versatile enough to complement a variety of design styles.'

Oyster Bay-Inspired Shopping

A deeply relaxing color that provides respite from bolder powder blues, designers rely on Oyster Bay to bring sophistication and that all-important sense of calm into homes.

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A room without an accent color is like an outfit without accessories. Much like clothing, wall colors are an excellent base, but accent colors are the accessories that take a room from good to great.

While choosing a paint for your walls might make it easy to overlook accent colors, the devil is in the details when it comes to introducing color in the home. Selecting your accent shades is more than just choosing a vibrant cushion to create contrast; from paying attention to the pieces you already have to following color theory 101, these are the five ways to ensure your scheme is well-balanced and impactful.

'For me, choosing the accent color is the secret sauce to getting a room to go from feeling nice to looking absolutely exceptional,' explains Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick. 'It's amazing how often I'll walk into a client's home, and they'll say, "I love it, but it just feels like something's missing." Nine times out of ten, it's the accent color.'

1. Start With the Pieces You Already Have

Choosing your accent color starts with considering more than just paint; it's about considering everything else in the room as well. 'Start with what you already love,' advises interior designer Nina Long at Mathews Design Group. 'The pull accent colors from artwork, textiles, wallpaper, or even the view outside your windows. The room will always feel more collected when the colors have a natural connection.'

Draw parallels between your pieces. Whether you're pulling colors from a wallpaper or creating contrast by intentionally clashing your bedding with your headboard, accent colors create visual interest through layering.

'I always tell clients that the most beautiful interiors don’t rely on a single bold color, they rely on layers, texture, and balance,' explains Tash. 'Accent colors should feel like they naturally belong in the room, not like they were added simply to make a statement. And also, don’t be scared of color; if done right, it can be tasteful and classic without feeling bold.'

2. Pay Attention to Undertone

While it's all well and good following 2026 color trends, considering undertones will ensure your scheme feels balanced and connected. 'When choosing accent colors, pay attention to undertones,' advises Nina. 'This is where people often go wrong. Two blues or two greens may look similar on a paint chip, but if the undertones don’t relate to the rest of the palette, the room can feel disconnected.'

Whether you're designing a warm color scheme or an all-white room, it's important to nail the undertones so the space feels visually harmonious. Stark white like Benjamin Moore's Brilliant White might not pair well with a cool-toned blue wall color, but might shine with a warm neutral taupe or beige. Equally, cool gray paints like Gray Owl can feel imbalanced with warm wood furniture, but may come alive with a richly painted cabinet or dresser.

3. Be Bold

'I think where people often lose confidence is with color itself,' says Tash. 'They worry about making the wrong decision, especially when it comes to the bigger investments like walls or sofas. So my advice is to keep those larger elements in lower-saturation colors that you'll happily live with for years. But when it comes to your accent color? That's your opportunity to be bold.'

'I love using that accent color as the thread that runs through a home. It might appear in a chair, a lamp, artwork or a few carefully chosen accessories. It's those little moments that make a scheme feel considered and personal,' says Tash.

'For example, you could have a really calming bedroom layered in beautiful soft blues (like Lick's Blue 01 Matte Paint) and then introduce an electric orange chair in the corner. Suddenly, the whole room comes alive. Or perhaps your living room is full of dusky pinks and rich chocolate browns, and then you bring in a pop of cobalt blue. It's that unexpected twist that gives the room energy and makes it memorable.'

4. Look to the Color Wheel

Paying attention to the color wheel will help you choose colors that actually work side by side. 'Deciphering what colors go well together and therefore what accent color you should add to your main and secondary hues depends on where on the color wheel they sit,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore.

'If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed at the thought of mixing color families, a monochromatic scheme which uses varying levels of saturation of one color is a great place to start. This will add depth to the room by instantly shifting the dimensions, while staying in the same color family to ensure it feels tied together.'

'An analogous scheme uses adjacent colors on the wheel and is a great method to ensure the look is cohesive,' continues Helen. 'Cool and calming, blue is the perfect foundation for a room’s color scheme and works especially well with its neighbor on the color wheel: green when this is selected as the accent color. Rich and dramatic, or pale and interesting, you can look at all variants of these shades. A personal favourite is a pale blue reminiscent of the sky (like Benjamin Moore's Breath of Fresh Air) paired with a brighter green accent. The vividness of the green can help to break up the soft blue, creating a refreshing, airy feel similar to that seen outdoors.'

5. Choose Colors You Love

Choosing a timeless and trendy color scheme is always about taking inspiration from the shades you love, as it's these that will endure the longest.

'I always come back to the idea that our homes shouldn't look like carbon copies of someone else's on Instagram,' explains Tash. 'Your home should tell your story. It should have soul. And the easiest way to do that is through your accent color. I always encourage people to choose a color they genuinely connect with on a personal level – the one they naturally gravitate towards every time they're shopping or when they are at their favourite restaurant, cafe or in nature, the one that catches their eye without them even thinking about it. That's normally your color.'

'Don't overthink it. Trust your instincts,' says Tash. 'If there's one color you're always drawn towards, there's usually a reason for it. Lean into it, choose the bolder version, and let that be the color that brings your personality into the room. Because those finishing touches are often what transform a beautiful space into one that feels completely and uniquely yours.'

From paying attention to the pieces you already own to taking note of the neighbouring shades on the color wheel, these five steps will ensure your home's accent colors feel well-balanced, personal, and visually aligned.

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There are always buyers looking for renovation projects to get stuck into, but there are just as many people, if not more, who would rather buy a house that's ready to move into. And your kitchen is the one room that can entice or deter potential buyers.

As an expensive room to renovate, not only are buyers looking for a space that is in perfect condition to use, but they are also taking note of your kitchen color ideas. And there are a few hues that designers say could devalue your entire home.

It's a small kitchen design mistake that could cost you a lot of time waiting for an offer, so it's worth fixing it before your property hits the market. These are the four kitchen colors experts say to avoid, and the more palatable shades they'd suggest instead.

1. Replace Stark White with Warm, Nature-Inspired Palettes

While a neutral kitchen is often considered the safest option when you're selling your home, stark white is the exception. It's cold, clinical, and the opposite of a warm, welcoming cooking space – something designers say is becoming increasingly important to buyers.

'One kitchen trend I would be cautious about in 2026 is a stark white kitchen with black hardware. While this combination has been incredibly popular over the past decade, it's become so common that it can make a home feel dated rather than current. Homeowners today are looking for kitchens that feel warm, inviting, and full of character,' explains Corinne Ekle, Principal Interior Designer of C2 Design.

'Instead, I'm encouraging clients to embrace warmer, nature-inspired palettes. Soft mushroom tones, warm whites, muted olive greens, natural walnut, and light oak cabinetry create a timeless look that feels fresh without being trendy. Pairing these colors with unlacquered brass, bronze, or even warm nickel hardware adds depth and sophistication. The goal is to create a kitchen that feels layered, lived in, and enduring, rather than one that follows a passing trend.'

For warm neutrals, consider shades like Farrow & Ball's Drop Cloth or Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter that feel a bit more inviting than a brilliant white. If you prefer something a bit deeper, Olive Grove by Sherwin-Williams fits a more earthy color scheme.

2. Swap Electric Green for Classic Olive

Despite common belief, a colorful kitchen can be a charming addition to a home on the market, but choosing the right shade is key. Green kitchens may be one of the most popular of recent years, but something too bright or vibrant can instantly deter buyers.

'The fastest way to turn a kitchen into someone else’s renovation project is to cover every cabinet in electric green. It can make a memorable first impression, but memorable does not always mean marketable,' says interior designer Lauren Saab of Saab Studios.

'When such a highly saturated color dominates an entire kitchen, buyers are not just seeing a bold design choice. They are seeing the cost and hassle of changing it. Kitchens are one of the most expensive rooms in a home to renovate, so a polarizing cabinet color can quickly give potential buyers a reason to think twice.'

When you are thinking about the best kitchen colors to make your house more sellable, think about the feeling and atmosphere they create, and also how universal your chosen palette is. If you're unsure, always opt for something soft and warm, even if you're embracing color.

'Instead, choose a softer olive green,' Lauren suggests. 'It still brings plenty of color and personality to a kitchen, but works with a much wider range of countertops, hardware, and flooring. Olive green has enough presence to make a kitchen interesting without overpowering everything around it.'

Farrow & Ball's Olive is a classic choice for this color palette, pairing beautifully with warm neutrals like Shaded White. Alternatively, Benjamin Moore offers a range of olive tones, including Aegean Olive for something darker, or Spanish Olive for a paler interpretation.

3. Fix Cool-Toned Gray with Warm Taupe Shades

A color that dominated every room of the home throughout the 2010s, gray has become quite the controversial hue. Even though the right shade can still feel timeless, designers warn that it's very easy to get wrong and is best avoided if you're planning to sell your home in the near future.

'Cool, blue-toned gray is one color I would be cautious about in a kitchen. Gray was extremely popular for years, but when used everywhere, this palette can now make a home feel dated, flat, or overly connected to a specific design era,' says Miranda Cullen, Founder of Inside Stories.

'A cool gray kitchen can feel stark and impersonal, especially when paired with other gray elements like flooring, countertops, and backsplashes. For buyers, that may translate into a space that feels like it needs updating even if the kitchen itself is relatively new. Or even make it hard for them to picture themselves in a space.'

This doesn't mean you have to swap out a neutral scheme for something more colorful; rather, look to muted shades that feel warm and timeless. 'A taupe with warm undertones can feel much more current than a cool, blue-based gray,' she suggests. 'This color is versatile, emphasizes natural light, and gives a lived-in feeling, which is great for a kitchen design.'

Taupe comes in many paint shades, so testing samples is key. Jitney by Farrow & Ball is great if you want to maintain a light, airy atmosphere, while Little Greene's Mushroom leans a bit more beige for a more saturated finish.

4. Ditch Highly Divisive Colors for Timeless Neutrals

It's not always one specific kitchen color that can devalue your home. Sometimes, it's an entire palette that causes a problem. And in 2026, it's very bold, divisive colors that require a very specific design style.

'The kitchen colors that tend to hurt long-term value are those that feel overly trend-driven or highly polarizing. Very dark charcoal, neon shades, bright reds, or intense purples can quickly date a space and may not appeal to a broad range of buyers,' says Steven Cooper of Cooper Pacific.

Instead, look to timeless colors and materials that feel harmonious, like warm neutrals, natural wood tones, or even soft earth shades that can work around different aesthetics. It's about choosing kitchen colors that will appeal to the most buyers, as this will ensure a more seamless sale process.

For assured timelessness, Travertine by Little Greene is the warmest neutral, inspired by the interiors of historic homes. If you prefer something a little darker but still natural, Farrow & Ball's Broccoli Brown is a moody yet classic choice.

We always encourage everyone to decorate their home to bring joy and suit their own tastes, but when you're selling your home, your approach needs to shift. These colors all have one thing in common: they don't appeal to the masses, whereas the designer-approved alternatives are inoffensive and embrace warmth and timelessness. Two things every prospective buyer is subconsciously looking for.

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One of the hardest things about selecting a paint color is not knowing how it'll look in years to come. Color trends are such a source of inspiration, and there to be followed – but with caution. You want to be sure that the color you land on will still feel timeless once it's had its moment.

While one of the age-old color mistakes is choosing hues based solely on current fashions, it's also easy to fall into the trap of keeping things too safe by sticking strictly to 'timeless paint colors'. So, the big question is: is it possible to fulfill both? Does a color scheme that's both enduring and exciting exist? And if so, how can we achieve it?

Color experts say that bridging the gap between current and classic is possible, and it lies in five simple steps. From choosing colors you know you'll love for years to considering how you apply them, these are the ways to nail a trendy and timeless color scheme.

1. Look To the Pieces You Already Own

One of the most notorious color clichés to avoid is picking a paint color before considering the rest of your scheme. While it would be nice to choose a color that jumps out at you and be done with it, the reality is that the furniture and decor we already own play a big part in how a paint idea translates.

'Prioritize creating a palette that feels authentic to you and complements your home’s architecture and existing design elements,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'You can’t choose paint colors in isolation; you have to consider all of the design elements that are also in the space. Paint colors can do a lot to change the look and feeling of the space, but the artwork, fabric, furniture, etc. all must go along with the story as well. This will help your space to feel storied and thoughtful instead of trendy and fleeting.'

'If you don’t know where to begin, use the items in the space to influence your color selection,' continues Arianna. 'Maybe there is a color in a piece of artwork or fabric that you want to bring to the walls. Or maybe it’s something that is a few shades lighter or darker than that inspiration color. Take inventory of the items in your space that you love to jumpstart the paint color selection and create a timeless look.'

2. Consider Application, Not Just Color

It's not just about the paint colors you choose; it's about how you apply them, too. We all want to balance trendy with timelessness, but part of that process is choosing paint tricks and methods that feel classic (and avoiding fleeting fads that don't). Embracing the room contouring paint trick or the high gloss paint trend is all well and good, but always consider how you might feel about it later down the line.

'There are color families that have a perennial appeal, primarily greens, blues and of course, neutrals; all other colors beyond this tend to have mini renaissances or social ‘zeitgeist’ moments,' explains Farrow & Ball's Brand Ambassador, Paddy O'Donnell. 'I would say the best way to choose your palette is to ignore EVERYTHING and decorate with your heart. One caveat to this is not necessarily about the color you choose, but how you apply paint, e.g. color drenching; these decorating styles tend to age more than the color choice.'

'Any room that is decorated from a purely personal perspective will always resonate,' adds Paddy, 'but don’t forget, every room is a sum of many parts such as your fabric choices, the objects that co-exist within a space that tell the story of its inhabitants, etc.'

3. Test It Out In Smaller Doses

'Always start in small spaces if vibrant colors feel like a mildly terrifying commitment,' advises Paddy. 'Rich hues like Farrow & Ball's Brinjal or India Yellow will make a statement in a powder room or, if you're fortunate to have one, a mudroom or larder where you tend not to linger for too long. You’ll slowly acclimatize to the joy of color, and then you can be bolder in more shared spaces such as bathrooms or sitting rooms.'

'A home is filled with surfaces that can be painted. If there is a “trendier” color you’d like to try, start small with a piece of furniture, a door or a smaller space like a bathroom or guest room,' agrees Arianna. 'If it’s a color that you love, it won’t feel dated. Often people don’t feel like the color on the walls is dated, but more so that they want to refresh the space, and the best way to do that is with a new wall color.'

'If you are someone who is looking to try more vibrant, bolder shades and are hesitant to do so, start slow. One of my favorite places to bring in bolder color is cabinets or a kitchen island. I find people don’t feel as overwhelmed by it as by putting a bolder color on the walls.' She adds, 'Smaller rooms like bathrooms, home offices, and even bedrooms are also a great place to step outside of your neutral color zone.'

4. Let What You Love Inspire You

Like all trends, you can never be entirely sure what's going to be in and what'll be out in a few years' time. That's why choosing colors that speak to you, regardless of how 'on trend' they are, is important. Of course, we all want to be sure we're choosing timeless color combinations, but the concept of 'timelessness' is entirely subjective.

'Over the last few years, we have seen the rise of earthy pinks, warm whites and various shades of brown from tobacco to chocolate, so they could be perceived as ‘of the moment’ but, decorate from the heart and you won’t go far wrong,' says Paddy. 'It’s ubiquity you want to avoid, for example, the dark blue kitchen, the paneled wall behind the bed, etc.'

'We are facing an epidemic of banality,' states interior designer Isabel Ladd, 'where people default to neutrals because they believe that is what they "should" do in order to be "timeless," "inoffensive," or best for "resale value". Choose to surround yourself with neutrals if you LOVE neutrals and the way they make you feel. Do not default to neutrals out of fear of letting your personality show. Likewise, do not surround yourself with vibrant shades if you're trying to feign brave design choices. Rather, choose to surround yourself in vibrant shades if vibrant shades make you feel good.'

'Someone, somewhere told us that kitchens should be classic, timeless, and neutral (especially for resale - ugh). I convinced myself of that when I first decorated my house a decade ago. Uninspired by my neutral default years later, I decorated my kitchen to reflect my favorite colors and patterns because they make me feel spectacular... and I've never looked back.'

5. Embrace 'Elevated' Neutrals

If you're typically a lover of decorating with neutrals, but want to brave something a little bolder, opting for elevated neutrals that feel more interesting than your average taupe or beige is one of the best ways to balance endurance with today's trends.

'Over the past few years, we have seen a growing interest in the brown color family across both fashion and interiors, offering a softer alternative to traditional dark neutrals of black and gray,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'Our 2026 color trends hone in on this idea, with a palette that we’ve named ‘Tailored Classics’ that is led by our color of the year Silhouette AF-655. Silhouette is an alluring mix of rich espresso hues with subtle notes of charcoal that can be designed in a variety of styles and spaces.'

'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,' adds Helen. 'Plaster pinks and soft dusky rose shades add an earthy, grounded feel while providing a perfect foundation for layered décor and evolving personal style.'

Whether you're taking inspiration from living room color trends or you're revamping your guest bathroom, balancing endurance with trending styles can feel tricky. Remember always to choose colors that first jump out at you, and consider how they'll blend with your architecture and the pieces you already own. From there, think about how and where you'll apply your chosen paint so it stands proud for years.

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If decision fatigue hits at any stage of the kitchen design process, it's usually when you start selecting colors. Perhaps white feels a bit boring, but a more vibrant hue is too bold for your style. But designers say there's one specific shade that they always return to for a warm yet timeless space: Farrow & Ball's French Gray. It's a kitchen color that adds subtle contrast without overwhelming the room and acts as a neutral without feeling bland.

What Color is French Gray by Farrow & Ball?

Despite its name, Farrow & Ball's French Gray is a far more complex color than just a standard gray, often leaning more green than gray, yet always adding warmth and classic style. And it's exactly why it's favored among designers.

'French Gray is such a versatile color, the way it leans soft green throughout the day and then becomes a warm gray as you get into the evening hours. It adds depth to the kitchen, creating a welcome feeling of being lived in and warm,' says Madeline Loomis of Mad Luxe Design.

It's a beautiful shade to try if you want to create a gray kitchen tastefully – in certain lights, the shade will emulate that soft green, while in others, it's a warm gray that makes this neutral feel instantly timeless. It's that balance of tones that creates a design that feels expertly layered and considered.

'Despite its name, French Gray is best thought of as a beautifully balanced mid-green. It has a wonderfully gentle quality that feels timeless rather than trend-led, bringing a sense of calm and softness to one of the hardest-working rooms in the home,' explains Patrick O’Donnell, Brand Ambassador at Farrow & Ball.

'Its subtle yellow undertones stop it from feeling cold, allowing it to create an inviting, lived-in atmosphere that works equally well in traditional country kitchens and more contemporary spaces.'

Why French Gray Works Well in Kitchens

Farrow & Ball's French Gray works beautifully in a multitude of rooms, but there's a reason designers gravitate toward it in functional spaces like the kitchen. It doesn't overwhelm the room, but it adds depth and contrast that isn't easily achieved with other neutrals like white.

'French Gray has a strength and is interesting without being too bold or too boring, which makes it really versatile. There is a muted warmth to the color, while still feeling fresh and clean,' explains Juliette Wright and Natalie Stephenson, Founders of Stephenson Wright, who note the green influence is what makes the shade appeal, particularly in kitchens.

'There is a definite green undertone to the paint color, which is part of its appeal. Soft greens are a timeless choice, and we find our clients are happily drawn to them for key living spaces because they are easy to live with and based on a natural environment – something we always try to link to.'

It's also a gray paint that pairs seamlessly with the classic materials you expect in a kitchen, from classic brass and cool chrome to marble, soapstone, and even granite surfaces. Regardless of the size or style of your kitchen, this color will sit happily within it.

'French Gray works well in a kitchen setting because it doesn't ever overwhelm the space; instead, it balances out natural materials, such as marble countertops, oak floors, and brass fixtures. It is an inviting color that isn't distracting as you prepare your meals or gather with family and friends,' Madeline notes.

'It works particularly well in a timeless, classic scheme,' agree Juliette and Natalie. 'In this laundry room, we combined French Gray with aged brass hardware and a traditional butler's sink, warm limestone flooring, and Corian countertops to create an elegant yet welcoming space. Willow baskets and an embroidered linen Roman blind enhanced the relaxed, understated character.'

How to Introduce French Gray to a Kitchen

For most designers, applying French Gray to kitchen cabinetry is the best way to use this shade. It is a timeless choice, creating a warm neutral base for the rest of the design.

'French Gray is particularly effective on kitchen cabinetry, where its depth and softness add character without overwhelming the space. It brings warmth and sophistication to both kitchen island units and full schemes, creating a look that feels considered yet relaxed,' Patrick explains.

And while Madeline is a fan of French Gray cabinetry, she also recommends bringing the hue to your kitchen walls. 'In this pantry [pictured above], we painted the walls in addition to the cabinets, and it created such fun intrigue,' she explains.

'Color on the walls allowed the art to really pop in this room, but again, French Gray still has a softness so as not to feel too bold. Another favorite use for French Gray would be to use it as a contrasting trim and casing color paired with a warm white on the walls.'

French Gray works beautifully applied anywhere in your kitchen, whether it's the cabinets, walls, trim, or a fully color-drenched scheme. It's subtle enough to pair with almost any color and finish, yet bold enough to add character and depth to kitchens regardless of the design style.

'French Gray has a clever ability to blend with both classic and modern interiors. It will sit just as well in a traditional setting with timeworn oak well-loved countertops, as it does with a contemporary kitchen with a sleek book-matched marble,' adds Juliette and Natalie.

But for a truly timeless look, Patrick recommends pairing French Gray with a classic shade of white. 'It layers beautifully with different textures and wood tones, while pairing effortlessly with soft whites such as School House White and Wimborne White, making it easy to build a cohesive kitchen palette that feels elegant and enduring.'

Classic, timeless, and acting as a neutral hue, Farrow & Ball's French Gray makes it far easier to choose a kitchen color that will stand the test of time. It's also a great color to make your kitchen look more expensive, especially when paired with luxurious accessories.

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The amount of natural light a room receives depends almost entirely on where it is positioned in the home, so before deciding on a color scheme, you should first consider the direction your room faces.

Often seen as one of the trickier aspects to decorate, north-facing rooms get little direct sunlight and therefore have a cooler tone. The right color scheme is key in these cooler-toned rooms, as the wrong shade can instantly fall flat and look unwelcoming. Usually, the answer is to choose warmer, richer shades to balance the coolness – but to get the intel on exactly what's going to work best, we consulted the color experts at Benjamin Moore to find out which of its paint colors work best in north-facing spaces.

'North-facing rooms receive consistent natural light throughout the day, but it is more muted, cooler, and toned down when compared to the warm, bright light south-facing rooms receive,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'The benefit of this direction is that the lighting is a bit more even-tempered and doesn’t shift as much throughout the day, while east- and west-facing rooms experience a more dramatic shift.'

1. Mortar

While it's natural to think the lighter the better in north-facing rooms, darker, richer, more moody tones are a clever choice in these spaces as they create an instantly cocooned environment.

'North-facing rooms often receive less direct natural light and therefore feel cooler, which is an important consideration when selecting paint colors,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'Especially smaller, more intimate spaces can benefit from a richer, deeper palette, where natural light is limited.'

'Painting walls, woodwork and even ceilings in enveloping shades such as Mortar or Metropolis creates a dramatic and sophisticated effect,' adds Helen. 'Layering the space with lamps, wall lights and candlelight will further enhance the atmosphere, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.'

2. Timid White

'When choosing white paint for north-facing rooms, opt for shades with warm undertones to soften shadows and prevent the room from feeling stark or dull,' advises Helen. 'If you are looking for an off-white paint, try hues that lean more yellow for added warmth and brightness,' says Arianna. 'Colors like Cotton Balls, Cloud White, and Timid White can counterbalance that cool northern exposure. Cotton Balls is slightly brighter, while Timid White is softer with creamier tones. Cloud White sits right in the middle in terms of brightness.'

'Whites with delicate hints of red, pink or soft peach, such as Opulence, create a gentle, flattering glow throughout the day,' Helen adds. 'These subtle undertones feel more balanced than yellows in cooler light conditions and help maintain warmth as the light changes. To maximize light reflection and add depth, consider using a higher-sheen finish on trim and woodwork, such as a semi-gloss or high-gloss, which will introduce dimension and brightness to darker areas of the room.'

3. October Mist

Sage green paints often work in north-facing rooms, provided they're not too gray or cool in undertone. Some gray green colors might be suitable, but shades that are further on the gray side might not suit a room already more bluish in tone.

'If your goal is to make the space feel brighter, it is best to avoid shades with strong gray undertones, which can appear flat or muted. Instead, consider a soft gray-green such as October Mist to counterbalance the cooler light,' suggests Helen. 'The green undertone brings a natural warmth and luminosity to the room, while providing a versatile backdrop for complementary shades such as sun-baked terracotta tones or tonal olive greens.'

In this north-facing living room (pictured above), October Mist brings just the right amount of vibrancy, bringing a refreshed, light feel to the space without feeling stark or too cool in tone.

4. Edgecomb Gray

While cool tones are a no-go in north-facing rooms, not all gray paints are a write-off. In fact, complex, taupe-infused grays are a clever choice for these spaces, as they can create a warm yet still lightening effect.

'If you are looking for grays and neutrals, consider slightly warmer and lighter colors than you typically gravitate toward,' suggests Arianna. 'Colors like Silver Fox and Edgecomb Gray can work well in these spaces. Because the room tends to be more muted and shadowed, opting for slightly lighter colors can help to not make the space feel too heavy.'

Instead of color-drenching your space in one warm gray hue, keep it limited to woodwork or architectural features, like the built-in bookcase painted in Edgecomb Gray pictured above, paired with a ceiling painted in Winter's Snow.

Light affects paint colors, so in north-facing spaces that receive little direct sunlight, always opt for warmer rather than cool or overly stark tones.

'Like any space, you want to take into consideration the look you are trying to achieve,' adds Arianna. 'You also want to consider the amount of natural light the room receives. If your room does not get a lot of natural light or the natural light is covered by window treatments for most of the day, the direction the room faces will make a minimal impact.'

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A striking pink meets orange; coral is a shade we haven't seen too much of in recent years, with plaster pinks being the go-to safe choice for a warm paint color. Yet in 2026, we are slowly seeing this bolder hue making a resurgence as terracotta takes over from pinks and coral becomes a chicly daring trend to try – and designers agree it brings with it a deeply sophisticated, deeply timeless edge.

While vibrant shades like coral may once have been dubbed garish, this year's color trends embrace more striking hues packed with personality. Surprisingly classic if used well, the pinky orange hue brings a cheerful edge to interiors. From lavish home bars to beautiful bed nooks, it's proving to be a versatile color this summer and beyond.

'I wanted the bedroom to feel enveloping, uplifting and full of personality,' explains designer Harriette Cayzer, co-founder of Taylor & Turner, who designed the whimsical coral-drenched bed nook pictured above. 'Bedrooms are often decorated in very muted palettes, but if you have a small space, with an unusual layout, especially a spare bedroom, you can really embrace color because they're such personal, restorative rooms.'

'Coral just has a wonderful warmth to it,' continues Harriette. 'It sits somewhere between pink, terracotta and peach – so it creates a cocooning atmosphere without ever feeling heavy. In this room, the coral also beautifully enhances the natural light, creating a soft, flattering glow throughout the day and making the space feel warm and welcoming.'

'My advice would be not to think of coral as a statement color, but as a warm neutral. The exact tone is everything – a softer, more muted coral is incredibly versatile and much easier to live with than something overly bright. Layer it with plenty of texture through natural linens, bouclé, timber and woven materials to create depth, and balance it with softer shades like warm whites, oatmeals or stone. If you're hesitant, start with textiles or painted joinery before committing to all four walls. Once you see how beautifully coral changes throughout the day with the light, it's often far less daunting than people expect.'

Interior designer Cindy Rinfret went bolder for her use of coral, leaning toward a more orangey-toned hue. Cindy opted for a high-gloss coral paint to adorn the walls of this artful home bar that sits in Tommy Hilfiger's Palm Beach home. The color might be bold, but it feels entirely appropriate in a room designed for entertainment. 'Coral is so making a comeback,' states Cindy. 'Everyone looks beautiful in a coral room, and it instantly creates an upscale “Hermès” vibe. It is so flattering and creates a festive party ambiance,' she adds.

While it can be tempting to drench snugs or more intimate spaces in moody colors, vibrant hues are a clever, refreshing way to infuse life into these spaces. 'It’s a great accent color in a stuffy library or feature color in a bar,' as seen here, adds Cindy.

When styling the bold hue, Cindy suggests pairing it with natural materials for a laid-back, coastal New England feel. 'I love it mixed with bamboo, sisal, tan, and green.'

'I chose coral because it brings warmth, happiness, and personality to a space that's often overlooked,' says interior designer Heather Ware on the room pictured above. 'Laundry rooms are some of the hardest-working rooms in a home, so I love making them feel just as thoughtfully designed as the kitchen or living room. Coral transforms an everyday chore into something a little more joyful, especially when it's layered with natural wood tones, and timeless details that give the space character.'

'I think color is making a comeback, and coral is one beautiful expression of that,' continues Heather. 'After years of playing it safe with all-white and gray interiors, homeowners are becoming more confident in creating homes that reflect their personalities. People are craving spaces that feel warm, joyful, and lived in, and color has the power to do that. Coral, in particular, brings an optimistic energy while remaining surprisingly sophisticated. Whether it's used boldly or in small doses, it's a color that can feel both timeless and fresh.'

'Start with a single piece of furniture, artwork, pillows, or wallpaper, and layer it with natural materials like wood, linen, cane, and brass,' she adds. 'Coral also pairs beautifully with greens, blues, and creams, making it easier to live with than many people expect. The key is balance. Let coral bring the warmth while the surrounding materials provide a sense of calm and timelessness.'

The Coral Edit

Coral's (welcome) return suggests we are all embracing more characterful, eclectic choices, in terms of color and beyond. 'For a number of years we've seen lots of earthy neutrals, greens and rich browns dominate interiors, but people are now becoming more confident with color again,' says Harriette. 'Coral feels like a natural progression because it offers warmth and optimism without being overpowering. I think people are increasingly looking for homes that feel joyful and individual rather than simply following trends, and bolder colors, when used well, can lend themselves perfectly to that.'

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All good things come to an end, and it seems the reign of sage green is finally winding down. After years of decorating with sage, pistachio, and mint, designers are embracing a warmer, more uplifting palette – one that swaps familiar muted greens for rich, sun-soaked yellows.

While several shades are vying to replace sage green, one color has emerged as the clear favorite. Soft ochres, golden creams, and warmer takes on butter yellow are bringing depth, optimism, and understated sophistication to interiors, making yellow the designer-approved shade of the season.

Here's why designers are replacing pale greens with warm, sunny yellows – and how to use the trend to give your home a fresher, more elevated feel.

While we're not saying decorating with green is entirely over, it's just that designers are craving the warm glow that comes with sunny ochre yellows.

'We opted for this warm buttery yellow to brighten and bring life to an otherwise fairly dark kitchen at the back of this Georgian Rectory,' explains interior designer Emma Milne. 'Warmer tones including rusty reds alongside shades of mustard and ochre have replaced cooler grays and greens as a response to our need to feel cosseted by our home environment,' says Emma, 'but in a naturally warm and visually rich way.'

While green leans on the cooler side, yellows typically feel warmer and more inviting. 'We would advise styling this color with warm whites for a crisp, clean aesthetic that doesn’t feel too murky,' suggests Emma. 'Alongside timber and marble, these warm yellow colors act as an interesting neutral against shades of blue, rusty red or dark olive green.'

Rich yet uplifting, it makes sense that ochre is the new butter yellow in 2026; it brings a cheery feel to interiors without straying into the juvenile or overwhelming. Not to mention, it feels far more characterful and layered than muted greens.

'I've seen yellow used a lot recently; people are becoming braver about using it,' says Kay Westmaas, founder of Studio Westmaas. In this country entryway, it feels both warm and still elevated. 'The client wanted to color-drench this hallway in a sunny, happy color,' says Kay. 'It has multiple windows, so we leaned into the brightness of the space.'

'I would advise pairing it with a soft white like Wimborne White from Farrow & Ball or a more earthy colour like Chocolate Colour from Little Greene. You can then use warm metals such as bronze or antique brass to complement the warm tones.'

'This bathroom is a children's bathroom,' begins interior designer Phoebe Hollond, founder of Studio Hollond, 'and having opted for a Saul Steinberg-inspired mural on the walls with the wonderful fine lines and illustrations, we wanted to really lift the artistic seriousness of the bathroom and make the space feel more youthful and sunny. This yellow does exactly that; it's a little bit of sunshine and joy, a pop of fun.'

'Yellow is an easy color to be brave with because it is a happy color,' says Phoebe. 'I find that if you introduce it in pops, on architraves or skirtings, it really gives a good impression without dominating.'

'The great thing about pale yellow is that it is such a flattering color, unlike green, which can make one's complexion quite 'sickly'. I would avoid green in bathrooms!'

The Yellow Edit

While richer olive and heritage forest greens will always bring a moody, deeply luxurious feel to interiors, muted greens are being replaced with warmer yellows this summer.

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For decades, cool whites have been the go-to for house exteriors. Long considered a safe option for curb appeal, they deliver a fresh, crisp look, provide a neutral foil to different materials, and can sit with a range of architectural styles. However, in recent years, homeowners and designers have been moving away from this stark tone toward colors derived from nature, which have an enduring softness and feel inherently grounding.

Rooted in landscape, tones such as sage greens, warm stone, earthy plaster, and terracotta, through to deeper brown-tinted botanical greens, are all on the rise as we all seek to create homes that sit seamlessly within their surroundings rather than impose on them.

So why are these nature-merged colors finding favor, and what are the timeless tones designers and homeowners are turning to in 2026? To help guide your exterior paint ideas, we consulted the color experts to get their insights and tips on creating homes that settle into their surroundings rather than stand out.

What's the Draw of Nature-Merged Exterior Colors?

While white paint will always have its place in exteriors, working particularly well on more contemporary buildings, homeowners and designers alike are increasingly turning to softer shades that take their cues from the landscape. From muted blues and greens to warm neutrals and richer earth tones like Tuscan-style plaster and terracotta, all are on the rise as designers seek to create homes that endure rather than jar.

‘There's a clear shift in homeowner preferences toward nature-inspired exteriors because they feel calmer, more rooted, and more livable than the stark whites and high-contrast schemes that dominated the last decade,’ says Kayla Kratz, Sr. director of color and design strategy at Behr. ‘After years of white-colored farmhouses and icy gray facades, homeowners are craving softer, earthier palettes: slate blues, olive and sage greens, terracottas, and browns that visually reconnect the house to the landscape.’

1. They Sit Harmoniously in Their Surroundings

Unlike stark white, which can jar with the landscape, these earth-derived tones have complexity and nuance that mimic nature itself, giving them an inherent softness that makes them easier on the eye than flat white and gray. Tuned to their surroundings, these tones have a more enduring appeal than high-contrast schemes.

'While white can be a beautiful finish, white has become the default for an 'updated' home. Bright whites often feel contemporary and generic, fighting against a home’s surrounding landscaping,' adds Sophia deDomenico, principal designer at Et Sal Interiors. 'The best planned homes seamlessly incorporate their architecture amidst their natural horticulture, enhancing the scene as a pillar of the backdrop.'

‘There's a real cultural shift happening away from homes that stand apart from their surroundings and toward ones that belong to them,’ adds Chris Landis, co-founder of Landis Architects. ‘Colors drawn from the natural world tend to feel timeless for a simple reason: they're already familiar to us. Earth, stone, clay, moss, water: we've lived alongside these tones forever. They don't compete for attention. They settle in.’

2. They Promote Well-being

Visually, nature-merged tones create a gentler, more timeless appearance, but it’s not just how these tones look that homeowners find appealing; it’s also how they make us feel. In a world in fast-paced flux, the home is increasingly becoming a place of sanctuary and calm, with many homeowners turning to biophilic design as an antidote.

Natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay are on the rise, bringing with them a sense of grounding comfort in a changing world, and so too are the colors of nature. Imbued with restorative powers and believed to promote well-being, comforting, natural palettes are already popular for those seeking serenity inside, and now they're extending to exteriors, too.

Kayla Kratz at Behr explains how this tonal shift is all part of ‘a broader cultural move toward wellness. Colors drawn from nature read as restorative, offering a gentler look than the high-contrast schemes they're replacing. Sage, olive, mossy greens, and blue-greens signal calm and stability, while clay and terracotta tones add a sense of warmth.'

3. They Look Better for Longer

On a practical level, nature-merged exterior paint colors are easier to maintain than stark whites, which aren’t as safe as many might assume. ‘White became the default for two reasons: the rise of minimalist modern design, and the convenience of a color that feels clean, passive, and broadly marketable. It worked well enough. But white is unforgiving. It flattens architectural detail, creates glare, and shows dirt and weathering faster than almost anything else,’ explains Chris Landis.

Michael Winn, owner and president of WINN Design + Build agrees, adding, 'A stark white exterior is the highest-maintenance color you can pick, especially in our climate. Pollen, algae, mildew, the grime of a humid Mid-Atlantic summer: white shows all of it, fast.’

Natural tones tend to age more gracefully, disguising the wear of age. Choose tones with depth and a range of undertones, as these will best settle into the landscape. ‘Almost nothing in the natural world is a single pure tone. The colors that age best on exteriors are the ones with that kind of complexity,' says Michael Winn. 'My advice: avoid anything that feels too clean or one-dimensional. If you love blue, find one with some gray or green in it. If you love white, find one softened by cream or warm stone. Colors that have layered undertones respond beautifully to changing light and seasons, and they tend to feel personal rather than default.'

4. They Work Well in Tonal Palettes

If you’re looking to create a nature-merged exterior, the colors you choose are important, but for a really nuanced and subtle effect, avoid a single color and think in terms of a layered, tonal palette.

‘What I find interesting is the move toward monochromatic facades: trim, siding, and architectural details all in the same or closely related tones, rather than defaulting to bright white contrast. It lets shadow, texture, and depth do the work. The house reads as more considered and more connected to its own materials,’ explains Chris Landis.

In this project by WINN Design + Build, the designer chose a clever tonal palette of three earthy greens to help the multifaceted building gently ease into its setting. ‘Don’t think about chasing the one color of the moment. It’s choosing the green, stone, or blue that actually belongs to your site and your fixed materials. The color trend worth following is the principle underneath it – let the setting lead – not any single shade,’ says Michael Winn.

Which Nature-Merged Colors are on the Rise?

If you are looking for exact color inspiration for painting the exterior of your home, these are the timeless shades designers suggest.

Soft Sage Greens

Synonymous with nature and gentle and easy on the eye, yet still light and uplifting, sage green paints remain a popular option for exteriors.

‘They offer a subtler approach to color but aren’t too neutral or gray,’ explains Arianna Barone, color marketing manager at Benjamin Moore. ‘Louisburg Green HC-113 is a favorite from our Historical Color Collection. I love to use this collection for exteriors, as most of the colors are recommended for exterior use. Louisburg Green HC-113 is a midtone hue, so it has good depth and won’t wash out on homes that receive a lot of natural sunlight.'

'When choosing exterior colors, you always want to go a few shades darker than you may think you want. The natural light will cause the color to cast lighter.’

If you're cautious with color, there's no need to go too strong on walls; using soft greens and limiting deeper greens to trim is a wonderful way to create a layered look.

'This is a nearly 200-year-old Gothic Revival home in Germantown, New York, so we wanted the exterior palette to feel authentic to both the architecture and the setting. Rather than relying on a single accent color, we selected a family of greens from Benjamin Moore – Kennebunkport Green, Avon Green, and Cushing Green – to create depth and subtly highlight the decorative trim, windows, and period detailing,' explains Louise Copeland, L.B. Copeland Interior Design. 'The greens relate beautifully to the surrounding landscape, but they also felt especially fitting given the home's history as the former residence of a naturalist and horticulturist.'

Gentle Whites

White is enduringly popular for home exteriors, but many designers prefer warm white paints for a softer, nature-merged home exterior.

'Stark whites can feel harsh outdoors. They reflect light in a way that can be almost blinding, and they tend to create too much contrast with accent colors and surrounding materials. I usually prefer whites with more depth —they feel softer and bring out the architecture instead of competing with it,' explains Aileen Warren of Jackson Warren Interiors. 'I still love a white exterior, but I’m drawn to warmer, muddier whites over crisp ones.'

For her own cottage, Aileen Warren chose Sherwin-Williams' warm Panda White.

Greige Tones

Neither too cool nor too warm, greige paint continues to be a popular color for timeless, grounded homes both inside and out, and remains a bestseller with many paint companies.

At Sherwin-Williams, ‘shades like Agreeable Gray SW 7029, Alabaster SW 7008, and Accessible Beige SW 7036 remain popular because they complement a wide range of architectural styles and exterior materials,' explains Emily Kantz. 'Homeowners continue to gravitate toward these nature-inspired neutrals that offer both curb appeal and flexibility.'

For interior designer Caroline Kopp, Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter is a go-to for exteriors. 'When choosing a neutral paint, I am always looking for something very neutral – meaning not yellow, not peach, not lavender. I want it right there as neutral as can be,' says Caroline Kopp. 'There are only a few beiges like this, and Revere Pewter is one of them. Here, we wanted something that felt soft and natural, so we paired it with White Dove on the trim, which creates a very inviting and warm experience on the façade of this house.'

'Stonington Gray HC-170 and Edgecomb Gray HC-173 are popular hues,' adds Arianna Barone at Benjamin Moore. 'These are a great canvas for a bolder front door or a higher contrasting shutter or trim color. Through accents, you can easily bring in more nature-inspired hues to these colors.'

Warm Stone-Colored Neutrals

Warm earth tones with ochre and red-earth undertones, including clays, stone, and terracotta, instantly create a warm, inviting feel and have a softness that helps them settle easily into the landscape. 'Bringing in warmer tones, trim contrast or natural elements can help create a look that feels more inviting and easier to live with day to day,' says Ashley McCollum, color marketing manager at Glidden.

'Warm, bold colors are having a moment. People want their homes to feel grounded, comfortable, and a little more like them, not just ready for resale. We are seeing less playing it safe and more leaning into color that actually brings some personality.'

Tinted plaster and stucco are wonderful finishes to embrace this warm exterior look. 'In the Tucson area, we’re getting more requests for colors that reflect the desert landscape, such as warm stone, adobe-inspired browns, and muted greens that echo native vegetation,' explains Ralph Peralta, owner and president of Sunset Coatings Stucco & Paint. 'This is something I strongly encourage, as in our area in particular, it’s always better to complement nature rather than stand out in stark contrast to it.'

For this beautiful European Chateau-style home, BVA BarnesVanze Architects chose a tinted plaster finish for an authentic historic look. 'Tinted plaster has a depth of color and artisanal hand-finished quality reminiscent of the old world,' explains Ellen Hatton, principal at BVA BarnesVanze Architects in Washington, DC.

Weathered Gray-Blues

Tones that reflect the blue grays of the sea and skies are a timeless option for nature-merged exteriors, particularly in coastal areas. Prevalent in nature and hugely versatile, they pair beautifully with whites, grays, greens and the warm tones of wood and stone.

‘Boothbay Gray HC-165 is a great option from the Historical Color Collection. Slightly cooler toned, this blue-gray works beautifully on many different styles of home,’ says Arianna Barone at Benjamin Moore.

Lisbeth Parada, marketing manager at Dutch Boy Paints suggests ‘a weathered blue exterior, such as Neptune’s Rings 431-3DB with Cotton Wood 412-1DB trim and a Gravity 435-7DB accent front door color, brings in color in a calm, livable way.’ Alternatively, try a soft gray-blue palette, such as Zippered Gray 435-3DB with Antiquated Lace 017W trim and Mariana Blue 334-7DB accents, which offers a fresh neutral alternative.’

Earthy Olive Greens

Moving to the darker end of the spectrum, mid-greens with earthy undertones, such as olive greens and leafy botanical greens, work wonderfully on properties in woodland settings, blending seamlessly with lush evergreen foliage. For a nature-merged exterior that really settles into this landscape, try layering a range of tonal greens as done here by Phillip Thomas.

'We always take our cues from nature. In this case, that means weathered cedar, trimmed in greens and nestled among the trees, making the home look as if it has always been part of the landscape,' explains Phillip Thomas.

'We incorporated multiple shades of green on the trim, using the darkest color, Benjamin Moore's Backwoods CC-630, on the face of the trim while painting the underside of the trim in High Park CC-620. The porch was painted the lightest of the greens - Tea Light CC-610. The shades only have a subtle difference in saturation, but they really play with the natural light that filters through the treetops, creating beautiful visual texture.'

Dark Green-Grays

Dark colors with nuanced undertones are also proving popular with those looking to make a statement without creating too much of a contrast. 'A charcoal tone, or even a deep charcoal with some subtle green undertones, is really taking off these days,' explains Leigh Spicher, national director of design studios for Ashton Woods Homes. 'Darker exteriors make the home feel a little bit mysterious, but also warm and even a little bit cavernous in the best way. Some of my favorites right now for dark exteriors are Sherwin-Williams Iron Ore, Urbane Bronze, Sealskin, and Peppercorn.'

These dark colors can beautifully set off leafy tones, adds Leigh. 'I think these darker homes look absolutely beautiful with all of the biophilic design that's on the rise, like natural trees, canopies, flowers, and beautiful landscaping. Beyond paint colors, we're also adding textures like brick, shake, board and batten, or stone. We’re seeing these materials in natural colors like reds, charcoals, tans, and browns.'

Tips on How to Choose Nature-Merged Exterior Paint Colors

When planning a nature-merged exterior palette, take care to examine the property’s materials and setting, advise the experts. ‘The best place for homeowners to start is by looking at the parts of the house that already have a voice. The roof, brick, stone, pathways, and mature landscaping set the foundation for the entire exterior palette. When the paint color is chosen in conversation with those elements, the whole exterior reads as more intentional,’ explains Emily Kantz.

The key to success all comes down to undertones and selecting colors which subtly complement the architecture and surroundings. ‘Undertones are where that conversation really comes to life. A warm brick with notes of terracotta, tan, or brown calls for a different color than cool slate, blue-gray stone, or charcoal roofing. The goal isn't to match everything perfectly. It's about choosing a shade that makes the existing materials look their best,’ explains Arianna Barone. ‘Get that relationship right, and the color feels timeless and deeply connected to the character of the home.’

Avoid choosing just one flat color. Often, opting for a tonal palette comprising several shades of the same tone is a great way to create a timeless, nature-inspired home exterior. ‘A strong exterior usually includes a body color, a trim color and an accent color for the front door, shutters, garage door or architectural details. This helps the home feel layered and intentional,’ explains Lisbeth Parada.

Whatever palette you go for, whether it’s a deep layered botanical palette or an array of gentle, pale mushroom neutrals, it’s always vital to test colors. Start with what you’re not changing – the roof, any stone or brick, the window frames, the hardscape. The exterior color that ages well is almost always the one in conversation with those materials rather than fighting them.

'Paint a four-by-four-foot patch on at least two sides and look at it at 8 a.m., noon, and dusk – north and south light do completely different things to the same color,’ says Michael Winn. ‘And remember, paint is one of the few decisions you can undo, so it’s where I tell clients to spend their courage. Be conservative on the permanent, expensive things; take your risks here.’

As homeowners and designers seek homes that sit in harmony with nature, we're seeing a shift away from stark whites, cool grays, and high-contrast schemes toward gentler, nature-merged colors. Instead of single on-trend tones, homeowners are turning to layered, tonal palettes of nuanced tones rooted in nature to create timeless exteriors that nestle seamlessly into their surroundings. Muted earthy greens are proving particularly popular, alongside brown-tinted neutrals, clay and sand tones through to dark brown-toned greens and charcoals.

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For the last decade or so, white kitchens have dominated design because they feel bright, clean, and timeless. The all-white aesthetic reached its peak in the 2010s, but right now, homeowners are increasingly drawn to kitchen color ideas with more warmth, depth, and character.

'Pure white had a long run, but it started to feel stark – and honestly, a little builder-grade,' says Nikki Holt, creative director at Kimberly Timmons Interiors. Particularly with new kitchens, white became a default choice rather than a conscious design decision. But it had its drawbacks, often reading as too cold, sometimes even blue, while also being difficult to keep pristine.

However, designers aren’t abandoning neutrals altogether – instead, they’re embracing softer shades that deliver the same versatility as white, but feel more welcoming and lived-in. Oatmeal shades – those gentle hues that sit somewhere between cream, taupe, and beige – are emerging as the new favorite in kitchen color trends. Understated yet characterful, they bring depth and comfort without overwhelming a space.

Why Oatmeal Is Replacing White as the New Neutral

Oatmeal tones bring a sense of grace to a space, creating a warmth that white can’t replicate. 'Lately, I see more clients asking for spaces that feel warm rather than perfect,' reveals Kate Kerdi, founder of Kate Kerdi Interiors. 'An oatmeal kitchen still feels light and timeless, but it has much more depth. Instead of feeling cold or overly polished, the kitchen feels relaxed, lived in, and inviting – exactly how the heart of the home should feel.'

Corine Maggio, of Corine Maggio Design, agrees. 'White kitchens show everything – every splash, smudge, and hard-water mark. Oatmeal has the same neutral versatility but with warmth and forgiveness built in; it ages gracefully rather than looking tired,' she says. Corine reveals the key to keeping it timeless rather than trend-bound is choosing a balanced oatmeal without a fashionable undertone pulling it too pink, too yellow, or too gray.

Oatmeal tones possess a remarkable flexibility, allowing them to harmonize with a wide variety of finishes while providing the perfect backdrop for practically any kitchen style. 'You can use oatmeal tones in contemporary homes, organic interiors, and even more classic spaces,' adds Kate. 'It doesn’t define the style; it simply creates a beautiful foundation that allows the materials and details to stand out.'

Oatmeal tones reflect light beautifully and create visual richness because they contain undertones that shift throughout the day as natural light changes. Sarah Wakefield, Creative Director at Jolie, points out that unlike flat white finishes, oat tones offer greater depth, adding richness without overwhelming the room. 'Rather than relying on stark contrasts, these kitchens feel curated through materiality, texture, and craftsmanship,' says Leigh Misso, owner at River Brook Design & Construction. 'That layered approach often feels more custom and expensive than a simple white-on-white palette.'

The Best Oatmeal Paint Colors for Kitchens

As designers have mentioned, not all oatmeal shades are made equal. You want to pick a paint with the right undertones so it's timeless, without leaning too trend-led. These are the best oatmeal paints for kitchens, tried and tested by designers.

Farrow & Ball Joa’s White

According to Farrow & Ball’s Creative Director, Charlotte Cosby, Joa’s White is a light and clean taupe with the merest hint of black pigment, which makes it perfect to combine with limestone, leather and linens. In this project by Rosey Wood Interiors, a subtle tonal variation creates depth, with cabinetry in Farrow & Ball’s Joa’s White and walls in Pointing. Joa’s White is frequently chosen by designers for its ability to offset the coolness in north-facing rooms, featuring strong red, yellow, and brown undertones, which give it a cozy, creamy, and lived-in quality.

Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter

'We're particularly drawn to warm, nuanced neutral paints like Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter and Sherwin-Williams Dumpling,' says Leigh of River Brook Design & Construction. 'We’ve recently completed projects in both, and the result is stunning. Revere Pewter continues to be one of our favorite timeless greige tones, offering just enough warmth and depth to feel inviting while remaining incredibly versatile. It has a softness and depth that changes throughout the day, creating a warm, welcoming presence without feeling overly creamy or beige. It feels timeless, sophisticated, and effortlessly livable.'

Little Greene Rolling Fog Light

'Little Greene's Rolling Fog Light works so well because of its subtle warmth – unlike a stark white, which can appear quite cool in north-facing rooms, Rolling Fog has enough depth to counterbalance any blue tones, creating a softer, more welcoming atmosphere without feeling overtly beige,' says Matthew of Cor Domi. 'The color changes beautifully throughout the day; in bright natural light it reads as a calm, understated neutral, while in the evening or under warmer artificial lighting it develops a richer, more cocooning quality.'

Benjamin Moore Baby Fawn

For Nikki, her go-to shade is Baby Fawn by Benjamin Moore. 'It’s the oatmeal we keep coming back to at Kimberly Timmons Interiors – soft and warm without tipping into tan, and it holds its character beautifully whether it’s catching bright morning light or softer evening light, which is exactly what you want in a kitchen. You can see it grounding the entire space in our Roots project, shown here.'

Sherwin-Williams Shiitake

'Sherwin-Williams Shiitake is a fun color that morphs from a medium deep shade to a soft off-white depending on the time of day and how direct the lighting is,' says Gillian Blair of Tête-à-tête Interiors. 'While a warm neutral, it plays with cool tones so perfectly – we really enjoy pairing this color with steely blues, olive greens, warm wood tones, and mixed metals. Because of its flexibility, we've used it to both soften modern palettes from being too stark and also to lighten a traditional palette that would otherwise feel stuffy.'

What Colors and Materials Work Best With Oatmeal Kitchens?

Matthew Andrews says that warm and tactile materials are generally the answer when it comes to creating a cohesive palette. 'We'll typically put unlacquered brass kitchen hardware with it, aged oak door front accents and honed quartz or travertine with it for worktops, and if there's any seating involved, something tactile like linen or bouclé.' He says the main thing to avoid is anything too polished or cool alongside it – chrome and high-gloss finishes tend to flatten it out. 'Warm metal, natural stone and oatmeal cabinetry is a combination that's very hard to argue with.'

'When you pair oatmeal with organic materials like oak, Taj Mahal quartzite, and unlacquered brass, you create a kitchen that welcomes a lived-in patina,' adds Emily Flaxman of Flax Interiors. 'It trades the clinical feel of kitchens from the past decade for a space that feels thoughtful, grounded, and alive.'

In terms of color pairings, Sabah Mansoor of Sabah Mansoor Design favors muted, earthy tones like charcoal, terracotta, and moss, whereas Gillian Blair of Tête-à-tête Interiors has been leaning towards blue-toned natural stones, olive greens, and burgundy accents.

Regardless of which oatmeal shade you select, Lisa recommends extending the cabinetry color onto the perimeter walls. 'Oatmeal tones perform best when paired with soft, complementary wall colors; a stark white wall can often make these nuanced shades appear dull or dingy by comparison,' she says.

Is Oatmeal Actually as Timeless as White?

Matthew sees oatmeal as being just as timeless as white going forward. 'White worked as a timeless choice partly because it was genuinely neutral, and partly because everyone used it,' he says. 'Now that everyone has used it, it carries more baggage. Oatmeal feels like an intentional decision, and it adapts effortlessly to changing decor and design styles over the years. It functions as a true neutral backdrop in the same way white does but with more warmth, which means it tends to flatter rather than fight with whatever sits alongside it.'

'From a resale perspective, oatmeal remains highly approachable. It appeals to a wide range of buyers because it feels current without being polarizing,' says Leigh. 'We often describe it as a future-proof neutral – one that offers more personality than white but retains the flexibility homeowners value.'

According to Nikki, part of the reason why designers reach for oatmeal so often is how generously it plays with natural materials. 'It pairs beautifully with any wood tone, from light oak to deeper walnut, and it sits comfortably alongside natural stone whether the veining runs cool or warm – that kind of versatility is rare in a neutral, and that’s why it’s here to stay.'

Ultimately, we’re seeing a broader move away from stark minimalism towards warmer, more tactile interiors, and oatmeal caters perfectly to that shift, offering a balance between white and beige that feels both contemporary and enduring. 'Oatmeal does everything a great neutral should,' adds Nikki. 'It's a quiet, flattering backdrop that lets your materials, your art, and your life take center stage – it shifts effortlessly as your decorating style evolves and creates a layered, elevated look that will always feel both timeless and designed.'

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'Safe' neutrals may have had some bad press in recent months, but that's not to say that every shade is worth writing off. This year, rich, complex neutrals that feel layered and warm are a calming choice that balance the striking shades amongst this year's trends.

While some beige paints can fall into the flat or forgettable category, Benjamin Moore's Pashmina is the rich, warming hue that proves neutral doesn't have to mean boring. 'Perfectly balanced between warm and cool, light and dark, Pashmina is a sophisticated neutral that feels at home in any space,' says Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International) at Benjamin Moore. 'It's a timeless taupe enriched with soft, moody undertones.'

There are, of course, plenty of colors replacing beige in 2026, but there's no denying that sometimes all a scheme calls for is a grounding neutral for it to truly come to life.

'Pashmina is one of my favorite taupes because it sits right in the middle,' says interior designer Nikka Winchel, founder of Halcyon Haus Design. 'It isn’t too gray, and it doesn’t read overly beige. It has enough depth to feel intentional, but it’s still soft enough to use throughout an entire space. I also love that it changes with the light. It always feels warm, but it never falls flat.'

'I spent a long time looking for the right taupe for this project (pictured above). I wanted something with depth, but I didn’t want it drifting too far into gray or reading too beige. I also knew I didn’t want a color that was so light it disappeared or so dark that it felt heavy. Pashmina landed right in that sweet spot. It has enough complexity to feel interesting, but it’s still incredibly versatile.'

'The kitchen gets beautiful western light, which pulls out the warmer side of the color and gives the cabinetry a really soft glow later in the day,' adds Nikka. 'It shifts throughout the day, but it never loses the richness that made me fall in love with it in the first place. From the beginning, I wanted the cabinetry to do most of the talking, so every other finish was chosen to support it rather than compete with it. Once we landed on Pashmina, the rest of the palette came together naturally.'

While the beige gray color trend was big a few years ago, it still feels timeless and enduring when paired with more vibrant shades. 'Its stony grey character pairs beautifully with almost any color, making it a favourite for both contemporary and classic interiors,' says Helen. 'A delicate blush undertone adds warmth and depth, allowing it to complement rich oranges for a welcoming, energised atmosphere, or muted mid-tones for a softer, more serene and understated look.'

'I think Pashmina is at its best when it’s paired with natural materials,' advises Nikka. 'It’s beautiful with warm whites, light oak, handmade tile, natural stone, plaster, and metals that have some warmth to them. I also like mixing polished nickel with unlacquered brass because the contrast keeps the palette from feeling too expected, and this is a perfect pairing for this color.'

'Style-wise, it’s incredibly versatile,' adds Nikka. 'It works just as well in a traditional home as it does in something more contemporary because it doesn’t feel trendy. It’s simply a really well-balanced neutral that lets the materials around it shine.'

When decorating with Pashmina, consider the colors that go with beige for a well-balanced scheme that balances neutrality with color.

'A popular Benjamin Moore hue, this perfectly balanced neutral is well-loved for its adaptability and depth,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'Pair this timeless midtone with a soft off-white, like Steam AF-15, on the trim and ceiling. Bring in texture with chunky knits in charcoals and chocolates – like Kendall Charcoal HC-166 and Black Bean Soup 2130-10 – for added warmth.'

'Pashmina is a rich, warm greige that feels soft and timeless,' states Melissa Oholendt, founder of Oho Interiors. 'It’s one of our favorite non-white trim colors. It adds subtle contrast and definition without feeling too stark. It pairs beautifully with soft whites and deep blues.'

The Pashmina-Inspired Edit

While 'sad beige' was named one of the paint colors going out of style in 2026, Pashmina, a deeply complicated, layered beige with rich undertones, couldn't be further from boring, bland, or forgettable.

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Few interior trends have had as lasting an impact as farmhouse decor. White-washed walls, reclaimed wood, shiplap, and modern black hardware are hallmarks of this aesthetic that soon became the go-to in modern American homes as social media trends gained momentum.

But trends come and go, and as the design world welcomes a return to more experimental interiors that are less about fitting into a distinct trend box and more about reflecting personality, farmhouse white is starting to feel tired and predictable.

Instead, designers are using soft and subtly warming colors as the backdrop of a room, offering a more expressive look that generally feels more interesting than white. Here, designers discuss why we're moving away from farmhouse style to these quietly confident color trends, and how to decorate with them.

The Rise and Decline of Farmhouse White

The rise of farmhouse white has been significant for good reason; it originally gave homeowners a fresh start against the colorful palettes of decades prior. 'Farmhouse white emerged as a reaction to the heavy Tuscan interiors of the 1980s and 1990s, offering a fresh, bright backdrop that photographed beautifully in the age of Pinterest and Instagram,' says designer Kim Mauney, based in Charlotte, North Carolina.

'Farmhouse white felt fresh, clean, and timeless, and during the rise of modern farmhouse style in the 2010s, that was exactly what homeowners wanted,' adds Dunn-Edwards' color marketing manager, Lauren Hoferkamp. 'White gave them bright, open rooms and a versatile backdrop that worked with almost any furnishings, making it equally appealing to builders and home buyers.'

It's not just inside the home where farmhouse white dominated, but for exterior paint ideas, too. 'White siding with black trim and black accents became one of the most recognizable images in residential design: high-contrast, modern yet familiar, and irresistibly photogenic,' Lauren says. 'Home renovation television, Pinterest, Instagram, and new-construction developments carried it everywhere, until a clean backdrop became the look every home seemed to want.'

And while decorating with white will always have a level of timelessness to it, the white-washed rooms with wood tones and very little color may be starting to tire. The design world is once again welcoming a bolder approach to color and palettes that rebel against the formulaic social media-inspired aesthetic with something more unique and unexpected.

Why Homeowners Are Moving On

'After more than a decade of white interiors and white-and-black exteriors filling every feed and subdivision, the look simply became predictable,' Lauren explains. 'White did its most important work during the pandemic, when people spent more time at home than ever and wanted spaces that felt calm, orderly, and full of light. But the very thing that made white reassuring during uncertain times, its neutrality, is what makes it feel flat once life settles down. A room with nothing to say starts to feel sterile rather than serene.'

Today, we're seeing a return to authentic, lived-in homes that turn to bolder room color ideas, reflective of the homeowners' personality. 'Homeowners now want rooms that feel personal rather than borrowed from a formula, spaces with warmth, character, and the sense of having been collected over time,' says Lauren. 'The trend cycle is doing what it always does, swinging back from minimalism toward layered interiors, natural materials, and saturated, mood-driven color.'

Rooms that make a statement and feel full of personality are rarely painted white; they embrace more adventurous colors that tell a story. What's more, contrast and tension are important to rooms that feel truly interesting and memorable, which can be tricky to achieve with white.

'Today, we're seeing a return to warmer colors and layered interiors, with creams, olives, mushrooms, and burgundies creating a richer backdrop for antiques, texture, and collected pieces,' says Kim. 'Many of these are colors our grandparents used, but we're pairing them with modern art, cleaner silhouettes, and a lighter hand, making them feel entirely new again.'

The Palettes Replacing Farmhouse White, and How Designers Are Using Them

The color palettes replacing farmhouse white aren't overly specific – many different colors add softness, depth, and warmth. That said, designers talk through some of their favorites below, from soft greens to dusky pinks.

And while these delicate colors feel like a more current alternative to farmhouse white, that's not to say white is disappearing altogether. White can still be incredibly effective, but it needs texture in interior design to stop it falling flat. 'The shift isn't really about abandoning white,' says Lauren. 'It's about warming it up. Warm whites, mushroom tones, taupes, and greiges keep a room bright while adding the nuance stark white lacks.'

Plaster Pinks

Soft pink paints are emerging as a more warming alternative to white, bringing depth and color while the dusky quality keeps rooms feeling grown-up and timeless. This color palette was chosen for this historic home, where it complements its aged quality.

'Rather than the conventional flat white, we wanted a color that felt fresh without losing the building's bones,' explains the designer Sophie Goldhill of Hector Interiors. She chose Jonquil by Edward Bulmer (Farrow & Ball's Setting Plaster is a similar shade that's easier to source in the US), which she describes as 'a warm, yellow-leaning pink especially suited to hallways and period properties, sitting comfortably against the exposed beams and travertine floor rather than fighting them.'

Plaster pink paints like this one look modern when used with color-drenching, along with warm wood tones and natural textures to add depth.

Airy Blues

Pale blue paints feel on-trend and inherently calm, making them a good alternative to farmhouse white. This kitchen color scheme pairs light blue cabinets with wood tones and warm metals, which ensures this cool-toned hue feels welcoming and cozy.

'For this kitchen, we wanted something that still felt fresh, airy, and timeless, but with more depth and personality than a traditional all-white kitchen,' explains designer Sara Malek Barney of BANDD/DESIGN, based between Los Angeles and Austin. 'This soft blue-gray was the perfect alternative because it almost behaves like a neutral. It has enough gray in it to feel sophisticated and grounded, but enough blue to bring warmth, charm, and a sense of character to the space.'

Although soft blue paints like this one are fairly forgiving, adding contrast to the space takes it up a level. 'The wood adds warmth, and the lighter materials keep everything from feeling too heavy,' Sara explains. 'We also brought in warmer metal finishes and a vintage-style rug to tie the palette together and make the kitchen feel less new build and more lived-in and collected.'

Muted Greens

Green is nature's neutral, which makes it incredibly liveable. From kitchens to bedrooms, light green paints bring a relaxed feel to rooms while adding much more warmth than white. If you're new to decorating with color, look to green paints that are quiet rather than anything too saturated, such as Benjamin Moore's Thornton Sage, which was used here.

'For this space, I used a Cowtan & Tout fabric on the bed, which served as the starting point for the room's color palette,' explains the Georgia-based designer Lauren Robbins. To keep things cohesive and calm, Lauren repeated this soft green hue across other elements. 'I pulled the lightest shade of green from that fabric and color-matched the walls, washing them in Thornton Sage, then layered in additional greens and neutrals from there,' she explains.

'Because this color is so subtle, it acts as a neutral, setting a mood of serenity and calm while adding visual interest and offering more depth than a true white,' says Lauren.

Earthy Neutrals

A move away from farmhouse white doesn't have to be colorful – a revised take on neutrals can add plenty more depth to a room. This kitchen feels richly layered with the palette of earth tones – most notably the cabinets painted with Benjamin Moore's Stone Hearth, a soft stone color.

'We love a kitchen that feels classic but doesn't lack for coziness,' says designer Melissa Oholendt from design studio Oho Interiors, based in Minnesota and Colorado. 'A great greige color is the secret to that, and Stone Hearth is one you will see repeated in different applications in our projects because it's not white, but still maintains a lightness while feeling cozy. It also gives us a lot of bandwidth to adjust the design and make it feel entirely different.'

Texture and materials are key when decorating with earth tones. Take inspiration from this kitchen and add interest with natural wood, warm brass details, and textured stone – it's what gives a room that layered feeling.

Soft Gray-Greens

Gray-toned greens are another stylish shift from predictable whites, especially effective if you're looking for just a subtle hint of color rather than anything too bold. 'We chose to paint this primary bedroom in Farrow & Ball’s French Gray, which is a warm gray with subtle green undertones,' explains Mira Eng-Goetz, lead designer at Portland and Paris-based Jessica Helgerson Interior Design.

'There’s a tendency to choose a shade of farmhouse white when we’re aiming to create a space that is soothing and light-filled,' Mira adds. 'Soft, complex neutrals on the lighter end can achieve the same effect while adding some character and depth to a room.'

By extending the same paint color to the woodwork and trim, this room feels modern and more relaxed than it would if a white paint were used for these details.

Think of this shift as less about the colors themselves, and more about the way we decorate our homes. The decline of farmhouse white isn't saying that white is out – it represents a return to personality-led interiors that feel soulful and dynamic, rather than Instagram-ready homes that can feel overly predictable and lacking in depth.

White is the lightest of colors; some say it shouldn't even count as a color, and yet it's the one that sparks the most debate in interiors. That's because when decorating with this timeless, universally loved color, the wrong shade can totally throw off a room and make it feel cold, uninviting, and, in 2026, dated.

Thankfully, the fix to a much warmer and welcoming space is simple. From white paints with subtle warm undertones to light, earthy neutrals that add depth, designers are all saying the same thing: ditch the cool-toned, brilliant white paints for a design-led space. Here, you can find out exactly why bright whites have fallen out of favor among designers, and how to fix this common color mistake with more flattering paint shades.

The 'Safe' White That Isn’t Safe Anymore

Decorating with white, specifically very bright whites, became the default color choice for modern homes for lots of reasons: it offered a modern look compared to the more colorful palettes of decades prior, and it was seen as a safe choice when considering the resale value of a home. But good design is rarely about playing it safe, hence why stark white is often seen as a decorating mistake in 2026.

'For many years, stark whites were associated with a clean, modern aesthetic, but today, people are craving homes that feel warmer, more personal, and connected to nature,' explains the Houston designer Marie Flanigan. 'Cool whites can sometimes feel clinical or impersonal, particularly in residential settings.'

'The reality is that many cool whites can read cold or even clinical, particularly when paired with the natural materials that have become so prevalent in today's interiors,' adds Hannah Goldberg of Hannah Charlotte Interiors. 'Warm woods, Taj Mahal quartzite and other natural stones, linen textiles, Roman clay finishes, and plaster walls all carry inherent warmth and depth. When juxtaposed against a stark white with a strong blue undertone, the contrast can often feel harsh rather than harmonious.'

As interior design trends favor decorating styles that allow layering, warmth, and personality, bright white can feel at odds. 'I don't think it's a coincidence that the shift happened around the time we all started spending so much more time at home,' designer Kara Childress says of the decline in stark white. 'The pandemic had a way of clarifying what we actually wanted from our homes, and for most of us, that was comfort.'

It's not about ruling out white altogether – it's the complexity of the undertones of white paint that's important. Warm-toned whites offer a light and airy interior and feel welcoming, whereas those with cool undertones can all too often feel drab. 'It's all about choosing the right white,' says Jess Ebert of Four Story Interiors, based in Charlotte, North Carolina. 'A warm white acts as a quiet backdrop rather than the star of the show, allowing natural materials, layered textures, and richer finishes to take center stage. It becomes a visual palate cleanser that brings balance to a room without feeling sterile or flat.'

Why Cool Whites Fall Flat

Taking a closer look at the undertones (or lack of undertones) of any given white paint gives a clearer picture of why they can be tricky to get right. 'Cool, stark whites often make a room feel expansive and less dynamic,' explains Kara Childress. 'They can also read as sterile, and tend to flatten the elements that make a space interesting, like vaulted ceilings, a beautiful plaster finish, or a unique architectural moment. Those special details can get lost against a wall that's too bright or sharp.'

'Blue-based whites often reflect cooler light, which can make a space feel flat or even a bit sterile, especially in rooms with limited natural sunlight,' Marie Flanigan adds. 'They can also cast an unflattering tone on skin and compete with the warmth found in natural materials like wood, stone, and brass. Because of these undertones, they require very careful consideration of lighting and furnishings to keep a room from feeling cold.'

It's in lower light rooms where the undertones of cool-toned whites are especially tricky, explains Helen Shaw, color expert at Benjamin Moore: 'While these undertones help balance warm sunlight and keep south-facing rooms looking crisp and fresh, they can appear flat, gray, or slightly cold in darker spaces or north-facing rooms with cooler light.'

What Designers Are Choosing Instead in 2026

Switching from bright white paints to warm white paints is a simple swap, but there are other options, too, which you can explore here.

Warm White Paints

The easiest replacement for stark or cool-toned whites is those with warm undertones. Instead of feeling overly bright and jarring, these hues quietly soften rooms, while still allowing that much-desired light and airy look. In this living room, Benjamin Moore's White Dove was used. 'It has a softness to it that never feels cold,' says designer Katie Davis, who's based in Houston.

'With rooms that have this much natural light and volume, we wanted the backdrop to feel warm and relaxed rather than bright white or overly crisp,' she adds. While the choice of white paint is important, so is the surrounding decor, suggests Katie. 'We layered in warm woods, aged beams, upholstery with movement and pattern, natural textures, and softer brass tones so the house feels collected and comfortable.'

Choosing a white paint that looks white, not yellow, can take some consideration. 'It’s important to test colors in the actual space before committing,' Helen Shaw recommends. 'Sample pots are especially useful, allowing you to observe how a white looks in morning light, evening light, and under artificial lighting, as well as in different weather conditions.'

Earthy Neutrals

Beyond warm white paints, delicate neutral paints with earthy undertones make a great alternative to bright white, such as Farrow & Ball's Shaded White, which was used in this breakfast nook. Despite its name, it's actually a greige paint with depth and warmth.

'We love this color because it adds just the right amount of depth without being too warm or too gray,' says the Utah designer Ali Henrie. 'We tend to gravitate toward softer off-white colors in our designs that feel more lived-in and timeless. These off-whites help to soften the space and add depth without making a room feel overly bright or heavy.'

Layered Tonal Palettes

Another way to reimagine all-white rooms is to opt for a palette of tonal neutrals. Although soft and just a step away from white, subtle earth tones offer depth that gives rooms character.

'While Oho is known for our use of color in general, there is something hard to resist about an incredibly calming, both mentally and physically, room that feels tonal from floor to ceiling,' explains Melissa Oholendt, the founder of Oho Interiors.

'We knew that to play nicely with the warmth and coziness of Accessible Beige, we needed a white that wasn't going to detract or take away from the warmth,' she adds. 'Choosing a white that has warm (but still clean) undertones, such as White Dove, gave us a nice complement to the greige color of the cabinets. The designer trick to using white is really to layer in whites and off-whites with similar undertones. The more the merrier.'

Cream Tones

Cream tones feel slightly vintage-inspired and can create charming, warm spaces, as demonstrated in this kitchen. While bright white creates a very modern look, cream offers a slightly aged quality.

'This kitchen is set in a historic home in Iowa, a midwestern state known for its vast fields of corn,' explains designer Mira Eng-Goetz of Jessica Helgerson Interior Design. 'We chose a soft, buttery white for the cabinetry, which pairs nicely with the warm wood flooring and helps this newly renovated kitchen feel as if it’s always been just as it is.'

How to Fix a Cold White Room (Without Repainting Everything at Once)

If you're not able to repaint bright white walls, lighting can be an effective tool to warm up a room and stop it from looking stark. 'In rooms that don’t receive much natural light, artificial lighting has a huge influence on how a white paint color is perceived,' says Helen Shaw.

'Bulbs above 3500K tend to cast a cooler, bluer light that can exaggerate any gray or blue undertones in the paint,' she adds. 'Lower color temperatures produce a warmer, cozier glow, helping the space feel softer and more inviting.'

You could also swap any cool-toned metals, such as chrome, for warmer ones, as well as adding plenty of texture. 'To keep a white room feeling rich and layered, I focus on texture and contrast – mixing plaster walls, natural wood, linen upholstery, woven materials, antique brass, and stone to create depth and visual interest while maintaining a calm, cohesive palette,' says Marie Flanigan.

Another way to warm up white walls is to add colorful decor. While the walls in this dining nook already have warmth, a similar approach can be followed with bright white. 'For this space, we layered in blues and purples,' explains Augusta, Georgia-based designer Lauren Robbins.

If you do decide to paint the walls to complement a similar palette of blues and purples, go for a white paint with soft undertones, but not so warm that it looks yellow. 'Some of my favorite warm white shades are Benjamin Moore's Ivory White and Opaline at 50% (which helps remove the yellow undertones), and Farrow & Ball's James White,' says Lauren.

While accent colors, decor, and lighting can help to warm up existing bright white walls, that's not to say bright white paints don't have their place. For Kara Childress, they often work well when used sparingly. 'I love using a pure white accent within a room painted in a warmer shade,' she says. 'It's almost counterintuitive, but a pop of bright white in artwork, trim, or a key piece of furniture actually draws out the warmth and depth of the wall color rather than competing with it.'

This was the approach Kara followed in this dining space. 'I brought in artwork with bright white backgrounds for exactly this reason,' she says. 'It lets the wall color come forward and those beautiful undertones, particularly in plaster finishes, really sing.'

White rooms aren't out of style – they're just evolving to feel softer and warmer. Make sure to pay attention to the undertones when choosing paint shades to avoid anything too cool, or go for something much more colorful with these white paint alternatives

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Gray might be a little controversial in the design world as of late, falling from its early 2000s fame, and frequently topping lists of colors to avoid using in 2026. But that's not to say it's been officially scrapped for good.

While lackluster charcoals and mid-tone cold grays might no longer be the go-to neutrals of choice, not all gray paint is on the way out. Paint colors like Gray Owl (one of Benjamin Moore's most popular neutral tones) are proof that there is such a thing as complex, liveable grays that feel subtle, quietly grounding, and still interesting in 2026.

'Gray Owl is a light grey with a cool, crisp cast,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing (International), Benjamin Moore. 'This subtle silver-like hue offers a soft and refined luminosity that instantly brightens a room. Its cool undertones provide a more modern and crisp appearance than other greys, making it a hue that is especially suited to contemporary urban settings.'

Here's how designers are using this timeless Benjamin Moore gray paint.

1. Apply It To Kitchen Cabinetry and Surround with Textures

'Gray Owl is one of those rare colors that feels quietly dynamic rather than static,' explains interior designer Leigha Heydt, founder of Heydt Designs. 'I think it is at its best when paired with natural materials that reinforce its quiet, organic character.'

'I love combining it with white oak, walnut, natural stone, linen, wool, handcrafted ceramics, and warm metals like unlacquered brass,' Leigha continues. 'Layering texture rather than introducing too many competing colors allows the subtle complexity of the paint to shine and creates spaces that feel relaxed, welcoming, and enduring.'

'One of Gray Owl's greatest strengths is its flexibility. It pairs beautifully with warm whites, earthy greens, muted blues, charcoal accents, and natural wood tones. Because its undertones shift so gracefully with the light, it bridges both warm and cool palettes, making it an incredibly versatile foundation for a home.'

2. Use Gray Owl as a Timeless Exterior Color

'I would describe Gray Owl as a versatile hue that can go many different directions, depending on what is paired with it,' says Alison Arrington, founder of The Design Room. 'It has a subtle green/blue undertone, but is softened and appears warmer when paired with White Dove (as shown in this picture).'

'I chose this color for an exterior paint because the project has a Cape Cod vibe, which this color is perfect for. I used dark navys, light sea greens, and cream tones throughout the home, which act as perfect compliments coming from the outside where Gray Owl was used. One thing you will notice is that the stone that I chose has very similar tones to Gray owl, as well as creams and beiges. This was one way to sway the paint color to appear warmer than it would have if it was paired with cooler tones. I prefer to bring warmth. It tends to be more cozy and livable.'

When using gray in 2026, always pair it with organic textures. 'Other tones and materials that look great with this color,' says Alison. 'Light to medium rift oak, stone with multi-tones that have this color as well as creams and beiges, dark wood tones complement it also.'

3. Color Drench a Living Room

While there are times not to paint a room gray, in homes blessed with natural light, it's a clever shade to use as your main wall color. 'We selected it for every painted surface in the home, including the walls, trim, doors, and windows, to create a calm, cohesive backdrop that allows the architecture, natural light, and materials to take center stage,' says Leigha.

'Perhaps the greatest testament to the color's longevity came from the homeowners themselves. After living in the home for more than ten years while raising four children, they recently repainted the entire interior and chose Gray Owl again. To me, that's the definition of a timeless color. It wasn't selected because it was fashionable; it was selected again because they genuinely loved living with it.'

'What I appreciate most about Gray Owl is the way it evolves throughout the day,' she explains. 'Depending on the quality and direction of the light, it may read softly green in one room, warmer and almost taupe in another, and additionally reveals a subtle blue undertone. Rather than becoming predictable, it continues to feel fresh and calming as the light changes throughout the day and across the seasons.'

Gray Owl-Inspired Shopping Picks

While not all grays are in this year (plenty of shades are replacing gray in 2026), Benjamin Moore's Gray Owl is a liveable, grounding shade that feels subtle yet unique, doing far more than your average neutral.

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There are few color combinations as happy and comforting as pink and green, but channeling these two hues without veering into an '80s aesthetic takes a thoughtful approach.

In 2026, designers are once again channeling pink and green rooms, but not as you once knew them. Gone are the bubblegum pinks and teal-leaning greens – designers are turning to earthy plaster tones and warming corals teamed with sophisticated olive tones and refreshing, delicate greens to embrace this color trend. That's not to say this color combination can't be playful, though (think chartreuse and terracotta) – it's as much about how these colors are added to a room.

'Pink and green sit opposite one another on the color wheel, and opposites tend to play well together,' says designer Louise Copeland. 'Depending on the shades, it can feel sweet and youthful or stylish and sophisticated.' Here, designers explain how to decorate with these two hues for a modern take on this pairing – from calming bedrooms to energizing kitchens.

1. Pair Dark Sage Paint With Coral Upholstery

Darker green and pink tones create a moody, sophisticated take on this color combination, but choosing the right tones is key. This living room in a Victorian home pairs Farrow & Ball's Calke Green, a dark sage green paint, with a rich coral pink sofa – the depth of both colors feels balanced rather than one color taking over.

'The Victorian house that contains these rooms is painted completely white and surrounded by lush vegetation throughout most of the year,' explains Mira Eng-Goetz, lead designer at Jessica Helgerson Interior Design. 'To contrast the white exterior, we created an interior palette that’s saturated with vibrant greens and warm pinks. The green paint plays well with the daylight in this house, which inevitably leans green thanks to the exterior foliage. The pink elements play well with the green backdrop due to the fact that they’re complementary colors.'

In historic homes, rich pairings like this one are often an effective choice since they nod to their heritage, suggests Mira: 'Victorian design has historically embraced bold color combinations, but it’s quite common these days to see Victorian interiors awash in neutral colors. In this case, embracing history feels modern.'

2. Team Pistachio Green With Plaster Pink in Kitchens

Pink and green used as a kitchen color idea can feel energetic and playful, and one of the most stylish takes on this combo is a fresh and uplifting shade of pistachio with a more mellow plaster pink.

Here, the green was the starting point of the scheme, chosen to bring a sense of nature indoors. 'With panoramic views over the Windrush Valley right outside, the green joinery became a natural extension of that landscape, part of the same earthy, pigment-led palette used throughout the house,' explains designer Sophie Goldhill of Hector Interiors.

To balance the statement green kitchen cabinets, pink was introduced to the scheme with zellige tiles. 'Their handmade glaze catches light, keeping the room fresh rather than heavy,' explains Sophie.

Choosing a flattering white paint is an important step in any scheme, but especially in bright kitchens with colorful elements. Here, Farrow & Ball's Dimity provides softness and subtle continuity. 'The walls pick up that same warm pink undertone but pared right back, so the tiles and joinery can do the talking,' she adds.

3. Add Vibrancy to White Rooms With Lime Green and Terracotta

Pink and green don't need to be loud – adding these two hues through smaller decor against white walls can be all that's needed to elevate a room. 'We chose this palette for this sitting room in Palm Beach as we wanted it to feel sun-drenched and tropical,' says Louise Copeland.

'Rather than using bright colors, we selected a dusty coral linen for the sofa and a muddy chartreuse sheer for the window treatments,' she adds. 'Those softer tones helped make the room feel more subdued and relaxed.'

'To keep the palette balanced, we painted the ceiling a pinky white,' says Louise. 'Previously it was a stained orangey wood, which felt much heavier and competed with the lighter, happier tones in the room.'

4. Create a Calming Space With Pale Green and Muted Pink

Pale green paints work almost as a neutral, adding softness and subtle warmth to walls. Because these shades are so livable and soft, they feel calm in situ, making them a wonderful choice for bedrooms and home offices. Teamed with neutral-leaning pinks, as seen in the textiles of the space, this pairing is delicate and easy to live with.

'For this guest room and home office, I wanted the palette to feel soft, sophisticated, and approachable rather than overtly feminine,' says interior designer Mary Patton. 'The foundation of the room is a light, airy green – Farrow & Ball's Palm – which feels fresh and modern while complementing the mid-century architecture of the home.'

'Unlike more saturated pink-and-green combinations, which can feel traditional or highly decorative, the muted green paired with warm blush and terracotta undertones creates a quieter, more nuanced palette that feels current and effortless,' she adds.

5. Bring Rustic Charm to Bathrooms

Don't rule out pink and green for bathroom color ideas, where they can add warmth and softness. Here, earthy variations of these two hues create a rustic look that generally feels more timeless than anything too bright.

'Pale pink and pale green would have veered toward a candy-toned palette, and we also wanted to avoid a "granny" style,' explains the designer Julia Chasman. 'We chose Zia's Zellige Tile in Desert Bloom, a wonderful, rich color that has as much brown in it as pink. The handmade zellige finish always looks fresh and modern, and this helped us avoid a saccharine tone, too.'

It was important for the floor tiles not to be too pale. 'Instead of a mint green, we went for olive – a deeper, more sophisticated hue that grounds the room, and is able to stand up to the strong tones in the Desert Bloom shower,' the designer adds.

'Pink and green can so easily look twee – but the olive and Desert Bloom tiles, with their brownish undertones, and lots of variation, look strong and confident, with no hint of candy-tones, or garish birthday cake icing,' says Julia.

6. Embrace Tradition With Nostalgic Shades

While design trends are favoring earthy-based pinks and greens, that's not to say you can't decorate with brighter tones stylishly. For maximalist decorating styles, mossy green and rosy pink can feel fun and rooted in nostalgia – especially in a guest room or kids' room.

In this bedroom, the designer embraced pattern and saturated colors for a playful look. 'This room was based on the Lulie Wallace drapery fabric and the butterfly watercolors by Marquin Campbell, which created a strong color story,' explains designer Lauren Robbins. 'The wallpaper is Schumacher and serves as the perfect large-scale complement to the smaller-scale drapery pattern.'

While the main elements establish pink and green as the standout colors in this room, a pop of blue on the cushions brings an unexpected look. 'We layered in elements to bring depth, contrast, and interest to the space,' Lauren adds.

Shop Green and Pink Decor

As color trends embrace joy-bringing shades that add excitement to rooms, it's no surprise to see pink and green making a comeback. While highly saturated tones used all over a room can look dated, soft and earthy variations of each of these hues feel fresh. If you're not ready to paint the walls just yet, add smaller touches of pink and green decor to your room – perfect for summer decor ideas.

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.

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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.

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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.'

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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.'