Color of the Year season is officially underway, and the next paint brand to unveil its hue of choice is Sherwin-Williams, revealing Celery SW 6421, a crisp pale green, as its 2027 Color of the Year.

Light, bright, and refreshingly zingy, Celery is a soothing, cool-toned green with soft yellow notes. It's not the first green to be announced as a Color of the Year so far; in fact, 2027 color trends are filled with earthy, organic hues rooted in nature. Iconic British paint brand Dulux announced Soulful Sage as their Color of the Year, and Behr has chosen a moody olive shade, Grounded.

But Celery isn't a sage, nor is it an olive. This is a pale, almost yellow green that's fresh rather than the muted hues we have been seeing so much of. 'Celery has a lightness and freshness that gives green a new energy for 2027,' explains Ashley Banbury, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'It's a soft, fresh yellow-green with subtle warmth, so it feels uplifting without becoming overly bright or saturated. That balance makes it especially livable. Celery can bring a gentle wash of color to a room while maintaining the airy, comfortable quality homeowners often look for in everyday spaces.'

While sage green paints are excellent at grounding a scheme, brighter, paler shades like Celery can be just as soothing. 'Green is one of those colors that feels instantly familiar because we're surrounded by it in nature,' Ashley explains. 'That connection can make green especially comfortable to live with in the home; it brings color into a room while still feeling grounded and approachable.'

'There's also incredible range within the green paint family,' Ashley adds, 'from deep, enveloping forest tones to softer, more uplifting shades. That versatility gives homeowners an opportunity to embrace green in a way that feels authentic to their personal style while creating spaces that feel connected to the outdoors.'

What makes Celery feel like more of a fresh take on green is its soft but bright yellow undertones. It has a vibrancy that popular olive and sage shades do not, making it perfect for spaces in need of a little brightness.

That's not to say you can't give this paint some grounding and earthiness; it's a versatile shade that can change depending on what you layer it with. 'Celery is incredibly versatile when it comes to building a palette around it,' explains Ashley. 'For a light and relaxed look, I love pairing it with breathable neutrals like White Flour SW 7102 or Woven Wicker SW 9104. If you want to create more depth, earthy shades like Artichoke SW 6179 and Cocoon SW 6173 reinforce Celery's connection to nature, while Georgian Bay SW 6509 (pictured above) introduces a richer contrast.'

By considering the colors that go with green, you can choose to go bold or subtle with Celery. 'You can also take the palette in a more expressive direction with Kirsch Red SW 6313 or Plum Brown SW 6272 for warmth and sophistication,' Ashley suggests, 'or Potentially Purple SW 6821 and Cosmos SW 6528 for softer, unexpected accents. Celery gives you a fresh foundation that can be styled in many different ways.'

'Celery shows that our connection to nature isn't going away, but the way we're interpreting nature-inspired color is evolving,' Ashley continues. 'We're moving toward hues that still provide a sense of comfort and restoration but also bring more freshness, lightness, and personality into the home. Rather than creating spaces that feel overly styled or perfect, there's an emphasis on interiors that feel welcoming, layered and reflective of everyday life.'

Calming colors like pale greens are a wise choice if you're looking to create a sense of tranquility in your space. 'Celery captures that mood because it feels calming and familiar while still offering enough energy to make a space feel renewed,' she adds.

'It also has an organic character that allows it to work beautifully across styles, whether paired with clean contemporary finishes, vintage-inspired pieces or natural materials and textures.'

The Celery Shopping Edit

Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year is refreshing yet equally livable. It's pale enough to feel subtle, yet bright enough to catch the eye and inspire, uplift, and soothe as soon as you enter a space.

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Pioneering paint brand Lick has launched an eight-shade palette, inspired by the shift towards more personal, collected interiors. Featuring three new paint colours alongside a handful of familiar favourites, the 'A Soulful Home' palette provides comfort through colour.

Whilst the palette aligns with 2027 colour trends, its liveability is what makes it unique. 'When we started thinking about the 2027 Colour Edit, I kept coming back to the idea that the most successful homes are the ones that feel completely connected to the people living in them,' Tash Bradley, Director of Interior Design at Lick, tells Homes & Gardens. 'You can walk into a room and almost immediately sense when it has been designed around someone's real life rather than around an image of what a beautiful home is supposed to be.'

'That became the starting point for A Soulful Home. We wanted to explore how colour can help create that emotional layer within an interior – the warmth, familiarity and personality that makes somewhere feel like your home.'

The eight-shade paint edit balances vibrancy with calming hues, perfect for creating a lasting scheme that inspires and endures. The palette features Blue 05, soothing Green 09, classic White 03, grounding Brown 02, and moody Teal 03. Three new shades are joining the palette, too: rich Red 07, bold Green 23, and calming Pink 14.

'We're surrounded by so much visual inspiration now that it's incredibly easy to know what everybody else's homes look like,' explains Tash. 'But I think the interesting shift for 2027 is that we're beginning to turn that attention back onto ourselves: What colours am I naturally drawn to? What memories do they bring back? What environments make me feel at my best? How do I actually want to live in this room?'

The Soulful Home edit is filled with room colour ideas based on feel as well as look. 'The palette has been built around those different emotional needs,' Tash adds. 'You have the cocooning depth of Red 07, the grounding quality of Brown 02, the nurturing softness of Pink 14, the restorative feeling of Green 09, alongside the joy of Green 23, the uplifting quality of Blue 05 and the stimulating richness of Teal 03, all given breathing space by warm White 03.'

'And there's a reason we've created an edit of eight colours rather than declaring one single colour of the year. We very rarely experience colour in isolation. The feeling of a colour changes according to what you put beside it, the materials around it, the light, and even the proportion in which you use it. We wanted to give people a palette they could interpret rather than a trend they had to follow.'

The most timeless paint colours are those you're drawn to. These eight shades reflect colour trends, yet provide comfort and familiarity that will last beyond a year. Saturated, rich, and ultimately grounding, they're shades that work side by side or solo.

'You might be drawn to three of these colours; someone else might choose a completely different four. That's the point. Soul isn't an aesthetic. It's personal,' Tash explains. 'So although these colours reflect where we believe design and culture are heading in 2027, they're really an invitation to look inward rather than outward. Instead of asking, ‘What should my home look like?’, it's about asking, ‘What do I want my home to give back to me?'

'What I love about these eight colours is that there's this wonderful overarching warmth to them – and I don't simply mean that they're all ‘warm colours’. There's a warmth in the feeling of the palette. Before you even look at the palette, my advice would be to work out the purpose of the space you're decorating – and I don't just mean whether it's a kitchen, bedroom, or living room. Think about the life that actually happens there.'

When bringing the palette into your home, Tash advises to start by considering how you use each room. 'I'd start building a palette of perhaps three or four colours, rather than thinking that every shade needs to appear as paint,' she says. 'That's another reason we create an eight-colour edit: colour is relational. Change the proportion or placement of a colour, and you can completely change how it feels.'

'For example, you might fall in love with Pink 14 and use that as the dominant colour across the walls of a living room. Then look to Brown 02 as inspiration for the sofa or a beautiful piece of furniture, and bring in Teal 03 as a smaller accent through a rug, cushion, artwork or lamp. Suddenly you've taken three colours from the same edit but interpreted them entirely through your own furniture and possessions.'

'That's what I want people to have fun with. Don't think of the Colour Edit as eight paint colours that need to go onto eight walls,' she says. 'Think of it as the starting point for the entire room. Pull those shades through upholstery, rugs, curtains, ceramics, artwork, natural materials and pieces you already own.'

You could even take the full palette and allow it to travel through the house, changing the hierarchy from room to room. One shade becomes dominant here, another appears as an accent there, and suddenly there's a subtle thread connecting the whole home without every room looking the same.'

Built upon emotion rather than fleeting trends, A Soulful Home is filled with emotive, comforting, and restorative hues that serve a purpose greater than just aesthetics. 'Ultimately, a soulful home isn't something you can copy,' Tash says. 'It's built from the colours, objects, routines and little everyday moments that mean something to you. Work out how you want to live first, and then use colour to support that feeling.'

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Heritage paint brand Little Greene has added 27 new comforting colors to its books. Refreshingly current yet rooted in the past, each new paint feels distinct but quietly connected – responding to the color trends of the moment while drawing on palettes that have endured for centuries.

The new paints are scattered among Little Greene's Colors of England and Color Scales collections. From orange-infused ochres to light-changing teal-meets-green, these timeless paints bring warmth, comfort, and gentle saturation into the home.

'Color trends are always an evolution rather than a revolution,' Creative Director of Little Greene, Ruth Mottershead, tells Homes & Gardens. 'Over the past decade we've watched the mood move through rich blues into teals, then softer neutral greens, then bold yellows that deepened into ochres and caramels, before settling into stone-based neutrals and indulgent browns.'

'For the latest colors, we had really noticed consumers looking for balance,' she explains. 'If you imagine today's most-loved neutrals sitting on a pH scale, they'd sit right in the middle at a five or six, neither too warm nor too cool.'

Six new colors feature in the Colors of England collection, a line inspired by English history and heritage. Ashes of Marigold, a retro orange, represents the defining colors of the 1970s. 'Over the past decade, color trends have slowly drifted away from pure bright orange ‘Marigold’, whilst warm terracotta tones and burnt orange shades have become more popular,' says Ruth. 'Our new Ashes of Marigold carries the vibrancy of orange, yet is tempered with a subtle touch of black. It reads more as a gentle, earthy terracotta rather than a vibrant statement color.'

Shades like Perpetual Blue feel just as rooted in the past. 'I'm particularly drawn to Perpetual Blue at the moment,' says Ruth. 'It's taken from a surviving paint palette belonging to Winston Churchill, from his studio at Chartwell. It's a mid to deep blue with a touch of green running through it, so it responds beautifully to changing light throughout the day. It would work wonderfully color-drenched in a study, or used more sparingly as a grounding note against softer neutrals.'

For those who enjoy decorating with neutrals, Parlour, a plaster hue with pink notes, is light, fresh, and enduring. Inspired by the parlour room at Dyrham Park near Bath, the pale pink paint is perfect for schemes that need an uplift. 'There's an appetite for fresh, gelato-toned pastels, gentle, characterful colors like Floss and Parlour that feel joyful without ever being overpowering,' adds Ruth.

Next comes the twenty-one new hues featured in the Color Scales collection. The warm neutral Barge Stone – a complex, green-infused beige is available from light to dark. Barge Stone grew directly out of the popularity of our Portland Stone, says Ruth. The citron green Boxington has also been expanded into a graduated Color Scales family, a reduced lime with a touch of red oxide of iron, elegant in dining rooms and hallways.

'These 27 new colors sit at the next point along that story,' says Ruth. 'We've taken the red oxide and intense heat out of our caramels and burnt oranges to create gentler shades with less intensity, and we've moved away from the colder greens and blues that were so popular a few years ago, in favor of warmer versions like Celestial Blue, Boxington and Hammock. So yes, they very much respond to where color is heading, but they're also simply an honest reflection of what we're already seeing and feeling ourselves.'

'Trends never really jump; we notice shifts, and if you look back, you can trace those changes in the use of color,' Ruth explains. 'In 2016 we saw a lot of blue, which had grown out of a love of gray in the early 2010s. That moved through rich blues into teals, then softer neutral greens, then into bold yellows that deepened into ochres and caramels, and more recently into stone-based neutrals and indulgent browns. This transitioned into burgundy, deep reds, pinks and aubergine, colors that bring such a lovely sense of intimacy and quiet grandeur to a room.'

'At the same time, we noticed people pulling away from the caramels and chocolate browns that had been so loved a few years ago, wanting something with a little less heat and intensity. Marle is another favorite of mine,' she adds. 'It's a luxurious mid-tone brown, heavy on yellow ochre but softened right down with plenty of black. Used all over, it creates the most cocooning, intimate feeling in a room. I love it in a bathroom paired with Mochi on the opposite wall.'

Little Greene's twenty-seven new paint colors balance both emerging trends and what homeowners want right now, along with timeless classics that will never date. Each has its own place in the collection, inspired by either the heritage hues that defined the past or the shades that are most popular today.

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Heritage and modern design may seem like two entirely different worlds, but the right color palette can effortlessly bridge the gap between the two.

Designed to bring old and new together, paint brand Sherwin-Williams has created its Modern Heritage palette, offering an easy way to give traditional architecture a contemporary edge – or add a timeless feel to more modern spaces. Blending a handful of classic shades with some of today’s most appealing color trends, it strikes the perfect balance for anyone who loves both looks.

'The Modern Heritage palette celebrates the enduring appeal of classic design through a fresh contemporary lens,' says Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'Rooted in timeless architectural details, artisanal craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for history, this aesthetic reinterprets tradition with richer, more saturated hues that bring renewed energy to a space. Rather than recreating the past, Modern Heritage evolves it.'

'It was inspired by a growing desire to reconnect with the enduring qualities of home: craftsmanship, permanence, and a sense of place,' says Emily. 'As homeowners move beyond the pursuit of perfectly minimalist interiors, there is a renewed appreciation for spaces that feel layered, personal, and rich with meaning. The palette draws influence from heritage pigments found in historic homes, classic textiles, and timeworn materials, then reimagines them with greater saturation and sophistication. Rich blue, earthy green, and warm neutrals evoke a sense of familiarity while introducing a fresh level of depth and character. These colors feel rooted in history, yet contemporary in their application.'

That balance between old and new is at the heart of the Modern Heritage palette. Earthy greens, timeless navy, and warm neutrals create a comforting foundation, while richer, more expressive shades add depth and personality. The result feels collected and characterful rather than overly traditional.

Among the softer shades is Mortar, a warm off-white that brings an inviting sense of calm, alongside Rose Tan, a muted pink warmed with orange undertones. For those craving a little more color, Bunglehouse Blue offers a mid-blue softened by gray undertones, while Pennywise delivers a sophisticated burnt orange. Completing the collection is Nocturne, a complex charcoal gray that adds a dramatic, grounding note.

Together, the shades make a compelling case for bringing a little more history, warmth, and character into our homes – without sacrificing a contemporary feel.

When bringing the palette into your home, consider using bolder shades like Pennywise, Nocturne, or Bunglehouse Blue selectively, allowing the warmer, more grounding tones to form the foundation of your scheme.

'Use these shades to highlight architectural details like millwork, paneling, built-ins, and cabinetry, bringing character and depth to a space,' suggests Emily. 'Pair them with warm neutrals, natural woods, and layered textures for a look that feels collected and timeless. For added personality, mix in unexpected accent colors and furnishings that blend classic and contemporary influences.'

It's an approach that celebrates character rather than chasing perfection. 'Ornamental moldings, paneled millwork, vintage-inspired furnishings, and handcrafted materials are paired with confident color choices that feel expressive, collected, and highly individual,' adds Emily.

To balance the palette's richer, more vibrant shades, bring in organic materials that enhance their warmth and create a sense of depth. Think upholstered linen furniture, natural wood, and warm-toned kitchen cabinetry.

'The Modern Heritage palette pairs beautifully with authentic, timeless materials that emphasize craftsmanship and character,' Emily says. 'Woods with visible grain, such as walnut, oak, and chestnut, complement the palette’s richness, while aged brass, antique bronze, and natural stone add depth and permanence. Textural elements like wool, leather, and handcrafted ceramics bring warmth and a lived-in quality that feels both refined and approachable.'

The good news is that you don't need to rethink your entire approach to color to embrace the Modern Heritage look. Many shades you may already be considering can work beautifully alongside the palette; the key is to look within similar color families to create a cohesive, balanced scheme.

'For supporting hues, warm neutrals, earthy browns, muted greens, and deep blues create a balanced foundation, allowing the palette’s more saturated colors to shine. Together, these materials and tones create spaces that feel layered, collected, and enduringly relevant,' adds Emily.

Blending timeless paint colors with a few unexpected shades, Sherwin-Williams' Modern Heritage palette feels perfectly suited to the way we want our homes to look and feel today. It brings together the best of current color trends with familiar, enduring hues that offer warmth, comfort, and plenty of character – proving that traditional and contemporary style can work beautifully in the same space.

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Choosing the right neutral for your kitchen can be a challenge, especially with so many options. From whites and creams to beiges and even light browns, the variety can be overwhelming. But right now, one palette reigns supreme: mushroom hues.

It's a kitchen color that ticks all the boxes – warm, creamy, and decidedly elegant, mushroom hues are key to creating an inviting kitchen that's actually timeless. And designers say it's a trend worth paying attention to.

Here's why mushroom kitchen colors are having a moment, why they work so well in this hardworking room, and the best ways to bring them into your design. And don't worry – these spaces prove just how enduring the look really is.

What are Mushroom Kitchen Colors?

Fungi might not seem like the most elegant point of inspiration, but mushroom colors are more appealing than you might think. Sitting in the mid-neutral palette, these shades are the neutral answer to the dirty kitchen color trend we've all been obsessed with recently.

'Mushroom paint colors are warmer neutrals that blend taupe, gray, and brown. They are muddy colors with an earthy warmth – they don’t fall as warm as a beige but aren’t quite brown either. Colors like Kingsport Gray HC-86, Thunder AF-685, and Inner Balance 1522 are a few colors I consider mushroom hues,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore.

'Mushroom colors are definitely having a moment right now, but I actually think they’ve been around for a while,' adds interior designer Alexa Kingery. 'The beautiful part of using an earthy-mushroom tone is that it’s rooted in nature, and nature never goes out of style. Mushroom colors can vary from a soft, creamy, light beige to a muddy taupe or brown.'

Why They're Trending

Mushroom-inspired colors feel aligned with how kitchen design is being approached right now. They create a warm, inviting atmosphere that takes a kitchen beyond a purely functional zone and creates a timeless base you won't tire of.

'I think people are still recovering from the modern farmhouse epidemic where everything is harsh black hardware on stark white cabinets. Don’t get me wrong, at Alexa Kingery Interiors we still love a beautiful farmhouse aesthetic – we’re just doing it in much softer tones,' says Alexa.

'Overall, we are seeing people lean towards bringing warmer hues into their homes. Mushroom paint colors can be a great color palette staple,' Arianna agrees. 'For kitchens, in particular, people are no longer defaulting to white. Off-whites will always be a timeless choice for a kitchen, but this space also offers a great opportunity to bring in other hues, whether that is on the cabinets or walls.'

It's also a great palette if you want to bring warmth to your cooking space without leaning fully into the deeper browns that are proving popular. It's a neutral option that bridges the gap between pure whites and moodier tones, so it doesn't feel too different from the pared-back colors people are comfortable decorating with.

'People are definitely gravitating toward warmer, earthier palettes right now; going fully brown can feel a bit heavy or inadvertently lean into a retro 1970s look. Mushroom offers the perfect middle ground. It feels more intentional and characterful than falling back on a standard white or stark greige, providing a sophisticated warmth without overwhelming the space,' interior designer Pernille Lind explains.

In many ways, the appeal of mushroom kitchen colors reverts to nature as inspiration for our interiors, with shades that balance depth and interest with soft, timeless design. They feel layered yet still neutral, warmer yet not overwhelming. And their impact on a room, especially a kitchen where different finishes and materials come together, can't be ignored.

'When you use softer colors rooted in nature, it tends to make a room feel cozier, more inviting, and honestly… timeless. I truly think ever since the pandemic, people are simply craving comfort,' Alexa notes. 'In today’s economic and political climate, life can be hard enough. So instead of the cold and lifeless black and white, people are reintroducing beauty, color, and life back into their homes!'

How To Bring Mushroom Hues Into Your Kitchen

These warm neutrals are surprisingly easy to decorate with, especially in a kitchen. For a truly classic design, you can't go wrong with cabinets painted in mushroom hues with classic marble countertops – it's an elevated duo that never dates.

'One of our favourite colors for a kitchen, it seems to work wherever it goes, soft and warm yet light enough for even the darkest of corners,' says Helen Parker, Creative Director of deVOL Kitchens. 'The classic combination of Carrara marble and mushroom paint is always perfect. It's almost a deVOL look in itself and has graced hundreds of our most coveted rooms.'

If you've gone for a deeper kitchen cabinet color, this warm neutral on the walls creates a subtle background. 'Consider lighter mushroom paint colors for the walls to pair with darker kitchen cabinets. They can help soften and brighten the kitchen if you choose a bolder cabinet color,' Arianna suggests.

It's a color palette that works beautifully alongside wooden kitchens, too, bringing out the warmth while providing a soft contrast. 'My tried-and-true way to incorporate mushroom colors into a kitchen is by using Accessible Beige by Sherwin-Williams alongside a rich medium-brown stained wood species,' says Alexa. 'If you’re feeling brave, you could go even richer with a color like Virtual Taupe by Sherwin-Williams.'

It's not just the main kitchen this color thrives in, either. 'It works exceptionally well on kitchen joinery, and applying it to secondary spaces, like pantries or breakfast nooks, instantly makes those areas feel cozier and more intimate,' adds Pernille, who also recommends warm mushroom tones for kitchen woodwork as 'an elegant way to anchor the room.'

Shop the Look

As far as neutral kitchens go, mushroom hues are a warm, elegant choice. It's a color that translates beautifully in kitchens of every style and size, and pairs seamlessly with the finishes and materials used throughout cooking spaces.

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Heritage interiors brand Graham & Brown has announced 'Rose Earth' as its 2027 Color of the Year. Grounding, restorative, and effortlessly comforting, this muted dusty pink offers an early glimpse at the paint and color trends set to shape interiors in the year ahead.

'Our in-house design team works a year ahead, closely monitoring lifestyle and interiors trends to anticipate the colors and styles that will resonate with our community,' says Iona Graham, Brand & Marketing Controller and fourth generation of the Graham family. 'We began seeing a strong shift towards warmer and earthier tones, which helped select Rose Earth as our Color of the Year for 2027.'

While plaster-pink shades enjoyed a major moment in interiors a few years ago, Graham & Brown's latest pick proves that our love for muted, earthy hues is far from over. Rose Earth feels warmer and more grounded, bringing a subtle depth to the soft pink trend and making it easy to imagine in both contemporary and more traditional spaces.

Alongside its Color of the Year, Graham & Brown has also unveiled its Design of the Year, 'Roselle Grove' – a rich floral pattern inspired by Chintz – and its Mural of the Year, 'Red Rose County', which takes its cues from the rolling Lancashire landscape.

'The studio expects this versatile shade to make a real impact throughout 2027 and beyond,' Paula Taylor, Stylist at Graham & Brown, tells Homes & Gardens. 'Reflecting the growing desire for interiors and colors that feel warm, inviting, and grounded. As consumers move away from cooler, minimalist schemes, we're seeing an increasing appetite for colors that bring comfort, authenticity and a sense of connection to the home.'

It's easy to see why. With its warm, plaster-like quality, Rose Earth brings a gentle sense of comfort to almost any scheme. A neutral with character, muted pinks are a smart choice for spaces that need a little more depth and warmth without tipping into anything too dark or moody.

'Rose Earth captures this shift perfectly, combining the natural warmth of clay-inspired tones with a timeless elegance that works across a variety of styles and spaces,' says Paula.

And much like the recent resurgence of the sun-faded pastel trend, this softer take on pink looks set to have staying power. 'Warm, chalky plaster tones are emerging as the new neutrals for 2027,' adds Paula. 'Their understated warmth and versatility make them an ideal foundation for a wide range of color palettes, creating a sense of softness and quiet sophistication within the home.'

'These muted, earthy shades also reflect the growing desire for interiors that promote wellbeing and connection to nature,' adds Paula. 'Rooted in biophilic design principles, colors inspired by clay, stone and natural minerals help bring a feeling of balance and tranquillity indoors.'

Consider textures and colors that go with pink when introducing Rose Earth into your scheme. 'Ultra-matte finishes and raw, tactile textures will be key for the season ahead, making Rose Earth particularly effective on textured surfaces where natural light can enhance its depth and warmth,' Paula advises. 'Pair it with organic materials such as wood, stone and linen, alongside soft sage or olive greens, to create a beautifully calm and restorative atmosphere.'

'For a more immersive look, consider color capping to create a cocooning effect. Using tonal shades from the same color family across walls, ceilings and woodwork adds depth and sophistication,' she adds. 'For example, a rich warm brown such as Elderton can be used as a grounding shade, gradually transitioning into Rose Earth to create a seamless and enveloping scheme.'

'You could also pair it with wallpaper to bring character to the room, with our Design of the Year, Roselle Grove, or Mural of the Year, Red Rose County.'

Rose Earth Shopping Edit

Inspired by Rose Earth's warm, earthy take on pink? Explore our edit of the best pink paints for more ways to bring this versatile shade into your home.

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One thing about me: I can be very picky about lighting. It’s an essential element in a room’s design scheme; a detail that creates comfort, sets the mood, and provides practical illumination, all at the same time.

Because of my particular taste in lighting ideas, I usually gravitate towards expensive styles that are way out of my price range. But recently, I came across an outlier – a $30 lamp that impressed me so much more than the high-end designs I have saved on my web browser.

Enter: the VARPTROSS Wall Lamp from none other than IKEA.

This lamp's effortlessly elegant design stopped me in my tracks when I was scrolling on IKEA's new arrivals page, and when I glanced down at the price, I was even more drawn to it. With its sleek, slatted form, it radiates a luxurious modern organic aesthetic, and when turned on, it diffuses light in a stylishly moody manner.

Not to mention its plug-in capabilities – a design element that makes this lamp even more desirable. Unlike standard sconces that require thoughtful planning and hardwiring, this wall lamp can hang practically anywhere – so long as it's within seven feet of an outlet.

Ideal for renters or those who aren't interested in hiring an electrician, the VARPTROSS Wall Lamp is a great way to bring tasteful, artful light to your walls without spending a fortune.

Clearly, IKEA's design team took careful consideration when developing this wall lamp. Every detail is intentional – from the soft, curved silhouette to the tactile fabric cord that trails below the lamp itself. This attention to detail is probably why it is so highly rated on IKEA's site – boasting only 5-star reviews.

I'm already envisioning how I want to style it in my rental apartment – beside the bed in my small bedroom, next to my couch, or even on the wall above the dining nook in my kitchen. Not only will this wall lamp bring tasteful, mid-level illumination to any corner of my home, but it'll double as wall decor when turned off.

IKEA's VARPTROSS Wall Lamp has convinced me that sometimes, the best lighting styles aren't the most expensive ones. When practical design, chic style, and affordability converge (as they do here), it's hard to find something better.

Shop More Plug-In Wall Lights

Plug-in sconces and corded wall lights are convenient features for any home – rental or not. Shop three more that are just as chic as IKEA's VARPTROSS Wall Lamp.

Shop More Lighting From IKEA

Aside from the VARPTROSS Wall Lamp, IKEA has many more lighting styles that are just as chic, affordable, and practical for the home. Find a few of my favorites below.

IKEA's VARPTROSS Wall Lamp is proof that luxurious style and practical design don't have to come with a high-end price tag.

In fact, IKEA has many more lamps that look upscale but are surprisingly affordable. My favorites are the HALGATT Lamps – made in collaboration with interior design icon Ilse Crawford.

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Dulux has announced its 2027 Colour of the Year as ‘Soulful Sage’. Calming, restorative, and oh-so-versatile, this light and uplifting green offers an exciting glimpse at the colour trends set to dominate in 2027.

Soulful Sage sits at the heart of three new curated colour stories by Dulux: 'Glow', 'Light' and 'Lift'. Anchoring all three colour collections, Soulful Sage is described as 'an ethereal, soft and silvery green designed to help us ‘Live Lightly’'.

Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director and Colour Expert at Dulux, says, 'Our overarching theme, ‘Live Lightly’, reflects what we feel people need from their homes right now. With increasingly busy lives, information overload, and a world that can often feel quite heavy, our homes should provide a counterbalance – somewhere we can switch off, reconnect, and make room for moments of joy. Soulful Sage captures that feeling beautifully; its soft, silvery quality brings a sense of lightness while retaining that reassuring connection to the natural world.'

Proving the enduring influence of the natural world on interior design trends, Soulful Sage celebrates nature's restorative, calming power and highlights how our homes can be designed as places of sanctuary and calm. Embodying a sense of ‘innocence, freshness, and rejuvenation,' the beauty of decorating with a green tone such as Soulful Sage is that it can effortlessly integrate into homes of all ages, styles, and sizes.

Marianne continues, 'Soulful Sage can feel warm and nurturing alongside earthy tones, peaceful and restorative with quieter shades, or fresh and energising with more joyful colours. That adaptability made it the perfect shade to sit at the heart of our three colour stories, Glow, Light and Lift – giving people different ways to create a lighter home for a lighter life.'

A colour that represents healing, freshness, balance and nature, Dulux's Soulful Sage signifies the importance of creating a restorative and relaxing home in 2027.

As part of the Soulful Sage Colour of the Year announcement, Dulux has launched three accompanying colour stories: Glow, Light and Lift. These easy-to-use palettes offer different inspiration for how to decorate with Soulful Sage in your home. From being paired with contrasting, warming earth tones to similar light and understated shades, the colour collections have been created to bring 'a versatile foundation for creating interiors that feel warm and nurturing, quiet and restorative, or joyful and inspiring.'

We explore the three different looks below.

The Glow Colour Palette

The Glow palette has been designed to enrich Soulful Sage with cosy and warm contrast. 'Clay, terracotta, stone – these have been the building blocks of home for generations, and their colours feel authentic, familiar and comforting. Our Glow colour story combines these warm earth tones with uplifting lilac and the ethereal Soulful Sage to encapsulate cosiness.'

Shades in the Glow palette include: Belgian Chocolate, Clay Walls, Pebble Sea, Cinnamon Sprinkle, Violet Storm, Waxed Wood, Sunbaked Cherry, Spiced Honey, Slumber Seed.

The Light Colour Palette

The Light palette has been designed to create a grounding and healing space, matching the light and breezy feel of Soulful Sage. 'Airy and understated, these neutral browns, greys and blues make the perfect backdrop for a simple, visually uncluttered scheme in any home. Our Light colour story combines these quiet, pale tones with darker shades and Soulful Sage for a pared-back, healing feel.'

Shades include: Double Espresso, Nordic Waters, Earl Blue, Volcanic Sand, Arctic Pebble, Faded Indigo, Whispered Blue, Ashen White, Slow Living.

The Lift Colour Palette

Rich with vivid and bright tones, the Lift palette has been designed to work with Soulful Sage to create a joyful and bold scheme. 'A mix of yellowy ochres and soft pinks, with the ethereal Soulful Sage, our Lift colour story is optimistic and uplifting. These positive tones can help you create an inspiring, light-hearted feel and fill your home with a little bit of wonder.'

Shades include: Taupe Pink, Hemp Cloth, Faded Damson, Moss Agate, Fern Forest, Hushed Grey, Potter's Clay, Honey Bear, Smokewood Taupe.

What Does Soulful Sage Mean for 2027 Colour Trends?

Dulux's 2026 Colour of the Year, a palette of three paints named 'Rhythm of Blues', also took inspiration from the beauty of the natural world. However, Soulful Sage offers a lighter, more subtle expression of nature for 2027.

Elegant and calming, and far from intense or domineering, Soulful Sage brings a sense of lightness and tranquillity to the home, reflecting a growing desire to create spaces that feel calm, simple, and connected to the outdoors.

As we continue to adapt and rethink our interior spaces in response to the world around us, the launch of Soulful Sage suggests that creating a sense of calm at home will remain a key design priority for next year's trends. It speaks to our desire for spaces that feel restful yet uplifting – interiors that offer a welcome sense of escape while still feeling fresh and contemporary.

Colours with connections to nature have long endured in the world of design, but as we look towards 2027, it will be interesting to see how decorating with green evolves, with the launch of Soulful Sage marking a shift towards a quieter, more understated approach to green room ideas.

Soulful Sage Shopping Edit

For more decorating inspiration, explore our edit of the best sage green paints .

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2027 is shaping up to be an exciting year for interiors, with playful yet assured color trends that feel as timeless as they are characterful. Purple is making a welcome return, spanning everything from soft, muted mauve to deep aubergine, while earthy hues that bring a sense of calm and grounding are coming back into focus, too.

If last year's color trends were defined by confidence, 2027's room color ideas feel equally bold, but with an enduring quality that makes them easy to live with. Rich plums, sun-faded pastels, warm mustards, and organic greens are already emerging as standout shades, bringing just the right amount of saturation and personality to a scheme without overwhelming it.

The Color Trends to Watch Out for in 2027

From quietly uplifting pastels to deeper, moodier tones, these are the seven colors interior designers are most excited about for 2027. Expect to see them shaping interiors throughout the year ahead – and well beyond it.

1. Muted Mauves

The mauve color trend is only getting more popular in 2027. Think lavender, with a little pink thrown in. Sophisticated and grounding, it's a shade that's made a welcome return in recent months.

'I think we'll see a real shift toward colors with depth and complexity rather than a single “it” hue,' explains designer Michelle Murphy, founder of Demi Ryan Interiors. 'Think muted mauves and dusty pinks moving out of just bedrooms and into living spaces, greens, and warm, near-black bronze tones for cabinetry and trim. People want color that feels emotionally grounded. Earthy, mineral, and lived-in, rather than color chosen purely to be on trend.'

'My rule is to bring trending colors through things that are easy to change like pillows, art, a powder room, or an accent wall,' adds Michelle. 'Keeping the big, expensive items to change surfaces in colors with real staying power. If a client falls in love with a trend color for something permanent, I'll push it toward a deeper, more muted version rather than the brightest version. In my opinion, that’s what keeps a room feeling current five years later instead of dated in two years.'

2. Mustard Yellow

Decorating with yellow might sound a little bold, but rich, warm, and comforting mustard couldn't be further from overbearing. Whether you're committing to a cocooning paint idea or experimenting with a few mustard accents, it's a hue worth considering.

'I think mustard yellow is going to have a big moment,' says designer Elizabeth Burch. 'We’ve been moving toward warmer, muddier colors for a while, and mustard feels like a natural next step. It has enough brown in it that it can almost act as a neutral, but it still brings so much personality to a room. I especially love it with chocolate brown, burgundy, olive green and even a really good blue. It feels nostalgic without feeling dated.'

'I don’t think you should ever use a color just because you think it will be "timeless" in the long run,' adds Elizabeth. 'If you would have loved mustard yellow five years ago and think you’ll still love it five years from now, use it. The most timeless rooms are usually the ones that feel collected rather than designed around one particular moment. Bring trendier colors in alongside antiques, original art and pieces you’ve owned for years, and they become part of the room'

3. Deep Plum

Whether you're decorating with Farrow & Ball's Brinjal or embracing even darker purple paints, deep aubergine tones bring moody sophistication to every scheme. John Maloney McNamara of Coosa says purple will be big next year. 'Purple, but deep. Not lilac, not lavender, not anything anywhere near Barney or Grimace. I mean purple in its darkest mood: black plum, nightshade, an inky purple that's practically not purple at all.'

'After several years of gravitating toward earthy, grounded colors, dark purple feels like the richer end of that palette,' he adds, 'it has the same weight and warmth, but is decidedly less expected.'

'Lacquer it in a powder room and your reflection in the mirror gets the most flattering filter you could imagine, thanks to purple's warm undertones in combination with all that sheen. Use it in Farrow & Ball's new Dead Flat finish in your bedroom and it softly absorbs the light, wrapping the whole room – walls, woodwork and doors – in one deep, velvety wash of color. For the purple end of the spectrum, I'd look at Tonester "High at the Gala," Backdrop "McQueen," Benjamin Moore "Plum Martini" and Farrow & Ball "Paean Black": all sitting in that rich, moody territory where purple starts flirting with black.'

4. Earthy Pinks

'Earthy pinks are especially interesting because they offer a more sophisticated, grounded take on the pinks we remember from the 1980s,' says Emily Winters of Peabody’s Interiors. 'They bring warmth and character without feeling overly sweet or trendy.'

Dusky pinks are perfect when neutrals don't provide enough punch. 'Antique peony is the color I will be coming back to again and again in 2027,' says Hallie Malitsk, founder of Hallie Rose Design. 'A dusty pink with peach tones, it's not too sugary or sweet, so it works in children' s and adult spaces just as well. I recently drenched my own daughters’ bedroom in Benjamin Moore’s Odessa Pink, wrapping the walls completely. The peach undertone looks stunning next to all different wood tones. Plus, a color like this doesn’t age out of a room the way a pastel pink does.'

And with Graham & Brown's color of the year named Rose Earth, it's fair to assume that delicate pink tones will be popping up in interiors throughout 2027.

5. Pomegranate

Raspberry pink was the color of the summer, but Pomegranate, the richer, red-infused alternative, is a color trend set to crown interiors beyond the warmer months.

'Pomegranate is an unsung color that will finally get its moment in 2027,' says Courtney Klinger, founder of Studio Whitford. 'Unlike its popularized cousins, cherry red and hot pink, it has much more depth. Pomegranate leans less Barbie Pink and more Ralph Lauren. The 2026 viral social media unexpected red theory is overly formulaic; pomegranate is actually a way better option for the "unexpected" look. I love a color that can take an otherwise very serious room and add a hint of intrigue and personality by injecting this punchy tone.'

'For peek-a-boo moments like a curio cabinet or other small features, pomegranate is the ultimate color,' adds Courtney. 'You can pair it with light or dark tones. It plays well in a variety of spaces, as long as it's used strategically.'

6. Faded Pastels

Sun-faded pastels bring a quiet, gentle saturation to interiors without dominating. 'The supporting cast: natural colors that appear softened by the sun,' says John. A camel that is buttery like suede, a toasted terracotta, plus tobacco and military olive, with warm creams like Benjamin Moore's "Peau de Soie," which has the faintest blush underneath. The word I keep coming back to is dusty: colors that look as though they've mellowed for years rather than been mixed at your hardware store last Tuesday.'

'What I like about this palette is that none of it feels too precious or too perfect,' John adds. 'It has an easy, lived-in quality that works beautifully with a waxed or cerused walnut, undyed linen and honed travertine.'

'Think grounded backgrounds with crisp details,' agrees Sarah Fontanez of Pomme House. 'Earthy Terracotta with a slice of citron. Deep ochre with a sliver of powder sky blue. Bring in complex, saturated hues that aren’t straightforward – memorable colors that surround and uplift the spirit.'

7. Organic Greens

From the gray-green color trend to earthier, dark sages, nature-inspired greens have been cropping up in many homes, but it is further cemented as a key trend since Behr's 2027 Color of the Year was revealed. A deep olive green called Grounded suggests that we're all craving comforting, organic tones that soothe.

'I think we’re going to be shifting towards deeper and richer greens with brown undertones,' says designer Kelly Bartley. 'I’ve been referring to this color as safari green. We’ve seen so much olive and sage green in the past years, which have almost become defaults – and I think we’re craving something with more depth.'

'This color can give you the serenity we all need while also bringing in a pop that isn't a scream of color. It's a neutral; it's a color, all at once. This isn't a wall color; it'd make a room too dark. But for textiles – upholstered seating and pillows it is incredible. Specifically with velvet and mohair, which have a subtle sheen, safari green becomes incredibly vibrant in a subtle way.'

Colorful Shopping Picks

Taking inspiration from color trends is a great way to influence your home's design, but choose shades that speak to you. 'Trends can be a great source of inspiration, but creating a timeless home comes down to choosing colors that feel authentic to the people living in the space,' says Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams.

'Rather than redesigning an entire room around a trend, consider introducing emerging colors in ways that complement the home's existing architecture, materials and furnishings. Tonal layering can also be an approachable way to experiment with color, using varying depths and complementary hues to add dimension while maintaining a cohesive feel. Ultimately, the most enduring palettes are those that balance what's current with colors you genuinely enjoy living with.'

An autumnal bedroom should be one thing above all: deeply comforting. While low lighting, soft layers, and tactile fabrics can instantly make a sleep space feel cozier for fall, rich, grounding colors are what truly transform a room into a warm, cocooning retreat.

And a cozy bedroom doesn't have to follow a predictable fall color scheme. You can create an inviting, enveloping space without a hint of pumpkin orange or traditional burgundy. In 2026, designers are embracing some of the season's familiar moody hues, but they're also introducing unexpected shades that feel fresh, sophisticated, and just as suited to the season – offering a refreshing take on fall color trends.

Fall Bedroom Color Schemes

From all-gray, cabin-inspired retreats to bedrooms wrapped in warm neutrals, these are the three color palettes designers are choosing this year – and the combinations that could make your bedroom feel instantly more inviting.

1. Gray Green

Gray-green might not typically be included amongst fall trends, but they work just as well as the usual color culprits. Moody, heritage-inspired gray paint is perfect for creating an enveloping feel. Think Jojo's Green by Coat Paints or Millstone Gray by Benjamin Moore.

'This is the guest bedroom (pictured above), up in the attic of a house in Portland', explains Interior Designer Jessica Helgerson. 'The clients are British, and it feels at the same time very right for them, but also right for the Pacific Northwest. It looks out onto tall cedar trees, and we wanted to echo the gray-green of the trees while also creating a welcoming, cozy cocoon of a room. It’s really more of a green than a gray, and it feels calming, cozy, and welcoming.'

To keep the scheme balanced, Jessica scattered earthy tones. 'The decor (pillows, bedding, rug, curtains, wallpaper) all have warm golden and blush tones that help to balance the cool background color of the room,' she says.

2. Warm Neutrals

Decorating with neutrals doesn't need to be reserved for summer. Interior Designer Niamh O'Sullivan, Founder of Studio Kiri, proves this with a recent bedroom project. 'As a north-facing space, it was important that the palette worked with the natural light rather than making the room feel darker,' she says. 'The brief was to create something light, refined and luxurious, so I drew on earthy tones but pitched them at the softer end of the spectrum. Pale olive, warm brown and muted orange sit alongside a predominantly cream, beige and white base, creating a space that feels calm and light while still having warmth and character.'

'A fall palette doesn’t have to be dark or moody. It’s really about the undertones and the colors you layer alongside your neutrals,' Niamh says. 'Olive, ochre, rust and warm brown can all bring that autumnal quality to a room, while a lighter neutral base keeps it feeling soft and airy. You can scale the richness and depth of those colors up or down depending on the overall atmosphere you want to create.'

'The neutral paint (Dimity by Farrow & Ball) became an anchor for the rest of the design. We layered different textures and carefully placed color against the pale backdrop, keeping the palette restrained. When you're working with fewer colors and patterns, every element has to work that little bit harder, so each choice was very considered.'

3. Ochre Orange

A cozy bedroom wouldn't be complete without a little orange. This luxurious sleep space comes to life with the ochre-infused orange linen wallpaper. Its designers, Ika Ramel and Sanna Nathanson, Founders of Studio Ramson, explain the power of deep orange.

'The façades visible through the windows became a natural starting point for the palette. We wanted the interior to have a dialogue with its surroundings, almost bringing the colors of the exterior into the room. We loved the idea of letting that warm, burnt orange tone take over the space. It’s quite a bold choice, but at the same time it creates a very calm and harmonious feeling.'

'The walls are actually not painted, but covered in Dedar’s Natural Chintz linen wallpaper,' Ika and Sanna explain. 'We chose it not only for its color, but also for the beautiful depth and texture of the linen. It gives the walls a softer, more nuanced quality and changes subtly with the light throughout the day.' While the fabric wallpaper brings a beautiful snugness to the bedroom, paints like the Long Room by Paint & Paper Library or Benjamin Moore's Masada.

'Warmth was one of the key words for the entire apartment and an important part of the client’s brief,' add Ika and Sanna. 'The burnt orange became an anchor for that feeling. We used it as a starting point for building a palette, introducing different tones, textures and materials that complement one another.'

These bedrooms prove that the best fall color combinations are balanced. Whether you're committing to a gray-green paint that drenches every wall or keeping it classic with a neutral base, going beyond the tried-and-tested autumnal palettes will make your sleep space feel comforting and endlessly inspiring.

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Beige has had a good run. And while neutral enthusiasts might argue it goes with everything, in 2026, colors that lack the warmth and complexity our homes crave are being replaced by more comforting (yet just as versatile) hues.

So, what is replacing beige in 2026? A gentle but far more interesting color trend: rich caramel honey tones. While they may be akin to beige, these quiet colors provide the warmth and joy that one-dimensional neutrals lack.

Yellow-tinted, always warm, and able to dance beautifully in the light, caramel honey tones bring a quiet familiarity to all homes. Here's how designers are embracing 2026's take on beige.

Decorating with neutrals like honey or caramel is a little different from your standard beige or off-white. 'These tones bring a certain richness to a room in a way that white or cream don’t,' explains interior designer Joan Enger of J. Patryce & Co, 'but they're still very versatile and easy to live with. Using one color throughout the walls, trim and ceiling created a sense of warmth and coziness.'

Referring to the intimate entryway pictured above, Joan explains, 'We wanted the space to feel warm and welcoming, but still on the lighter side and somewhat neutral. The caramel tone adds depth and visual interest without feeling heavy. It also worked well with the warm wood tones, kitchen slab, and materials throughout the home.'

'I tend to gravitate toward colors that are a little muddy and nuanced. Some of my favorites in this family are Farrow & Ball's Cord, Pigeon, and the color from this lovely mudroom, Biscuit No. 38. I always recommend testing in the space since colors can react differently depending on the light, architecture, and surrounding materials. Creamy whites, warm browns, ochre, rust, and deeper chocolate tones are natural companions, but I also love these shades with unexpected colors like dusty blue, olive, or moss green. Those cooler, earthier tones provide contrast and keep the palette from becoming too tonal or sweet.'

Sun-baked honey tones bring depth and warmth in equal measure. Able to shift as the light changes, they can feel sunny and calming during the day and cocooning and comforting come evening.

Caramel and honey colors are the best warm neutral paints for spaces that need something more than simple neutrality. Take this Mediterranean bedroom (pictured above) as an example. Using a lime wash technique, the warm brown paint comes to life, mirroring the sun-drenched terracotta walls of the Mediterranean.

Shape-shifting yet entirely liveable, these delicious, syrupy colors are perfect in spaces designed for relaxing. They allow the decor to do the talking, whilst still being subtle enough to remain unnoticed.

Mellow caramel is a clever choice for lovers of simplicity. 'These types of colors instantly bring a sense of warmth and softness to an interior,' explains Sophie Rowell, founder of Côte de Folk. 'Whether it’s on the walls, upholstery or joinery like this. It creates a golden warmth which feels so inviting.'

Here, Sophie applied Paint & Paper Library's Caddie to the cabinetry of a farmhouse kitchen. She says, 'It's my favourite ever color; I’ve used it in my own home but never in a client project, until now.' Paired with rustic wooden flooring, a bright blue kitchen table, and a timeless farmhouse sink, the ochre-tinted brown is just warm and cheery enough, balanced by the bright, rustic accents.

'It reminds me of the Caramac chocolate bar I used to eat as a kid,' adds Sophie.

Honey Shopping Picks

If repainting your walls isn't on your decorating agenda right now, bring the beauty of this cozy color trend into your home with these chic shopping buys.

Rich yet quiet and grounding, caramel honey tones are replacing beige this fall. Light-shifting and always warm, they're the perfect choice for lovers of neutrals or color enthusiasts looking for more liveable paint shades.

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September has arrived, which means yes, cozy fall days are upon us, but more importantly, the color of the year season has returned. A time when leading paint brands share the shades set to define the year ahead, insight into next year's color trends begins now.

A few names have taken the lead, and next to launch their color choice is established American paint brand Behr, announcing 'Grounded', an earthy, mossy green hue, as its color of the year.

'Grounded is a reminder that the most meaningful spaces are the ones that help us connect with the rhythms of everyday life,' said Kayla Kratz, Head of Color at Behr Paint Company. 'The shade's organic warmth creates a sense of calm and renewal, making every room feel inviting and effortlessly livable.'

The best olive green paints set the tone of a scheme without dominating it. 'Grounded works as a living neutral, anchoring a room without disappearing into the background,' explains Kayla in an interview with Homes & Gardens. 'The balance of moss, olive and subtle brown gives the color the flexibility we associate with a neutral, but with far more character.'

'Our definition of calm in the home is changing. For years, serenity was often expressed through crisp whites, cool grays and restrained neutrals,' Kayla continues. 'Today, people still want that sense of ease, but they’re looking for more warmth, character and life in the spaces around them.'

'Calm no longer has to mean colorless. Organic colors bring a restorative connection to nature while still allowing a home to feel expressive and deeply personal. Colors with nuance and variation also have an inherently lived-in quality. They feel less pristine and more human, which is increasingly what people are looking for from their homes.'

Consider the colors that go with olive green when introducing shades like Grounded into your home. 'I’d pair Grounded with materials that have natural variation,' Kayla advises, 'including warm wood, stone, linen, leather, brass and aged metals. Grounded brings particular richness to cabinetry and millwork, while an entire room allows the moss, olive and brown undertones to create a more immersive, enveloping effect.'

'Light also becomes part of the color’s character,' she adds, 'Brighter daylight brings the moss and olive forward, while softer evening light reveals more of the brown undertones and creates greater warmth and depth.'

To help you choose a palette that feels cohesive, Behr has curated a full 2027 Color Trends Palette, which features a collection of complementary hues inspired by nature. A mixture of warm neutrals, earthy tones, and a few light and breezy blues, the palette couldn't be more balanced. The colors include: Coastal Beige, Wheat Grass, Environmental, Denim Light, Smokey Claret, Sarsaparilla and Mozart – designed to work beautifully with Grounded.

'Earthy color is evolving beyond the pale sages and quiet beiges that have defined the last several years,' Kayla says. 'We’re seeing a shift toward colors with more depth and personality – deep olives, clay and terracotta tones, warm browns, muted reds and atmospheric blues.'

'What makes this next generation of earthy hues so appealing is their ability to be expressive without becoming overwhelming. Grounded is a great example: it has the presence of a true color, while the brown undertones give much of the versatility and ease of a neutral.'

'Earthy doesn’t have to mean muted or safe,' she adds. 'The next evolution is about bringing richer, more dimensional color into the home while maintaining that underlying sense of comfort and ease.'

Grounded-Inspired Shopping

If repainting your walls isn't on your decorating agenda right now, bring the beauty of this relaxed color trend into your home with these chic shopping buys.

Behr's Color of the Year balances liveable and luxurious. Rich and cocooning yet quietly grounding and gentle, expect to see plenty more complex olive greens like Grounded in 2027 interior design trends.

For more inspiration, we have gathered designers' favorite colors of the year from the past ten years in our dedicated piece.

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A quick look at any color trend report for 2026 and you'll find that pure white kitchens are nowhere to be seen. This once go-to color is being snubbed as cold and often reads as slightly flat, leaving your cooking space feeling less than inviting. So, what's the alternative if you still want a calming white kitchen but don't want it to look stark?

You don't need to go colorful – or even leave the neutral color family. For a white kitchen that ticks all the right boxes, interior designers say Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams is the tried and tested shade they always return to.

Described as soft and creamy, this off-white kitchen color is the answer to a light, pared-back scheme with just the right amount of warmth to feel approachable. And according to designers who use it regularly, it's also one of the most versatile. Here's why.

There's no other color that boasts as many shade variations as white, which makes choosing the right one for your kitchen an almost impossible task. Unless, of course, you turn to designers to help narrow down the selection. And if you're looking for a warm, off-white for your design, Alabaster is a Sherwin-Williams paint color worth considering.

'Alabaster is one of those whites that doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard to be white. It’s soft, warm, and creamy without leaning yellow, which makes it incredibly livable. It also has a little more depth than a true, crisp white, which is part of what makes it so versatile. It feels classic, but not overly traditional,' says Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors.

There are many reasons why this paint color works so well in kitchens. For Erin Conway of Kismet House, it's the lack of harshness that truly appeals. 'Kitchens need ample lighting for function, and Alabaster is the perfect white to ensure the bright space does not feel stark or blinding. The color offers a perfect backdrop to wood tones and painted cabinetry. It doesn’t chameleon into a different shade of white when being paired with other tones. It is what it is – warm white, always.'

It's that ability to pair tastefully with many of the materials and finishes typically found in a kitchen that makes it so favorable in this room. Some shades of white read differently depending on light or the colors it's paired with, but Alabaster remains true and cohesive in every space.

'Its versatility allows it to work across a variety of design styles, from traditional and farmhouse to modern and transitional, making it a timeless choice for the heart of the home,' explains Emily Kantz, color marketing manager at Sherwin-Williams.

'Kitchens are gathering spaces, and Alabaster helps create a bright yet welcoming atmosphere without feeling stark or overly crisp. Its warmth complements both natural and artificial light, making it a dependable choice that feels fresh while remaining approachable and lived-in,' adds Emily.

Because of its ability to adapt to different spaces and styles, there are plenty of ways to introduce this warm neutral into your design. For many designers, cabinetry is the best place to start.

'I love Alabaster on kitchen cabinetry. Its gentle warmth softens a full wall of built-ins without ever veering yellow,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo, who also notes its appeal on kitchen walls. 'Or, opt for natural wood cabinets and take Alabaster across the walls and ceiling for a seamless, enveloping look that feels like a warm hug.'

'I particularly love Alabaster on ceilings, walls, and trim,' Melissa agrees. 'It can be beautiful when used throughout the kitchen to create a really cohesive, enveloping feel and create a perfect backdrop to most cabinetry color choices. It can act almost like a supporting character – it’s there, it makes everything else look better, but it doesn't need to steal the show.'

It's a popular paint color in color-drenched kitchens, as it's soft, warm, and quietly creates a palatable base for the other materials, whether it's a bold countertop, vibrant decor, or a more layered decorating approach. This decorating technique is also ideal in small kitchens, where surfaces covered in Alabaster help to create the illusion of a larger footprint.

'We typically color-drench our kitchens with Alabaster (using it on the ceilings, walls, and trim) and complement it with a slightly warmer, taupe cabinet,' explains interior designer Claire Zinnecker, who complements the shade's ability to sit alongside a variety of other hues. 'It works with almost every color. Greens, browns, pinks, and blacks, although I don't think it is the best for cooler tones and grays.'

Alabaster isn't favored because it's bold or revolutionary. It's loved because it's reliable and versatile in kitchens of every size, aesthetic, and function. Whether it's a busy family kitchen that has to shift from a cooking space to a homework zone, a modern scheme used for regular hosting, or a traditional kitchen that needs to honor historic architecture, Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams always feels warm, welcoming, and right at home. It proves the right shade of white is key to a successful and timeless kitchen.

Kitchen Colors to Pair With Alabaster

Shop Alabaster-Inspired Kitchen Finds

Whether you're redesigning your space or planning to update a white kitchen, Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams is the warmer shade you've been searching for. It's the perfect shade to create an inviting atmosphere in your cooking space – and even better for small white kitchen ideas.

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Paint brands' annual Color of the Year announcements are always eagerly anticipated, giving a glimpse into the shades likely to lead the way in home decor and set the color trends over the year to come. And while some of these shades are forgotten about by the time the next announcement comes around, some have a much more lasting impact.

But what past Colors of the Year have proven to be more timeless than trendy? We asked interior designers for their favorites from the past ten years, and they range from pared-back neutrals to much richer, bolder hues. All of them, however, have an earthy quality that makes them livable and able to pair with many other colors. And so, before the influx of 2027 Color of the Year announcements is upon us, take a look at these timeless shades that designers come back to time after time.

1. Simply White by Benjamin Moore, 2016

Benjamin Moore's Simply White, the brand's Color of the Year in 2016, has become one of its best-selling colors. It's a white paint with subtle warm undertones, which makes it a go-to shade for lots of designers, including Katie Bromley of Spaces by Katie.

'Simply White has earned a permanent spot in our color palette – we specify it almost universally for trim and ceilings,' Katie says. 'We’re drawn to how it behaves in real spaces: it's a bright white but a faint warm undertone keeps it from ever feeling clinical or cold. A decade later, it still feels current because it was never trend-driven to begin with – Simply White works as a quiet backdrop for practically any design direction.'

Katie used Simply White in this kitchen. 'It's soft enough not to compete with the warm greige cabinetry and marble counters, yet bright enough to keep the room feeling fresh and sunlit,' she explains. 'Paired with warm wood floors and brass hardware, the white trim frames the architecture without ever drawing attention to itself – making the whole space feel finished.'

2. Mocha Mousse by Pantone, 2025

When Pantone revealed its 2025 Color of the Year as Mocha Mousse, it cemented decorating with brown as a major interior design trend. 'Brown has often been treated as a practical backdrop, but Mocha Mousse gives it a wonderful sensuality – it recalls suede, walnut, cacao, and aged plaster,' says interior designer Anu Jain of Atelier Oleana. 'It creates warmth without sweetness and depth without unnecessary drama.'

Today, shades like Mocha Mousse still feel relevant, says Anu. 'We are moving away from flat, cool neutrals and toward colors that feel earthy, tactile, and emotionally grounding,' she adds. 'Mocha Mousse functions as a neutral, but it is not an anonymous one; it brings atmosphere and richness while remaining incredibly livable.'

In this living room, a similar shade, Benjamin Moore's Whipped Mocha, was used on the ceiling, along with Farrow & Ball's London Clay on the built-ins. 'My biggest tip is not to match the browns too perfectly,' says Anu. 'I prefer several related tones in different finishes – a deeper brown on the millwork, a softer shade overhead, and something more textural on the walls. That slight tension is what makes a tonal room feel layered rather than flat.'

3. Alabaster by Sherwin-Williams, 2016

Sherwin-Williams' Alabaster is another endlessly popular warm white paint, which was named Color of the Year in 2016. Since then, designers have repeatedly chosen this hue to create light but quietly warming backdrops.

'It's a warm, slightly creamy white that doesn't read as stark or clinical, which makes it one of the most genuinely versatile colors I've ever used,' says designer Cathleen Gruver of Gruver Cooley, who used it in this entryway. 'A decade later, it still works in everything from new construction to historic renovations, and it's one of the only Colors of the Year I can honestly say I've never stopped specifying.'

'In rooms with warm natural light, it glows,' says Cathleen. 'In north-facing rooms with cooler light, it stays grounded rather than tipping gray, which is where a lot of whites fail. Under incandescent or warm LED bulbs, it reads almost like a very pale linen, which is exactly what you want in a bedroom or living space in the evening.'

'The one context I'd avoid is a very dark or low-light room where you're hoping a white will brighten the space,' she adds. 'Alabaster's warmth means it absorbs some of the light rather than bouncing it, so in a truly dim room a crisper white will do more work.'

4. Rumors by Behr, 2025

A couple of years ago, burgundy made a major comeback in interiors, offering richness and moodiness. Behr's 2025 Color of the Year, Rumors, is among the popular burgundy paints and a favorite of designer Luba Libarikian of Libarikian Interiors. 'It’s a very versatile burgundy that plays well in both modern and traditional interiors,' she says.

'It's a great color for people who hesitate to use bold colors in their home, but still want something that makes a statement,' Luba adds. 'When a space is color-washed in this color, it feels warm and inviting.'

Designer Diane Luna also highlights Rumors as a favorite Color of the Year. 'The dark ruby tones in Behr’s Rumors are most effective when used in a cozy-sized space such as a bedroom or small powder room,' she says. 'Powder room walls painted in Behr’s Rumors look incredible when paired with a statement sink. I love to install a pure white porcelain sink that has shapely legs – the contrast between white and burgundy is so beautiful. Brass faucets read like heirloom jewelry with a ruby-toned wall as the backdrop.'

5. Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams, 2022

Sherwin-Williams' Evergreen Fog is a muddy shade of green, its 2022 Color of the Year. 'I love Evergreen Fog because it’s a soft, muted sage green paint that can almost act as a neutral while still bringing color and personality to a space,' says designer Lacey Michalek. 'In this kitchen, we used this paint on the island to create a subtle focal point and bring a pop of color to the room. It’s a color that layers beautifully with natural wood, stone, and warm metals, which is why I think it continues to feel just as current today as it did in 2022.'

Evergreen Fog is also a favorite shade for designer Carrera Shea of Ali & Shea Design, who describes it as 'one that has really stood the test of time. It helped usher in a broader appreciation for nature-inspired greens, and I still think we're seeing the influence of that shift today, particularly in kitchens.'

6. First Light by Benjamin Moore, 2020

Benjamin Moore's First Light is a delicate shade of blush pink that's not too sweet, but balanced and sophisticated. 'In my opinion, it’s the perfect pink because it is not too soft – there is still some oomph to it,' says designer Sarah Moore of Sarah Catherine Design. 'I think many overlook the power of using soft pink, either as a primary color or as an accent in a space. The right pink, such as First Light, can often act as a neutral in a room. Your eye doesn't even register it as overwhelmingly pink.'

'Soft pinks pair beautifully with so many other colors, which makes it an excellent sidekick color,' Sarah adds. 'This hue could easily complement brown, cream, green, blue, yellow, and lavender.'

Dora Dmitriev of Dora Dmitriev Design also often turns to First Light when a warm atmosphere is desired. 'On projects where the boldness comes through the furnishings, this color creates the perfect backdrop and is a refined alternative to the typical white or neutral palette,' she says. 'The subtle pink undertones transform beautifully throughout the day, creating a sense of warmth and ease in the space.'

7. Cinnamon Slate by Benjamin Moore, 2025

Benjamin Moore unveiled Cinnamon Slate as its 2025 Color of the Year, right at the time when purple was making its comeback in interiors. Rather than saturated purple tones that feel closely linked to the '90s, Cinnamon Slate put a modern spin on this nostalgic shade, with its muted feel and hushed brown undertones.

'Cinnamon Slate is difficult to define in the best possible way,' says Stephanie Wiott of Stephanie Wiott Designs. 'It is a nuanced combination of plum and warm brown that changes with the light. It has color and depth, yet it can still function as a neutral. It feels moody without becoming heavy and sophisticated without feeling overly formal.'

'Cinnamon Slate still feels current because homeowners are moving away from cooler grays, stark whites, and spaces that feel overly new,' Stephanie adds. 'They are embracing warmer, earthier colors that give a room personality and a sense of history while remaining livable. Cinnamon Slate strikes that balance beautifully. It can make a strong statement, but it is quiet and complex enough to endure long after its year in the spotlight. It pairs beautifully with natural wood, aged and unlacquered metals, richly veined stone, and other collected finishes.'

8. Redend Point by Sherwin-Williams, 2023

Redend Point by Sherwin-Williams, its 2023 Color of the Year, is an earthy shade of plaster that brings warmth and more depth than traditional neutrals.

'Redend Point takes the quiet, neutral base of a classic beige and gives it the faintest flush of color,' says designer Alissa Johnson of Alissa Johnson Interiors. 'That pink-meets-gray-meets-beige quality gives it a softness that reads as sophisticated, and the tone represented a real pivot toward warmth – a shift that has only accelerated since 2023.'

'Redend Point is also an incredibly flexible neutral that brings natural earthiness to any space,' Alissa adds. 'That flexibility is exactly why it still feels current today: design has continued moving away from the cool, stark minimalism of the past decade toward warmer, more tactile, nature-inspired palettes, and Redend Point was ahead of that curve.'

9. Aegean Teal by Benjamin Moore, 2021

Benjamin Moore’s Aegean Teal feels just as relevant now as it did in 2021. A green-blue blend with a soft, muted quality, it feels tranquil and is a fun alternative to blue paints.

'We’ve used it across several projects because its depth changes completely depending on the light,' says designer Christina Higham of Sun Soul Style Interiors. 'In bright daylight, it reads as a vibrant, tropical aqua; under softer evening light, it turns wonderfully moody and intimate.'

'Blue is such an approachable bridge for clients who want color without feeling like they’re taking a massive risk,' Christina adds. 'Aegean Teal gives you that rich, confident pigment while pairing seamlessly with warm woods, earthy rust tones, and bold accents.'

Anelle Gandelman of A-List Interiors is also drawn to Aegean Teal. 'It isn't just a color of the year; it’s timeless,' she says. 'While many colors of the year feel trendy and of-the-moment, this one has real staying power.'

10. Upward by Sherwin-Williams, 2024

Sherwin-Williams' Upward is a pale blue paint that feels light and airy. It was its 2024 Color of the Year, and it is a favorite pick for designer Sydney Katz of SDK Architecture.

'Upward is a soft and quiet tone that works equally well as a primary color for a space or as an accent for a bolder color palette,' says Sydney. 'Recently, I've been using it to create timeless spaces for clients who crave calm color stories.'

Sydney used Upward in this kitchen, working as a fresh alternative to traditional neutral shades. 'We didn't want a white, beige, or greige kitchen, and Upward is the perfect blue neutral,' she says. 'I also love to use it as an accent with bolder palettes,' says Sydney. 'I've also used it as a bathroom tile to add soothing color to a bathroom retreat. Use it everywhere and anywhere!'

The Colors of the Year that are seemingly the most enduring aren't the brightest of the boldest – they're those that work effortlessly to bring a certain mood to a room, without demanding too much attention. Even the richer, more colorful shades in this roundup have a slightly hushed feel that gives them versatility and longevity.

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What's small in size, big in personality, and designed specifically to hold your favorite cocktail? The answer: a drink table – the furniture trend that every brand, designer, and style editor is obsessed with right now.

They may be tiny (some are designed to just hold one drink on a very chic coaster), but they are a surprisingly versatile piece that really comes into their own going into hosting season. Because of their diminutive nature, drink tables can move freely without taking up lots of space – making them great for dotting around a living room as needed. They’re the perfect table for small living rooms, too, giving you a spot to rest a drink in places where coffee tables and side tables simply can't fit. And since they’re made as accent details, drink tables can be as stylish, decorative, and design-driven as you want them to be – read: go bolder with pattern, textures, colors, and materials.

From West Elm's scalloped version to Arhaus's leaf-inspired form, drink tables are the tiny yet practical touches that stylishly pull together living room schemes. Find the perfect drink table for your space below.

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Gray may have fallen out of favor over the last few years, but its versatility is hard to deny. On the downside, though, gray isn't exactly the most inviting hue out there. Hence why there are many shades designers say are replacing gray in 2026, and one they use the most is a whisper-soft, calming pale blue. Far more lived-in and just as 'neutral', if you like gray interiors but want something a little more characterful, pale blue paints are the perfect choice.

'Pale, cool blues can offer many of the qualities homeowners have long appreciated about gray,' explains Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams. 'They're calming, versatile and easy to live with, while bringing a subtle sense of color and personality into a space. These softer blues can create a light, airy atmosphere that feels serene and restorative without reading as stark or overly cool. They also provide a gentle connection to nature, which can help a room feel fresh and inviting.'

'As homeowners continue to move away from one-size-fits-all gray interiors, we're seeing greater interest in nuanced colors that still function with the ease of a neutral,' continues Emily. 'A pale blue can serve as a beautiful backdrop across a variety of design styles, pairing naturally with warm whites, wood tones, natural stone and other organic materials. The result is a space that maintains the flexibility of a neutral palette while feeling more layered, personal and expressive.'

In this romantic breakfast nook (pictured above), the pale blue walls create a sense of freshness, but paired with the charming gingham print and warm tones, it avoids looking cold. 'These spaces utilize a soft pale blue to create an airy and open feel. Pale blue tends to lean a bit more feminine than the alternative (gray), which made it perfect for these spaces layered in florals,' explains Bridget Tiek, co-founder of TIEK BYDAY. 'We used Farrow & Ball Skylight and Sherwin-Williams Niebla Azul.'

'Cool blues are better than gray because they inject some color into a space while still feeling like a neutral,' agrees interior designer Jessica Hobson. 'That color instantly gives life to a room, which a cool gray just can’t do!'

'I love a pale blue ceiling; it can act as a neutral in a room but adds so much more than white, beige or gray,' Jessica adds. 'It instantly lifts the ceiling, creating an airy feeling in a room. In this dining room (pictured above) we chose a soft blue paint to work with the Lewis & Wood wallpaper. The paper featured a gorgeous print but was all neutral with creams, beige and grays, so I knew I wanted to bring in some color in the space. The ceiling was the perfect spot!'

'We used Benjamin Moore's Quiet Moments. This is a beautiful calming go-to blue for me, and it is particularly great on a ceiling. It is a very soft cool blue-green shade with some gray in it and just has a way of creating a calm over a space.'

'This is a snug in an 18th-century house on Lake Geneva in Switzerland,' says interior designer Sofia Clara. 'We wanted the room to feel calm and inviting while still respecting the character and original architecture. Pale blue felt like a lovely alternative to the more expected neutrals or gray and pulls from the color in the original hand-painted wallpaper that I believe might be a Zuber wallpaper.'

'We chose a very soft, powdery blue that contrasts nicely with the original floorboards, jute rug and the warmer tones of the antique furniture,' Sofia adds. 'Rather than feeling cold, the blue creates a gentle backdrop, allowing the more patinated and earthy elements of the room to stand out.'

'Pale blues give you many of the qualities people traditionally look for in gray; they are quiet, calm and easy to live with, but they have much more softness and character,' Sofia explains. 'Gray can feel flat or austere, particularly in rooms with cooler natural light or small windows. A very pale blue brings a subtle sense of color and lightness. Here, the blue also works particularly well with the warmer materials in the room, creating a balance that I don’t think a gray would achieve.'

The Best Pale Blue Paints

If you're a lover of gray but want something more characterful, pale blue is the color for you. When bringing cool blue paint into the home, 'pair these shades with warm whites, natural woods and organic textures to help balance their cooler qualities and create an inviting, layered space,' suggests Emily.

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If there's one feature that seamlessly blends style and function in a kitchen, it's tiles. Whether applied to walls, floors, or even an island, they add a tactile feature that also serves as a durable surface. And choosing the right tiles is key.

As one of the hardest-working features of your design, where you buy kitchen tiles needs careful consideration to find a style that suits your needs, kitchen, and budget. Whether you're looking for unique kitchen tiles to create a showstopping kitchen backsplash, something classic and durable for your floors, or a moody, glossy finish for a home bar, these are the places that are worth shopping. And to make it easier, we've categorized each retailer into luxury, affordable, and vintage, simplifying your search.

Design-Led and Luxury Kitchen Tiles

Tiles come in all different shapes and sizes, but if you ask designers for their top places to shop, one of these luxury retailers will probably be at the top of their list. They might sit at a higher price point, but the craftsmanship and design-led style of these tiles will instantly elevate your kitchen.

Fireclay Tile

Handmade in California, the Fireclay Tile store is dedicated to all things kitchen tiles. Ceramic, brick, glass, handmade, and mosaic tiles are Fireclay's main categories, with some beautiful designs to browse. Its handmade tiles feature unique patterns for an eye-catching kitchen feature, whereas the other options come in a wonderful array of colors and high-quality finishes.

The brand is also a favorite among interior designers, including Mollie Ranize, lead interior designer and founder of Dmar Interiors, Rebecca Ward, principal designer and founder of R Ward Design, and Dijana Savic-Jambert, co-founder of Maredi Design, noting the brand's reliability in offering 'outstanding and quality products that are durable and timeless,' as well as its B-Corp status and focus on sustainability.

Ann Sacks

Known for its tile and stone expertise, Ann Sacks is a brand synonymous with kitchen tiles. With a focus on timeless designs and natural materials, this is the place to shop for tiles if your aesthetic aligns with the Ann Sacks ethos. The brand is also known for its designer collaborations, including a range with Kelly Wearstler and two charming collections with Studio McGee.

Zia Tile

Specializing in 'handmade artisanal tile and stone from around the world,' there's not much you can't find at Zia Tile. From zellige and ceramics to marble and mosaics, the range of tiles on offer ensures you can create a timeless, personalized kitchen, whatever your design style. There are also handy installation guides for different tile materials, so you can ensure the installation and finish is seamless.

It's another brand designers always return to in their projects, including Abbie Naber, owner and principal designer of A.Naber Design and Luis Carmona, owner and interior designer at VERDE Interior Design, hailing Zia Tile as a go-to brand for versatility and tile designs that stand the test of time.

deVOL

Renowned for their timeless kitchen designs, deVOL is a huge source of inspiration for anyone wanting to create a classic scheme – but not everyone is aware that the brand sells handmade kitchen tiles that are the same high-quality standard as their cabinetry.

The kitchen tile range is small, but their options are beautiful. From classic white metro and subway tiles to their green glazed tiles and lace market collection, the handmade quality means every tile has a unique appeal. The more colorful options can offer a lovely vintage feel when paired with the right kitchen style, especially with the slight color variation.

Clé Tile

The entire ethos of Clé Tile focuses on artisanal design and timeless styles – it taps into the idea of buy well, buy once. The range of kitchen tiles is vast, but the brand is renowned for Moroccan zellige tiles, using ancient processes and techniques for an authentic look, and reimagined cement tiles that celebrate color and elegant style. If you love that more irregular finish, you'll love the kitchen tile range here.

Affordable But Always Stylish Kitchen Tiles

If you're sprucing up your kitchen on a tighter budget, there are plenty of brands and retailers that offer more affordable designs. And that doesn't mean compromising on style – there are plenty of timeless, elevated kitchen tiles to give your cooking space enduring appeal.

Wayfair

A one-stop shop for all things home improvement, Wayfair has an expectedly vast range of kitchen tiles. There is a variety of tile makers here, so you can really find the right shapes, colors, and finishes tailored to your kitchen's design style. There's something for every budget and aesthetic, from classic white metro tiles to unique mosaic patterns inspired by European designs.

Lowe's

With over 500 kitchen tiles, it's clear why Lowe's is a go-to retailer for kitchen improvements, featuring a vast and varied selection. Many of the top results are natural stone-style tiles, including marble-inspired designs and natural porcelain. You won't find the artisanal or decorative styles of luxury retailers, but there are lots of classic designs that are versatile for floor and wall use. Think marble-look slabs, classic brick-style designs, and tiles featuring a more organic finish for a patinated look.

Bedrosians

Even though Bedrosians is best known for its premium tiles, it also offers a generous range of more affordable designs, making it a great place for renovations of every budget. The Cloe ceramic tile collection is one of the brand's most coveted, but you can find ceramic, porcelain, and mosaic kitchen tiles throughout the categories. It's also family-owned, which always sweetens the deal.

Vintage and Reclaimed Kitchen Tiles

Vintage and reclaimed tiles have become increasingly coveted, bringing an old-world charm to kitchens, even in new renovations. From terracotta floor tiles once lining the floors of a historic house to original Delft tiles that add a daintily decorative motif, there are a few places worth keeping an eye out for.

Etsy

Etsy is a treasure trove of homeware finds, including beautiful kitchen tiles. From handmade pieces to vintage and reclaimed designs, you can find some beautifully unique options here. When it comes to vintage, it can be tricky to find enough of one type for a full backsplash, but there are plenty of one-of-a-kind tiles to include in your kitchen design, from vintage zellige to charming coastal scenes.

Online Marketplaces

We've all scoured Facebook Marketplace for sofas, dressers, and even old copper pots, but if you get the search terms right, you can find vintage tiles in abundance. Whether someone is renovating and wants to give part of their old design a new lease of life or a specialist antique expert is trying to shift old stock, you're more likely to find tile sets here.

Reclamation Specialists

If reclaimed tiles are more your style, it's time to get acquainted with your local reclamation yards and specialists. This is especially useful for terracotta flooring and encaustic tiles that aren't readily available in the US – they are more prominent in European countries like Spain and Italy. Make sure you take the time to look at all the reclaimed tiles on offer – just because they are stacked and stored together in the yard doesn't mean they are necessarily a matching set.

Shop On-Trend Yet Timeless Kitchen Tiles

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While trending paint colors and of-the-moment design styles often get a lot of buzz, when it comes to designing a timeless home, sticking with the classics is often the best route. Whether you're keeping things cozy with the country cottage style or creating an ultra-cool, curated vibe with a midcentury aesthetic, each iconic look has a palette that defines it.

We asked designers which shades come to mind when they think of the most iconic, long-loved interior design styles, so if you are looking for color scheme inspiration that will never date, here is a good place to start.

Country Cottage: Sage Green and Dusty Pink

When you think of cottage style, it's hard not to envision a soothing backdrop of warm white walls, soft barely-there pink accents, plenty of sage green, and lots of rustic, time-worn accents.

'Many of our clients lean into the warm, muted, earthy, and dusty colors to add to the vintage feel of the iconic cottage-style design,' explains Brittany Bowen, co-founder of Girls At Flourish Studio. 'While plenty of colors lend themselves to the cottage look, we feel like we see earthy greens and pinks repeatedly in some of our favorite cottage-core designs. This scullery (designed by Smith Street Interiors), couldn’t be a more perfect example.'

'For a hazy pink, we used Mulberry Silk by Sherwin-Williams, and their earthy green is Bunglehouse Gray, also by Sherwin-Williams,' says Brittany. These muted colors add the coziest vibes, and contrasted with the rich walnut cabinet tones and historic trim work, this palette is timeless without being bland. For us, nothing screams country cottage more than pink and green.'

New England Coastal: Crisp White and Sea Blue

Inspired by the seashore and the traditional beach huts dotted along the coastline, coastal design is defined by its white and blue color palette. Think white shiplap walls, and plenty of blue accents, from painted window frames to full-on feature walls.

'Muted, historic blues paired with warm cream tones feel traditionally American and bring a timeless combination to any room,' says Daniele Doerge, marketing manager and color expert at California Paints. 'The colors have enough contrast to highlight strong traditional and colonial-style architectural details, but this particular color combination keeps the style elegant rather than overly formal. I love this combination, and especially in the New England area, we see a lot of this timeless design style.'

For a more muted take on the classic pairing, try heritage pale blue paints like Farrow & Ball's Light Blue or Windy Blue by Sherwin-Williams (best beside a warm cream like Dover White).

Midcentury: Muted Mustard and Olive Green

Warm, autumnal tones are synonymous with mid-century interior design. From complex ochres to burnt oranges and forest greens, midcentury modern embraces deep saturation and comforting richness.

'Mustard and olive green worked perfectly together in a lot of midcentury design, capturing that unique and nature-inspired interior design style,' says Daniele. 'Now, especially with the steady resurgence of love for midcentury modern homes, I love recommending slightly more muted versions of these hues, where the nostalgia is still there, but the softer tone makes the combination feel current.'

Timeless mustard paints like Little Greene's Light Gold or the brown-tinted India Yellow by Farrow & Ball are perfect for schemes looking to bring a little dose of the past into the present day.

Classic Heritage: Charcoal

Smoky, navy blues, and deep grays define classic heritage style. 'Whether used inside or outside of the home, these colors enhance architectural details and bring character without feeling dated,' says Hannah Yeo, senior manager, color marketing at Benjamin Moore. 'Especially for exteriors, homeowners often gravitate toward colors they can live with for many years rather than colors tied to a particular moment. These heritage-inspired hues create a warm, welcoming feeling that feels timeless, which is why they continue to be favorites generation after generation.'

In this moody living room, interior designer Caroline Levenson selected a warm gray as the palette's central color. 'We’re especially drawn to the rich earth tones, muted blues, and deep greens associated with the Colonial era. In this client’s Knoxville home, we enveloped the living room in Benjamin Moore’s Flint, a cool charcoal that acts as a neutral but takes on subtle blue undertones as the light changes throughout the day. Paired with warm wood tones, softer blues, and touches of yellow, the room feels cozy and cocooning without feeling heavy.'

Farmhouse Style: Warm White

A farmhouse kitchen isn't complete without some warm white painted walls. While the classic ceramic sink and shiplap walls undeniably make the farmhouse style what it is, a light-changing white paint adds an elevated layer to the rustic look we all know and love.

Characterized by warm neutrals, rustic accents, and plenty of raw materials, off-whites couldn't be more intrinsic to farmhouse style; they balance out its warmth and earthiness and bring a light, bright, and refreshing feel to a look that's been embraced by Americans for centuries.

Shades like Benjamin Moore's White Dove, a clean, timeless off-white with subtle notes of warmth or Farrow & Ball's heritage shade, School House White, to balance the warm wood tones of the farmhouse look.

Classic colors, synonymous with classic styles, are a good place to start when planning a color scheme. Even if you plan to mix and match eras (the best homes always do), ensuring that your color scheme speaks to the style of your home or interiors will ensure a timeless cohesion.

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Making a kitchen feel stylish and inviting looks different through the seasons. In the summer, it's all about letting natural light take the lead and creating a connection between indoors and out. But for fall, it's all about adding warmth. And one of the most impactful ways to do it is through your kitchen lighting. Blending functional needs with atmospheric design, even the most subtle lighting alterations can take your kitchen from harsh to warm.

With the 'ber months in sight, now is the perfect time to update your kitchen lighting to create a warm and cozy (yet still functional) space for fall. Here's how designers infuse much-needed warmth through small but impactful lighting changes.

Unlike other rooms in the home, your kitchen lighting needs to be functional for food prep, cooking, and cleaning. But it also needs to adapt for other uses, whether it's hosting, socializing, or even relaxing after a long day. With varied needs, your lighting scheme needs to work harder and be more versatile to avoid a cold, sterile atmosphere. And designers say there are a few key culprits causing harsh lighting.

'A kitchen can start to feel harsh when it relies too heavily on one type of lighting, especially bright overhead recessed lights. Cooler bulb temperatures, too many ceiling fixtures, and a lack of dimmers can make a space feel more clinical than inviting. Kitchens also have so many hard, reflective surfaces, so the wrong lighting can easily amplify that,' explains Kailee Blalock, Co-Founder of House of Hive Design Co.

'Most kitchens are lit entirely from the ceiling. Every source is overhead, so you get shadows under the wall cabinets, shadows on people’s faces, and a dark band around the perimeter of the room. The finishes can be beautiful, and the space still reads flat,' agrees Michael Winn, Owner and Principal at WINN Design + Build.

But more often than not, it's the bulbs that cause the most coldness in a kitchen, specifically the temperature. When we think of warm lighting, there's usually more of an orange glow than a white or blue one – a detail that depends on the bulb temperatures you introduce. 'A lot of kitchens get built with recessed lights at 3500K or 4000K, which is closer to office lighting than home lighting. Put that above a polished quartz counter, and all of it bounces straight back at you,' Michael explains.

'Bulbs rated high on the Kelvin scale (4000K to 5000K+) emit a stark, blue-toned light similar to commercial or office lighting. While high Kelvin ratings work well for intense task zones, in a residential kitchen they drain the warmth from cabinetry, wash out natural wood tones, and create unflattering shadows,' adds Shannon Kadwell, Kitchen and Bath Director at Anthony Wilder Design Build.

A lot of these details don't become obvious until you reach the darker, colder months, as you rely less on lighting during the summer when natural daylight does all the heavy lifting. But as soon as those darker evenings draw in, stark or underwhelming lighting will become glaringly obvious. For Pooky's Chief Creative Officer, Jo Plant, a successful kitchen lighting scheme ahead of fall is about a balance of function and ambiance. 'The key is to avoid treating kitchen lighting as purely functional; it should add atmosphere as well as provide practical illumination.'

5 Ways to Make Your Kitchen Lighting Warmer for Fall

The slow shift from summer to fall is one of the most noticeable in our homes, especially as evenings grow darker and light disappears much sooner. And as a functional and social space, your kitchen lighting is one of the first details you need to adapt for the season. 'As we move into fall, kitchen lighting becomes particularly important,' says Jo.

'As the days get shorter and natural light starts to fade earlier, a kitchen that felt bright and welcoming in summer can suddenly feel quite stark.' It's easy to give your kitchen lighting a warmer, cozier update for fall. It doesn't require a full replan, nor does it need to cost a fortune – the subtle changes are the most impactful. These are the 5 worth trying this year.

1. Switch to Warmer Bulb Temperatures

One of the key elements that makes your kitchen lighting feel harsh is using bulbs that are too bright and too cool-toned. As we head towards fall, swapping these harsher bulbs out for softer, warmer alternatives makes a huge difference to the atmosphere of your cooking space.

'To instantly soften the space, shift your bulbs down to a lower color temperature – specifically around 2400K to 2700K. A 2400K bulb delivers a rich, golden warmth that closely mimics the cozy glow of traditional incandescent bulbs,' Shannon explains. 'Swapping overhead recessed cans or under-cabinet task fixtures to this warmer range transforms the kitchen’s ambiance, making island seating and open-plan prep areas feel inviting as the days grow shorter.'

You can find light bulbs in this Kelvin range in most stores, including Amazon, for easy ordering and delivery. These LED Dimmable Edison Light Bulbs made from amber glass offer a warm white glow, while these A19 Vintage LED Edison Light Bulbs offer a more retro look.

2. Look to Lower-Height Lighting

The focus in a kitchen often lands on the ceiling fixtures, but taking the time to edit your lower-level lighting is often more impactful. It's the lights that sit below eye level, like cabinet lighting and lamps, that bring a warmer feel as fall approaches.

'The move most people skip is light below eye level. Undercabinet strips, a pair of sconces, even a small plug-in lamp at the end of a counter. Low light is what makes a kitchen feel like a room instead of a workspace,' says Michael.

If you're looking for easy, affordable changes, a countertop lamp is always a stylish addition. 'A great option is to add a lamp on the countertop that has a fun shade and keep it on through the winter. It feels really lovely to have a lamp lit during those darker afternoons and evenings and invites you into the space,' adds interior designer Jess Cooney.

3. Take Note of Bulb Types and Styles

While the temperature of the light bulbs you choose is an important factor to consider when swapping to warmer lighting for fall, so are the bulb types. It seems like such a minor detail, but one that changes the way light diffuses around the kitchen.

'As we transition into fall, swap out standard glass or exposed-bulb fixtures for LED filament 'Edison' bulbs. Modern LED Edison bulbs combine energy efficiency with classic aesthetic appeal, offering clear or amber-tinted glass and visible glowing filaments,' Shannon explains.

It's one of those details that instantly makes your kitchen lighting feel more considered and design-led. It's a bit like swapping out your outlet and switch plates for something more elevated. 'They emit a deep, cozy amber radiance that pairs beautifully with autumnal textures, rich cabinet finishes, and natural stone countertops,' she adds.

4. Consider Putting Kitchen Lighting on Dimmers

If there's one piece of advice designers always give, it's to put kitchen lighting on dimmers. It's the easiest and most effective way to take your lighting scheme from functional to ambient, bright to softly moody.

'Dimmers are another simple but transformative addition, allowing you to turn the brightness down as the evening progresses and instantly shift the mood from practical to atmospheric,' says Jo. Although this is a step to consider during a larger project, it's one experts say you won't regret. And for maximum impact, avoid putting every light in the kitchen on one switch.

'Our designers separate the ceiling lights from the pendants and the under-cabinet lighting so you can run the room at thirty percent on a Tuesday night without lighting it like you’re prepping Thanksgiving dinner. If you’re replacing fixtures anyway, look at dim-to-warm LEDs. They drop towards 2200K as you dim them, the way an incandescent used to,' Michael advises.

When the overhead lighting is on a dimmer, you can utilize different light sources throughout the day, and let decorative lighting take over. 'As the days get shorter, we naturally start relying less on bright overhead lighting and more on the decorative and ambient layers. We’ll dim the ceiling lights and let pendants, sconces, and other smaller fixtures create pockets of warmth throughout the room,' says Kailee.

'We love when a kitchen feels a little moodier in the fall! You still need functional task lighting when cooking, but the entire room doesn’t need to be illuminated at the same intensity.' If you do add dimmers, make sure to add elevated switch plates, like this Classic Toggle & Dimmer from Rejuvenation, or add autumnal color with Anthropologie's Merritt Enamel Switch Plate.

5. Create a Layered Approach

Fall conjures images of cozy interiors, and nothing brings that feeling to life quite like layered kitchen lighting. Categorize your various fixtures into task, ambient, and accent lighting, often referred to as the kitchen lighting rule of 3, to balance function and atmosphere, and remember to think beyond your typical ceiling lights.

'The easiest way to soften a kitchen is to introduce more layers of light. Rather than relying solely on ceiling spots or a central pendant, combine practical task lighting with softer, ambient sources. Wall lights, under-cabinet lighting and small table lamps can all help to create pockets of warmth and make the room feel more inviting,' says Jo.

'Layering is particularly effective at this time of year. Keep your brighter task lighting available for cooking and food preparation, but switch to softer pools of light when you’re entertaining or settling in for the evening. It’s these smaller, lower-level sources that create that lovely cocooning feeling we all crave as the nights draw in.'

Your kitchen walls are a great way to bring in a new layer of lighting – an area that is often overlooked. 'Any spot you can add a sconce really creates a soft enveloping feel in the evening when you are sitting and having a cup of tea at your breakfast table,' says Jess. But you can also look beyond the obvious kitchen fixtures and introduce softer lighting more typical of a living room or bedroom.

'Incorporating picture lighting above artwork helps to make spaces feel more intimate, warm, and personal,' says Kelly Emerson, Senior Designer at Aidan Design. 'Investing in unique table and floor lamps with warm shades and warm color temperature bulbs will certainly bring a fall refresh you’re looking for! Any chance to layer multiple sources of lighting will bring sophistication and mood.'

Taking a layered approach to kitchen lighting as we head towards fall works because it can be easily edited as seasons change, rather than being suitable for just one quarter of the year. 'One of our favorite things about a layered lighting plan is that you can change the feeling of the kitchen seasonally without actually changing the design. In summer, natural light can take the lead; in fall and winter, the warmer decorative lighting becomes much more noticeable and creates that cozy, intimate feeling,' Kailee notes.

While kitchen lighting is functional, it's also a decorative detail that can make or break the entire mood of the room. As fall approaches, it's all about coziness and warmth – two things the right lighting can create effortlessly.

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Bold buzzworthy hues might be having a moment in the interior design world lately, but (as is the case with most things) the truly time-tested colors are the ones that have been sitting under our noses for centuries.

As appreciation for all things characterful continues to reign supreme in the interior design world, vintage paint colors that evoke nostalgia and charm are being embraced once again. From soothing muted greens and duck egg blues to dusty roses and the palest tangerines, heritage hues that transport you to the tranquil setting of an English cottage are cropping up in projects everywhere, from new builds to old homes and everything in between. These are the old English cottage-inspired shades designers want to see more of, and how to use them in a way that works in 2026.

1. Dusty Rose

'Clients and designers are drawn to more muted and earthy colors, much as you would find in an English rose garden,' says Jessica Luna, Founder of JLL Interiors. 'We are moving from the gray, white, and bright interiors into a more moody and earthy palette.'

'For this bedroom (pictured above), I used Benjamin Moore Biscotti, a soft dusty rose, on the walls. The room needed to coordinate with the selected rug that carries navy, rose, and other earthy tones. Our inspiration fabric was Jasper's Bentley Rose, which you can see on the floral throw pillow on the chaise. Biscotti pulled that rose straight off the fabric and let it live quietly on the walls instead of shouting from it. The key is to pull colors that already exist and repeat, repeat, repeat.'

'The dusty rose backdrop also plays beautifully against the duck egg blue drapery in the room and the terracotta hue in the upholstered bed. That combination, a warm muted pink against a cool soft blue, is such a classic English cottage pairing. It feels collected and layered rather than decorated, which is always the goal in my work.'

2. Softest Yellow

Soft, buttery yellow tones that hark back to the quiet serenity of countryside retreats have been popping up in interiors slowly but surely over the last few years. Think Hay by Farrow & Ball or Sherwin-Williams' Butter Up which gained a lot of love when the butter yellow trend was at its height.

'I think these traditional English cottage colors are having a resurgence because they give a space a link to the past,' explains interior designer Aoife Maria. 'Even if everything else in a renovation is new, using color, pattern or more traditional architectural details can give a home that feeling of something familiar, which makes it feel much more comfortable and like a lived-in home straight away.'

'In this project, we’ve used quite a lot of color throughout as this was a personal request from our client, and as it’s an old Irish farmhouse, we also wanted everything to feel in keeping with the house. For this playroom, we chose a soft yellow for the windows (Little Greene – Carys) as it gives a lovely hint of color without taking over, and it still allows us to add lots more color and pattern into the room over time. Paired with the lime plaster texture and the warm off-white walls, it gives the room so much depth and character, and there’s something really lovely and sunny about it.'

3. Pale Tangerine

Tangerine is the softer, more livable version of some of the really deep terracottas that are trending right now. It's warmer than a butter yellow, but has a similarly brightening and cocooning effect.

Pick the right orange paint, and it's a color that would feel just right in an English country cottage. You want to choose something that leans a little pink and earthy, like Farrow & Ball's Fake Tan, which has drenched this characterful kitchen. Pair with warm metallics and rich colors like reds and purples for a vintage-inspired color scheme that is interesting yet timeless.

4. Duck Egg Blue

Duck egg blue has long been associated with the English country look. Whether it's a painted window frame or a kitchen cabinet, it's a timeless choice for homes in need of a heritage feel. 'In this entryway (pictured above), I wanted to create a space that felt welcoming, timeless, and quietly cheerful from the moment you walk through the front door,' explains Kelsey Peterson, principal designer of Style and Space. 'We painted the front door and the custom settee in a soft duck egg blue, a classic English cottage color that immediately brings warmth and personality without overwhelming the space.'

'The blue is layered with natural white oak wall paneling, reclaimed brick flooring, crisp white millwork, and black iron lighting, creating a palette that feels both relaxed and refined. I love using colors like this because they have a nostalgic quality while still feeling fresh. Rather than making a bold statement, they become part of the architecture and help tell the story of the home.'

'I think homeowners are moving away from interiors that feel overly neutral or stark and are looking for spaces with more warmth, character, and a sense of history. Soft cottage colors like duck egg blue, sage green, dusty rose, and buttermilk yellow bring personality in a way that still feels sophisticated and livable.'

5. Sage Green

Nothing says English cottage like sage green. Grounding, muted, and timelessly sophisticated, it's one of the most classic heritage paint colors you can choose for your home.

'Our inspiration for the color palette in this space came from the existing architecture,' begins Brittney Blanton, founder of B. Blanton Interiors. 'The kitchen is open to the living room and breakfast nook, so we wanted a soft color to help anchor it and give it a sense of identity. This sage green was the perfect choice because it responds so well to the light. It can look warm green, cool green, or gray green depending on the natural light and time of day. '

'An English cottage color like a sage green is such a happy choice for a kitchen space. It creates a sense of coziness and a lived-in feel even in a new kitchen.' Try Farrow & Ball's iconic Ball Green or Benjamin Moore's long-loved Saybrook Sage for timeless choices.

English cottage colors have never really fallen out of fashion, but how they are used has shifted over the years. 'What's different today is how designers are using them,' says Kelsey. 'Instead of creating a room that feels overtly traditional or themed, we're pairing these nostalgic colors with cleaner silhouettes, tailored upholstery, natural materials, and contemporary lighting. That balance gives the spaces a collected, timeless quality that feels equally at home in a historic house or a newly built one.'

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Barbie pink had its moment. Now, pink is getting a softer, warmer, and considerably more sophisticated makeover. And according to Benjamin Moore, peachy pinks are set to be a major color story for 2027, with the paint brand picking four favorite shades it expects to see everywhere in the year ahead.

For too long, decorating with pink has been relegated to girls’ bedrooms, as though the color belongs exclusively to children’s spaces. But pink room ideas are far more versatile than that. Used thoughtfully, it can be elegant, enveloping and quietly sensual; it can add warmth as an accent or create a cocooning effect when taken across walls, woodwork and furnishings. Increasingly, it is the paler, peachier end of the spectrum that is proving particularly compelling. The move away from vivid bubblegum and Barbie pink reflects a wider appetite for warmer, more nuanced colors.

The preference right now is leaning toward warmer paint colors,' says Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore. 'Peachy pinks lean warmer because they have an orange undertone. They tend to feel more charming and inviting than cooler, more spunky bubblegum pinks.'

That orange undertone is key. Rather than the high-energy, blue-based quality of Barbie pink, peachy pinks have a natural warmth that allows them to sit comfortably alongside creams, woods, linens, and other earthy materials. They can be colorful without being overwhelming – and that makes them considerably easier to use throughout the home.

1. Teacup Rose

Treat pale peachy pink like an elevated neutral to turn a pass-through entryway into a striking threshold space. Benjamin Moore’s Teacup Rose 2170-50 brings a subtle warmth that captures natural light without feeling overly sweet. On paneled or shiplap walls, the shadow lines add depth, letting the warm undertones act as an unexpectedly versatile foundation.

To keep the look sophisticated, lean into strong contrasts. Frame soft pink walls with cool sky-blue doors or trim to create an inviting visual rhythm right at the front door. Juxtaposing the soft walls with punchy cobalt chairs, graphic artwork, and rich natural wood treads keeps the shade grounded, turning a routine entryway into a vibrant, intentional gallery space.

2. Precocious

Using a rich, rosy peach across both walls and millwork instantly transforms a compact study or home office into a cozy, tailored sanctuary. Benjamin Moore’s Precocious 051 offers an enveloping warmth that feels energizing by day and intimate by evening. Color-drenching the room – painting built-in shelving, cabinets, and walls in the exact same finish – blends away busy storage lines and makes the entire footprint feel deceptively spacious.

Balance the shade’s warmth with grounding textures and classic accents. Crisp white ceiling trim and a woven Roman shade provide a clean visual break, while brass picture lights and gilded frames enhance the undertones. Combining the peach backdrop with dynamic burl wood furniture, classic blue-and-white porcelain, and woven rattan creates a polished, layered workspace that feels thoughtfully curated rather than overly styled.

3. Conch Shell

A single accent wall in a deep, terracotta pink brings warmth and modern structure to an open-concept living space. Benjamin Moore’s Conch Shell 052 has a dusty, grounded quality that acts as an anchor without darkening the room, making it an ideal choice for dividing open layouts or highlighting a key furniture piece like a low-profile credenza.

To ensure this sun-baked hue feels crisp and contemporary, lean heavily into sculptural forms and stark contrast. In the background, bright white walls, breezy drapes, and a Tulip dining table keep the space feeling airy, while dark hardwood floors below lend a striking weight. Topped with matte ceramic lamps, artisanal pottery, and mid-century modern wood finishes, the pink wall shifts from a simple paint choice into a sophisticated art installation.

4. Pristine

Applying a whisper-soft blush white to a bathroom wall gives hard tile and porcelain surfaces an instant, flattering glow. Benjamin Moore’s Pristine OC-75 sits right on the edge of off-white and delicate blush, acting as a luminous canvas that reflects light beautifully without feeling icy or sterile like traditional whites.

Preventing this delicate shade from looking washed out relies on bold structural framing and punchy, high-contrast accents. Bordering the back wall with thick white paneled millwork establishes clear architectural boundaries, while a floor of vibrant cobalt tile grounds the soft walls with retro energy. Pairing the subtle backdrop with brass plumbing fixtures, asymmetrical mirrors, and bright red sconces elevates a simple double pedestal sink nook into a European-inspired vanity space.

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How to Decorate With Peachy Pink

The secret to making pink feel grown-up is less about avoiding the color and more about choosing the right version of it. Pale, peach-based pinks are inherently softer and more complex, and they work beautifully with natural materials.

For a relaxed scheme, pair a gentle shade such as Benjamin Moore’s Conch Shell 052 with warm woods, woven textiles, and linen. The combination emphasizes the pink's earthy qualities rather than its sweetness.

For a fresher look, use an off-white alongside a shade such as Pristine OC-75. The contrast gives the peachy hue definition while keeping the overall scheme light and sophisticated.

And don't assume that pink needs to be confined to a bedroom. A pale peach can be exceptionally effective in a living room, dining room, hallway, or study, where its warmth can make the architecture feel more inviting.

Interior designer Natalia Miyar is equally enthusiastic about using pink beyond traditionally feminine spaces. 'Pink is one of my preferred colors to use for a scheme,' she says. For her own London apartment, she chose a pink palette partly because it presented a challenge. The goal, she explains, was to avoid a twee interpretation and instead create something glamorous, personal and adventurous.

That distinction is important. Pink itself isn't inherently childish or feminine; its character is shaped by the shade, the proportions, and what you pair it with.

Ultimately, the appeal of peachy pink lies in its versatility: it can bring warmth and character to a room without demanding all the attention. It feels softer than Barbie pink, but no less impactful – more nuanced, more inviting, and infinitely easier to live with.

After years of saturated, high-impact color, the modern way to use pink may simply be to soften it. Think less bubblegum, more sun-warmed plaster; less statement, more atmosphere. The result is a shade that feels timeless, elegant, and surprisingly grown-up.

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Something shifts in mid-August.It happens every year. No matter how hot the weather still might be or how many vacations you still have planned, that feeling of change begins. In the interior world, it’s a time when new trends for the year ahead start to emerge, and something that really kicks off that change in mindset is when the Color of the Year announcements begin. And the first to lead the way is the iconic paint brand, Valspar.

Valspar's 2027 Color of the Year is Cottage Door 8004-38E, the perfect powdery blue that strikes a balance between warm and cool. Whisper-soft powder blues like Cottage Door were the most memorable color trends of 2026, so it makes sense that they're continuing to crop up in next year's lineup, too.

We spoke with Sue Kim, Director of Color Marketing at Valspar, to learn more about the brand's color selection and how to use it in 2027 and beyond.

Powder blue might have been an unexpected fall color trend last year, but it's been a top color trend for every season since. Vibrant yet subdued enough to feel soothing, powder blues are one of the most livable blue paints you can use in the home.

'Cottage Door celebrates the unique beauty inside us all,' said Sue Kim. 'This mid-tone neutral blue is reflective and warm, with timeless appeal that feels personal and grounding. Cottage Door captures blue’s natural sense of security and trust while serving as a colorful new neutral that layers effortlessly into the home. It creates spaces that feel balanced, comforting, and inviting.'

Tinged with subtle notes of gray, it bridges the gap between interesting and timeless, making it a suitable shade for almost any area of the home, from home offices to pantries.

Best paired with pale pinks, deep plums, and warm off-white paints, Cottage Door can be dressed up or down depending on the look you're trying to achieve.

Balance Cottage Door’s powder notes with the soft and joyful tones of Moon Shot 8005-2B, a stony gray that picks up on the blue's muted side. For something a little lighter, try Apricot Blush 8003-8A (pictured above), a pastel pink infused with cream that's perfect for creating contrast and a sense of playfulness in the home.

'Shades like Cottage Door are grounding and anchoring,' says Sue. 'They naturally convey authenticity, warmth, and trust, creating an inviting environment where you can truly settle in. Ultimately, their calming presence brings an organized, reliable energy to any space, making them perfectly timed colors that resonate deeply with our desire for comfort and peace.'

'In a world shaped by curated perfection and constant stimulation, there’s a growing desire for spaces that feel honest, grounded, and stable,' says Sue. 'Cottage Door reflects this shift toward emotionally resonant color – tones that feel timeless, personal, and connected. Color that brings a sense of balance and belonging feels more valuable than ever.'

Powder Blue Picks

Inspired to bring this powdery blue into your home? These decor picks will do so in an instant, no paint required.

Valspar's Color of the Year is the perfect balance of trends and timelessness. A powder blue infused with gray tones, it's a livable yet exciting paint color that sets the tone for a year of on-trend hues.

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Benjamin Moore has revealed the best paint colors specifically for your guest bedrooms. From whisper-soft pinks to heritage deep greens, if you’re after a soothing, relaxing shade to make your guests feel at home, the hunt is over. We spoke with Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore, to find out how to decorate with these best colors for a guest bedroom and why they are an endlessly popular choice.

'Whether they're staying for one night or one month, a thoughtfully decorated guest bedroom can make visitors feel instantly at home,' Helen tells Homes & Gardens. 'While comfortable bedding and considered finishing touches are essential, the wall color plays a key role in setting the mood.'

'Opting for warm, inviting hues creates a space that feels restful, welcoming and effortlessly timeless, helping guests relax from the moment they arrive. From soft, pink-toned neutrals to grounding greens inspired by nature, these four shades are perfectly suited to creating a guest bedroom that balances comfort with style.'

1. Collector's Item

Off-white paint is always a safe bet, particularly in a guest bedroom where you really want to perfect that balance of open and bright yet still cozy and elevated. It's neutral, but it's soft and inviting.

'A pink-tinged off-white creates the perfect backdrop for a guest bedroom,' says Helen. 'In north-facing rooms, where natural light tends to be cooler, whites with warm undertones help counteract shadows and prevent the space from feeling flat. Look for shades with subtle pink notes, such as Collector's Item, rather than yellow undertones, as they create a softer glow and maintain a balanced appearance throughout the day.'

The beauty of choosing pink-tinged whites is that they feel classic but still interesting. They're also light-shifting colors, meaning it's unlikely the guest bedroom will ever feel flat or sterile like many bright white paints can.

Collector's Item is best paired with warm beiges, moody taupes, and complex creams for a timeless color scheme that feels interesting as well as inviting.

2. Shabby Chic

While more vibrant colors have recently dominated color trends in 2026, calming, enduring neutrals will always be timeless in a guest bedroom. Beiges and taupes aren't the only warm neutral paints that suit a guest bedroom. Pink-infused neutrals are timeless paint colors that feel classic, yet still chic and current.

'A nuanced neutral like Shabby Chic offers a warm, inviting alternative to a brilliant white, which, although often considered the safe choice for guest bedrooms, can feel stark and clinical,' says Helen. 'This soft neutral has an understated elegance that instantly makes a space feel more welcoming. It pairs beautifully with dark wood furniture and natural linen textures, adding depth while maintaining a minimalist, grounded aesthetic. Its earthy warmth creates a sense of comfort and stability, making it an ideal choice for spaces designed to feel intimate and relaxing.'

Shabby Chic is tinged with purple undertones, so to keep things sophisticated, pair it with muted, warm colors, like pale pinks and yellow-tinted creams.

3. Cushing Green

Despite falling on the darker end of the color spectrum, Cushing Green is a sophisticated choice for a guest bedroom if you're looking for something a little richer and deeper.

'Cushing Green is a balanced deep green that complements a wide variety of interior styles,' says Helen. 'Soft gray undertones add versatility and depth to this timeless forest green, whose enduring appeal lies in its grounding connection to nature. It works particularly well in traditional interiors, where it can be paired with softened jewel tones, warm brass hardware and rich natural materials to create an enveloping, cocooning atmosphere.'

'Inspired by color combinations found in nature, forest green pairs beautifully with a rich teal – sitting between blue and green, this captivating shade delivers the perfect balance of depth and vibrancy, making it both bold and easy to live with. Together, these colors create a layered, tranquil palette that feels sophisticated and perfectly suited to a restful bedroom.'

Despite its depth, Cushing Green pairs with a variety of hues, but it best comes to life against a grounding pale beige, a muted pale blue, or, for lovers of richness, a deep teal like Helen suggests.

4. Sharon Rose

Pink bedrooms needn't feel overly romantic or vibrant; in fact, hushed pale pinks are a clever choice for rooms reserved for guests, providing a sense of calm and serenity.

'A touch of pink enriches Sharon Rose, a dusty rose that reflects the growing move towards quietly colorful interiors,' says Helen. 'This emerging direction embraces subtle, comforting hues that feel fresh yet timeless. Neutrals are no longer confined to understated background shades but are evolving into softly expressive colors with nuanced undertones that bring warmth and character while remaining effortlessly versatile.'

'This shift towards warmer, layered palettes has created the perfect backdrop for sun-faded pastels to flourish. Shades such as dusty rose offer the versatility of a neutral while introducing personality and softness. Rather than acting as accents, these muted hues are increasingly becoming the foundation of entire color schemes, creating restful, inviting guest bedrooms with enduring appeal.'

Sharon Rose edges into the more striking territory when you compare it to the muted Shabby Chic. To keep your guest bedroom's palette timeless, pair it with a warm white or a sandy beige.

These four quietly charming shades will make any guest bedroom look beautiful. From tranquil plaster pinks to light-changing warm whites, these shades infuse homely charm with timelessness.

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If you're looking for a way to bring more personality into your home without committing to a bold, all-over color scheme, there's a new decorating idea worth knowing about. The 'Peek-a-Boo' Paint theory is all about using unexpected flashes of contrasting color to create rooms that feel layered, characterful, and a little bit playful.

The trend, identified by Dulux, takes its cue from the idea that opposites attract. Rather than covering four walls in a statement shade, it uses color in smaller, surprising places – inside a cabinet, around a doorway, along a baseboard, or on the reverse side of a door.

For anyone searching for fresh paint ideas or keeping an eye on the latest paint and color trends, it's a particularly approachable way to experiment.

What Is 'Peek-a-Boo' Paint Theory?

Think of it as the interior-design equivalent of a colorful lining inside a classic jacket. The color is there, but it isn't necessarily the first thing you notice.

The 'Peek-a-Boo' paint theory pairs shades from opposite sides of the color wheel in subtle ways, creating little moments of contrast that reveal themselves as you move around your home. A flash of blue when a door opens, warm terracotta inside a cabinet, or a sunny yellow along the edge of a baseboard can make an otherwise familiar room feel much more considered.

And while the idea might sound like a very current interior design trend, the principle is nothing new. Fashion has long used unexpected color combinations in linings, socks, accessories, and even hidden layers of clothing. Beauty has embraced the same idea with bold hair colors concealed beneath a more natural shade.

Now, that same element of surprise is moving into our homes.

Why We're Suddenly Less Afraid of 'Clashing' Colors

For years, many of us have been encouraged to play it safe with color. It's no wonder so many homes have defaulted to shades of magnolia, beige, and other safe neutrals, leaving little room for the fun of experimenting with color.

Dulux's research found that 76% of homeowners were taught to avoid 'clashing' colors altogether, while 43% say their biggest decorating fear is getting it wrong.

Yet there's clearly an appetite for something more adventurous. Almost seven in 10 people (68%) say they've been pleasantly surprised by how good an unexpected color combination can look. And 43% describe themselves as 'cautious but curious' when it comes to color.

That's where this trend feels particularly relevant. You don't have to suddenly embrace a bright red living room or paint your kitchen ceiling purple. Instead, you can introduce one small dose of contrast and see how it feels.

'So many of us grew up being told to steer clear of 'clashing' colors, as if they're something to be afraid of,' says Marianne Shillingford, Creative Director and Color Expert at Dulux. 'But what's fascinating is that those very contrasts often turn out to be the most complementary combinations of all.'

It’s a sentiment that could make experimenting with color feel far less daunting. ‘It’s a great way for those who are a little color-shy to add a personal element to their home through subtle yet vibrant details, rather than committing to a fully painted wall or large block of color,’ says Helen Shaw, International Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore. ‘It encourages people to rebel against outdated color decorating rules. It takes confidence to “paint outside of the lines”, but it’s one of the easiest ways to make a notable impact.’

The Color Wheel Holds the Secret

The easiest way to understand the trend is to look at a color wheel. Complementary colors sit opposite one another – blue and orange, red and green, and yellow and purple are classic examples.

While they may initially look like unlikely partners, the contrast is exactly what makes them work. Used thoughtfully, one color can bring out qualities in the other, creating a combination that feels energetic without necessarily being overwhelming.

'Colors that sit opposite each other on the color wheel balance and enhance one another in a really joyful way,' says Shillingford. 'They have this slightly surprising magic that makes a space feel alive, not overwhelming.'

You don't need to use the brightest possible version of either shade, either. Muted, earthy, or chalkier interpretations can make complementary combinations feel much more relaxed and livable.

Dulux's Mellow Flow and Clay Pot, for example, bring together a calming blue with a warm, earthy tone. They're very different shades, but their contrast creates a sense of balance.

How to Bring 'Peek-a-Boo' Color Into Your Home

1. Paint Inside a Door

A door is one of the simplest ways to create a genuine color reveal. Keep the outside relatively understated, then paint the inside in a contrasting shade that only appears when the door opens. It's an especially fun idea for a home office, bedroom, pantry, or powder room.

'Seeing a contrasting color through a doorway instantly adds interest,' says Shillingford. 'It draws you through the home and makes spaces feel connected rather than flat.'

2. Give Your Cabinets a Colorful Secret

Painting the inside of a cabinet is perhaps the ultimate 'Peek-a-Boo' moment. A bright or warm shade can sit quietly behind closed doors before revealing itself when you reach for your dishes, books, or linens. Try terracotta, golden yellow, or soft peach against a more neutral exterior for a detail that feels personal rather than overly styled.

3. Highlight Architectural Details

Baseboards, door frames, shelving, alcoves, and window trim are all brilliant places to experiment with color. Rather than painting an entire wall, use a contrasting shade on one architectural feature. This gives the room definition and creates a visual detail that catches the eye without dominating the space.

4. Use Doorways to Connect Rooms

A glimpse of color from one room into another can make a home feel more cohesive. Try painting an interior doorway or a section of trim in a complementary shade, so the color becomes visible as you move between spaces.

Blue and orange are particularly effective here, although choosing warmer or more muted versions of each can make the pairing feel sophisticated rather than loud.

How Much 'Peek-a-Boo' Color Is Too Much?

The beauty of this paint trend is that you don't need much of it.

'There's no magic number because everyone is different when it comes to design choices, but I'd always encourage people to start small and build it up as you go,' says Shillingford. 'One or two contrasting moments are often all you need to give a room personality.'

That's good news if you're decorating a rental, working with a small space, or simply not ready to make a major color commitment. Paint the inside of one cabinet or add a contrasting shade to a door frame, then live with it for a while.

If you find yourself smiling every time you notice it, you've probably got the idea right.

Can 'Peek-a-Boo' Color Make a Small Room Feel Bigger?

Used strategically, contrast can make a small room look expensive and feel more interesting and visually layered. Because the eye is naturally drawn toward contrasting details, a flash of color can encourage you to look beyond the immediate walls and around the space.

A brightly colored doorway, the interior of open shelving, or a contrasting trim detail can create a sense of depth without requiring a small room to be covered in bold paint.

'Contrast naturally draws the eye, creating layers that make a space feel more dynamic and engaging,' says Shillingford. 'Sometimes it's those smallest, most unexpected flashes of color that bring the greatest sense of character and life.'

The 'Peek-a-Boo' paint trend is less about following another decorating rule and more about giving yourself permission to have fun with color. You don't need to become a maximalist overnight, and you certainly don't need to paint every wall a different shade.

Instead, look for those overlooked spaces in your home where a little color could make you smile – the inside of a door, a cabinet interior, a strip of trim, or a glimpse through a doorway.

Color doesn't always need to dominate a room to make a statement. The most memorable paint details are the quiet ones – the unexpected glimpses of hue that reward a closer look.

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Living in a small studio apartment has made me very particular about furniture. Only the best, most practical pieces are worthy of a spot in my home, and if they don't serve more than one purpose, then I don't want them.

Because of my extreme pickiness and my desire for multipurpose pieces, I tend to do a lot of shopping at IKEA – aka the home of multifunctional furniture, often designed for small apartments. Every now and then, I come across something that feels like it was specially made for me – equal parts practical, stylish, and, of course, multifaceted. My most recent find to fit the bill is IKEA's KOMPISHÄNG Birch Stools.

Slim, lightweight, and stackable by design, these stools deliver so much more than extra seating for my small living room that doubles as a dining room. Stack one on top of the other, and they'll instantly transform into a shelving unit for extra storage or a two-tiered side table.

The stools are part of IKEA's newly released KOMPISHÄNG collection. Made for students, renters, or anyone subject to frequent moves, the range consists of furniture and decor that's built for longevity, easy to transport, and aesthetically appealing, too. Although those elements aren't often grouped together, this collection is proof that durability, portability, and good design don't have to be mutually exclusive.

Along with the rest of the KOMPISHÄNG collection, these stools will help you make the most of your living space – no matter how small or how temporary it may be – without sacrificing style.

There are so many ways in which these stools can benefit small rooms, apartments, or even dorms. In my studio, I plan to keep them stacked in a corner as a makeshift shelving unit to hold books and plants. When I host guests, I'll unstack them for extra seating. This way, I won't have to buy clunky folding chairs that'll crowd my closet or force people to sit on the floor. Although if I had to do the latter, KOMPISHÄNG conveniently has a back cushion that'll make the floor just as comfortable a seat.

I'm also keen on the idea of using the stools as a substitute side table. Most traditional side tables are only good for holding lamps, trinkets, or drinks on their singular flat surface. With two flat surfaces, these stools can do so much more.

At only $60 for the set of two, the Birch Stools from IKEA's KOMPISHÄNG collection are the hardworking pieces that deserves to take up square footage even when it's tight. With their multi-purpose nature, they're sure to help you make the most of your space. See how I'd style them below.

How I'd Style IKEA's KOMPISHÄNG Stools

Shop More From IKEA's KOMPISHÄNG Collection

Aside from the Birch Stools, IKEA's KOMPISHÄNG collection features so many more standout products, including the three below. Shop them while they're still in stock to help you make the most of your living space.

Packed with function-first, design-driven furniture that makes life on the go a little bit easier, I'm certain that IKEA's KOMPISHÄNG Collection will sell out quickly. So don't wait, if the Birch Stools or any other well-made pieces from this line are speaking to you, I suggest you make them yours before it's too late.

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Choosing the right color for your kitchen is one of the biggest decisions you will make in the whole design. Even if you are choosing a neutral scheme, the options are still endless. Some whites feel too crisp, others too yellow, and certain shades of gray feel cold and uninviting.

When decision fatigue sets in, turning to interior designers for their tried-and-tested kitchen colors really helps to narrow down the selection. And Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter is one of the most highly regarded neutrals, adding just the right amount of warmth and contrast to kitchens of every size and aesthetic.

Here's why designers keep returning to this neutral shade, why it works so well in kitchens, and the best ways to bring it into your cooking space.

Revere Pewter is a perfect example of a neutral paint that has just the right amount of warmth to make a kitchen feel inviting, but not so warm that it reads yellow in unflattering light. It feels classic and timeless – exactly the reasons interior designers gravitate towards it so often.

'I think of Revere Pewter as a timeless neutral – somewhere between a warm gray and a soft taupe. It has the most wonderful ability to shift subtly with the light. Revere Pewter has an old house quality to it where it feels as though it could have been part of the original palette of a historic home rather than a color chosen to follow a trend,' says Kelly Galvin Robson, principal designer and creative director at High Street Home Design.

'Revere Pewter is a great staple color for anyone looking for that perfect beige. In some lights it is very soft and creamy, and in others it lends itself more to the taupe family with a slightly green hue,' adds Yvonne Christensen, co-founder of House West Design.

It's become one of the brand's best-selling neutrals – and its enduring qualities are further demonstrated by its inclusion in Benjamin Moore's Historical Color Collection, thanks to its ability to sit just as beautifully in traditional kitchens as in modern ones.

It’s the shade’s versatility – its ability to work in a variety of styles and alongside several materials and finishes – that makes it such a favorable choice for kitchens. 'It adds depth and warmth to a kitchen while still letting the cabinetry, stone, and other materials shine through,' says Elsa Iverson of Marin Design Co. It doesn't command attention; rather, it sits quietly within a scheme to create a truly timeless space.

'Revere Pewter is a versatile, use-anywhere neutral that works well in kitchens, where a variety of materials, finishes, and appliances need to work together. It provides a harmonious foundation and beautiful backdrop for the space,' explains Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore.

'For me, the appeal of Revere Pewter in a kitchen is how naturally it works with both warm and cool tones,' adds interior designer Candace Plotz. 'A kitchen is often a mix of so many different materials and finishes, and I love a color that can bring those elements together. It works beautifully with warm woods and brass, but is equally at home alongside cooler stone, tile and stainless steel.'

Whether you've chosen a classic look with warm-toned metals, like a metal pot rack in a brushed brass finish or drawer pulls in heritage brass tones, or taken a more contemporary approach with brushed nickel pendants and backless saddle counter stools painted a chic black, they will all look elevated against a Revere Pewter backdrop.

One of the greatest appeals of Revere Pewter is that it offers a softer, warmer option in place of crisp whites, which can leave a kitchen feeling sterile and uninviting. It's a subtle shade to introduce warmth and contrast without moving out of the neutral palette.

'Revere Pewter is perfect for kitchen cabinetry and is a welcome alternative to an all-white kitchen. It brings warmth and character without making the space feel heavy. In a historic or traditional home, I prefer a kitchen to feel connected to the architecture, and this color has that quality,' Kelly explains.

'It works beautifully with painted millwork, natural wood, stone, and aged metals, so it allows the kitchen to feel like it's always been there (rather than feeling too new). The result is soft, timeless, and inviting – something that can evolve with the home rather than look tied to a particular moment.'

The beauty of Revere Pewter is that it can be introduced to a kitchen in several ways. From the walls to the cabinets to smaller infusions on trim, designers say you can add it almost anywhere for a timeless design.

'Revere Pewter is especially beautiful when used throughout the architectural elements of a kitchen – cabinetry, trim, beadboard, wainscoting, or even a built-in pantry. It gives a kitchen a more historic, layered feeling and offers something different from the ubiquitous all-white kitchen, while still feeling completely timeless,' Kelly notes.

'We love using it on kitchen cabinetry because it has a softness that allows the kitchen to feel established and collected rather than brand new. It is also a color that will age gracefully, making it a wonderful choice for a home where longevity and classic design are priorities.'

Where you've added this color in smaller doses, whether it be the island or trim, you can bring in decor and kitchenware in similar hues, like this Greer Hand Tufted Wool Blend Rug along the walkway, a Carote Nonstick Saute Pan kept on the cooktop, or even these Smooth Taper Candles in your favorite holders.

'I particularly love Revere Pewter on kitchen millwork. It’s beautiful on cabinetry and range hoods, especially when you want the millwork to have a little more presence without introducing a strong color. It can also be carried through to walls or trim, particularly in a kitchen that opens into other living spaces. I love allowing the color to move beyond the cabinetry and become part of the larger palette of the home,' adds Candace.

If you're introducing Revere Pewter to kitchen walls, Arianna suggests a darker cabinet color for a striking contrast. 'Revere Pewter is an excellent choice for kitchen walls. I like to pair it with darker cabinets in colors like Kendall Charcoal HC-166, Hale Navy HC-154, or Essex Green HC-188. Pairing it with a darker cabinet color will bring out its lighter side.'

For a softer, earthier scheme, Revere Pewter pairs harmoniously with shades of green. 'Green works well with Revere Pewter because the two colors harmonize, rather than fighting, due to the green undertones in Revere Pewter. We like to use Smokebush and Backwoods from Benjamin Moore,' Elsa adds. 'We have also used off-whites with Revere Pewter such as White Dove, Natural Cream, Swiss Coffee, and November Rain.'

Shop Revere Pewter-Inspired Kitchen Buys

A timeless neutral that balances both warm and cool tones, Revere Pewter has become the go-to shade for homeowners looking for a warmer alternative to white. Whether you apply it to the cabinets, walls, or as a statement on the island, you can be sure it will feel just as chic in ten years.

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The colors considered most timeless and enduring are changing. Once a title reserved for clean whites and light grays, designers and homeowners alike are searching for hues that feel richer, more sophisticated, and more unique.

Which is exactly why aged kitchen colors are emerging as the most coveted palette. They are a darker take on neutrals, offering a kitchen color that feels more rooted in nature and layered in design. Think moody reds, rich browns, deep terracottas, and the darkest shades of smoky navy.

And designers say it's no fleeting kitchen color trend – these hues are here to stay, giving kitchens of every size, style, and layout a layered and lived-in look. Here's why they love the trend, and how you can introduce aged colors to your cooking space.

What's the Appeal of Aged Kitchen Colors?

Oxblood red, burnt terracotta, aubergine, tobacco brown, deep navy; these are all colors that have that aged, lived-in feel to them. They are rich and deep in tone, bringing a timeless yet unique feel to kitchens of every style and size. But perhaps the greatest appeal of these shades is the warmth they bring to designs.

'There’s a real richness to these types of colors which feels incredibly comforting. They reference traditional interiors rather than passing trends. Deep earthy shades create kitchens with real depth and absorb light beautifully, making the space instantly feel layered, lived in and homey,' says Sophie Rowell of Côte de Folk.

It's that sense of tradition that makes them such an enduring and livable choice – these aren't colors synonymous with new trends or modern design styles; they've been present in homes for centuries.

'These colors – oxblood, aubergine, and tobacco brown – were on walls for 200 years before white became a primary color in kitchens. What changed is that people stopped treating the kitchen as an appliance room and started treating it as the room they actually live in,' adds Michael Winn, owner and president at WINN Design + Build.

'There’s a practical reason too. Most kitchens in the Washington, DC area sit at the back of the house, north-facing, often under a covered porch. White cabinetry in that light doesn’t read crisp. It reads gray and slightly dingy. A deep color in that same light reads deliberate,' explains Michael.

Beyond history, aged kitchen colors tap into the calming, grounded atmosphere that's becoming increasingly desirable in these rooms, where hard lines and cold surfaces are often in abundance. These hues offer contrast and softer design detais that make a kitchen feel cozier and more lived-in.

'The appeal of aged colors like this could be our desire to feel something,' says Anna Franklin of Stone House Collective. 'In a world where everything is innovating and moving and changing at such a rapid pace, it can be hard to feel grounded at all. These aged colors evoke a calm, historic feeling – something earthy and real.'

Why They're Replacing Classic Neutrals

Classic neutrals like whites, grays, and beiges have dominated, often seen as the safest palette to ensure a kitchen doesn't feel trend-led. But homeowners are beginning to search for alternatives that feel a bit warmer, richer, and more confident, and aged kitchen colors offer that without leaning into bright territory.

'For more than two decades, kitchen design has been dominated by light neutrals and restrained palettes. Today, homeowners are embracing color with much more confidence and are looking for spaces with greater depth, warmth and personality. Rich aged tones such as aubergine, burnt plum and cognac have been waiting patiently for their return, and we’re finally ready to bring a sense of permanence and history to our homes that lighter palettes simply can’t achieve,' explains Benjamin Ouellette, Designer at Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio.

Because these colors feel earthy and reminiscent of nature, they almost act as darker neutrals, offering a timeless base for your kitchen design without being plain or too light. 'Aged colors work like colorful neutrals. Since they mirror shades found in nature – like earth, leather, and dark wood – they make a kitchen feel warm and cozy without being overwhelming. They also pair easily with other colors, grounding the space,' says Shannon Kadwell, Kitchen and Bath Director at Anthony Wilder Design/Build.

'Several of these shades, tobacco brown and burnt terracotta especially, function as neutrals in my book. They're not loud colors; they're grounded ones,' agrees John Maloney McNamara, Founder and Principal Designer of Coosa, who explains that the success of your design is about how the colors are introduced.

'I don't see this as bold versus safe, but as layered, warm neutrals versus flatter, cooler ones. The real risk isn't choosing a neutral palette, it's relying on a single gesture. An all-oxblood kitchen can become just as predictable as an all-white one. The most compelling kitchens come from thoughtful combinations of color, material, and texture rather than relying on one dominant move.'

How to Introduce Aged Colors to Your Kitchen

There are several ways to bring aged kitchen colors into your space, whether you go big with painted cabinetry or more subtly with accessories and decor. It really depends on whether you want to embark on a full color refresh or bring life to a light neutral scheme.

'Start with kitchen cabinetry,' Anna suggests. 'Cabinetry takes up the most visual space, so it's going to create the most noticeable difference. Aged colors like oxblood, evergreen, and navy work so well on cabinets, and they're made even more impactful when paired with coordinating panel-ready appliances. It's a surefire way to make your kitchen feel like a work of art. It also opens up so much opportunity to introduce other aged elements into the space, like a really stellar marble countertop, unique light fixtures, and accessories.'

If you don't want to commit to a kitchen drenched in these richer hues, introducing them in smaller doses can be just as impactful. It's also a sophisticated way to add contrast without overwhelming the room.

'If you don’t want to commit to every cabinet, you could choose it for your island or pantry cupboard. In a past kitchen project, we teamed the deep brown with soft cream walls and a soft lilac for the on-counter cabinet, which kept the darker cabinetry feeling elegant and unique rather than dark and heavy,' Sophie explains.

'A single island in a deep aubergine against a warm off-white perimeter gets you most of the drama at a fraction of the commitment. A scullery or butler’s pantry is the other place I like it. Small room, low stakes, and it’s a good surprise when someone opens the door,' Michael agrees.

You can also experiment with aged kitchen colors without taking on a repaint. If you're stepping out of your comfort zone, start with easy-to-change items and subtler features – Shannon recommends 'bringing in terracotta floor tiles, leather bar stools, or copper pots hanging on the wall.'

It could also be a runner in rich oxblood tones, lighting with smoky brown fixtures, or a kitchen nook accessorized with deep navy throw pillows. It's an entry point for decorating with aged kitchen colors without the pressure to get it right on the first try.

Shop the Look

Aged kitchen colors might be a bit darker than you're used to, but they add depth and richness to any design without feeling too bright or bold. Look to shades like Terre d' Egypt and Eating Room Red for rich red shades, Brinjal for more of an aubergine look, Hickory Stick and Ghost Ranch for brown and terracotta shades, or embrace deep navy hues with Hale Navy and Hague Blue.

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