Dark Colors Have Dominated 2025, But Will They Still Be on Trend in 2026? Designers Are Divided
Have dark paints had their heyday, or are they here to stay? Designers discuss how these moody hues are transitioning into the year ahead
Dark paints were once reserved for bolder decorators, but in the last few years, the richest of wall colors have become far more mainstream, a color trend that dominated for most of 2025.
From inky dark blues to burgundy, deep greens to charcoal, there's been a growing appeal for the darkest of paint colors that bid farewell to the earthy neutral and white-washed craze of years prior, coinciding with interiors that feel soulful and full of personality.
Will Dark Paint Colors Still Be Trendy in 2026?
Below, interior designers share all on dark paints and whether or not they're championing them for the year ahead.
Dark Colors Still Feel Sophisticated – But They’re Evolving in 2026
Designers are favoring saturated colors and jewel tones that make a statement when decorating with dark paints.
'While a new year always invites a fresh start, I believe that deep, rich paint colors are here to stay for quite a while,' says interior designer Hannah Blumenthal of Studio Olivine. 'With so much uncertainty in the world, having spaces in our homes that feel especially cozy and inviting is not something we will wish to stray from anytime soon.'
That said, there may be a shift coming in the way that we decorate our homes with dark paint colors in 2026. 'People are experimenting with different hues,' says Kristina Khersonsky of STUDIO KEETA. 'Rather than the navies or maroons that have saturated the internet, clients have become more experimental with deep jewel tones, near-black olives, and richly saturated hues that bring forth more personality.'
This observation coincides with recent Color of the Year trends. Behr unveiled a jewel-toned teal, while Benjamin Moore chose a rich charcoal, reflecting a move towards moody and mysterious dark paints instead of once-popular navy blue and forest green.
Long gone is the accent wall – it's all about color-drenching for a bold and modern look.
Not only are the colors themselves shifting, but designers also say that their application is, too. 'It’s no longer just an accent wall or four walls,' says Kristina. 'Homeowners are more inclined to color drench – painting walls, ceilings, and trim in a single, immersive shade. It creates a cocooned, high-impact atmosphere that’s both streamlined and cozy.'
'Clients who once gravitated toward safer, lighter palettes are now embracing moodier hues with confidence,' agrees designer Marguerite Rodgers. 'Trends like color drenching have only amplified their appeal, proving that deep, saturated tones can be both dramatic and grounding. As we head into 2026, I don’t see the pendulum swinging away from dark colors; instead, I see them becoming even more embedded as a modern classic.'
While dark paints have proven to be effective in plenty of rooms, for 2026, designers are favoring them for small rooms or those that aren't the main living spaces, providing an element of surprise. 'I love to use them in transitional spaces such as foyers, small spaces such as powder rooms, or occasional spaces such as formal dining rooms, where they are especially enveloping,' says Hannah. 'It's wonderful to have a contrast between darker and lighter hues throughout a home, making rooms with rich color palettes feel very considered and special.'
That Said, Spring and Summer Will See Lighter Hues Return
While designers agree that dark paints are still in style, light decor can transition rich walls to the warmer months ahead.
While dark paints don't seem to be going anywhere in 2026, experts say that lighter tones can be an effective color choice as we transition into the warmer months ahead. 'Lighter hues will naturally creep back in as we move from winter into spring,' says interior color consultant Charlotte Cropper. 'Early 2026 will bring a craving for light, so softer, uplifting tones that help us emerge from hibernation.'
For rooms with a dark color scheme, consider adding a moment of relief for the spring and summer months with lighter accessories. A refresh of decor accents – from throw pillows on the sofa to lighter window treatments – can be all that's needed to take a dark color scheme from feeling moody and cozy to fresh for the changing weather.
A Well-Designed Home Needs Both
Although dark paints have seen lots of appeal lately, designers say the key to a timeless home is including contrast with both light and dark hues.
When I asked designers whether dark paints are here to stay, a common theme came up in their responses. The use of dark paints is all about balance in interior design, and a mix of light and dark hues in a home feels grounded and timeless. Although it's a definite 'trend' at present, designers encourage thoughtful application that ensures longevity.
'You really need both dark colors and light colors to create balance in the home,' says designer Roger Higgins of R. Higgins Interiors. 'Having deep-toned painted areas emphasizes the light and makes you appreciate the light areas more.'
'The key is balance: rich, dramatic color where it enhances the experience, paired with gentler tones that allow a home to breathe,' says designer Marie Flanigan. 'I love using those moody shades in more intimate or jewel-box spaces where they can really shine.'
If you're wondering how you can create balance in your home with dark color schemes, think beyond painting the walls. Dark paints used as an accent on furniture can be a wonderful way to embrace the drama without it feeling too heavy. 'Deep shades are popping up as accents and focal points: a dramatic kitchen island, a rich tone on built-in wardrobes, even darker staircases and woodwork,' says Charlotte. 'Dark colors are becoming more intentional rather than all-over, which feels like a beautiful balance.'
If you're not quite ready to go as bold as painting the walls a dark hue, channel this trend through decor. Below, we've rounded up some of the most stylish picks to do so.
If you don't want to paint the walls a dark color, consider adding a dark-colored rug underfoot, which will ground the room and add contrast to light walls.
Add a textural feel to your scheme with this distressed vase, a simple but effective way to add depth to a room, whether an entryway or kitchen.
Burgundy is a timeless dark shade that feels especially fitting for the winter months, and this wool throw also boosts coziness.
Rich olive green is a stylish alternative to once-popular forest green. Add this velvet pillow to your living room sofa or bed for a sophisticated take on dark tones.
Marble and dark hues go hand in hand. This table lamp feels elegant and timeless, and would look incredibly chic styled on a bedroom nightstand.
Bring the dark color trend to your dining table with this slate tablecloth. It provides a sophisticated and moody touch that would complement many decor styles.
Designers agree that dark paints are a timeless decorating idea that is very much expected to continue into next year. That said, they are favoring moody and sophisticated tones such as teal, burgundy, and warm-toned blacks that feel grounded and refined, instead of the likes of navy blue and forest green. If you're feeling inspired to paint the walls with one of these trending dark hues, use color-drenching to create a cozy and cocooning effect. It's especially effective in small rooms and bedrooms and feels more polished than an accent wall.
However, keep in mind that designers recommend adding balance when painting the walls a dark shade. If you're going to go bold with a rich, warm-black on the walls, for example, provide lightness with decor to keep things fresh and livable.
