2026 Paint Color Trends & How to Use Them in Your Home

As we head into 2026, paint-brands are signaling a clear shift in home-colour direction: from stark, cool neutrals and ultra-bright accent tones toward warmer, richer, more grounded hues and layered palettes. Here are three major announcements from leading paint manufacturers — and practical ideas you can share with your clients to bring these to life in their homes. The biggest paint brands are embracing warm, natural, and timeless tones that bring calm and comfort into our spaces.

I’ve rounded up the new Colors of the Year from Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, and Behr, along with a few of my personal suggestions on how you can bring these gorgeous shades into your home.

Sherwin-Williams – Universal Khaki (SW 6150)

See the color here →

Sherwin-Williams’ 2026 Color of the Year, Universal Khaki, is a warm mid-tone neutral that works almost anywhere in your home.

You can use it on living or dining room walls for a cozy, grounded look, or even on kitchen cabinets for a timeless, classic feel. It pairs beautifully with natural wood tones, black accents, and warm metal finishes like brass.

If you’re drawn to a calm, cohesive design, this is the perfect shade to start with. It’s soft, easy to live with, and lets your décor and textures shine.

Designer tip: Pair Universal Khaki with crisp white trim and woven textures for an effortlessly elegant look.

Benjamin Moore – Silhouette (AF-655)

Explore the palette →

Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette is a deep espresso brown with a hint of charcoal that adds sophistication and depth to any space.

You can use it as an accent wall in your bedroom or office, or even on built-ins and cabinetry for a luxurious, designer feel. It pairs beautifully with creamy whites like Swiss Coffee OC-45 and softer neutrals like blush or clay tones.

If you love rich colors but worry about your space feeling dark, try Silhouette in smaller doses — behind your bed, in your dining room, or on your kitchen island. It brings warmth and character without overpowering the room.

Try this: Paint interior doors or lower kitchen cabinets in Silhouette for a subtle touch of drama.

Behr – Hidden Gem (N430-6A)

View the announcement →

Behr’s Hidden Gem is one of my favorites this year — a smoky jade that feels both fresh and soothing.

It’s a wonderful choice for powder rooms, guest bedrooms, or built-in cabinetry if you want to introduce color in a way that still feels timeless. The tone blends blue and green hues, creating a calm yet sophisticated mood.

If you’re ready to move away from all-neutral walls but aren’t sure where to start, this is a perfect first step. Try it on one wall or even a piece of furniture — you’ll see how it instantly adds personality and depth to your home.

My favorite combo: Hidden Gem + brass hardware + natural wood = pure perfection.

How You Can Use These Colors at Home

Living Spaces: Universal Khaki makes open rooms feel warm and inviting. Add cozy textures, plants, and layered lighting for a balanced design.
Kitchens: Try Hidden Gem on lower cabinets and Silhouette on an island for a bold, modern two-tone look.
Bedrooms: Use Silhouette behind your bed to create a relaxing, boutique-hotel feel.
Exteriors: Universal Khaki paired with white trim and black accents creates timeless curb appeal.

My Final Thoughts

I love that this year’s colors are all about warmth, balance, and authenticity. Whether you’re refreshing one room or giving your home an entirely new look, these hues are versatile enough to evolve with your décor.

Start small — grab a few swatches, paint a sample area, and live with it for a few days. You’ll know when you’ve found the color that feels right.

And if you ever need help choosing the perfect palette to showcase your home’s best features (especially if you’re preparing to sell!), I’m always happy to share my favorite color pairings and staging tips.

Special Partner Offer: Benjamin Moore Savings for My Clients

As we all know, Benjamin Moore has a fantastic reputation for quality and timeless color. I’m so excited to share that I’ve partnered with Houng Luu at Luu Color Center in Rockville, who can help you with all your Benjamin Moore paint needs!

Because you’re one of my clients, you’ll receive an exclusive discount ranging from 15%-30% OFF, depending on the item) on your paint purchase when you mention my name at checkout. You can also enjoy complimentary delivery (including same-day service) throughout MD, DC, and VA with a minimum purchase of $500 — the perfect excuse to start that color refresh you’ve been dreaming about!

Contact Huong Luu, Color Consultant
5022 Nicholson Lane Rockville, MD 20852
(301) 984-0066

www.luucolorcenter.com
consultant@luucolorcenter.com