Every 2026 Color of the Year Revealed So Far—and What They Say About the Year Ahead

As summer winds down and whispers of fall and the coming year begin to swirl, our thoughts naturally turn to what 2026 might bring. Which materials will rise to the top? How can we start planning our next home project? And (most exciting for us at BHG), which colors will define the year ahead?

Among all the tools we have for decorating, color is arguably the most impactful. It can set the tone for your home's style, shape how guests perceive your sense of design, and can even influence your mood. When a paint brand declares its color of the year, it offers a glimpse into the future and a head start on planning your next painting project. So far, just two hues have been crowned for 2026, but they already hint at the palette to come. Whether you’re dreaming of a fresh exterior, new kitchen cabinets, or a statement front door, let these striking shades be your inspiration.

Warm Eucalyptus by Valspar

Valspar selected Warm Eucalyptus 8004-28F, a vintage-inspired variation of sage green, as their top color pick for 2026. The brand describes it as "a grounded green that brings a sense of ease and timeless appeal to any space." Designed to be a calming and serene hue, Warm Eucalyptus is ideal for a room intended for restoration and peace.

"Warm Eucalyptus is more than just a beautiful shade of green; it's a reflection of the comfort we crave in our homes," said Sue Kim, director of color marketing at Valspar, in a press release. “Its warm undertones create a grounded, welcoming mood while drawing inspiration from nature and the familiarity of retro design. This is a color that encourages restoration and resilience."

Whether used for interiors or exteriors, this soothing shade of green was chosen as a response to consumers' desire for nostalgia and comfort in today's fast-paced society. It's intended to create a haven at home that people can escape to for renewal at the end of a long day. Valspar recommends Degas Blue and Groundbreaking as suggested color pairings to complement the soft green in any room of your home.

Hidden Gem by Behr

Behr was the first to officially declare its color of the year, and it's kicking off the announcement season strong. The brand describes the color, Hidden Gem, as a "smoky jade," a dimmed and complex blend of blue and green. Whether used to color-drench a powder room or serve as a subtle accent color, this hue is versatile enough for countless projects and design styles.

"You can use it on all four walls, you can use it on the ceiling, or if you just want to dip your toe in, you can use it as an asset to anchor a kitchen by painting it on the island or cabinetry, says Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr. "You can paint furniture, pieces of furniture, or use it on the door."

The brand also released a 2026 Color Trends Palette to help consumers easily select other hues that pair well with Hidden Gem. Whether you lean towards eclectic, casual, traditional, or modern, Behr has a curated collection of compatible colors to fit your design style perfectly.