WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE COLOR OF THE YEAR?
The announcement of Color of the Year is always a highly anticipated event in the design world. The hue chosen is predicted to influence everything from fashion runways to living room walls in the coming year. For 2026, leading color influencers have created a fascinating duality with some choosing deep earthy tones while others selected ethereal colors that have sparked intense debate.
Inspired by Clouds
Internationally recognized as the authority on color, Pantone named Cloud Dancer (11-4201) as its 2026 Color of the Year. Described as a soft, billowy creamy white, Cloud Dancer is intended to represent a “blank slate,” a sense of calm, and a fresh start. It’s a color that whispers rather than shouts, promising tranquility in an increasingly chaotic world.
While Pantone’s annual color selection always has critics, this year’s choice has been especially controversial due to the perception that a white, no matter how nuanced, feels less a “color” choice and more like a default. Some designers and trend forecasters argue that after years of increasingly complex and vibrant selections, reverting to a white feels uninspired or even a step backward. Others defend the choice, suggesting that in an era of digital overload and constant stimulation, a truly serene, versatile white is precisely what society needs—a quiet rebellion against noise, offering solace and a foundation for personal expression. It encourages mindfulness and intentionality, urging us to strip away the superfluous and embrace clarity.
Grounded by Depth
In stark contrast to Pantone’s ethereal white, many major paint companies have embraced a return to deep, rich, and earthy tones for 2026 that reflect a desire for stability, comfort, and connection to nature.
Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette (AF-655) is a sophisticated espresso brown, infused with charcoal and burnt umber undertones. It speaks to elegance and a grounded sensibility that evokes the warmth of a well-worn leather armchair, the depth of rich soil, or the contemplative atmosphere of a cozy library.
Similarly, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ Universal Khaki (SW 6150) is a classic, earthy mid-tone tan with a nod to natural textiles and organic aesthetics. It is a versatile and comforting hue that brings a sense of calm to built environments, making it an ideal backdrop for daily life.
Other notable Color of the Year selections for 2026:
- Behr’s Hidden Gem (N430-6A), a smoky jade, blends nature and modern luxury, offering a sophisticated yet soothing blue-green.
- Valspar’s Warm Eucalyptus (8004-28F) emphasizes mindful living with its serene green, perfect for creating spa-like retreats.
- PPG’s Warm Mahogany (PPG1060-7) provides a bold, heritage-rich red-brown, reminiscent of academic and classic interiors.
What Works for You?
For designers, the contrasting narratives of 2026 provide flexibility to create spaces that feel fresh whether working with whites or rich colors. Cloud Dancer paired with natural textures, warm woods, and subtle metallic accents creates an airy, sophisticated space. It’s the perfect canvas for showcasing art or simply enjoying the serenity of simplicity.
The deeper, more grounded tones provide a sense of comfort that is warm and inviting. Silhouette or Warm Mahogany are excellent choices for creating accent walls, cozy nooks, or an entire room imbued with a sense of quiet luxury.
While the colors chosen may seem to wildly contrast, they highlight the importance of being intentional with color. It’s a year where personal preference and emotional connection to color take precedence, proving that sometimes, the biggest impact comes from the most considered choice.
What are your thoughts on Color of the Year 2026? Share your comments below.