A Blank Canvas: Top Wall Paint Colour Trends for 2026
- Studio Jeandré
- Nov 14, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 30
As we look toward the future of interior design, the paint colour trends for 2026 are shaping up to be a masterclass in balance. We're moving away from fleeting fads and toward a palette that feels both deeply grounding and emotionally resonant. This year’s forecast is all about intention, warmth, and sophisticated self-expression.
Whether you're planning a full home refresh or just looking for the perfect shade for an accent wall, understanding these emerging trends is the first step. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the official announcements from major brands like Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore, explore predicted trends, and show you how to incorporate these modern paint colours into your interior colour schemes.
The 2026 Colour of the Year Champions
The most definitive signals in the world of paint colour trends come from the major brands' Colour of the Year announcements. These selections are more than just a pretty shade; they reflect extensive research into global cultural shifts, design movements, and our collective psyche.
1. Sherwin-Williams: Welcoming Warmth with Universal Khaki
So, what is the colour trend for Sherwin-Williams in 2026? The answer is Universal Khaki (SW 6150). This warm, mid-tone tan is the anchor of their "Honest Essentials" collection, a line-up built on earthy, calming, and intentional neutrals.
Universal Khaki embodies a desire for simplicity and authenticity. It has a subtle yellow undertone that gives it a warm, desert-like feel, making any space feel instantly more inviting and grounded. This is a foundational neutral designed to be a serene backdrop for life. Sherwin-Williams suggests pairing it with other colours from its collection, such as the deep burgundy "Cordovan" or the soft "Lemon Chiffon," to create sophisticated paint colour combinations.
Ideal for: Living rooms, bedrooms, and open-plan spaces where you want to cultivate a sense of calm and familiarity.
2. Benjamin Moore: Timeless Sophistication with Silhouette
Benjamin Moore paint colours have long been synonymous with quality and sophistication, and their 2026 pick is no exception. Meet Silhouette (AF-655), a deep, smoky espresso brown softened by charcoal undertones.
This colour captures the warmth and timeless appeal of a perfectly tailored suit. It’s rich and bold without being overpowering, making it both intriguing and familiar. Silhouette represents a broader shift towards warmer, richer tones that promise to stand the test of time. As one of the best interior paint colours for creating drama and depth, it works effortlessly in both traditional and modern spaces.
Ideal for: Creating a dramatic accent wall, a cosy library, or even as a stunning colour for kitchen cabinets. It also makes for luxurious bedroom paint colours, offering a cocoon-like feel.
The Contenders and Forecasted Favourites
While some brands have made their picks, the world of colour forecasting is always buzzing with predictions that heavily influence modern paint colours.
Pantone’ 2026 Prediction: The Rise of Transformative Teal & Green
Although the official Pantone Colour of the Year for 2026 won't be announced until December, trend forecasters like WGSN have placed their bets. The leading prediction is Transformative Teal—a bright, aquatic blue-green that feels both energising and serene.
Alongside teal, various shades of green paint colours are predicted to be hugely influential, reflecting a growing desire to connect with nature and themes of ecological responsibility. Keep an eye on shades like:
Hidden Gem: A smoky jade that beautifully bridges blue and green.
Warm Eucalyptus: A muted, sage-like green with calming gray undertones.
These green paint colours are perfect for creating serene bathroom paint colours or tranquil bedroom paint colours, bringing a slice of the natural world indoors.
Farrow & Ball’s Anticipated Palette: Warmth and Earthy Tones
While Farrow & Ball has not yet made an official announcement, several colours from their existing portfolio are being tipped by designers as top contenders for 2026 trends.
Naperon: A peachy terracotta that provides a warm, sun-kissed glow.
Broccoli Brown: An earthy green-brown that blends old-world charm with a modern, fresh feel.
Etruscan Red: A bold, confident red expected to be a favourite for "colour drenching" in dramatic spaces.
The overarching trend here is a move toward warm, earthy, and grounded neutrals like mushroom, clay, and warm taupe, perfect for crafting cohesive wall colour combinations.
Graham & Brown: Opulent Drama with Divine Damson
Graham & Brown has chosen Divine Damson as its 2026 star. This deep, luxurious burgundy-plum is inspired by ripe fruit and is the epitome of opulence and sophistication. Its versatility is key; it can create a cosy, cocooning atmosphere in a bedroom or add vibrant depth to a dining room. The brand recommends pairing it with their textural Design of the Year, Eternal Weave, for a truly dramatic effect.
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How to Incorporate 2026’s Top Paint Colour Trends into Your Home
Now that you know the key players, how do you make these paint colour trends work in your space? Here are some inspiring interior colour schemes and paint colour combinations.
1. The Earthy & Serene Scheme:
Base: Use Universal Khaki (Sherwin-Williams) on your main walls.
Accent: Introduce an accent wall in Warm Eucalyptus (predicted green) or Broccoli Brown(Farrow & Ball).
Trim: Keep trim and ceilings crisp with a warm white to balance the depth.
2. The Rich & Dramatic Scheme:
Feature Wall: Paint a focal wall in Silhouette (Benjamin Moore) or Divine Damson (Graham & Brown).
Complement: Pair these deep shades with lighter, warm neutrals like "Lemon Chiffon" (from Sherwin-Williams' collection) or a soft peachy white like "Naperon" on adjacent walls.
Technique: For the ultimate bold move, try colour drenching a small room like a powder room or study in Etruscan Red or Divine Damson for an immersive experience.
3. The Modern & Airy Scheme:
Main Colour: If you love the predicted Transformative Teal, use it in a well-lit living area or as a stunning bathroom paint colour.
Pairing: Balance its brightness with plenty of natural wood tones, black metal accents, and off-white textiles.
The Future of Colour is Intentional
The paint colour trends for 2026 are a clear reflection of our times: a search for stability, a connection to nature, and a desire for homes that tell a personal story. From the grounding neutrals of Universal Khaki to the sophisticated depth of Silhouette and the optimistic predictions of teal and green, there is a colour for every mood and mission.
As you plan your next project, let these trends inspire you to choose wall colour combinations that aren't just beautiful, but that truly resonate with how you want to live and feel in your space. The best interior paint colours are the ones that make your house feel authentically like home.
