2026 Paint Colors of the Year: Fresh Inspiration for Every Space

Color plays a major role in how a space feels. A fresh coat of paint can completely transform a room, setting the tone for how you experience it every day. Whether you want cozy and calm or bold and energizing, the right color can help you get there.

But paint is more than just design, it’s also one of the easiest ways to elevate your home’s value. Whether you’re refreshing your space for your own enjoyment or preparing to sell in the near future, paint is one of those high-impact updates that can instantly make a home feel brighter, cleaner, and more modern.

Each year, top paint brands release their Color of the Year, and 2026 is bringing a beautiful mix of tones, from rich jewel shades to grounding neutrals and calming greens. Whether you're planning a full refresh or just want to add a pop of personality, these colors are full of inspiration for your home.

Behr – Hidden Gem

If you love a bold statement, Hidden Gem is exactly what it sounds like. This vibrant jewel tone blends blue and green into a rich, energizing shade designed to bring creativity and confidence into any room.

Where it shines:

• Accent walls
• Home offices and creative spaces
• Powder rooms and laundry rooms
• Built-in cabinetry

This color is perfect if you want something unique, modern, and memorable.

Benjamin Moore – Silhouette

Silhouette is a deep charcoal tone with hints of warm brown, making it dramatic without being too harsh. It adds instant elegance and works beautifully as a bold neutral in both modern and traditional homes.

Where it shines:

• Dining rooms
• Bedrooms
• Statement fireplaces
• Exterior doors and trim

It’s the kind of shade that makes a room feel elevated and intentional.

Sherwin-Williams – Universal Khaki

For anyone who loves warm neutrals, Universal Khaki is timeless. It emphasizes balance, comfort, and livability, making it one of those “it works everywhere” colors.

Where it shines:

• Living rooms and main gathering spaces
• Hallways and open layouts
• Whole-home paint refreshes
• Homes that need a warm, cohesive feel

If you’re looking for a color that feels welcoming and universally appealing, this one is a great choice.

Valspar – Warm Eucalyptus

Inspired by mindful living and slowing down, Warm Eucalyptus is a soft, restorative green designed to bring serenity into your space. It’s calming, cozy, and incredibly versatile.

Where it shines:

• Bathrooms and spa-like spaces
• Bedrooms
• Kitchens (especially cabinets!)
• Reading nooks

This is a perfect shade for anyone wanting their home to feel peaceful and grounded.

Final Thoughts: A Small Update That Makes a Big Impact

Paint is one of the simplest, most affordable improvements you can make, and it can completely shift how a home feels. A fresh, modern color palette can make spaces look larger, brighter, and more inviting, and if you’re thinking about selling, it can help buyers connect emotionally the moment they walk in.

If you’re considering refreshing a space this year, we’d love to help! We can assist you with selecting the right color, connect you with trusted local painters, and even offer staging advice so your home feels its best. This is one of those easy, high-impact updates that truly pays off! 

Let us connect you 👉

Ph. 217.202.5999

Email - info@thegallivangroup.com