Paint Colour Trends for 2026: The Shades Set to Shape Our Homes Next Year
As we head into the new year, many of us start thinking about refreshing our homes, and colour is always one of the simplest, most powerful ways to transform a space. So what shades will be inspiring interiors in 2026?
Designers and colour specialists are predicting a palette that blends grounding earth tones with bold, expressive hues. It’s a year where personality takes centre stage, and confidence with colour truly comes into its own.
Here’s a look at the colours set to define interiors in 2026.
1. Earthy Greens: The New Neutrals
Greens have been rising in popularity for several years, but 2026 is the year they move firmly into the “neutral” category.
Rather than bright botanicals, the upcoming trend leans into gentler, muddier greens, think soft olive, sage-tinted neutrals, and natural plant-inspired hues. These shades bring a calming, restorative feel, and pair beautifully with natural materials like wood, linen, and stone.
Expect to see these subtle greens used everywhere: on kitchen cabinetry, living room walls, and even joinery, offering a grounded alternative to grey.
2. Moody Browns With Character
Warm, golden browns dominated 2025, but next year the palette deepens. Rich, earthy browns with hints of green, red, or grey are set to take centre stage.
These deeper tones feel more heritage-inspired, adding atmosphere without overpowering the room. They work particularly well on woodwork, panelled walls, or in smaller spaces where intimacy is the goal, think smaller rooms, studies, and snug reading corners.
Chocolate, espresso and soft mushroom-brown shades will feature heavily, reflecting a shift towards timeless, crafted interiors.
3. Wine Reds: Rich, Layered and Sophisticated
Reds are evolving too, moving away from bright primary tones and into deep, wine-inspired hues.
Burgundy, claret, and plum-reds create a luxurious, cocooning atmosphere and pair beautifully with warm timbers, brushed brass and textured fabrics. These colours can be used on a feature wall, but 2026 encourages confidence: whole-room colour drenching will be a standout trend.
Blending reds with soft olives, muted greens or even a dusty blue can create a scheme that feels both classic and contemporary.
4. Plum & Aubergine: Elegant Depth
If you’re drawn to rich, understated drama, then the rise of dark plum tones will be music to your ears.
These aubergine-inspired shades add depth without being overpowering. They’re perfect for dining rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms where you want a feeling of calm, comfort and quiet luxury. Used on walls and woodwork together, these colours create a beautifully immersive space.
They also offer a more sophisticated alternative to black or charcoal, still dramatic, but softer and warmer.
5. Raspberry Pinks: Bold, Playful Accents
2026 will also see a resurgence of brighter, more joyful pinks.
Not the pale “millennial pinks” of years gone by, but fuller, richer raspberry shades that lift a scheme instantly. They’re perfect for injecting energy into kitchens, hallways or creative spaces, and pair surprisingly well with deep reds, warm neutrals and earthy greens.
For anyone wanting a small but impactful update, this is a trend to watch.
6. Teal: The Colour of the Year
Teal is set to be one of the defining colours of 2026.
Deep teal shades offer a beautiful balance of richness and calm, bold enough to make a statement, yet soft enough to suit almost any room. We’ll see everything from intense, blackened teals to lighter, more serene blue-greens.
Designers love teal for its versatility: it works equally well in traditional homes with panelled details or in modern, minimalist spaces.
7. Shades of Indigo & Navy: A Blue Revival
Blue is making a strong comeback next year, with indigo and inky navy leading the way.
These hues feel both timeless and contemporary, bringing a sense of sophistication to interiors. Expect to see layered blue schemes that evoke depth, much like indigo-dyed textiles, or paired with warm tones like terracotta, burnt orange and burgundy for a subtle 70s-inspired feel.
Whether used sparingly or embraced on all four walls, dark blues create a space that feels enveloping and serene.
Why These Trends Matter
The common thread running through all 2026 colour trends? Emotion.
Next year’s palette is less about what’s “on trend” and more about what feels personal, expressive and comforting. Homeowners are gravitating towards colours that tell a story, shades inspired by nature, heritage craftsmanship, and a desire to make our homes feel truly ours.
Whether you’re decorating your new Stancliffe home or simply refreshing a favourite room, these colours offer endless ways to create warmth, character and creativity.