Sherwin-Williams
In recent years, we’ve been discussing the resurgence of interior design, as it recovers from the reign of hyper-minimalism in home decor trends. We’ve observed a surge in textures, patterns, and vivid hues across homes, a reaction to the previous reign of neutral palettes. Yet, as with all trends, they eventually come full circle. According to the color and design experts at Sherwin-Williams, next year promises a return to neutral tones in home interiors—specifically, one neutral paint color. The paint company, along with its sister brand, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, has named Universal Khaki as the Color of the Year for 2026. This is a warm, mid-tone tan with a subtle yellow hue.
“I understand that it might seem unexpected to have a neutral color as the Color of the Year, but for numerous reasons, we believe it’s the perfect choice for 2026,” comments Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “We’re deeply committed to essentialism and seeing design explore a multitude of directions. We aim to bring the focus back to simplicity, to quiet the noise, and to concentrate on what’s truly essential in design.”
In conjunction with the Color of the Year announcement, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams has also introduced the 2026 Color Collection of the Year, which includes Universal Khaki and nine additional harmonious shades. Stay tuned for more information on the Color of the Year and the Honest Essentials collection.
Sherwin-Williams
Universal Khaki was selected as a color that offers a calming respite from the chaos of the outside world. “With so much sociopolitical turmoil, people need sanctuary spaces, and I believe this color can provide that in a unique and engaging way,” explains Wadden. Although khaki is a more understated neutral, it presents a fresh alternative to the standard white and beige neutrals when compared to bolder statement colors.
“Designing for so long, we haven’t really discussed khakis since the 90s, so it feels like a fresh and timely idea to reintroduce this color,” she adds.
Ashley Banbury, Color Marketing Manager for HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, also notes that the choice of Universal Khaki reflects a growing trend among consumers to design with longevity in mind.
“People are seeking a home color that stands the test of time, something versatile that can complement any style. Universal Khaki serves as that foundational color,” Banbury remarks.
Naturally, Universal Khaki can serve as a unifying color across the home or be used as a soothing accent to offset richer shades.
HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams
Universal Khaki was the cornerstone for the 2026 Color of the Year Collection by HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams. The collection is predominantly composed of warm neutral tones, including Cordovan, a rich burgundy red, Reddened Earth, a soft terracotta, Lemon Chiffon, a creamy yellow, and Griffin, a charcoal brown. The collection is completed with two cool-toned blues, Still Water and Hazel, and an earthy green, Secret Garden.
Banbury emphasizes that intentionality was a key inspiration for this color collection. “We’re seeing a strong trend towards minimalism and clean lines, with people preferring to introduce color in a considered manner that feels serene and sophisticated. We’re thrilled about this palette,” Banbury states.
Nostalgia also played a part in the creation of this palette. “We’ve noticed this nostalgia trend reemerging, with people gravitating towards colors that are familiar yet uplifting,” Banbury notes.
