2026's Hottest Paint Colours Are Here

Harrison Rose • 7 January 2026

Transform Your Home With the Shades Designers Are Backing

If you’re planning a home refresh in 2026, this year’s colour trends are all about depth, warmth, and quiet luxury — a perfect match for homeowners who want a space that feels both modern and timeless. Paint experts and interior designers are predicting a palette that blends earthy grounding tones with bold, expressive hues, giving you more creative freedom than ever. 


Below, you’ll find the standout colours for 2026, why they work, and direct links to explore each shade.

1. DARK REDS & BURGUNDY TONES

Why they're trending:


Designers say dark reds are continuing their rise from 2025 into 2026, offering richness, drama, and a sense of heritage luxury. These shades create cocooning, atmospheric rooms — perfect for dining rooms, lounges, and feature walls.


Try these 2026-ready shades:

Graham-&-Brown-Divine-Damson
Lick-Red-03-Burgundy-Tones

Best for:


Premium, character‑rich interiors that feel expressive and sophisticated..

2. OCEAN-INSPIRED BLUES

Why they're trending:


Blue remains one of the most versatile and calming colours in interior design. For 2026, brands are leaning into oceanic tones — from soft breezy blues to deep, moody marine shades. Dulux even released a trio of blues as their Colour of the Year collection.


Try these 2026-ready shades:

Dulux-Free-Groove
Dulux-Mellow-Flow
Slow-Swing-Dulux

Best for:


North‑facing rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, and any space where calmness is key.

3. EARTHY GREENS

Why they're trending:


Greens have been rising for years, but 2026 is the year they officially become the new neutral. Think soft olive, sage‑tinted hues, and plant‑inspired tones that pair beautifully with natural materials like wood and linen.


Try these 2026-ready shades:

Farrow-&-Ball-French-Gray
Little-Greene-Sage-Green

Best for:


Kitchens, living rooms, cabinetry, and spaces where you want a grounded, restorative feel.

4. MOODY BROWNS WITH CHARACTER

Why they're trending:


Warm browns dominated 2025, but 2026 takes them deeper — think chocolate, espresso, and mushroom tones. These colours add heritage character and pair beautifully with brass, timber, and textured fabrics.


Try these 2026-ready shades:

Farrow-&-Ball-London-Clay
Earthborn-Crocky-Road

Best for:


Snugs, studies, panelling, and intimate spaces.

5. PLUM & AUBERGINE SHADES

Why they're trending:


Plum tones offer elegant depth without overpowering a room. They’re perfect for creating a sense of quiet luxury — a major theme for 2026 interiors.


Try these 2026-ready shades:

Dulux-Purple-Pout
Little-Greene-Purpleheart

Best for:


Bedrooms, dining rooms, and any space where you want a cocooning, immersive feel.

WHY CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLOUR AND THE RIGHT FINISH MATTERS

Trends are inspiring — but the real transformation comes from professional preparation and application. A premium finish doesn’t just look better on day one; it stays looking better for years.


That's where expert decorating makes all the difference. At Harrison Rose, we are experienced, professional painter and decorators based in Letchworth Garden City, working across Hitchin, Welwyn Garden City, and surrounding Hertfordshire. We specialise in high-quality interior and exterior decorating for homes and small businesses.


What makes us different?


  • Attention to detail – sharp lines, smooth finishes, no shortcuts.
  • Reliable & tidy – we treat every home with the same care as our own.
  • Excellent service – our customers matter to us and your happiness is our priority!


READY TO LOVE YOUR HOME AGAIN?

If you’re ready for a fresh new look without the stress of DIY, I’d love to help. Whether it’s one room, your whole house, or even the outside of your property, I can take care of it.


Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote.

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