What Did the No. 1 Coatings Company Choose as Its 2026 Color of the Year?
Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams announced Universal Khaki as their unified 2026 Color of the Year. The shade was chosen for its calming simplicity and ability to serve as a warm, restorative neutral across a variety of applications.
Universal Khaki (SW 6150) was selected by the company’s Global Trendsight Team as part of the Colormix Forecast 2026, Anthology: Volume Two. “Khaki is more than just a neutral—it's a timeless, go-anywhere shade that brings a sense of grounded elegance to any space,” said Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. “With its warm, earthy undertones, Universal Khaki SW 6150 effortlessly complements a wide range of colors, creating a rich, inviting backdrop that can transform an entire design with quiet confidence.”
Credit: Sherwin-WilliamsThe hue is featured in Palette No. 4, Foundational Neutrals, which also includes complementary shades such as White Snow, Cream and Sugar, Lemon Chiffon, Henna Shade, and Garden Gate.
HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams also announced Honest Essentials as its 2026 Color Collection of the Year. Anchored by Universal Khaki, the 10-color set blends earth-inspired neutrals, bold accents, and nature-influenced tones. “The Honest Essentials collection is a reflection of consumer desire for clean lines, minimalist decor and a more intentional approach to design and life,” said Ashley Banbury, color marketing manager of HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams.
The palette includes warm neutrals like Griffin, Creamy, and Neutral Ground, rich accents such as Cordovan and Reddened Earth, and balanced shades like Secret Garden, Still Water, and Hazel, finished with Lemon Chiffon for brightness.
Universal Khaki and the Honest Essentials collection are available across Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams product lines, including Infinity, Everlast, and Cabinet & Furniture paints. Both brands noted the colors are designed to bring versatility, warmth, and authenticity to projects in residential and commercial spaces.
Learn more about the 2026 Color Collection of the Year.
Learn more about design trends in architectural coatings.
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