Designer Color Trends for 2026: The Hues Professionals Are Embracing and Avoiding
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PublishedJan 8, 2026 12:00 PM EST
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A reliable way to identify color trends is to consult the professionals who work with them most closely: designers. Fixr did precisely that in its newly released trend report, which gathered input from 86 designers across a range of topics. As part of the survey, the professionals revealed the hues they are excited to work with this year—and the one they nearly all agree is outdated. If you find yourself surrounded by a mountain of swatches, consider this guidance.
What’s Out: Millennial Gray and Cool Tones
The overwhelming consensus is that “Millennial Gray” (effectively, any cool-tone gray) is out—93% of designers agreed. The majority also advised steering clear of cool whites in interiors, as well as bright colors, specifically primary hues (23%), chalky pastels (20%), and dark browns (13%). This aligns with leaving stark minimalism and impersonal, builder-grade design behind. Accent walls are also a thing of the past, according to 38% of those surveyed.
What’s In: Restorative Greens and Nature-Infused Neutrals
Now that the colors professionals are avoiding are clear, consider what they find compelling. Restorative greens were a favorite among the group (66%), followed by nature-infused neutrals (59%), deep browns and khaki (56%), and golden earth tones (26%). For more specific direction, designers also revealed the particular paint colors they are drawn to. Silhouette by Benjamin Moore is a brownish-grey that 38% of the group agreed will remain relevant for some time. Universal Khaki from Sherwin-Williams is a lighter option that 23% of professionals recommended. Rounding out the list, 14% of those surveyed suggested Hidden Gem from Behr, a beautiful sage-adjacent green that feels healing and hopeful.
Erika Owen
Contributor
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