2026 Paint Color of the Year Picks: Benjamin Moore vs. Sherwin-Williams

As we kick off January 2026, two of the biggest names in paint; Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams, have unveiled their Colors of the Year, setting the tone for interiors, exterior architecture, fashion, and lifestyle spaces in the year ahead. While both selections lean into neutral territory, each brand brings its own distinct design philosophy from timeless refinement to grounded simplicity.

Benjamin Moore 2026 Color of the Year: Silhouette AF-655

Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year is Silhouette AF-655, a sophisticated neutral that blends rich espresso brown with soft charcoal undertones. This hue strikes a balance between warmth and depth — rooted in classic elegance yet thoroughly modern.

Style & Inspiration

Silhouette is inspired by fashion’s timeless tailoring — think perfectly cut suiting and understated sophistication. According to Benjamin Moore’s color experts, this shade embodies “refinement and distinction” and signals a renewed appreciation for earthy, grounded hues in interior spaces.

How It Works in Interiors

• Statement walls: Silhouette can anchor a space with dramatic warmth, especially in living rooms or dining areas.

• Layered palettes: It pairs beautifully with lighter neutrals like Swiss Coffee and soft greens or can be contrasted with richer colors from Benjamin Moore’s Color Trends 2026 palette.

• Versatile use: Equally striking on cabinetry, entryways, or accent walls, the tone feels both cozy and refined.

Sherwin-Williams 2026 Color of the Year: Universal Khaki SW 6150

Sherwin-Williams’ pick for 2026 is Universal Khaki SW 6150 — a warm, mid-tone neutral with a slight yellow-beige undertone that’s both inviting and versatile.

What Makes It Special

Universal Khaki is built around timeless simplicity and versatility, celebrated for its ability to blend effortlessly with a range of styles, from classic to contemporary. The hue doesn’t command attention on its own but instead acts as a foundation color that enhances the overall harmony of a room.

Design Uses

• Flexible foundation: Works seamlessly with wood tones, texture-rich textiles, and natural materials like rattan or stone.

• Layering neutrals: Pair with crisp whites, soft greens, or muted blues for a serene but layered look.

• Every room ready: Ideal for living spaces, kitchens, and bedrooms where comfort and continuity matter.

Side-by-Side: Design Philosophy

What This Means for 2026 Design

2026 is shaping up to be less about bold, trendy hues and more about colors that feel lived in tones that support wellbeing, comfort, and spaces we want to spend time in. Both Silhouette and Universal Khaki embrace earth-centric palettes that foster warmth without overwhelming a space, a shift away from stark whites and cool minimalism toward nuanced, human-centered design interiors.