Every year, colour experts around the world set the tone for design, interiors and lifestyle with their Colour of the Year announcements, and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most interesting yet. From soothing blues to a calming, subtle white, the colours that designers are championing this year give us insight into what’s on trend and what buyers may be drawn to when viewing or styling a home.
Dulux: Rhythm of the Blues
For 2026, Dulux has gone bold with an inspiring family of indigo blues as their Colours of the Year. The palette - coined “The Rhythm of Blues” - includes three key shades:
- Free Groove™ - a vibrant, energising blue
- Mellow Flow™ - a soft, calming sky tone
- Slow Swing™ - a deep, meditative, grounding blue
Together, these shades capture a desire for connection, creativity and calm within the home. Whether used individually or layered together, they can transform spaces from restful bedrooms to uplifting living rooms and inspired work-from-home areas.
Interior designers are already embracing blues as a core trend for 2026 because they balance comfort and personality - they’re emotive without being overwhelming, and they integrate beautifully with natural materials and both modern and traditional interiors.
Pantone: Cloud Dancer - A Fresh Canvas for 2026
Pantone’s pick for Colour of the Year 2026 might surprise some - instead of a bold hue, they’ve chosen a soft, balanced white called Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201). This is the first time Pantone has selected a white shade since the programme began.
But this isn’t just “white” in a plain sense - it’s a calm, ethereal tone designed to evoke clarity, serenity and renewal. According to colour experts, Cloud Dancer reflects a broader cultural desire to simplify, reset and build spaces that feel peaceful rather than chaotic.
In homes, it works beautifully as:
- A neutral backdrop that highlights architectural details
- A shade that makes spaces feel light and expansive
- A partnering tone to richer colours like Dulux’s blues
What This Means for Homeowners
Together, these colour directions point to a few key trends we’re likely to see in interiors and property styling in 2026:
- Calm & Comfort Sell
Buyers are drawn to homes that feel like a haven - colours that feel restful (like Slow Swing or Cloud Dancer) can enhance perceived space and create an emotional sense of peace. - Statement & Personality Still Matter
While calm tones take centre stage, richer blues - especially Free Groove - give homeowners a way to add personality that’s modern without feeling dated. - Neutrals That Work Harder
Cloud Dancer isn’t a cold white, it’s a shade that adapts to light and enhances other tones, making it ideal for open-plan living - a key selling point in many properties. - Colour as a Selling Tool
Homes that use trending, but tasteful colour schemes can feel more contemporary in marketing photos and viewings, helping them stand out in a crowded market.
Tips for Using 2026 Colours in Your Home
- Feature walls in Mellow Flow™ or Slow Swing™ can create focal points in lounges or bedrooms.
- Cloud Dancer walls or trim bring a subtle brightness without starkness - excellent for kitchens and living spaces.
- Layer blue tones with natural wood and textiles for spaces that feel both modern and warm.
- Use richer blues sparingly in smaller spaces like hallways or studies to add depth without overwhelming.
In Summary
2026’s colour trends are about balance - serenity with personality, calm with character. Whether you’re preparing your home for sale, staging for a viewing or simply considering a refresh, understanding these wider design trends can help you make choices that feel both timeless and timely.
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