CLEVELAND, OH – September 24, 2025 – Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams jointly announced today that Universal Khaki has been selected as their 2026 Color of the Year. The warm, versatile hue is poised to influence design trends across homes nationwide, signaling a shift towards comforting, grounding palettes.
The collaboration marks the third year of the partnership between the paint manufacturer and the home improvement media brand. This year’s selection reflects a broader cultural movement towards simplicity, wellness, and creating spaces that foster a sense of calm.Universal Khaki’s adaptability-working seamlessly with a range of styles from modern to traditional-makes it an accessible choice for both homeowners and design professionals.
“We were really looking for a color that felt both familiar and fresh,” said Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams, in a statement. “Universal Khaki is incredibly versatile,and it really embodies that feeling of warmth and comfort that people are craving in their homes right now.”
HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams experts noted the color’s ability to serve as a neutral backdrop, allowing homeowners to express their individuality through accent colors and décor. The shade’s inherent sophistication also lends itself to both interior and exterior applications.
the 2026 Color of the Year was chosen by a team of color experts from both Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home, taking into account global design trends, consumer preferences, and cultural influences. Universal Khaki is available now at Sherwin-Williams stores and through HGTV home licensed products.
