31-07-2025
Behr's 2026 Color Of The Year Is A Hidden Gem
The Behr 2026 Color of the Year: Hidden Gem was just announced, and it's a lush green that can be used in every room of your home. The color embraces nature, which those trying to create the perfect backyard entertaining space will appreciate.
Even if you plan on selling your home soon, Behr's Color of the Year: Hidden Gem is on the color spectrum of paint colors that increase resale value.
In this Forbes exclusive, I spoke with Behr's vice president of color services, Erika Woelfel to learn more about how the color was chosen and how you can incorporate it in your home.
How The Behr 2026 Color Of The Year Was Selected
'Behr selected Hidden Gem as the 2026 Color of the Year because it embodies the grounded sophistication and quiet confidence that today's homeowners and clients are seeking,' Woelfel says. She adds that this smoky jade brings a sense of balance and depth that feels both timeless and fresh.
'Hidden Gem represents the beauty of the unexpected, a color that reveals something new each time you see it.' Woelfel says the color's versatility makes it equally impactful whether covering all four walls or used as a striking accent. 'With its rich, layered tone, Hidden Gem invites us to reimagine familiar spaces in ways that feel elevated, intentional, and inspiring,' sheexplains.
Compared To Last Year
Last year's Color of the Year was 'Rumors,' a deep ruby red that Woelfel says brought warmth and rich allure to both interior and exterior spaces. 'It's a bold, captivating shade that made a strong statement wherever it was used.'
And this year's pick, Hidden Gem, continues in a similar spirit of timeless sophistication. 'While Rumors leaned into a dramatic, edgy energy, Hidden Gem offers a slightly more grounded elegance,' Woelfel explains She says it's a versatile and inspiring hue that reflects a growing desire for colors that are both livable and enduring.
In fact, a recent survey commissioned by Behr found that nearly four in five Americans (79%) would choose color palettes that will add timeless luxury over riskier, trendy colors if they were to paint their house (inside or out). Rumors is bold and edgy, while Hidden Gem stands the test of time. It's truly livable and inspiring for a wide range of homeowners. This tracks with a recent Houss report that reveals the colors to avoid when selling your home.
When asked what she likes most about Hidden Gem, Woelfel says it's how effortlessly the color captures a sense of understated elegance. 'It's a smoky jade that feels both grounded and alive,' she says. Woelfel loves that it's a dynamic blend of blue and green that brings depth and character to any space without overwhelming it.
'There's something truly special about a color that can be both subtle and striking, and Hidden Gem does exactly that.' The color can be used in any design style to great effect. 'Whether it's used throughout a room or as a bold accent, it creates an atmosphere that's rich, modern, and unexpectedly timeless' This is the kind of shade that uncovers beauty in the everyday and Woelfel says that's what the name Hidden Gem reflects.
'It's this versatility and emotional resonance that make Hidden Gem stand out. It invites people to reimagine their spaces in a way that feels fresh, personal, and enduring.'
Where The Color Of the Year Works Best
Hidden Gem is one of those colors that works well in a variety of setting. Woelfel says it can be applied both inside and outdoors. 'For a calming, restorative feel, try it in bedrooms or reading nooks, where its smoky jade tone creates a serene and grounded atmosphere.' And In living rooms or dining areas, she notes that it adds a sense of refined sophistication, while in home offices or creative spaces, it encourages focus with a stylish, composed presence. For exteriors, Hidden Gem makes an elegant statement on a front door or painted outdoor furniture.
Woelfel recommends embracing it on all four walls for a bold, immersive look, or use it as an accent (on cabinetry, a feature wall, it even looks great on ceilings, for a pop of color that's both subtle and striking.
However or wherever it is applie Woelfel says Hidden Gem brings a fresh sense of elegance and thoughtful reinvention to every corner of the home.
Complementary Colors
Since Hidden Gem is a versatile hue, it pairs well with a wide range of colors, making it a natural choice to debut alongside the 2026 Color Trends Palette. 'This thoughtfully curated collection features approachable, adaptable shades designed to pair effortlessly with Hidden Gem.'With 88% of Americans saying they want to focus on home improvement projects that will make their homes feel more personalized, this versatile palette arrives at the perfect moment by offering an inspiring answer to the growing demand for self-expression through color.'
She say Hidden Gem's smoky jade tone is an ideal companion for both warm and cool tones. For a grounded, natural feel, it works seamlessly with earthy accents like Terra Cotta Urn (mudroom shot), creating an invigorating and welcoming atmosphere. To create relaxed harmony, pairing it with a light soothing hue like Urban Nature (bedroom closet door shot) brings balance and a refreshing contrast. For a more dramatic color blocking look, combine Hidden Gem with deep jewel tones like Curtain Call to create a bold, luxurious space (see shelf and counter detail shot).
'No matter the combination, Hidden Gem brings depth without drama, and sophistication without pretense. It's a reminder that transformation doesn't always have to be bold to be impactful,: Woelfel concludes.
