Behr Just Revealed Its 2026 Color of the Year—and It’s the Most Versatile Shade Yet

If you follow interior design trends, you know that the past few years have been all about curating a warm, inviting space that inspires connection. This year is no different, as evidenced by Behr's 2026 Color of the Year—Hidden Gem (N430-6A), a smoky jade that strikes the perfect balance between blue and green.

Hidden Gem is part of Behr’s 2026 Color Trends Palette, a collection of trend-forward colors that reflect a shift toward embracing warmth and comfort while being subtly playful. The palette consists of relaxed pastels, grounding earth tones, and deep jewel tones, like Hidden Gem.

This dynamic, silky hue creates environments that feel both grounded and energizing, encouraging a more personal relationship with your home. Hidden Gem infuses spaces with color and depth without overwhelming them, allowing it to act as a neutral in any area.

"Now more than ever, there’s a growing appetite for colors that challenge convention and bring an unexpected sense of wonder to everyday spaces," said Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services at Behr Paint. "Hidden Gem captures that spirit in both name and color—its depth and refinement meets the desire for colors that are eternally stunning and stylish."

One of the best aspects of Hidden Gem is its versatility. Whether you're tackling a big project like painting your kitchen cabinets or something smaller like giving your front door a face lift, Hidden Gem is a color you can depend on no matter the application.

According to Woelfel there are "endless ways" to use this color in and around the home, such as by color drenching all four walls, painting a kitchen island, or even coating the ceiling. One of her favorite applications for homeowners who are hesitant to experiment with color is painting the guest bathroom. "I know that sometimes people aren't sure how to use bold or more dramatic color, but using it in a small way and then expanding out from there is a great way to start," she said.

Hidden Gem's versatility is also showcased when considering which colors, finishes, and materials to pair it with. For those who prefer a modern, sleek aesthetic, this color looks beautiful alongside brass hardware and marble. If you crave a space that feels organic and natural, the Behr team also notes that it works well with lighter wood tones.

Manuella Moreira, interior designer and host of the Design Unscripted podcast, recommends experimenting with different finishes of the paint itself. She notes that using a high gloss versus a matte finish creates a bold, reflective, and dimensional atmosphere, especially in the dining room.

To help the brand decide on its 2026 Color of the Year, Behr conducted its own consumer research and found that 58 percent of Americans believe a room painted with Hidden Gem would be captivating, while 67 percent say the color would make a space feel unique.

"Color holds the power to express who you are—it tells your story without saying a word," said Andy Lopez, senior vice president, head of marketing at Behr Paint. "Hidden Gem empowers DIYers, designers, and paint professionals to craft spaces that are both purposeful and expressive—delivering lasting value through our high-quality products."