Behr Names Hidden Gem Its 2026 Color of the Year

Every year, Behr Paint commissions a survey of consumers for their color choices. According to the survey, 82% of Americans say paint colors in one’s home have the power to impact one’s confidence.

Behr Paint’s selection of Hidden Gem as its 2026 Color of the Year fits the results of the survey quite nicely. Erika Woelfel, VP of color and creative services at Behr Paint, says that Hidden Gem is a deep, smoky jade that sits right on the harmonious balance between blue and green.

“It’s a color that’s both subtle and striking, making a statement without being overwhelming,” Woelfel notes. “Inside, it really shines in spaces where you want to create a calm, yet captivating atmosphere—think a dining room, a study, or even a powder room. Outside, Hidden Gem can provide a rich, sophisticated look on a front door or as an accent on shutters, making a home feel both welcoming and unique.”

The survey responders apparently agree with the selection of Hidden Gem: More than half say that a room painted with Hidden Gem would be captivating, while 67% say Hidden Gem would make a space feel unique. In addition, 66% say that Hidden Gem creates a sense of peace in their home and will stand the test of time.

Woelfel points out that selecting the Color of the Year is a comprehensive process with extensive research of looking at what’s happening across various industries, from fashion and art to travel and technology.

“Hidden Gem was selected because it’s the perfect culmination of what we’re seeing in the market and what homeowners are looking for,” she adds. “People have been gravitating toward deep, moody hues, but they’re also wanting to feel a sense of comfort and timelessness.

“Hidden Gem offers that perfect blend,” Woelfel notes. “It’s an approachable, nature-inspired color that feels familiar, yet it’s being presented in a new and exciting way. It speaks to a growing desire for colors that are eternally stunning and stylish, moving beyond quick trends to create spaces with lasting value.”

Last year, Behr Paint went bold with Rumors, a deep ruby red, as its 2025 Color of the Year. Woelfel says that Hidden Gem absolutely continues that trend.

“We’ve seen a shift from cooler grays to warmer neutrals and now to a desire for more saturated, but still comfortable, colors,” Woelfel says. “Last year’s selection, Rumors, was a bold, expressive red that tapped into a desire for energy and vitality. Hidden Gem continues this trend of embracing color with confidence, but it does so in a more grounded, serene way.

“Hidden Gem and Rumors are a great example of how different colors can create a dynamic palette, and together the colors work well with navy, mustard gold, terra cotta, neutral pink and creamy white,” she adds. “Rumors, with its deep ruby red, brings a powerful, energetic statement, while Hidden Gem offers a grounding presence. The combination of colors is unexpected, but it works beautifully.”

Woelfel observes that the two colors are both jewel tones, which have come to the forefront of fashion and design.

“There is a desire to use richer, bolder colors in the home, moving away from the more muted palettes that have been popular in recent years,” she says. “This shift in color preference is evident in our selection of Hidden Gem and Rumors as our past two Color of the Years.”

Hidden Gem is a part of the BEHR® 2026 Color Trends Palette, a collection that reflects a shift toward warmth, comfort, and playfulness. The palette consists of earth tones, deep jewel hues, and relaxed pastels.

“Our 2026 Color Trends palette reflects what homeowners are looking for: it’s all about finding that perfect balance between comfort and expression,” says Woelfel. “The palette is a curated collection of deep jewel tones to earthy tones that all feel incredibly approachable. It embraces colors that feel lived-in and luxurious.”

All of this confirms the survey results, which show that selecting colors that impart a timeless luxury is preferable to trendier, riskier colors.

“Color holds the power to express who you are—it tells your story without saying a word,” says Andy Lopez, SVP, head of global marketing at Behr Paint Company. “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.”

“This result is a testament to the fact that homeowners are making long-term investments in their spaces,” Woelfel concludes. “They aren’t just looking for something that’s ‘in’ right now; they want colors that will stand the test of time and add value to their home. Timeless luxury is about making thoughtful choices that feel personal and enduring.”