The Color Journal
Expert guides on paint colors, cross-brand matching, color trends, and interior design tips.
Paint Color Trends 2026: What Designers Are Predicting
From earthy greens to warm mushroom tones, these are the paint color trends defining 2026 — drawn from the 2026 Color of the Year picks across five major brands and search data from our 25,000+ color database.
The Best Exterior Paint Colors to Boost Curb Appeal
Exterior paint has to work with your roof, your trim, and full sun — conditions that change how colors look compared to interior swatches. These are the colors that hold up outdoors, with specific pairing advice for every architectural style.
15 Best Bathroom Paint Colors That Handle Humidity (2026)
The best bathroom paint colors for 2026 — from spa blues and warm earth tones to dramatic jewel shades. Every pick handles humidity, and we explain which finish and formulation to use.
The 15 Best Kitchen Paint Colors for 2026
From crisp whites that survive daily scrubbing to moody greens taking over cabinetry in 2026, these are the kitchen paint colors that hold up in real kitchens — with specific LRV values, finish guidance, and application tips.
15 Best Dining Room Paint Colors for Every Style (2026)
The best dining room paint colors for 2026 — from bold jewel tones to warm earth tones and elegant neutrals. Includes specific colors from Sherwin-Williams, Benjamin Moore, Behr, and Valspar with hex codes and pairing tips.
12 Best Behr Paint Colors for Bedrooms (2026 Picks)
The best Behr bedroom paint colors for 2026 — from calming blues and soft greens to warm neutrals — with real pricing, sheen advice, and CIEDE2000 cross-brand matches.
2026 Colors of the Year: Every Major Brand Compared
See every major paint brand's 2026 Color of the Year side by side — from earthy greens to warm neutrals — with closest cross-brand matches.
