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Is the era of safe, subdued color palettes finally coming to an end? One thing is clear: Interior designers are ready for a shift. Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year, Cloud Dancer, may be stepping into the spotlight, but we asked design pros for their thoughts — and they did not disappoint.
Our editors surveyed a whopping 140 professionals for Apartment Therapy’s The State of Home Design, in which they revealed where color trends are truly headed in 2026. Designers’ predictions signal the industry’s shift towards unexpected pairings and a renewed appetite for hues with personality.
Below, the most harmonious color combinations designers say you’ll be seeing everywhere this year.
The 5 Trendiest Color Combos of 2026
Sage and terracotta won over more than 30% of the designers we polled, making this the color combo we’re watching out for in 2026. Designer Sara Swabb of Washington, D.C.-based Storie Collective used the pairing perfectly in the stunning office space above, complemented by a green rug and pops of light blue.
This pairing hits the sweet spot between cozy and collected; it’s soft enough to feel calm, but warm in that it brings a little spirit back into any room. Expect to see the duo pop up in everything from accent walls to ceramics as people lean into palettes that feel grounded and fresh.
Butter Yellow and Aubergine
In second place in our exclusive survey, 26% of designers pointed to butter yellow and aubergine as the standout pairing for 2026. Butter yellow’s staying power isn’t surprising because it has shown up across many spaces this year, from interiors to fashion to beauty. When paired with a deep aubergine, the shade takes on a whole new dimension. The mix feels unexpectedly luxe and a touch regal, creating a bold contrast that instantly elevates any room.
Our survey found that 17% of designers believe that rich blue (a close navy blue cousin!) and neutral tan will make a strong showing next year. The combo blends depth with approachability, grounding a room in saturated color while keeping aesthetics light and easy. Samantha C. Arak of Boston-based Samantha Carey Interiors knocked it out of the park in this space, with accents of Farrow & Ball’s Stiffkey Blue creating an eye-catching contrast.
Mint green and burgundy captured 14% of designers’ votes, offering a fresh take on contrast. The soft, airy feel of mint balances the richness of burgundy, creating a look that’s both playful and sophisticated. It’s a pairing that works in unexpected ways, from statement furniture to layered textiles.
At 2% pink and green might not be a full-on “trend” yet, but we’re still loving the combo. Wicked fans, you’re in luck — this playful pairing brings a cheerful, dramatic energy to a space. Designer Abigail Horace of Casa Marcelo expertly emphasizes the playfulness of the combination with the youthful, pattern-packed room shown above.
Beyond these specific pairings, 10% of survey participants listed “other” color combinations, noting that warm browns, walnut, and plum may also dominate design inspiration feeds in 2026.
In my opinion, the most significant takeaway for 2026 is the appeal of pairing muted, lighter tones with rich, darker hues. Whether it’s sage and terracotta or butter yellow and aubergine, these contrasts create spaces that feel sensible, layered, and visually striking.
