Top Interior and Exterior House Painting Trends to Watch in 2026

Absolute Property Services
Jan 4
4 min read

Painting a home is one of the most effective ways to refresh its look and protect its surfaces. As 2026 approaches, new trends are shaping how homeowners and professionals approach both interior and exterior painting projects. These trends reflect evolving tastes, advances in paint technology, and a growing focus on sustainability. Whether you plan to update a single room or give your entire house a makeover, understanding these trends can help you make choices that are stylish, practical, and long-lasting.

Interior House Painting Trends for 2026

Warm and Earthy Colour Palettes

In 2026, warm and earthy tones will dominate interior walls. Shades like terracotta, warm beige, soft olive, and muted mustard create cozy, inviting spaces. These colours work well in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms, offering a natural feel that connects indoor spaces with the outdoors.

Terracotta walls paired with cream or off-white trim add warmth without overwhelming a room.
Olive green accents bring a subtle touch of nature indoors.
Muted mustard can brighten spaces like dining rooms or home offices without being too bold.

Matte and Soft Sheen Finishes

Glossy finishes are giving way to matte and soft sheen paints. These finishes reduce glare and create a smooth, sophisticated look. They also help hide wall imperfections better than high gloss.

Matte finishes work well in bedrooms and living areas for a calm atmosphere.
Soft sheen is ideal for kitchens and bathrooms where some moisture resistance is needed, but a subtle shine is preferred.

Accent Walls with Texture

Accent walls remain popular but with a twist: texture. Textured paints or techniques like sponge painting, rag rolling, or plaster effects add depth and interest without relying solely on colour.

A textured accent wall in a neutral tone can become a focal point in a minimalist room.
Combining texture with bold colours like deep navy or forest green creates a dramatic effect.

Sustainable and Low-VOC Paints

More homeowners are choosing paints with low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to improve indoor air quality. These paints are safer for families and pets and have less environmental impact.

Brands are offering a wider range of colours in eco-friendly formulas.
Look for certifications like GreenTag Certified when selecting paints.

Two-Tone and Colour Blocking

Using two or more colours on walls is gaining traction. This can be done through horizontal or vertical colour blocking or by painting the upper and lower parts of walls in different shades.

A popular approach is painting the lower half of a wall in a darker colour and the upper half in a lighter shade.
This technique adds visual interest and can make rooms feel taller or cozier, depending on the colours used.

Exterior House

Painting Trends for 2026

Earth-Inspired Neutrals with Bold Accents

Exterior colour schemes are shifting toward earth-inspired neutrals like sandy beige, warm taupe, and soft grey. These colours blend well with natural surroundings and weather gracefully.

Homeowners are pairing these neutrals with bold accent colours on shutters, doors, or trim.
Deep navy, forest green, or charcoal black are popular choices for accents that add contrast and curb appeal.

Durable and Weather-Resistant Paints

Advances in paint technology mean exterior paints are more durable and resistant to fading, cracking, and mildew. These improvements extend the life of paint jobs and reduce maintenance.

Acrylic latex paints with UV protection are widely recommended.
Some paints now include self-cleaning properties that help keep surfaces looking fresh longer.

Dark Trim and Doors

Dark trim and front doors continue to be a strong trend. Black, charcoal, and deep blue trims frame homes elegantly and highlight architectural details.

Pairing dark trim with light-colored siding creates a striking contrast.
Dark doors invite a sense of sophistication and make entrances stand out.

Natural Wood Finishes and Stains

Instead of painting, many homeowners are opting for natural wood finishes or stains on exterior features like decks, pergolas, and siding accents.

Transparent or semi-transparent stains protect wood while showcasing its grain.
Combining painted surfaces with natural wood adds texture and warmth.

Two-Tone Exterior Walls

Similar to interiors, two-tone exteriors are becoming more common. This can involve painting the main body of the house one colour and the upper story or architectural features another.

A popular combination is a light neutral base with a darker colour on gables.
This technique adds dimension and highlights the home’s structure.

Practical Tips for Choosing Paint in 2026

Test Colours in Different Lighting

Colours can look very different depending on natural and artificial light. Test paint samples on walls or exterior sections at various times of day before committing.

Consider the Home’s Style and Surroundings

Choose colours that complement your home’s architecture and blend well with the neighbourhood and landscape.

Prioritise Quality and Preparation

Invest in high-quality paints and proper surface preparation. This ensures better coverage, durability, and a smoother finish.

Use Paint to Highlight Features

Use contrasting colours to emphasise architectural details like window frames, shutters, and trim.

Plan for Maintenance

Select paints that are easy to clean and maintain, especially for exterior surfaces exposed to weather.

Final Thoughts on Painting Trends for 2026

The painting trends for 2026 focus on creating comfortable, natural spaces with a balance of colour and texture. Warm earthy tones, matte finishes, and sustainable paints are shaping interiors, while durable, weather-resistant paints and thoughtful colour combinations define exteriors. By choosing colours and finishes that suit your home’s style and environment, you can achieve a fresh look that lasts.