Colour of the Year 2026: True Blue

Colour of the Year 2026: True Blue

The colour blue has always carried a quiet power. Calming yet invigorating, timeless yet versatile, it’s the shade that so many of us instinctively reach for when we want to bring both serenity and depth into a space. For 2026, blue is taking centre stage as the colour of choice for walls, fabrics and accents that feel both modern and enduring.

The Mood of Blue

Few colours can transform a room quite like blue. A whisper of Nesh (which we affectionately named after the Northern term being particularly susceptible to the cold) instantly opens up a space, evoking clear skies and fresh air. Deeper tones, like Jumbles or Smurf Blue, give a space a confident, modern edge, while bolder brights like A Bit O' Blue bring an unexpected jolt of energy.

Why It Works Right Now

  • Emotionally grounding: Blue is inherently calming, making it the perfect antidote to fast-paced modern living

  • Timeless yet flexible: Whether paired with neutrals for a soft, airy scheme or clashed with vibrant patterns for maximalist energy, blue always feels at home.

  • Universally flattering: It works across styles—from coastal to classic, contemporary to bohemian

Styling with Blue: Wallpaper, Fabric & Paint

For walls, blue makes an immediate statement. Designs like our Cari Wave Sky Blue/Pebble wallpaper paired with our Nana's China paint colour ripple gently across a room, echoing coastal calm with a modern feel, while Awning Stripe in Electric Blue injects bold, graphic energy.

For something atmospheric, try a mural such as Land of Milk & Honey Blue paired with a neutral such as Cotton or a complementing blue like Nesh to bring both depth and drama.

In fabrics, blue is just as versatile. Upholstery or cushions in Cari Wave Marine Blue or Cari Wave Sky Blue/Pebble create cohesion and texture, while floral patterns like Onism Sky Blue velvet add a romantic edge.

Paint completes the look. Shades such as A Bit O’ Blue or the playfully named Smurf Blue can be used to complement your wallpaper or mural and highlight trims, doors or a feature wall - whether you’re after subtle charm or unapologetic colour.

The Takeaway

Blue isn’t just a colour - it’s a feeling. It soothes, it energises, and it endures. With wallpapers, fabrics and paints in every imaginable shade - from gentle sky tones to vibrant electrics and grounding marine hues - there’s no better time to embrace the beauty of blue and let it shape the mood of your home into 2026.

For Your Inspiration

Image by @em.gurner and @anna.yanovski via Instagram. Get the look with Va Va Frome Blush Eau de Nil wallpaper, Entwistle paint, Pink Cloud paint and Jockey Stripe Neapolitan linen fabric

Image by @urquhartinteriors and @davidparmiterphotography via Instagram. Get the look with our Let's Go Banana's Ink wallpaper and Cotton paint.

Image by @mansionblockflat via Instagram. Get the look with Cari Wave Sky Blue/Pebble wallpaper, Nana's China paint and Cotton paint

Image by @ellafaulkner via Instagram. Get the look with Cari Wave Sky Blue/Pebble wallpaper and Smurf Blue paint. 
Image by @storylines_interior_design and @robchapman_photo via Instagram. Get the look with Jumbles paint and Plank It wallpaper
Image by @foxhollowcottage UK. Get the look with Wisteria Botanical Powder Blue mural and Nesh paint
Image by @lucyhamiltonathome. Get the look with Land of Milk & Honey Blue mural and Cotton paint

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