2016 Colour Trend Preview

Looking into the future at some gorgeous new colour palettes for the home.

We know we’re basically only halfway through the year, but when we got a chance to talk to Behr’s VP of Colour Erika Woelfel (“Basically a futurist of colour,” she laughs), we couldn’t help but ask: what’s coming next?

4 Hot Colour Trends for 2016

The Trend: Colourful Brights

Balance bright yellows and jewelled blues and greens with white and black, but keep the vibe fun and playful with texture and pattern. “It’s about creating a stimulating environment,” says Woelfel. “Black makes walls disappear, so the rest of the colours get a chance to pop.” Try using paintable textured wallpaper (layer high-sheen paint over flat-sheen for a dramatic look), or playing with patterned black-and-white flooring.The Palette: Vibrant pinks, yellows, blues and greens, alongside black and white.

The Trend: Liveable Luxe

Pair traditional decor pieces with bold-but-classic pops of colour—think coral, warm yellow, rich navy and olive—and glam, gold detailing to create a luxurious space with a modern, liveable vibe.The Palette: Soft corals and warm yellows, greens and creams. 

The Trend: Soft Organics

Blues and greens take centre stage this season (try them in an ombre wash feature wall!), infusing rooms with some seaside cool. “It’s a look that’s influenced by landscapes,” says Woelfel. Use these colours over hard surfaces, like brick, to soften a space.The Palette: Soft hues inspired by nature—think stone, seafoam and rust.

The Trend: Warm Classics

Dark gold, ivory and taupe brown keep things feeling warm and welcoming, but effortlessly elegant. Rich textures are key to making this look work—incorporate lush carpets and drapery for a true sense of classic sophistication.The Palette: Sophisticated neutrals rule here: mix and match gold, cream, warm white and taupe.MORE: How to Use Black Paint Without Going GothMORE: How to Choose a Paint SheenMORE: Cool Projects for Paint Sheens