Cabot Names 'Acorn' its 2026 Color of the Year

The selection of 'Acorn' is part of a larger trend in exterior design moving away from cooler grays and toward warmer, earthier tones. This shift reflects a desire for homes to blend more organically with their natural surroundings, a popular sentiment in Northern California. The trend favors colors like beige, taupe, and terracotta, which complement the Bay Area's golden hills and native greenery. This warm, golden-brown hue follows Cabot's 2025 Color of the Year, 'Burnt Hickory,' a deeper brown with charcoal undertones. The consistent choice of nature-inspired browns signals a focus on timeless, serene outdoor living spaces. 'Burnt Hickory' was influenced by the Japanese art of Shou Sugi Ban, a traditional method of charring wood to preserve it. The emphasis on natural wood tones is well-suited for popular home styles in Fremont and the greater Bay Area, which include many mid-century ranch homes. These architectural styles often feature prominent wooden elements like exposed beams, large decks, and siding, which are enhanced by stains that highlight the wood's natural grain. The trend of creating seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces further boosts the demand for attractive and durable exterior wood finishes. For homeowners considering a DIY deck or fence staining project, the cost of materials can be a significant factor. A five-gallon bucket of stain typically covers a designated area and can cost around $240, with additional expenses for supplies like brushes and cleaners. A weekend project can transform an outdoor space, with the average deck taking 10 to 12 hours to prep, stain, and clean up.