Acorn Named 2026 Color
Cabot named "Acorn" as its 2026 Color of the Year for exterior wood applications. The earthy, rich brown shade is expected to be widely featured in decks, fences, and outdoor projects as designers and DIYers refresh outdoor spaces this spring.
The selection of Acorn is tied to the "modern homestead" movement, which champions responsible living, natural materials, and a sense of community. The intent is to evoke a feeling of heritage craftsmanship and create outdoor environments that feel personal and anchored. Sue Kim, Cabot's Director of Color Marketing, describes Acorn as reflecting "wood in its most natural state." The golden-brown tone is designed to appear warm and glowing in low light while deepening to a cozy richness in direct sunlight. This choice marks a subtle shift from Cabot's 2025 Color of the Year, "Burnt Hickory." That color was a darker, richer brown with charcoal undertones, inspired by the traditional Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Ban, which involves charring wood to preserve it. The broader color landscape for 2026 shows a clear trend towards earthy, grounded colors. Other brands have selected shades like deep charcoal, olive green, and warm, earthy neutrals, signaling a collective move away from the cooler grays that previously dominated exterior palettes. Acorn is designed to be versatile, pairing with natural materials such as stone, ceramic, and rattan. It's available in solid, semi-solid, and semi-transparent opacities, allowing homeowners to either feature the color prominently or let more of the natural wood grain show through. The focus on intentional outdoor design reflects a growing desire for spaces that promote relaxation and a slower pace of life. This trend, sometimes called "slow living," emphasizes creating serene, quality-focused environments that foster a deeper connection with nature.
