Cabot Names 'Acorn' 2026 Color of the Year

The specific golden-brown hue of Acorn was chosen for its dynamic nature; it presents as a warm, bright glow in low light while deepening into a richer, cozier shade in direct sunlight. It is formulated to complement other natural materials commonly found in outdoor spaces, such as stone, rattan furniture, and surrounding greenery. The selection of a warm, earthy neutral aligns with a broader industry-wide shift for 2026. Design trends show a move away from the cool, stark whites and grays that dominated previous years, favoring calmer, more grounded tones like soft beige, cream, and clay. This trend emphasizes creating a welcoming aesthetic inspired by nature. Cabot's choice continues a theme from its 2025 Color of the Year, 'Burnt Hickory'. That color, a deep brown with charcoal undertones, was influenced by the Japanese tradition of Shou Sugi Ban, similarly highlighting an artisanal quality and the transformation of outdoor areas into serene extensions of the home. The trend toward authenticity is a direct reaction against mass-produced "sameness," with a rising consumer desire for spaces that feel unique and age gracefully. Sometimes called "Craftcore," this movement sees homeowners gravitating toward items that show a human touch and carry a story, adding character and warmth to a home. Other major brands have also selected warm, nature-inspired hues for 2026. Glidden, for example, named 'Warm Mahogany,' a rich reddish-brown, as its color of the year, indicating a widespread industry consensus on cozy, grounding colors. To allow for different levels of wood grain to show through, Cabot is making Acorn available in a range of opacities. Homeowners can choose from solid, semi-solid, and semi-transparent finishes within the brand's Wood Stain + Sealer product line.