Crown Trade has identified the significant colour trends that decorating professionals can expect to see in client briefs throughout 2026, as homeowners increasingly move away from neutral-only schemes.
The ‘fifth wall’ drives new specifications
Rather than traditional feature walls, homeowners are requesting bold ceiling statements in shades like green and orange. It’s a straightforward addition that delivers real visual interest, with products like Crown Trade’s Vinyl Matt proving ideal thanks to their high opacity, making it simple to transform white ceilings with confident colour.
Burnt orange and retro greens lead palette shift
Softer, earthier orange tones are appearing more frequently in client moodboards, with shades like Saison proving especially popular in living and dining spaces. These warmer hues pair effectively with natural wood and neutral elements.
Period properties and contemporary homes alike are embracing 70s-inspired greens, with Glass Green and In The Willows among the shades gaining traction. These nature-inspired tones offer visual interest without being overly bold, making them an easier recommendation when homeowners know they want something different but are struggling to articulate their vision.
Contrast trim work increases specification opportunities
Decorators can also expect more requests for contrasting skirting, architrave and detailed trim work, with rich colours paired against neutral walls to create depth and architectural interest. Crown Trade Fastflow can be mixed into thousands of shades to support these specifications whilst delivering a flawless finish on woodwork.
Kathryn Lloyd, Colour Specialist at Crown Trade said: “We’re seeing much more adventurous colour choices coming through, but in considered, practical applications. Clients want impact without overwhelming their spaces, which creates excellent opportunities for decorators to guide decisions and deliver higher-value work. Understanding what’s gaining traction helps decorators spot opportunities and guide clients with authority. These aren’t fleeting trends – they represent a genuine shift in how people approach colour in their homes.”
Supporting decorator client conversations
Crown’s Colour Edit contains 160 curated shades including these trending colours, selected using advanced forecasting analysis. The range is designed to help decorators guide client decisions confidently, whether working with customers who have a clear vision or those requiring more direction. Crown Trade’s Real Paint Samples are also available to demonstrate how shades perform in different lighting conditions and spaces before work begins.
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