Which Colors of the Year Have Stood the Test of Time? Designers Pick Their 10 Favorites From the Past 10 Years
Paint brands' annual Color of the Year announcements are always eagerly anticipated, giving a glimpse into the shades likely to lead the way in home decor and set the color trends over the year to come. And while some of these shades are forgotten about by the time the next announcement comes around, some have a much more lasting impact.
But what past Colors of the Year have proven to be more timeless than trendy? We asked interior designers for their favorites from the past ten years, and they range from pared-back neutrals to much richer, bolder hues. All of them, however, have an earthy quality that makes them livable and able to pair with many other colors. And so, before the influx of 2027 Color of the Year announcements is upon us, take a look at these timeless shades that designers come back to time after time.
Personally, I think that the Colors of the Year that are seemingly the most enduring aren't the brightest of the boldest – they're those that work effortlessly to bring a certain mood to a room, without demanding too much attention. Even the richer, more colorful shades in this roundup have a slightly hushed feel that gives them versatility and longevity.
One thing that immediately stands out is that many of these colors have an earthy quality, which makes them livable and able to pair with many other colors. From muted sage greens to warm, slightly creamy whites, these shades have an enduring appeal that transcends fleeting trends.
In my opinion, what makes these colors so timeless is their ability to create a sense of atmosphere and richness while remaining incredibly livable. They are not just trends, but rather, they are colors that have a certain depth and complexity that allows them to endure long after their year in the spotlight.
If you take a step back and think about it, what many people don't realize is that these colors have an inherent versatility that makes them suitable for a wide range of design directions. From modern and traditional interiors to historic renovations and new construction, these colors have proven their staying power.
What makes this particularly fascinating is that these colors have an inherent warmth and depth that sets them apart from flat, cool neutrals. They are not just practical backdrops, but rather, they are colors that bring a certain mood and personality to a room.
A detail that I find especially interesting is that many of these colors have an inherent connection to nature. From soft, muted sage greens to warm, slightly creamy whites, these colors evoke a sense of the natural world and bring a touch of the outdoors inside.
What this really suggests is that these colors have an enduring appeal that transcends fleeting trends. They are not just colors of the year, but rather, they are colors that have a certain depth and complexity that allows them to endure long after their year in the spotlight.
In conclusion, the Colors of the Year that have stood the test of time are those that have an inherent warmth, depth, and complexity that allows them to create a sense of atmosphere and richness while remaining incredibly livable. They are not just trends, but rather, they are colors that have a certain staying power and an enduring appeal that transcends fleeting trends.
