Sherwin-Williams’ Color of the Year for 2026: How to Use It to Elevate Your Highlands Ranch Home

Every year, Sherwin-Williams’ Color of the Year captures the spirit of what’s next in design—and 2026 is no exception. This year’s pick is Universal Khaki SW 6150, a warm, earthy neutral that blends timeless comfort with modern versatility. Whether you’re refreshing your interior or planning an exterior makeover, this color sets the stage for beautiful, enduring style.

What Makes Universal Khaki So Special?

Universal Khaki is more than just a beige—it’s a grounded, mid-tone neutral that brings a sense of warmth and simplicity to any space. With its slight yellow and tan undertones, this shade offers a balanced backdrop that’s elegant without being fussy and classic without feeling dated. Sherwin-Williams describes it as “tailored and timeless,” perfect for the way we live today: combining comfort, functionality, and beauty.

Why This Color Works for 2026

Design trends in 2026 lean into purposeful simplicity and a connection to nature. Universal Khaki reflects that desire for spaces that feel restful and rooted in real life. It’s ideal if you want a home that looks intentional—not trendy for a season but timeless for years.

Ways to Use Universal Khaki in Your Home

Here are inspiring ideas for incorporating Universal Khaki into your Highlands Ranch home—both inside and out.

1. Create a Warm, Inviting Exterior

Universal Khaki is a beautiful choice for your home’s exterior siding or trim. As a neutral with depth, it pairs beautifully with stone, wood, and brick—common architectural elements here in Highlands Ranch. For trim or shutters, consider crisp whites or deeper browns to frame the khaki and add dimension.

2. Balance Bold Accents Indoors

Inside, Universal Khaki works beautifully as a wall color in living rooms, dining rooms, or hallways. Its neutral warmth lets bolder colors shine—think deep greens, rich reds, or muted blues for accent walls, built-ins, or décor. One popular approach you’ll see from designers is pairing this khaki with earthy greens or muted aqua accents for a fresh, nature-inspired palette.

3. Layer with Other Neutrals for a Luxe Look

Neutral doesn’t mean boring. Stack Universal Khaki with off-white tones like Creamy or Neutral Ground to create layers that feel sophisticated and inviting. Using a slightly darker neutral on trim or cabinetry can highlight architectural details while keeping the overall look cohesive.

4. Pair with Rich Earth Tones for Depth

For a more dramatic look, contrast Universal Khaki with bold, earthy accents like Cordovan or Reddened Earth. These deeper hues bring warmth and personality to spaces like bedrooms, libraries, or cozy dens.

5. Tying It All Together with Natural Materials

Universal Khaki shines when paired with natural textures—wood, rattan, stone, and linen all help emphasize its organic roots. In Highlands Ranch homes with transitional, craftsman, or modern design influences, this connection to nature creates harmony from floor to ceiling.

Why Professional Painting Matters

Choosing the right color is just the first step. Proper prep, surface profiling, finishing technique, and premium products all influence how the color actually looks once applied. That’s where CertaPro Painters of Highlands Ranch comes in—we help bring your vision to life with expert consultation and flawless execution.

Whether you want to introduce Universal Khaki into your living spaces, refresh your exterior, or experiment with coordinating colors, we can walk you through every step.

Ready to Update Your Home with the 2026 Color of the Year?

Let our team help you choose the perfect palette and deliver professional results you’ll love for years. Contact CertaPro Painters of Highlands Ranch today to schedule a color consultation or painting estimate.