EDITOR’S NOTE: It’s that time of the year where everyone wraps up the old and looks forward to the new. And if you’re thinking of a new look for your space, a redesign of your salon or shop, or even just a refresh in your branding, consider color. We heard from Lauren Lerner, the founder and principal designer of Living with Lolo, a nationally recognized Scottsdale-based design firm, on paint color trends to look for in 2026.
MODERN SALON: What paint color trends from 2025 are you ready to see out in 2026?
LAUREN LERNER: I’m over the overly warm terracotta-and-rust moment. It’s beautiful in the right home, but it’s been everywhere. I’m ready for a shift toward softer, more balanced palettes with colors that feel grounded without being heavy, like putty, mushroom, and warm stone. They bring warmth without shouting “trend.”
MS: What paint color trends are you hearing are on the rise for 2026, but you’re planning to ignore? What don’t you love about this trend?
LL: There’s buzz around bold primary colors making a comeback with bright blues, yellows, and reds, but that’s not my world. Those tones can quickly overpower a space and feel more playful than elevated. I’ll always choose layered neutrals or nature-inspired shades that let texture and materials do the talking.
MS: Are there any paint color trends people think are “timeless” but you personally don’t love? Can you share why and what you prefer instead?
Pure gray walls. They’re often called timeless, but most of them end up feeling cold and uninspired. I’d much rather use a warm greige or taupe, still neutral but with more depth and sophistication. It’s a better backdrop for texture and layered design.
MS: What’s a paint color trend people keep saying will be back but never seems to take off? Thoughts on this trend, whatever it may be?
LL: High-gloss lacquered walls. They look incredible in editorials but never really work in real homes. They’re expensive, high maintenance, and every imperfection shows. It’s a perfect example of something that’s great for a photoshoot, not for everyday living.
MS: Anything to add about 2026 paint color trends?
LL: I think 2026 will be less about chasing one “it” color and more about creating spaces that feel grounded and personal. Warmth, balance, and tone-on-tone layering are what make a home feel lived in and luxurious, not whatever color is trending that season.
A color similar to Hidden Gem.
MS: Standout Colors for 2026?
LL: For 2026, two colors stand out to me for very different reasons: Benjamin Moore Silhouette (AF-655) and Behr Hidden Gem (N430-6A).
Silhouette is a deep espresso charcoal that feels quietly confident, sophisticated, moody, and grounding without being stark. It captures what so many clients are craving right now: warmth, depth, and a touch of drama instead of stark contrast. I can see it being used in dining rooms, offices, or powder baths where it wraps the space in a subtle sense of luxury. It pairs beautifully with travertine, unlacquered brass, and soft ivory tones.
Hidden Gem, on the other hand, speaks to the ongoing pull toward nature-inspired design. Its smoky jade hue brings a sense of restoration and optimism. It’s fresh without being loud, and I especially love it on cabinetry, millwork, or as an accent in serene bedrooms.
About Lauren Lerner
Lauren Lerner is the founder and principal designer of Living with Lolo, a nationally recognized Scottsdale-based design firm known for creating refined, livable luxury. Lauren believes that home should be both beautiful and deeply personal, a reflection of how you want to live, not just how you want it to look.
As both a full-service interior designer and licensed general contractor, she leads projects from concept to completion, blending design, construction, and furnishings into one seamless experience. Her work spans custom homes and full-service remodels for clients across the country, including professional athletes and high-profile individuals, and has been featured in top national publications.
Inspired by travel, art, and the effortless beauty of nature, Lauren’s work is defined by calm palettes, layered textures, and spaces that balance sophistication with warmth.