As we look toward designs that will be trending this year, the conversation in the industry is dominated by one thing: color. Specifically, the “Color of the Year” announcements that set the tone for showrooms from New York to Southern Pines. For 2026, the palette is shifting toward a “grounded reset.” Pantone has unveiled Cloud Dancer, a soft, intentional off-white that moves away from stark minimalism toward something much warmer and more ethereal.
Major paint brands are following suit with their own interpretations of calm. Sherwin-Williams is leaning into the earthy, sandy warmth of Universal Khaki, while Benjamin Moore has gone in a moodier, more tailored direction with Silhouette, a sophisticated espresso-charcoal. Even MSI is embracing this “quiet luxury” with their latest quartz collections, like Calacatta Miraggio Lusso, which mirrors that airy, Cloud Dancer aesthetic through subtle, luminous veining.
It is easy to get swept up in the excitement of these new palettes. As an interior designer, I love the inspiration they provide, but I always share a word of caution with my clients: Never let the color of the year influence long-term decisions like flooring and tile.
Trends, by their very definition, are fleeting. These colors change every single year. While a “Cloud Dancer” white or a “Universal Khaki” might be the height of fashion today, permanent fixtures like your hardwood, natural stone, or bathroom tile are investments that should span decades. It is much easier—and far more budget-friendly—to incorporate these trending shades through paint and accessories like throw pillows, rugs, or window treatments.
It’s also helpful to keep a bit of “insider” perspective on the timeline of these trends. Often, it takes the home furnishing industry about a year to catch up to trends. If you fall in love with a specific Color of the Year the moment it’s announced, you might find it difficult to find the perfect matching sofa or armchair immediately. Patience is key when chasing a specific trend.
Ultimately, my philosophy at Total House + Flooring is simple: Remember—your home is your own. We live in an era of endless digital noise, but you shouldn’t let corporate entities or influencers dictate what you should do or don’t do in your private sanctuary. Your home should be a reflection of your soul, not a carbon copy of a magazine spread.
Select things because you love them—you will live with them every day! Whether you gravitate toward the serene whites of the current Pantone trend or find joy in a color that hasn’t been “in style” for twenty years, your intuition is your best guide.
If you’re looking to refresh your space for the new season, stop by our showroom on Morganton Road. We’d love to help you find the balance between today’s trends and the timeless style you’ll love for years to come.
Total House + Flooring Inc | 225 W Morganton Road, Suite B, Southern Pines, NC | 910-246-8046 | www.total.house
