Sherwin-Williams Surprises with a 2026 Color of the Year That Works with Every Style

Using Universal Khaki at Home

Beige paint is often a go-to choice that people reach for when they want something simple and adaptable to any space. However, Universal Khaki is more than a traditional neutral like black or white, Wadden says. "Universal Khaki isn't wimpy; it has saturation to it. It's not necessarily a midtone, and it's not dark, but it's super usable."

While this color works well with a minimalist style, Wadden assures that it pairs with any aesthetic, including maximalism. "Layered neutrals can really impact a space. Even if you're a maximalist and you love stuff everywhere, this color can work for you as you can layer quieter colors on top of each other for a really sophisticated, yet maximalist, look."

Wadden's top place to use the color is on kitchen cabinets and islands, as more warm-toned cabinetry is making a comeback. Ashley Banbury, color marketing manager of HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams, says that while she thinks it's a great choice for any room of the home, she's partial to it as a transitional or accent color, especially in a house with an open concept. "For example, it's an excellent color for connecting a space like a foyer to a living room," she says.

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Colors and Materials to Use with Universal Khaki

To help you know exactly which colors pair best with Universal Khaki, HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams also announced Honest Essentials as its 2026 Color Collection of the Year. “The Honest Essentials collection is a reflection of consumer desire for clean lines, minimalist decor, and a more intentional approach to design and life,” says Banbury. “Honest Essentials represents a new era where purpose and simplicity are the ultimate luxuries.”

The collection is built around Universal Khaki and Griffin. These grounding colors are accompanied by Creamy, Neutral Ground, Cordovan, Reddened Earth, Secret Garden, Still Water, Hazel, and Lemon Chiffon, as well as a semi-transparent stain, Special Walnut by Minwax.

When it comes to materials and finishes, Wadden suggests anything with a natural and raw feel. Black stainless steel, warm wood, leathered countertops, natural tiles, and even more industrial touches all fall into this category.