AkzoNobel colors of the year 2026 presented

With the Rhythm of Blues color palette as Colors of the Year 2026, there will be a trio of shades from AkzoNobel next year: the light blue Mellow Flow, the dark blue Slow Swing and the vibrant Free Groove, so that everyone can find a style that suits them. The harmonious collection of distinctive indigo shades is exactly what we need in our homes, according to the results of the company's extensive annual trend research. "In light of current world events, people are reacting in different ways," explains Heleen van Gent, Creative Director of AkzoNobel's Global Aesthetic Center. "They are either taking a step back and recharging their batteries, wanting to feel connected to others and celebrate community. Or they choose to be bold, have fun and be carefree."

AkzoNobel's color trends for 2026

Heleen van Gent adds that the three color palettes will help to create living environments that meet everyone's individual decorating needs. "To reflect these different moods - and because we understand that color is emotion and therefore personal - we have chosen a color palette for 2026. It is based on three different rhythms that offer endless possibilities to change the pace of your space." The colors, textures and special effects that take center stage in the Rhythm of Blues collection have been designed to resonate in a variety of markets. In addition to decorative colors, inspiring color palettes have been developed for the aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, metal furniture, lighting, cabinetry, flooring, building products and architectural markets.

Rhythm of Blues color collection reflects industry trends

"We are proud to set the tone together with architects, interior designers, trend specialists and product developers, all of whom are key contributors to our in-depth research," says Daniel Geiger Campos, Global Director of AkzoNobel's Decorative Paints business and member of the Executive Committee. "Our Rhythm of Blues family is perfectly aligned with evolving trends in different industries and will help us to offer our customers market-specific solutions so they can bring their own style to their projects with even more confidence." AkzoNobel's Global Aesthetic Center has been translating trends into decimal colors for more than 30 years. The annual ColourFutures trend forecast brings together in-house experts, international architects, designers and journalists to share insights on how our reactions to the world around us influence our color choices.