Gray is out? We never thought we’d see the day!
Pros unveil their top paint trends for 2021—and the list may surprise you

Have you ever stopped and wondered where interior designers get their color inspiration? Whether it’s Benjamin Moore’s annual Color Trends Palette or Sherwin Williams’ highly anticipated Color of the Year, the industry is all about tracking trends. What’s in, what’s out—and how to boost your home’s appeal without breaking the bank.

This month, Everest is taking a look at upcoming color trends for 2021. Because, you know, 2020 can’t end soon enough. In all seriousness—where do the Behrs, Valspars, Gliddens, Clarks and Kensingtons of the world get their brilliant ideas? What will be different about next year’s palette? If you’ve been asleep at the swatch, we’ve got the full scoop.

Fresh paint, fresh start

For years, gray has been the ‘hot’ neutral.

Gray on gray on gray has stayed firmly planted at the top of homeowners’ wish lists, covering kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms—even exterior siding—with its moody, emotionless ambiance. In a shocking development, 2021 may be the year we finally see a break from this depressing shade. People are ready for a change.

“The coronavirus pandemic has affected every facet of our lives—even apparently, the colors we should paint our walls,” says Jennifer Kelly Geddes, contributor at Realtor.com. “With 2020 being unlike anything we’ve experienced in our lives thus far, it’s no surprise that COVID-19 has had a palpable impact on which colors are predicted to dominate fashion and home décor next year.”

With both the pandemic and a contentious election on our hands, most Americans are hoping for a brighter, less chaotic tomorrow. In that future, grumpy gray is out.

According to color consultant Debra Kling, “So far, many of the prevailing shades are warm and comforting, and tie back to nature—which makes sense, given that many of us have been cooped up at home and craving more time outdoors.”

If you’re due for a much-needed paint makeover, look no further. Plan for a more optimistic 2021 with these cutting-edge color trends.

Top 5 Paint Color Picks for 2021

Urbane Bronze – Sherwin Williams

Unlike the icy blue grays of the 2010s, designers are moving toward a warmer palette of neutrals. This deep taupe color comes across as natural, inviting, and oh-so sophisticated.

Profile: earthy, encouraging, peaceful
Perfect for: bedroom, office, den

Transcend – PPG

It’s been awhile since we’ve seen this sandy shade make a comeback. Described as a ‘sugar beige,’ Transcend radiates elegant warmth while remaining perfectly subdued.

Profile: modern, comfortable, compassionate
Perfect for: living room, great room, closet

Euphoric Magenta – Behr

Behr’s 2021 color trend palette is punctuated by shades meant to ‘elevate your comfort zone.’ This includes a bold yet muted purple-mauve hue—perfect for a pop of color.

Profile: exciting, gracious, creative
Perfect for: playroom, dining room, art studio

Garden Flower – Valspar

With the rise of COVID stress, more and more families are looking to their homes as a sanctuary. This mood-boosting shade of natural green makes a world of difference.

Profile: soft, fresh, clean
Perfect for: powder room, bedroom, foyer

Aegean Teal – Benjamin Moore

America’s beloved purveyor of paint has named this delightful blue-green hue its color of the year. Despite its playful spirit, Aegean Teal complements virtually any color palette.

Profile: harmonious, intriguing, safe
Perfect for: decorative molding, kitchen, game room

For more paint inspiration, visit Realtor.com.

Everest says: with us, there’s no gray area