For nearly two decades, a cool, collected neutral has reigned supreme in British homes: grey. From minimalist apartments to sprawling suburban houses, grey has been the go-to color for walls, furniture, and accents. Celebrities embraced it, interior designers lauded it, and homeowners readily adopted it. But as we approach the end of 2025, whispers of change are in the air, signaling the potential dethronement of "millennial grey."
If your home currently boasts walls painted in various shades of grey, don't despair! This transition isn't about condemning your aesthetic choices; it's about embracing the evolving trends and exploring new possibilities. The interior design landscape is ever-changing, influenced by shifts in societal preferences, cultural movements, and technological advancements. And with 2026 just around the corner, new colors are poised to take center stage.
Experts are now predicting a departure from the ubiquitous grey and a move towards richer, warmer, and more vibrant hues. But what exactly are these colors that are set to dominate our homes? And why is this shift happening now? Several factors are contributing to this change, including a desire for more personalized spaces, a yearning for nostalgia, and a renewed appreciation for the power of color psychology.
According to Hannah Yeo, Senior Manager of Color Marketing at Benjamin Moore, the rise of grey in the early 2000s was a direct response to the maximalism and bold colors of the 1990s. It represented a desire for simplicity, decluttering, and a sense of calm amidst the chaos of a rapidly changing world. Grey offered a blank canvas, allowing homeowners to create a serene and uncluttered environment. It was also a versatile backdrop that could be easily paired with various furniture styles and decor elements.
However, as the years passed, some felt that grey, while undeniably elegant and versatile, lacked personality and warmth. The once-loved neutral began to feel sterile and impersonal, prompting a search for alternatives that could inject more life and character into homes. The desire for cozy, inviting spaces started to outweigh the appeal of minimalist aesthetics.
The term "millennial grey" has even become a symbol of a certain design era, a representation of a specific aesthetic that is now being challenged and redefined. Homeowners are increasingly seeking colors that reflect their individual personalities, evoke positive emotions, and create a sense of comfort and belonging.
In contrast to the cool neutrality of grey, homeowners are now gravitating towards shades inspired by nostalgia, tranquility, and the beauty of the natural world. Think warm earth tones, muted pastels, and vibrant jewel tones that add depth and character to a room. These colors have the power to transform a space, creating a welcoming and uplifting atmosphere.
The return of warmer hues is also a significant aspect of this trend. After years of cool grays and stark whites, people are craving the comfort and warmth that earthy tones and rich colors can provide. These colors evoke feelings of coziness, connection, and grounding, creating a sense of sanctuary within the home.
Erika Woelfel, VP of Color and Creative Services at Sherwin-Williams, emphasizes that people are now more receptive to the diverse benefits that different color palettes can offer. They are increasingly willing to experiment with bolder shades and create spaces that truly reflect their unique style and personality. This marks a shift away from cookie-cutter interiors and towards more personalized and expressive homes.
Woelfel further explains that the resurgence of bold colors is driven by a desire for more dynamic and energetic spaces. People are seeking colors that can invigorate their senses, boost their mood, and create a sense of excitement and creativity within their homes. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing individuality and expressing oneself through personal style.
If you're ready to move on from grey and infuse your home with fresh, stylish, and versatile colors, you're in the right place. Here are some expert-recommended shades that are poised to become the next big thing in interior design:
Browns and Beiges: The New Neutrals
Pantone's Color of the Year 2025 selection reflected this move toward warmth. Browns are making a triumphant return, encompassing a wide spectrum of shades from earthy tones to refined cocoas. These colors evoke a sense of comfort, stability, and connection to nature. They are also incredibly versatile, working well in a variety of spaces and styles. According to Patrick O'Donnell from Farrow & Ball: "Browns are making a comeback, covering a broad spectrum from earthy tones to the refined cacao shade of.".
Hannah Yeo suggests opting for natural tones that offer a cozy and nostalgic feel with shades like Benjamin Moore’s Muslin OC-12, Natural Linen 966, and Wenge AF-180, all excellent choices for creating warm and inviting spaces. These colors are inspired by the natural world and bring a sense of tranquility and harmony to any room.
Pinks with Warm Undertones: A Touch of Romance
Pink is no longer just for nurseries and little girls' rooms. In 2026, expect to see sophisticated pinks with yellow undertones gracing the walls of living rooms, bedrooms, and even kitchens. These colors add a touch of romance, warmth, and playfulness to any space. As Patrick O’Donnell suggests, opt for "historical pinks with yellow undertones, such as Mortar Pink and Fowler Pink." Alternatively, Lick suggests shades such as White 06, which are slightly brighter but still warm with a subtle pink undertone that adds a soft glow.
Greens: Bringing the Outdoors In
Green has long been associated with nature, tranquility, and growth. In 2026, expect to see a surge in popularity for various shades of green, from deep forest greens to vibrant emerald hues. These colors bring a sense of freshness and vitality to any space, creating a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere. According to the experts, we’re sure to see lots more green shades very soon.
For a neutral yet deep shade, Patrick O'Donnell raves about mid-greens such as Farrow & Ball’s Yeabridge Green and Saxon Green. Lick’s Green 18 has been hailed as a "sophisticated" option that’s on the warmer side, making it a perfect choice for creating a cozy and inviting space.
Blues: Embracing Boldness
If you're looking to make a bolder statement with your color choices, consider exploring the world of blues. From deep navy hues to vibrant turquoise shades, blue offers a wide range of possibilities for creating dramatic and eye-catching spaces. Benjamin Moore’s Blue Nova 825, is gaining traction as a popular and daring option.
Hannah Yeo explains: "These vibrant hues draw inspiration from everyday life experiences, like road trips or space exploration.” These colors evoke feelings of adventure, curiosity, and a sense of limitless possibilities. They are perfect for creating spaces that inspire creativity and innovation.
The departure from grey is not just a trend; it's a reflection of a deeper cultural shift towards embracing individuality, expressing personal style, and creating homes that truly reflect our values and aspirations. So, embrace the change, experiment with new colors, and create a space that brings you joy and inspiration. The possibilities are endless!