Say Goodbye To Boring Neutrals: The Unique Shade That's On Trend For 2026

The neutral palette had a good run, and while those subtle colors will always be useful in home design, homeowners were bound to get bored with repetitive shades eventually. We're seeing this shift happen currently, as interior trends are blooming with more expressive, colorful approaches to make homes feel more lively. Whether you'd rather jump into maximalist interiors so you never have to see the sad-beige aesthetic again, or you're just looking to master the minimalist trend without making things boring, a simple splash of color can make all the difference. We're not saying that it's time to break out the neon paint just to feel something again, but rather that some of the rising color trends can help you finally break free of those bland, uninspiring interiors that strict neutrals can often lead to. The solution lies somewhere in the middle, with the trending shade that feels pleasant and unexpected, without going overboard — warm pink.

Professionals are ready to back this newly popular color choice, as designer Aaron Hahnselle told Real Simple, "warm pinks create a soft, glowing undertone that instantly makes a space feel more welcoming and cozy." We're seeing warmth at the focus of many of the latest design trends, from cozy minimalism to bold aesthetics that are embracing these comforting tones. Warm pink has the unique ability to work within a wide range of design styles while aligning with the direction of today's decor trends.

While many in the past might have associated shades of pink with being frilly, playful, and feminine, modern design is seemingly embracing it in a way that doesn't feel so boxed-in. Warm pinks are actually quite flexible to design with, as you can use them for a variety of looks, from earthy modern interiors to bringing the Barbiecore trend into your home. Plenty of designers are praising the potential of pink palettes, including interior designer Caleb Anderson who described pink as "extremely sophisticated" and "masculine as well as historic" when speaking with Architectural Digest, adding that "when it comes to design, it has a fascinating complexity." However, it's the warm genre of this shade that seems to really resonate with the goals of today's homeowners.

Warmth factored into many of the leading results in the 2025 Interior Design and Color Trends Report from Fixr.com, including warm neutrals which 76% of experts recommend as the best bedroom paint colors for boosting home value. Many shades of warm pink can be included under this neutral umbrella, including earthy interpretations like blush and terra-cotta. Pink might not be a traditional neutral, but that's what makes it more lively in comparison to the boring greiges and eggshell whites that we see so often in interiors. It's fresh and exciting, and the sense of warmth helps to bring character and comfort into any space.

One of the best parts about this color trend is the wide range of possibilities it offers for your design. You can go big with the color drenching painting trend or layer in light accents of this cozy shade. If you plan on painting with warm pink, you'll want to find a shade that works best for your goals. To lean into the warmth, aim for light pinks with orange undertones like Pueblo by Sherwin-Williams — this soft, peachy pink is the perfect step up from a bland neutral without being too disruptive. A warm mauve like Farrow & Ball's Sulking Room Pink has a classic, earthy appeal that works beautifully in living room interiors, and for some extra flair, Raspberry Blush by Benjamin Moore can work well as a striking accent shade. It's recommended that you pair warm shades of pink with other warm tones, whether that's rich and dark brown woods, shiny gold accents, or vibrant yellow and red decor. 

You can also use other neutrals to bring out the best in your warm pink palette. For instance, layering in doses of classic black can make the color feel more mature while adding visual interest, and a variety of light neutrals can give the color a subtle, inviting sense of depth. Consider the qualities that attracted you to a warm pink palette, whether it's a chic and organic charm, comforting warmth, or a light and playful energy — whatever it is you value in this shade, look for ways to bring this out throughout the rest of your surrounding decor.