Charlotte’s top designers have spoken. This is the year of deep color, richer layers and pops of the unexpected.
Earlier this year, Pantone released its annual color of the year. And the selection—Cloud Dancer— missed the mark for many.
I spend a lot of time studying interiors, and to me, it just felt untrue? So I tapped some of Charlotte’s top designers for their expertise. Here’s their color forecast for 2026.
Spoiler: The future is fun.
Alexis Warren, Alexis Warren Designs
What’s your color of the year for 2026?
Farrow & Ball Brinjal is most definitely my color of the year. We are loving berry and plum tones right now and this is the perfect mix of both.
Where is design heading in Charlotte?
We are continuing to be inspired by layered spaces filled with pattern, texture, and heritage pieces – moody, layered rooms are in! Rooms that feel collected are continuing to be the preference.
Marie Cloud, Indigo Pruitt Design Studio
What’s your color of the year for 2026?
Deep Oxblood (a rich wine burgundy). It’s warm, saturated, and grounding. It’s dramatic in the most elevated way, and instantly makes a space feel intentional and immersive.
Where is design heading in Charlotte?
Charlotte design is leaning into moody warmth and high-impact interiors. People crave rich color, layered textures, and personalized spaces that feel expressive, elevated, and lived-in.
Meredith Beregovski, Georgia Street Design
What’s your color of the year for 2026?
My color choice of the year for 2026 is Monet by Zoffany Paint, a soft, subtle green that feels calming and quietly confident while still making a statement. I love using it in home accessories like lamps and pillows, but I can absolutely see it stealing the show on cabinetry. It plays especially well with deep hunter greens, dark, saturated versions of burgundy, charcoal, and deep navy, basically anything bold enough to keep up with it. I’m just as drawn to it in fashion and jewelry. It’s one of those colors that looks as good on a lamp as it does on a shoulder.
