(Brought to you by Southern Mesa’s Paint Division, proudly serving the Colorado Springs and surrounding area)
Why Paint Color Trends Matter for Your Holiday Home (And Beyond)
You’ve probably noticed it — holiday décor has evolved beyond tinsel and twinkle lights. More homeowners in Colorado Springs are using paint as the ultimate design statement this season. From deep emerald walls that pair perfectly with garland to moody blues that glow under warm winter light, paint isn’t just background anymore — it’s part of the story.
But here’s the challenge: How do you pick a paint color that feels festive now and still timeless come spring 2026?
At Southern Mesa, we hear this question all the time. Homeowners want a color palette that fits both the moment and the future — one that looks beautiful during the holidays but won’t clash with next year’s furniture trends. As your trusted residential contractor and paint experts, we’re here to help you navigate what’s trending for the 2025 holidays and where color design is heading for 2026.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know:
- The top holiday paint color trends for 2025
- How to apply those colors in ways that outlast the season
- What 2026’s biggest color predictions are — and how to stay ahead of the curve
So grab your coffee (or hot cocoa — no judgment), and let’s talk about color.
2025 Holiday Paint Palettes: What’s Trending This Season
Holiday 2025 is all about warmth, texture, and depth. Forget the overly bright reds and greens — this year’s palettes feel curated, with rich tones that blend luxury and comfort.
Modern Jewel Tones
Think sapphire blues, deep emeralds, and burgundy reds. These shades pair beautifully with metallic accents like brushed gold hardware or matte black fixtures — perfect for kitchens or dining rooms that double as gathering spaces.
Earthy Elegance
Warm terracotta, olive green, and mocha browns are taking over walls and built-ins. These natural hues feel inviting year-round but still give a cozy, holiday-ready backdrop for string lights and greenery.
Winter Neutrals
If your taste leans more timeless, winter whites and soft greiges are huge this year. Paired with wood trim or wainscoting, these neutrals create the perfect “blank canvas” that looks fresh through every season.
Moody Layers
Dark navy, charcoal gray, and muted plum tones are trending for accent walls, cabinetry, and trim. They create contrast and sophistication without feeling heavy — especially when balanced with warm lighting.
Colorado Springs twist: With our bright mountain sunlight and snow-reflecting landscapes, darker tones feel balanced and luxurious instead of gloomy. These colors bring a sense of warmth that feels right at home in high-altitude living.
How to Use Holiday Hues Without Locking Yourself In
You don’t want your walls to scream “holiday” when the tree comes down. The trick? Use these colors strategically.
- Accent Walls: Try painting a feature wall in deep green or navy while keeping adjacent walls neutral.
- Trim and Built-Ins: A moody green or soft gray on built-ins (like we used in our recent full home remodel) adds character that lasts all year.
- Statement Ceilings: A soft beige or muted blush ceiling can add subtle warmth — and it’s totally reversible later.
- Furniture & Décor Pairing: Paint colors like olive and cream pair easily with wood tones and metallics, meaning your room evolves with seasonal décor.
The goal is versatility. Choose colors that can pivot with your furniture, not against it.
Peeking Into 2026: Paint Color Predictions You Should Know
Design forecasters are already buzzing about where color is headed next year — and spoiler alert: it’s rich, grounded, and soulful.
“Earthy Vibrancy” Is In
Expect hues like ochre, muted clay, forest green, and deep plum to dominate interiors in 2026. These colors reflect a shift toward creating homes that feel comfortable and rooted.
Neutrals Get Warmer
Say goodbye to sterile whites and cool grays. Shades like universal khaki, buttercream beige, and almond taupe are the new foundation tones. They complement natural materials — think stone fireplaces and wood cabinets.
Gemstone Accents
2026 will still love deep gemstone tones, but with a dustier finish. Emerald, jade, and indigo are sticking around but looking softer, less saturated.
Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year: “Hidden Gem”
Behr recently revealed Hidden Gem — a smoky jade green — as its 2026 star shade. It’s both soothing and bold, bridging the gap between organic and modern.
Layered Looks
The “one color fits all” trend is fading. 2026 is about layering tones within the same color family — a combination of matte walls, semi-gloss trim, and glossy built-ins that give depth and dimension.
Top Paint Color Moves for Your Home Now (That Still Work in 2026)
Want to stay trendy and timeless? Try these expert tips from our paint division at Southern Mesa:
- Warm Neutrals as Base Colors: Perfect for Colorado homes where sunlight changes dramatically throughout the day.
- Contrast with Depth: Use dark navy, chocolate brown, or charcoal gray as accents.
- Greens and Blues Are Staying: Muted olive, smoky teal, and soft aqua are safe bets that transition beautifully from 2025 to 2026.
- Exterior Pro Tip: Dark trim with light siding is still trending — and pairs well with natural stone or wood details.
We recommend Sherwin-Williams Emerald Rain Refresh Acrylic Paint for exteriors and Emerald Acrylic Hardened Enamel for interior doors, trims, and cabinets — both offer stunning finishes and long-term durability in Colorado’s weather.
Budget-Friendly Ways to Update with Color This Season
You don’t have to repaint your entire house to make a big impact. Try these small updates with high return:
- Front Door Refresh: A bold navy or forest green can completely transform your home’s exterior vibe.
- Accent Wall in the Living Room: Perfect for showcasing art or seasonal décor.
- Paint the Ceiling: A subtle contrast ceiling color adds sophistication instantly.
- Revive Built-Ins or Cabinets: A coat of moody green or charcoal can make them look custom-built.
(Want more inspiration? Check out our blog “The Best Colors for 2025” for timeless ideas.)
How to Choose a Paint Contractor (and Why Southern Mesa Stands Out)
Choosing the right contractor makes all the difference — and it’s more than just price.
Ask these questions before hiring:
- Do they use high-quality, long-lasting paint brands?
- Will they properly prep surfaces before painting?
- How do they handle communication and scheduling?
- Do they provide detailed, itemized proposals?
- Are they licensed and insured?
At Southern Mesa, we answer yes to all of the above. Here’s what makes our paint division different:
- We use top-tier Sherwin-Williams products for long-lasting, professional results.
- We believe in communication first — daily updates via our CRM software, JobTread, keep you informed every step.
- We give detailed itemized proposals, so you know exactly where your money goes.
- We’re known for clean, respectful work — no messy cleanup, no surprises.
Your walls aren’t just surfaces — they’re part of your story. Let’s make them beautiful together.
FAQs: Holiday + 2026 Paint Trends
Q: What exterior paint colors are trending for the holidays?
A: Rich greens, soft whites, and warm taupes are leading exterior trends for 2025, especially paired with wood accents or black trim.
Q: Will 2025 holiday colors look dated by 2026?
A: Not if you choose versatile tones like olive, warm beige, or smoky blue — they’re trending now and forecasted to grow in popularity next year.
Q: Which paint finishes are best for Colorado Springs homes?
A: Use satin or semi-gloss for exteriors (to handle dust and snow) and matte or eggshell indoors for a modern look that hides imperfections.
Q: How often should I repaint my home’s exterior?
A: Every 7–10 years depending on paint quality and exposure. Colorado’s intense sun and cold winters can shorten that lifespan. Read more about exterior paint here.
Q: Can paint actually increase home value?
A: Absolutely. A fresh coat of paint is one of the top ROI upgrades — especially when done professionally.
Make Your Home Color-Smart This Season and Beyond
Whether you’re decking the halls or dreaming of a full refresh, 2025’s holiday paint trends are all about warmth, depth, and livable luxury. And as 2026 rolls in, earthy neutrals and layered tones will continue to rule — meaning your choices today can carry you seamlessly into the future.
At Southern Mesa, we’re here to make your color journey easy, beautiful, and stress-free. From choosing the perfect hue to ensuring a flawless finish, our paint division has you covered — inside and out.
✨ Ready to refresh your home?
Contact Southern Mesa’s paint division today for a free consultation and expert color advice tailored to your space.
