Sherwin-Williams Universal Khaki: Your Home's New Timeless Neutral
- By Design Interiors
- Oct 30
- 2 min read
Introducing Sherwin-Williams' 2026 Color of the Year....Universal Khaki!
Sherwin-Williams' 2026 Color of the Year
Each year, Sherwin-Williams announces their Color of the Year which sets the tone for interior design trends across the world. This year, the color experts at SW selected Universal Khaki SW 6150 as the distinguished hue of 2026. It's a versatile and warm mid-tone tan that reflects essentialism in design. The goal is to move the 'dial of design' away from trendy, fast-fashion and towards more timeless beauty and functional spaces.
What is Universal Khaki?
Universal Khaki is a mild neutral with a slight yellow undertone. The color is defined as 'universal' for its lived-in and approachable feel. This natural hue has history in workwear fashion that now translates to sophisticated, timeless interiors.
Essentialism in the Home
Universal Khaki was selected by SW as a desire of "essentialism" and "quiet luxury" rises within the design industry -- which we love! This aesthetic highlights intentional, comfortable spaces that honor quality craftsmanship and timeless design elements.
Overall: Universal Khaki is a reliable, versatile neutral that provides a solid foundation for bold accent colors, textures, and materials to layer upon it.
How to use Universal Khaki:
Pair with bold, rich tones for a more dramatic feel -- SW suggests layering Universal Khaki with SW ColorMix darker hues like Dark Auburn or Tarragon.
Add softer neutrals like White Snow or Cream and Sugar for a airy, creamy ultra-soft feel throughout a room.
Layer with natural materials like linen, wood, rattan, and leather to pull in the natural feel of Universal Khaki. Its a neutral that pairs beautifully with darker garden greens, limestones, and rich wood stains like Special Walnut (MW 224).
Follow the trend of 'Color-Drenching' by continue Universal Khaki throughout your entire room's walls and trim - Or apply it to kitchen cabinets and built-ins for a warm, inviting and modern look!
Understated But Elegant
Universal Khaki was selected for its understated natural look. It is a great foundation for adding in bolder design elements while keeping your room timeless for years to come.
So, what do you think... Are you a fan of Universal Khaki?
Comment below, where would you use this hue?
Let us know!
-BDI