Wood stains shape both the look and longevity of outdoor surfaces while highlighting the natural character of the material. For the 2026 Exterior Stain Color of the Year, Taupe introduces a balanced neutral that blends soft brown and gentle gray undertones for a refined, versatile finish perfect for your clients’ outdoor spaces.   [caption id="attachment_2138" align="alignnone" width="7970"] House body: Spanish Sand, wood deck: Taupe (solid wood stain), roof trim: Baronial Brown, fence: Taupe (semi-transparent wood stain)[/caption] ​    The balanced blend of muted tones brings subtle color to exterior surfaces, allowing the natural wood grain to show through for a timeless finish. The versatility of Taupe helps to create cohesive residential or commercial outdoor environments across a wide range of exterior applications, making it easy to carry a consistent look across different project types.     [caption id="attachment_2137" align="alignnone" width="4167"] Taupe Featured in Solid Color (SC-153) & Semi-Transparent (SC-153) Stain[/caption]   Both solid and semi-transparent finishes offer a polished look on decks, fences, porches, patio ceilings, railings and more.   [caption id="attachment_2136" align="alignnone" width="7514"] House body: Taupe, wood deck: Taupe, ceiling: Chocolate (Semi-transparent Wood Stain), railing: BLACK (Spray Paint)[/caption]   Apply Taupe in a semi-transparent finish to highlight the natural character of the wood while adding contrast and dimension across the surface.   Or choose Taupe in a solid finish for outdoor structures to create a strong architectural feature that anchors the surrounding space.   [caption id="attachment_2139" align="alignnone" width="6160"] House body: Boreal, trim: ULTRA PURE WHITE®, deck: Cordovan Brown, railings & pergola: Taupe (Solid Wood Stain)[/caption]     Outdoor Accent Color Collection   This year’s Exterior Stain Color of the Year launches alongside the Outdoor Accent Color Collection, a curated palette of 18 exterior paint colors designed to complement Taupe and personalize outdoor spaces whether it’s a residential or commercial location, making it easier to tailor each job to your client’s style.       Taupe acts as a grounding neutral for larger exterior wood surfaces such as decks, fencing, siding, and pergolas. While Outdoor Accent Color Collection introduces intentional pops of color for doors, shutters, trim, and outdoor décor, creating a cohesive, customized look across each project.   [caption id="attachment_2141" align="alignnone" width="6000"] House body: Boreal, trim: ULTRA PURE WHITE®, deck: Cordovan Brown, railings & pergola: Taupe (Solid Wood Stain)[/caption]   To support quick updates on the job, select colors from the collection are also available in spray paint, offering a convenient way to introduce coordinated accents and refresh patio furniture, planters, and outdoor accessories.   [caption id="attachment_2135" align="alignnone" width="6800"] House body: Muted Sage, floor: Taupe SC-153, trim: ULTRA PURE WHITE®, swing: Park Picnic[/caption]   The 2026 Exterior Stain Color of the Year and Outdoor Accent Color Collection is available exclusively at The Home Depot. Consumers can find Taupe in a variety of BEHR® products, including the #1 rated exterior stain, according to a leading independent consumer publication, BEHR PREMIUM® Solid Color Waterproofing Stain & Sealer. The color is also available in BEHR PREMIUM® Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain & Sealer, BEHR® DECKplus Waterproofing Wood Stain, BEHR® Solid Color House & Fence Wood Stain, and BEHR PREMIUM® ADVANCED DECKOVER®.   To explore the 2026 Exterior Stain Color of the Year and the Outdoor Accent Color Collection, visit behr.com/2026staincoty.  

Have you uncovered the BEHR® 2026 Color of the Year? Hidden Gem is a smoky jade that’s redefining design in both residential and commercial spaces.      With its elegant balance of blue and green, Hidden Gem delivers a rich and dynamic shade that resonates across interiors—from multifamily living rooms to boutique hotel lobbies and modern office suites. This subtle yet captivating hue offers professionals a sophisticated option that’s as timeless as it is trend-forward, making it the perfect choice to elevate any environment with ease and intention.      Crafted by BEHR® Color Experts to reflect growing demand for grounded, nature-inspired tones; Hidden Gem shows how subtle color choices can redefine commercial interiors.       In high-touch environments like this modern washroom, Hidden Gem transforms an everyday utility space into an intentional design statement.          Designed to bring a quiet confidence to open layouts, this shade offers visual interest without overwhelming the space. The result is an elegant, polished look that works across a wide range of modern workplaces.          Pair with muted neutrals and grounded accents to bring calm sophistication and create a welcoming first impression in healthcare spaces.         Now’s the time to show your clients how subtle color can make a stunning statement with BEHR® Hidden Gem.    To explore more of the 2026 Color of the Year, visit behr.com/2026coty.