The Transformative Power of Teal
Every year, experts unveil their color picks to set the tone for design trends, and 2025 brought a varied palette—from Pantone’s cozy Mocha Mousse to Behr’s moody Rumors to HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams’ soft Quietude. But for 2026, the spotlight shifts to a hue that’s already turning heads on international runways: teal. Chosen by the trend authorities at WGSN and Coloro (who dub it “Transformative Teal”), this captivating option may be just what you need to inject new life into your home for this year.
Why teal, and why now?
Teal is a perfect example of how the right color can impact the function and feel of a space. By blending the calming depth of blue with the revitalizing energy of green, it strikes a unique balance that can either soothe or invigorate depending on the ratio and tint. A lighter teal, for instance, can add a burst of fresh energy to a playroom or living room, encouraging creativity and movement. Meanwhile, a darker shade can promote clarity and focus in a home office or introduce a softer, more serene vibe in a bedroom, helping to craft a peaceful retreat. Wherever it’s used, teal shapes the mood, offering a dynamic backdrop that brings harmony and purpose.
But the color’s impact isn’t just emotional—it’s environmental too. Sustainability is an increasingly important aspect of fashion and interior design, and teal nods to this eco-consciousness by evoking lush landscapes and ocean depths, making it feel connected to the earth and a more mindful way of living. And while the color may be trending now, it is no passing fad. It has history and staying power, looking just as stylish in 1920s art deco as it does in modern minimalism. That timelessness makes the hue a smart choice for anyone seeking a color with longevity.
How to use Transformative Teal
Unlike picks from brands like Behr and Sherwin-Williams, you won’t actually find Transformative Teal in the paint aisle. Instead, you can use the trend as inspiration for your next project, selecting paints, fabrics, and accents in various shades of teal. Whether you’re interested in doing a complete overhaul or just a subtle refresh, there are several ways to bring a cool-toned update into your home.
Swap accent pieces
Sprinkle in teal through decor you can easily switch out: think ceramic vases, abstract artwork, and planters that feature it as a primary or accent color. Even more functional items like desk organizers, coasters, and candleholders can bring a subtle yet impactful pop of the hue. Try grouping teal objects together on a shelf or coffee table for a curated, intentional look. You can also use a variety of materials, like painted metal and colored glass, to add depth and texture while keeping the color palette cohesive.
Tie in textiles
One easy and effective method for incorporating the bold color is utilizing textiles. For instance, a reading chair or ottoman upholstered in teal velvet can be a showstopping piece in your living room, while a teal rug in your dining room can ground the space and complement any new blue-green accents. In a bedroom, use the shade throughout the bedding, including your duvet cover and pillowcases; you can even throw a teal-tinged quilt at the foot of the bed. When picking items, consider how you can mix patterns, like stripes, florals, and even geometric prints that feature teal, for another layer of visual interest without overwhelming the space.
Refresh your walls
For a more drastic change, you can’t go wrong with adding a coat of teal paint to instantly transform a room. Paint a single accent wall behind the headboard in a bedroom to turn it into a cozy sanctuary or one in your home office to create a stunning background for your video meetings. You can then pair it with white walls and trim for a modern contrast or paint the ceiling, trim, and rest of the walls in the same shade, drenching the room for greater drama.
Ultimately, one of the best things about teal is that no matter your style, it’s bound to work with your home’s existing design, easily complementing everything from bright neutrals to shades of red and yellow. So whether you go big or start small, integrating the color into your home is a beautiful way to give your spaces a look that’s both trendy and timeless.