Dulux’s 2026 colour of the year is here—and it's inspired by Canadian forests

Dulux Paints has unveiled its 2026 colour of the year: Pine Forest, an earthy homage to the Canadian spirit. While last year's Colour of the Year, Purple Basil, was rich and lively, Pine Forest is an “emerging neutral,” a versatile, verdant hue with an evergreen appeal.  

This colour represents the resilience of Canada’s forests, which cover nearly 40 per cent of our country’s geography. In a time where Canadian patriotism is at an all-time high, Pine Forest embodies the strength and renewal that our natural landscapes provide.  

Design experts from across the country selected Pine Forest to represent the enduring optimism that we show in the face of adversity. The warm green and teal undertone grounds a space, channelling serene energy that can be styled in a plethora of ways.  

Pine Forest in your home 

Use Pine Forest for an interior, an accent wall or an exterior. It makes a great choice for elegant panelling or a bold decision for the ceiling of a well-lit room.  

For an exterior pop of colour, paint your front door, shutters or other outdoor features with this hue, especially if your home is red brick or has warm-toned siding.  

Looking to accessorize? With the right styling, this colour can suit many different household aesthetics, such as farmhouse, maximalist, and modern. For a naturalistic look that feels like living in the heart of the forest, opt for light wood tones, wicker light fixtures and glazed ceramic centrepieces. For a more classic feel, choose darker woods, bronze fixtures and hints of black in frames or furniture.  

Exploring the 2026 Palette 

Pine Forest isn’t the only colour you should be paying attention to—Dulux has an entire palette of 2026’s biggest trends, making it easier for you to find the right hue for you. Layer these colours to create a complex ecosystem in your home.  

Looking to pair the colour of the year with something complementary? Don’t be afraid to move beyond beige! Red tones like Chili Pepper and Sweet Spiceberry bring a burst of vibrancy, harmonizing with the richness of Pine Forest. Pair with natural tones like orangey Welcome Home and pink-tinted Just Gorgeous to soften this lush hue. 

The 2026 array also includes milder tones like Lovely Lilac, Quaking Grass and Walden Pond. Lovely Lilac is a muted blue-purple, a calming colour perfect for a bathroom or hallway. As the only other green in the palette, Quaking Grass is perfect to pair with Pine Forest, creating a botanical oasis inspired by the natural world. Walden Pond is a restful yet inspirational blue, ideal to curate a meditative retreat where you can live deliberately.  

Rounding out the palette are Cavalry and Slippery Stone. Cavalry is a moody blue-grey, great for exterior features or dining rooms when paired with white trim. Slippery Stone is a warm caramel, evoking the rounded rocks of the Canadian Shield. This inviting colour makes for a cozy kitchen or inviting living area.  

Ready to bring these stunning hues into your home? 

Head to your local Dulux Paints store where CAA Members enjoy 25 per cent off regular-priced paints and earn 3 per cent back in CAA Dollars.