Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year ‘Hidden Gem’: What It Means for Wall Art & Murals
Behr has named Hidden Gem—a smoky jade with a subtle blue undertone—as its 2026 Color of the Year. The hue reads calm and grounded indoors yet crisp on exteriors, a flexible middle ground between heritage greens and modern teal. Below, we translate the announcement into practical choices for wall art, frames, and murals—plus complementary moves from other paint leaders shaping 2026 palettes.
Why ‘Hidden Gem’ works on walls
The color’s slightly gray cast keeps it sophisticated; the blue note keeps it fresh. That duality is why it behaves as both a neutral in serene spaces and a statement in contemporary rooms. It pairs naturally with linen, rattan, oak, and brass—and it loves texture.
Frames & finishes that flatter
- Oak & walnut frames for warmth and tactility.
- Matte black to define line drawings, photography, and graphic prints.
- Linen mats in natural/ivory to separate light artwork from a deep wall.
- Brass/gold accents for a quiet luxe layer without fighting the wall color.
Sizes that feel “right”
- Over a 3‑seat sofa: a single 36"–48" (90–120 cm) canvas, or a balanced diptych.
- Above a console: 24"–36" (60–90 cm) or a tight grid of three 12"×16" (30×40 cm).
- Entry / end wall: go over‑scale with 31"×47" (80×120 cm) to make the color feel intentional.
How to pair art with ‘Hidden Gem’
- Quiet & tonal: abstract textures, wabi‑sabi greens, and botanical linework. Aim for off‑white grounds or pale sage so the art breathes.
- High‑contrast: terracotta, sienna, rust, and espresso accents energize smoky jade—think geometric arches, sun motifs, or minimalist figures.
- Graphic & modern: black‑and‑ivory drawings and mid‑century shapes. Use thin black or walnut frames and keep mats narrow (½–1").
- Nature pop: koi, coastal blues, or leafy patterns to echo the hue’s blue‑green undertone.
Editor’s Picks: Art that Loves ‘Hidden Gem’
Smart contrasts from other 2026 color calls
To avoid a one‑note scheme, borrow accents from other paint leaders’ 2026 picks:
- Espresso brown from Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette for grounding frames and furniture.
- Trio of blues in Dulux’s “Rhythm of Blues” (light to inky) for art pairings and layered walls.
- Warm khaki (noted in industry roundups) to bridge earthy textiles and smoky greens.
When to go mural vs. framed art
Go mural when you need scale, rhythm and fewer visual seams—perfect for small bedrooms, a dining‑nook wall, or a powder room. Look for peel‑and‑stick substrates rated repositionable with matte coatings to minimize glare against deep colors like Hidden Gem.
Go framed canvas/paper when you want flexibility, curated groupings, and mixed finishes (wood, brass, linen mats). A deep green wall loves a triptych with breathing room between panels; keep center‑to‑center spacing at 2–3" (5–8 cm).
Contrast & Pop: Add Energy to ‘Hidden Gem’
Palette notes & complementary reading
Hidden Gem slots neatly into 2026’s broader mood: layered naturals, revived blues, and rich browns. For deeper dives into how designers are mixing these families, you may enjoy:
- Architectural Digest on Behr’s ‘Hidden Gem’
- Homes & Gardens on Dulux’s trio of blues for 2026
- PEOPLE’s take on why green remains the comfort color
FAQ: Styling Wall Art with ‘Hidden Gem’
What color is Behr’s 2026 Color of the Year?
Hidden Gem is a smoky, gray‑cast jade with a soft blue undertone—calm enough to read as a modern neutral, saturated enough to support contrasty artwork.
What art styles work best on a deep green wall?
Tonal abstracts, botanical line drawings, black‑and‑ivory graphics, and warm terracotta or rust‑forward pieces. Wood frames (oak/walnut) and linen mats keep it elevated.
How big should art be above a sofa or console?
Above a 3‑seat sofa, aim for 36"–48" (90–120 cm) wide or a balanced diptych. Consoles prefer 24"–36" (60–90 cm) or a tight grid of three small works.
When is a mural better than framed art?
Use a mural when you need uninterrupted scale or architectural rhythm—small rooms, dining nooks, and powder rooms. Choose matte, repositionable substrates for low glare on dark hues.
Which 2026 colors complement Hidden Gem?
Espresso brown (Benjamin Moore Silhouette), the Dulux Rhythm of Blues trio, and warm khaki textiles create a sophisticated, layered palette around smoky jade walls.