Updating your property? Avoid these outdated colour schemes for 2026

What are the latest trends in property renovation? These outdated colour schemes will be obsolete in 2026

Avoid flat and bright colours in interiors for 2026. Image credit: jtilford. Pixabay.

Interior designers In 2026, it is predicted that many once-popular color schemes will become outdated. This includes those with saturated or overused colors. According to Homes & Gardens, Colour trends It is essential that homeowners who redecorate regularly their homes keep up with the latest design trends. Rent a holiday home or a long-term property.

The popularity of sage greens and forest shades will decline by 2026

Designers say that greens, which have been a staple in interior palettes for many years, are no longer popular. Homes & Gardens cites Los Angeles designer Jessica Nicastro, “Forest green is going out of style for 2026 – it has been done so much.” Hannah Goldberg, a Washington D.C. interior designer, echoes the sentiment. She says that sage green and forest greens are “overdone”, and people “feel a little tired of them.”

This trend is reinforced Real SimpleAccording to a report by, the popularity of sage green is “peaking after years oversaturation” on walls, cabinets, and textiles.

The modern teal color is the perfect in-between of blue and green.

Mustard and Butter Yellow fall out of fashion

Mustard Yellow, the standout color of the 1970s revival is now firmly “dated” for 2026. Homes & Gardens quotes designer Kristina Khersonsky, who says the colour “has had its moment” but is now “overused and overproduced”, appearing in mass-market décor and furniture.

Other major publications concur. Martha Stewart Living Recently, it was predicted that butter yellows and golden yellows would feel outdated by the end of this year as consumers gravitate to richer golds or ochres.

Artificial and highly saturation tones are no longer acceptable

Third, synthetic colours are being phased out. These include bright reds like tomato, sugary lilacs and bubblegum pinks as well as other “laboratory shades”. As fabric designer Bernie de Le Cuona told Homes & Gardens, “Artificial colours are starting to feel out… these shades can feel harsh and fleeting.”

Kobel + Co designers in New York say that too-pigmented colors can look “flat or graphic” without the depth needed for contemporary interiors.

This shift aligns with emerging design directions identified at Feria Hábitat Valencia 2025, one of Spain’s major design fairs, where earthy palettes, natural textures and Mediterranean-rooted tones dominated exhibitor collections for 2026.

Interior designers’ recommendations for colours in 2026

There are clear preferences emerging across major interior magazines:

✔ Earthy palettes

Elle Decor Highlights 2026’s shift towards “warmer and richer neutrals”, such as tobacco brown, dusty green, and terracotta.

✔ Jewel tones

The deep sapphires, muted greens and cranberry shades add sophistication to a space without being overwhelming.

✔ Warm base colours

Interiors will become more inviting with the use of softer shades, greige-blends, and warm porcelains.

If you are choosing shades to decorate your holiday home or rental property, consider picking colours that are not only current but also durable.

  • Rent and resale appealThis is especially important when investing in property.
  • Comfort in sunny climates – Mediterranean light is far more flattering to earthy, warm tones than to pasty greys or stark whites.
  • Cost and longevityAvoiding trends that are only temporary will save you from having to repaint your walls.
  • Synergy between traditional Spanish architecture and modern designThis is a warm finish that often includes stone, terracotta or other warm materials.

See all the latest property news.


Free Subscribe

Sign up to stay ahead with the latest news straight to your email.

We respect your privacy and will never spam you!

About Liam Bradford

Avatar photo
Liam Bradford, a seasoned news editor with over 20 years of experience, currently based in Spain, is known for his editorial expertise, commitment to journalistic integrity, and advocating for press freedom.

Check Also

Why Agas are the luxury kitchen trend of 2026

Why Agas is the Luxury Kitchen Trend of 2026

Aga in raspberry shade. Credit: Instagram @aga_cookers Luxury Aga cookers The key to success is …