A return to wood: Minwax crowns Special Walnut as 2026’s Color of the Year

2025.09.17

 “With wood emerging as a key element in interior design—from furniture and flooring to cabinetry and architectural details—there’s a renewed appreciation for finishes that enhance its natural character,” said Lisbeth Parada, color and design lead at Minwax. “Special Walnut delivers with a classic, dimensional tone that feels both familiar and fresh. Its versatility makes it a favorite across styles and applications—whether you’re restoring a vintage piece or finishing a weekend project.”

Building on its adaptability, Parada shares how Special Walnut reflects a deeper evolution in the modern design landscape.

“This color captures the essence of today’s design shift, where dark, dimensional wood tones are overtaking the cooler, more minimal aesthetics of recent years,” said Parada. “Special Walnut offers a rich, layered look that adds visual weight and authenticity, creating contrast and interest in both contemporary spaces and cozy, lived-in homes. At a time when people crave connection and comfort, Special Walnut brings that vision to life through the warmth and integrity of real wood.”

This evolving design approach shaped the selection of Special Walnut as the Minwax 2026 Color of the Year, highlighted by three major influences:

• Wood as a Design Anchor: Wood is reclaiming its role as a cornerstone of home interiors, valued for its natural texture, variety and enduring appeal. Special Walnut builds on this momentum by enhancing the grain and depth of wood, offering a finish that feels grounded and welcoming. It aligns perfectly with the “wood drenching” trend, where wood-wrapped walls, ceilings and built-ins create cohesive, visually inviting spaces.

• Nostalgic Charm: As more homeowners gravitate toward décor with story and soul, Special Walnut channels the handcrafted feel of rustic, Western-inspired style. Its warm tone recalls weathered ranch homes and hand-shaped materials, highlighting pieces with visible history and character. The result is a home environment that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly honest.

• Style With Staying Power: In a move away from passing trends, Special Walnut supports spaces built to last and timeless furniture design rooted in character and charm. Whether applied to ceiling beams, classic furniture or salvaged wood elements, it brings understated sophistication to interiors with depth and intention.