Universal Khaki: 5 Ways To Decorate Using the Color of the Year

Sherwin Williams has officially announced Universal Khaki as the Color of the Year for 2026. Universal Khaki is a neutral beige with soft undertones of olive green and sandstone. This earthy, understated color offers endless versatility for interior design.

Whether you’re painting a room, installing a wallpaper, or just looking for small ways to incorporate the color into your home, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of using universal khaki in your home design and offer some creative ways to style the color in the new year.

Why Universal Khaki is Perfect for Home Design

Universal khaki acts as the perfect neutral for homes of virtually any style. It offers the versatility of traditional beige while also infusing some extra warmth and character. You can use universal khaki as a charming backdrop for any room, but it’s especially beautiful in living rooms, dining rooms, offices, and kitchens.

The Color of the Year is a fun annual tradition that helps forecast upcoming trends in home design. Each year, many designers and decorating enthusiasts use the Color of the Year for inspiration. Universal khaki represents a shift toward warm and versatile spaces, meaning that your interiors won’t feel out of style even after 2026 has come and gone.

1. Create a Mid-Century Living Space

If you just want to create that nostalgic mid-century modern charm in your space, universal khaki is the perfect retro neutral tone. Mid-century modern home décor is inspired by the chic homes built in the 50’s and 60’s. 

To achieve a mid-century-inspired interior, consider incorporating some of the following elements:

• Clean lines and minimalist shapes

• Neutral tones with pops of color (e.g., rust, orange, or mustard)

• Functional wood and fiberglass furniture

• A few abstract paintings or statues

• Organic textiles like linen, leather, and tweed

• A bold geometric wallpaper like the infinity blocks coconut husk wallpaper

• Lots of natural light

2. Create Dimension With Layered Textures

Many people love the flexibility of neutral tones, which is part of what makes universal khaki so appealing. But even those that love a neutral look may want to add some dimension and drama to their spaces. One subtle way to add visual interest is to use texture rather than patterns or bold colors.

Experiment with textiles, hard materials, and organic elements to make your universal khaki interiors feel captivating and homey.

Here are some ways to use texture in your home design:

• Add wicker and rattan baskets for storage.

• Opt for couches and chairs with velvet or leather upholstery. 

• Use glass and metal accents for a sleek touch.

• Choose a grasscloth wallpaper for an organic look.

• Pair wooden furnishings with indoor plants and other natural elements.

3. Lean Into a Nature Vibe

Make the most of the earthy undertones in universal khaki by incorporating nature-inspired elements. Indoor plants, classic floral patterns, and wooden furnishings will pull the look together. You can also pair this color with deeper neutrals like brown, terracotta, and taupe to create a rich and sophisticated atmosphere.

If you want to truly go all out, consider adding an accent wall with a landscape wall mural in a complementary warm tone. The boulder beach wall mural features a unique blend of warmth and rugged beauty.

4. Pair With Bright and Bold Tones

Choosing a neutral color like universal khaki doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with vibrant colors and eye-popping patterns. In fact, this color can act as a great backdrop or warm accent color for maximalist and colorful spaces.

For example, you can paint your walls with universal khaki or use a similar wallpaper to frame the space, and then add some more whimsical and eclectic elements. Colorful throw pillows, lots of wall art, personal knick-knacks, and contrasting patterns can help you create an eclectic and bold style in your home.

5. Opt for a Sophisticated Neutral Color Pallette

If you prefer a classic minimalist look, you can layer universal khaki with other calming neutrals. For example, you might use a universal khaki wall color as a backdrop and then choose furniture and décor in beiges, browns, creams, whites, and grays.

This neutral vibe feels both modern and inviting, especially when you prioritize solid colors, soft fabrics, and understated artwork. But remember that neutral doesn’t have to mean giving up patterns or pops of color. If you want to add patterns to a neutral bedroom or bathroom, opt for clean geometrics, classic plaid, and delicate florals.

Create a Gorgeous, On-Trend Home Design With Mitchell Black Wallpapers

As the Color of the Year, universal khaki is set to make a big splash in the interior decorating world. Whether you want to incorporate this exact tone or choose other warm neutrals to put your own spin on the trend, there are many ways to style universal khaki to create stunning spaces throughout your home.

One impactful design choice that never goes out of style is high-quality wallpaper. At Mitchell Black, we offer an expansive wallpaper collection featuring a variety of unique patterns, classic motifs, rich colors, and subtle textures.

Choose from our premium paper, type II vinyl, and peel and stick wallpapers to bring your dream home to life. Also take advantage of our concierge service to get some one-on-one guidance from a design specialist.