Colour changes how a room feels before anything else moves. In this AL ASAB guide, follow the ideas behind colour, explore documented selections from 2020 to 2026, and turn inspiration into a palette that works with real light, materials and daily life.

What is colour?

Colour is a visual experience produced when light reaches the eye and the brain interprets the signals. Surfaces absorb some wavelengths and reflect others, while the light source affects what reaches us. Cone cells in the retina help us distinguish colour. That is why the same painted wall can look different in daylight, warm artificial light and shadow. Source: National Eye Institute.

For interiors, three simple ideas are especially useful: hue describes the colour family, lightness describes how light or dark it appears, and saturation describes its intensity. A muted blue and a vivid blue share a family but create very different relationships with surrounding materials. Undertones matter too: a grey may lean green, blue or violet, and nearby timber, tiles and fabrics can make that tendency more noticeable.

A short history: colour has no single starting year

People did not invent colour on one date. Its history is a continuing story of using pigments, understanding light and finding better ways to communicate a shade. The milestones below are a timeline of human knowledge and practice, not a beginning and end for colour itself.

  • More than 100,000 years ago: people were using ochre and mineral pigments. These early materials connect colour with expression and practical activity long before modern paint. Smithsonian source.
  • Ancient traditions through later painting: artists obtained pigments from minerals, plants and other natural sources. Availability, expense and durability shaped their palettes; the National Gallery documents examples ranging from madder used in ancient Egypt to blues such as azurite and Prussian blue. National Gallery source.
  • Seventeenth century–1704: Isaac Newton’s optical investigations helped establish that white light contains differently refracted colours. His book Opticks appeared in 1704. This was a milestone in explaining colour, not the invention of it. University of Oxford, Newton Project.
  • 1963: Pantone introduced its Matching System for printing, helping people specify and reproduce colours consistently. Today its graphics system and Fashion, Home + Interiors system serve different applications. Pantone history · Colour systems.
  • 2020–2026: the annual selections below show several influential directions promoted by colour and paint specialists. They are reference points, not a universal ranking of the most-used colours in every country or room.

How to read the palettes

Documented colours, editorial combinations. Each name and code below links to its brand’s source. Pantone selections are its Color of the Year choices; Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams entries are their annual selections, with the 2025 Sherwin-Williams capsule identified separately. AL ASAB has combined these references into suggested schemes. The brands did not jointly issue these palettes.

The coloured cards sit side by side so you can compare them. The proportional strip underneath suggests a starting balance for the coloured elements in a room; it is not a measured specification. A dominant tone, a supporting tone and a small accent usually make a scheme easier to control than equal amounts of every colour. Adjust the balance for the room’s light, size, materials and your preferences.

Samples and photographs: the digital swatches are illustrative approximations, not certified Pantone or paint matches. The five photographs per year are reference rooms from our existing inspiration library, accompanied by proposed styling ideas. They are not evidence that those rooms use the named paints or were designed in that year. Photo credits are retained; the photographs are not AL ASAB projects.

2020 — Soft blush meets confident blue

First Light
Benjamin Moore 2102-70
Main walls · 60% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Classic Blue
PANTONE 19-4052
Upholstery and textiles · 30% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Naval
Sherwin-Williams SW 6244
Joinery and details · 10% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

First Light 60% · Classic Blue 30% · Naval 10%

A pale rosy background gives the deeper blues room to breathe. Keep the darkest shade on a smaller element, such as a console or door, and repeat the medium blue in fabric. Brass and pale timber can connect the warm and cool tones.

15 room references & styling ideas

Luxurious lounge with a pink sofa, chairs, and decorative walls — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2020 palette

Idea 1: Introduce blush upholstery and deeper blue cushions.
Luxurious lounge with a pink sofa, chairs, and decorative walls. Photo: Mustafa Fatemi / Unsplash.
A dining table with six upholstered chairs under a white pendant light — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2020 palette

Idea 2: Use pale walls as the backdrop to blue dining textiles.
A dining table with six upholstered chairs under a white pendant light. Photo: João Emanuel / Unsplash.
white and black wooden cabinet — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2020 palette

Idea 3: Try navy joinery against a soft blush wall.
white and black wooden cabinet. Photo: André François McKenzie / Unsplash.
a bedroom with a white bed and a white dresser — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2020 palette

Idea 4: Build a quiet bedroom around blush walls and blue bed linen.
a bedroom with a white bed and a white dresser. Photo: alex / Unsplash.
Elegant room with chandelier, classical statues, and blue-lit window — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2020 palette

Idea 5: Use a small blue accent to enliven a classical room.
Elegant room with chandelier, classical statues, and blue-lit window. Photo: The Metropolitan Museum of Art / Unsplash.
black and brown leather padded tub sofa — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with First Light for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
black and brown leather padded tub sofa. Photo: Inside Weather / Unsplash.
white and brown wooden staircase — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Classic Blue for upholstery and textiles; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
white and brown wooden staircase. Photo: Deconovo / Unsplash.
a chair and a table in a room — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Naval for joinery and details; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a chair and a table in a room. Photo: Visual Laurence / Unsplash.
white and brown spiral staircase — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with First Light for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
white and brown spiral staircase. Photo: Deconovo / Unsplash.
A modern living room with a large window — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Classic Blue for upholstery and textiles; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A modern living room with a large window. Photo: Prydumano Design / Unsplash.
brown wooden center table inside room — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Naval for joinery and details; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
brown wooden center table inside room. Photo: Kirill / Unsplash.
Modern minimalist seating area with wooden furniture — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with First Light for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Modern minimalist seating area with wooden furniture. Photo: lim woojung / Unsplash.
a living room with a couch and a table — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Classic Blue for upholstery and textiles; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room with a couch and a table. Photo: Pipcke / Unsplash.
sunlit interior with sofa and table — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Naval for joinery and details; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
sunlit interior with sofa and table. Photo: Suhyeon Choi / Unsplash.
a couch and a chair — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with First Light for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a couch and a chair. Photo: Jonathan Rudi Chandra / Unsplash.

2021 — Grounded neutrals with a bright accent

Ultimate Gray
PANTONE 17-5104
Large neutral surfaces · 55% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Aegean Teal
Benjamin Moore 2136-40
Cabinetry or upholstery · 25% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Urbane Bronze
Sherwin-Williams SW 7048
Frames and focal joinery · 15% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Illuminating
PANTONE 13-0647
Small accents · 5% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

Ultimate Gray 55% · Aegean Teal 25% · Urbane Bronze 15% · Illuminating 5%

The two Pantone selections bring a neutral base and a clear yellow highlight. Add muted teal as a secondary colour and use bronze-brown sparingly for definition. A cushion, artwork or occasional chair can carry yellow without overwhelming the room.

Jotun 2021 — Rediscover

A Jotun palette from the same year, shown alongside the Pantone-led scheme above. This is an AL ASAB styling selection from Jotun’s annual collection, not a brand-issued Pantone match.

12118 Hummus
Jotun colour
12120 Desert Pink
Jotun colour
10428 Masala
Jotun colour

Explore Jotun’s official 2021 collection and catalogue ↗

Digital swatches are illustrative. Check the Jotun colour code and a physical sample in the space before specifying paint.

15 room references & styling ideas

Modern minimalist living room with gray sofa and natural light. — reference setting for a proposed 2021 palette

Idea 1: A grey sofa is a useful anchor for teal and yellow accents.
Photo: Nenad Stojković / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
A white sofa with a mustard pillow in a living room with framed art — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2021 palette

Idea 2: Keep yellow to a small textile accent against pale surfaces.
A white sofa with a mustard pillow in a living room with framed art. Photo: Collov Home Design / Unsplash.
Two grey velvet sofas facing each other in a bright modern living room — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2021 palette

Idea 3: Use grey seating with teal textiles and dark furniture details.
Two grey velvet sofas facing each other in a bright modern living room. Photo: Zac Gudakov / Unsplash.
A yellow upholstered bench with decorative wall paneling — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2021 palette

Idea 4: A yellow bench can become the focal accent in an entrance.
A yellow upholstered bench with decorative wall paneling. Photo: ANGIE BAONGOC / Unsplash.
a living room with a green couch and a white lamp — Minimalist style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2021 palette

Idea 5: A muted green-blue seating direction works with warm dark details.
a living room with a green couch and a white lamp. Photo: JALG TV Stand / Unsplash.
A minimalist staircase with white concrete steps leading to a landing with a vase — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with Ultimate Gray for large neutral surfaces; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A minimalist staircase with white concrete steps leading to a landing with a vase. Photo: Alesia Kazantceva / Unsplash.
a living room with a couch, chair, table and speakers — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Aegean Teal for cabinetry or upholstery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room with a couch, chair, table and speakers. Photo: Le Quan / Unsplash.
A living room with a couch a table and a large window — Minimalist style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Urbane Bronze for frames and focal joinery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A living room with a couch a table and a large window. Photo: Puscas Adryan / Unsplash.
a living room with a couch a chair and a fireplace — Modern style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with Illuminating for small accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room with a couch a chair and a fireplace. Photo: Bailey Alexander / Unsplash.
a living room filled with furniture and a kitchen — Modern style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Ultimate Gray for large neutral surfaces; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room filled with furniture and a kitchen. Photo: Bailey Alexander / Unsplash.
a living room filled with furniture and a fire place — Modern style reference

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Aegean Teal for cabinetry or upholstery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room filled with furniture and a fire place. Photo: Bailey Alexander / Unsplash.
a bathroom with a sink and a mirror — Modern style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with Urbane Bronze for frames and focal joinery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a bathroom with a sink and a mirror. Photo: eke interior / Unsplash.
a dining room table with chairs and a chandelier — Modern style reference

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Illuminating for small accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a dining room table with chairs and a chandelier. Photo: Alona Gross / Unsplash.
A dining room with a table and chairs — Modern style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Ultimate Gray for large neutral surfaces; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A dining room with a table and chairs. Photo: Riccardo Werder / Unsplash.
a living room filled with furniture and a painting on the wall — Modern style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with Aegean Teal for cabinetry or upholstery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room filled with furniture and a painting on the wall. Photo: mahmoud azmy / Unsplash.

2022 — Layered greens with a periwinkle lift

October Mist
Benjamin Moore 1495
Main walls · 60% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Evergreen Fog
Sherwin-Williams SW 9130
Joinery and larger furniture · 30% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Very Peri
PANTONE 17-3938
Art, cushions and accessories · 10% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

October Mist 60% · Evergreen Fog 30% · Very Peri 10%

Related green-grey shades provide a gentle, tonal foundation. Periwinkle works as a cooler accent rather than a second dominant wall colour. Pair the scheme with oak, linen and tactile finishes, and check the greens beside the actual flooring before approval.

Jotun 2022 — Together

A Jotun palette from the same year, shown alongside the Pantone-led scheme above. This is an AL ASAB styling selection from Jotun’s annual collection, not a brand-issued Pantone match.

1875 Sense
Jotun colour
12179 Embrace
Jotun colour
5516 Iron Blue
Jotun colour

Explore Jotun’s official 2022 collection and catalogue ↗

Digital swatches are illustrative. Check the Jotun colour code and a physical sample in the space before specifying paint.

15 room references & styling ideas

a bedroom with a green wall and a white bed — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2022 palette

Idea 1: Try sage walls with a restrained periwinkle bed accent.
a bedroom with a green wall and a white bed. Photo: Lotus Design N Print / Unsplash.
Green velvet sofa reflects in ornate mirror — Traditional Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2022 palette

Idea 2: Use textured green upholstery within a layered tonal scheme.
Green velvet sofa reflects in ornate mirror. Photo: MIROV / Unsplash.
A wooden ladder, a white bar stool, and a snake plant in a room — Minimalist style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2022 palette

Idea 3: Connect green paint, plants and pale timber.
A wooden ladder, a white bar stool, and a snake plant in a room. Photo: Andrew Neel / Unsplash.
Elegant curtains framing a view of greenery — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2022 palette

Idea 4: Repeat muted green in curtains and use purple only in small details.
Elegant curtains framing a view of greenery. Photo: Tsuyoshi Kozu / Unsplash.
Classical wall mouldings and sculptural bust beside a chair — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2022 palette

Idea 5: Give architectural mouldings a quiet green-grey finish.
Classical wall mouldings and sculptural bust beside a chair. Photo: Thái An / Unsplash.
A hallway leading to a living room and dining room — Modern style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with October Mist for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A hallway leading to a living room and dining room. Photo: Clay Banks / Unsplash.
a bathroom with a sink and a mirror — Modern style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Evergreen Fog for joinery and larger furniture; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a bathroom with a sink and a mirror. Photo: Alona Gross / Unsplash.
A kitchen and dining room with a table and chairs — Modern style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Very Peri for art, cushions and accessories; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A kitchen and dining room with a table and chairs. Photo: Anand Kumar / Unsplash.
a living room filled with furniture and a staircase — Modern style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with October Mist for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room filled with furniture and a staircase. Photo: Lotus Design N Print / Unsplash.
A modern living room with a television, armchair, and framed abstract art — Modern style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Evergreen Fog for joinery and larger furniture; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A modern living room with a television, armchair, and framed abstract art. Photo: Huy Nguyen / Unsplash.
Modern classic interior with fireplace and elegant furniture; illustrative style reference

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Very Peri for art, cushions and accessories; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Photo: Jeroen Maas / Unsplash — Unsplash License. Illustrative reference, not an AL ASAB project.
a living room with a couch and a chandelier — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with October Mist for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room with a couch and a chandelier. Photo: Abigail Keenan / Unsplash.
Modern fireplace with decorative vases on coffee table — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Evergreen Fog for joinery and larger furniture; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Modern fireplace with decorative vases on coffee table. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
a mirrored table with chairs and a vase on top of it — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Very Peri for art, cushions and accessories; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a mirrored table with chairs and a vase on top of it. Photo: Marissa Mullins / Unsplash.
A chandelier above a black marble fireplace with a clock and mirror — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with October Mist for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A chandelier above a black marble fireplace with a clock and mirror. Photo: Kouji Tsuru / Unsplash.

2023 — Earthy warmth with expressive red

Redend Point
Sherwin-Williams SW 9081
Main warm backdrop · 70% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Raspberry Blush
Benjamin Moore 2008-30
Feature furniture or selected wall · 20% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Viva Magenta
PANTONE 18-1750
Art and smaller accents · 10% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

Redend Point 70% · Raspberry Blush 20% · Viva Magenta 10%

These are strong warm-colour directions, so hierarchy matters. Let the quieter earth tone dominate, choose one red as the main statement, and keep the other to a small detail. For a more restrained home, introduce additional unpainted timber or off-white surfaces and reduce both accent shares.

Jotun 2023 — Stories

A Jotun palette from the same year, shown alongside the Pantone-led scheme above. This is an AL ASAB styling selection from Jotun’s annual collection, not a brand-issued Pantone match.

1931 Cashew
Jotun colour
7038 Dusk Green
Jotun colour
1520 Cheerful Peach
Jotun colour

Explore Jotun’s official 2023 collection and catalogue ↗

Digital swatches are illustrative. Check the Jotun colour code and a physical sample in the space before specifying paint.

15 room references & styling ideas

Traditional classic room with red sofa and vintage details — reference setting for a proposed 2023 palette

Idea 1: A red statement sofa can anchor an otherwise quieter room.
Style reference: Magic Fan / Unsplash · Unsplash License · illustrative image.
Ornate vintage lounge with plush seating and decorative elements — Traditional Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2023 palette

Idea 2: Layer warm upholstery with a muted earthy wall direction.
Ornate vintage lounge with plush seating and decorative elements. Photo: Alessandro Santoro / Unsplash.
Elegant room with antique dresser, lit candles, and mirror — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2023 palette

Idea 3: Use warm earth tones around traditional timber furniture.
Elegant room with antique dresser, lit candles, and mirror. Photo: Magic Fan / Unsplash.
a table with a vase of flowers and a lamp on it — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2023 palette

Idea 4: Introduce the brightest shade through flowers, art or small objects.
a table with a vase of flowers and a lamp on it. Photo: Thái An / Unsplash.
Ornate antique room with a table and mirror — Traditional Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2023 palette

Idea 5: Balance decorative furniture with restrained warm wall colour.
Ornate antique room with a table and mirror. Photo: Alina Bondar / Unsplash.
Elegant dining room with modern chandelier and artwork — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with Redend Point for main warm backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Elegant dining room with modern chandelier and artwork. Photo: andy chiu / Unsplash.
Ornate chandelier reflected in a mirror above a dining table — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Raspberry Blush for feature furniture or selected wall; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Ornate chandelier reflected in a mirror above a dining table. Photo: Artem Artemov / Unsplash.
Modern dining room with oval table and chairs — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Viva Magenta for art and smaller accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Modern dining room with oval table and chairs. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
A living room with a chandelier a couch and a chair — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with Redend Point for main warm backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A living room with a chandelier a couch and a chair. Photo: Tetiana Papilota / Unsplash.
Arched doorway leads to hallway with modern chandelier and railing — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Raspberry Blush for feature furniture or selected wall; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Arched doorway leads to hallway with modern chandelier and railing. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
Living room with armchair and fireplace — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Viva Magenta for art and smaller accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Living room with armchair and fireplace. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
Elegant living room with fireplace and modern furniture — Modern Classic style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with Redend Point for main warm backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Elegant living room with fireplace and modern furniture. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
Neoclassical living room with chandelier and classical details; illustrative reference, not an AL ASAB project

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Raspberry Blush for feature furniture or selected wall; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Photo: Andy Wang / Unsplash (Unsplash License). Illustrative style reference; not an AL ASAB project.
Balanced sitting room with traditional armchairs and pale walls — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Viva Magenta for art and smaller accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Balanced sitting room with traditional armchairs and pale walls. Photo: Spacejoy / Unsplash.
white wooden door near brown wooden table — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with Redend Point for main warm backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
white wooden door near brown wooden table. Photo: Julia / Unsplash.

2024 — Airy blue, deeper blue and soft peach

Upward
Sherwin-Williams SW 6239
Light walls · 60% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Blue Nova
Benjamin Moore 825
Joinery, sofa or curtains · 30% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Peach Fuzz
PANTONE 13-1023
Warm textile accents · 10% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

Upward 60% · Blue Nova 30% · Peach Fuzz 10%

A lighter blue-grey and a deeper blue create depth, while peach supplies a warm counterpoint. Try this relationship in a bedroom or sitting room, with peach kept to cushions, an occasional chair or a rug detail. The swatch strip shows the intended palette; reference photos show possible room settings, not verified paint matches.

Jotun 2024 — Canvas

A Jotun palette from the same year, shown alongside the Pantone-led scheme above. This is an AL ASAB styling selection from Jotun’s annual collection, not a brand-issued Pantone match.

12075 Soothing Beige
Jotun colour
12291 Soft Brown
Jotun colour
7685 Subtle Green
Jotun colour

Explore Jotun’s official 2024 collection and catalogue ↗

Digital swatches are illustrative. Check the Jotun colour code and a physical sample in the space before specifying paint.

15 room references & styling ideas

Elegant dining room with white table, chairs, and large windows — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2024 palette

Idea 1: Try light blue walls with peach dining-chair fabric.
Elegant dining room with white table, chairs, and large windows. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
Elegant bedroom with a gold wall sconce and nightstand — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2024 palette

Idea 2: Use soft blue walls and a peach bed accent.
Elegant bedroom with a gold wall sconce and nightstand. Photo: Caroline Badran / Unsplash.
Elegant dining room with glass table and upholstered chairs — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2024 palette

Idea 3: Combine deeper blue seating with lighter architectural surfaces.
Elegant dining room with glass table and upholstered chairs. Photo: Franco Debartolo / Unsplash.
Elegant living room with sofas, coffee table, and arched window — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2024 palette

Idea 4: Introduce blue upholstery and a small peach accessory.
Elegant living room with sofas, coffee table, and arched window. Photo: Maverick Frame / Unsplash.
Light classical sitting room with chandelier and symmetrical seating — Neoclassical style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2024 palette

Idea 5: Use peach as the warm detail within a pale blue classical scheme.
Light classical sitting room with chandelier and symmetrical seating. Photo: Chermiti Mohamed / Unsplash.
Three framed landscape prints on a paneled wall above a staircase with a chandelier — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with Upward for light walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Three framed landscape prints on a paneled wall above a staircase with a chandelier. Photo: Magic Fan / Unsplash.
a table with a mirror and a chandelier — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Blue Nova for joinery, sofa or curtains; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a table with a mirror and a chandelier. Photo: Zoe / Unsplash.
A long hotel hallway with crystal chandeliers, floral wallpaper, and a diamond-patterned floor — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Peach Fuzz for warm textile accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
A long hotel hallway with crystal chandeliers, floral wallpaper, and a diamond-patterned floor. Photo: ARTO SURAJ / Unsplash.
Elegant hallway with a grand staircase and arched doorway — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with Upward for light walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Elegant hallway with a grand staircase and arched doorway. Photo: Magic Fan / Unsplash.
Bright panelled dining room with classical cornices and chandelier — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Blue Nova for joinery, sofa or curtains; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Bright panelled dining room with classical cornices and chandelier. Photo: yann maignan / Unsplash.
a table with chairs around it — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Peach Fuzz for warm textile accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a table with chairs around it. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
a living room with a fireplace and a mirror — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with Upward for light walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room with a fireplace and a mirror. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
Elegant room with marble pillars and sheer curtains — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Blue Nova for joinery, sofa or curtains; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Elegant room with marble pillars and sheer curtains. Photo: Tsuyoshi Kozu / Unsplash.
Elegant living room with plush sofa and large windows — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Peach Fuzz for warm textile accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Elegant living room with plush sofa and large windows. Photo: Katie Puzatova / Unsplash.
a living room filled with furniture and a piano — Neoclassical style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with Upward for light walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room filled with furniture and a piano. Photo: Thái An / Unsplash.

2025 — Warm neutrals with a muted plum note

Sunbleached
Sherwin-Williams SW 9585
Main walls · 60% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Mocha Mousse
PANTONE 17-1230
Upholstery and soft finishes · 25% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Cinnamon Slate
Benjamin Moore 2113-40
An accent chair or textiles · 10% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Grounded
Sherwin-Williams SW 6089
Dark details · 5% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

Sunbleached 60% · Mocha Mousse 25% · Cinnamon Slate 10% · Grounded 5%

Use the pale neutral for openness, then build depth through brown upholstery, a muted plum accent and a small darker detail. Sunbleached and Grounded are selections from Sherwin-Williams’ nine-colour 2025 capsule, not separate winners of a single-colour award. Natural wood and woven fabrics are useful material companions.

Jotun 2025 — Nuances

A Jotun palette from the same year, shown alongside the Pantone-led scheme above. This is an AL ASAB styling selection from Jotun’s annual collection, not a brand-issued Pantone match.

1931 Cashew
Jotun colour
1117 Peach Sky
Jotun colour
7718 Secret Green
Jotun colour

Explore Jotun’s official 2025 collection and catalogue ↗

Digital swatches are illustrative. Check the Jotun colour code and a physical sample in the space before specifying paint.

15 room references & styling ideas

Modern living room with warm brown sofa, dark drapes and wood media wall. — reference setting for a proposed 2025 palette

Idea 1: Brown seating and timber can form the foundation of this palette.
Photo: Shixart1985 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
living room with brown sofa and glass window — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2025 palette

Idea 2: Balance warm brown upholstery with a pale neutral wall.
living room with brown sofa and glass window. Photo: Collov Home Design / Unsplash.
Elegant living room with brown leather furniture and stylish decor — Modern Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2025 palette

Idea 3: Use dark leather as a detail rather than the only room colour.
Elegant living room with brown leather furniture and stylish decor. Photo: POOJAN THANEKAR / Unsplash.
brown and white couch beside brown wooden coffee table — Traditional Classic style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2025 palette

Idea 4: Mix pale upholstery, warm timber and a muted plum accent.
brown and white couch beside brown wooden coffee table. Photo: reisetopia / Unsplash.
Modern wooden sideboard with shelves and decor — Minimalist style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2025 palette

Idea 5: Layer warm timber storage against a light, soft wall colour.
Modern wooden sideboard with shelves and decor. Photo: Aleksandra Dementeva / Unsplash.
Elegant sitting area with armchairs, table, and sunlit windows; illustrative style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with Sunbleached for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Photo: Aayush Khokhar / Unsplash. Source photograph · Unsplash License — illustrative reference, not an AL ASAB project.
gold chandelier in room — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Mocha Mousse for upholstery and soft finishes; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
gold chandelier in room. Photo: Jon Tyson / Unsplash.
a room with a piano and chairs — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Cinnamon Slate for an accent chair or textiles; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a room with a piano and chairs. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
a room with a table and chairs — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with Grounded for dark details; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a room with a table and chairs. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
a gold bed frame — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Sunbleached for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a gold bed frame. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
Ornate golden chandelier hangs in a dimly lit room — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Mocha Mousse for upholstery and soft finishes; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Ornate golden chandelier hangs in a dimly lit room. Photo: mana5280 / Unsplash.
Ornate marble fireplace with a large decorative mirror above — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with Cinnamon Slate for an accent chair or textiles; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Ornate marble fireplace with a large decorative mirror above. Photo: [TNL] / Unsplash.
An ornate interior with a large mirror, wall sconces, and framed portraits — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Grounded for dark details; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
An ornate interior with a large mirror, wall sconces, and framed portraits. Photo: Smithsonian / Unsplash.
An ornate fireplace with a mantel clock and wall sconces in a grand room — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Sunbleached for main walls; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
An ornate fireplace with a mantel clock and wall sconces in a grand room. Photo: Tofan Teodor / Unsplash.
a hallway with a bench and a clock on the wall — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with Mocha Mousse for upholstery and soft finishes; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a hallway with a bench and a clock on the wall. Photo: Chris Johnson / Unsplash.

All nine colours: Sherwin-Williams 2025 Color Capsule

The full official capsule is shown below; the four-colour combination above is our selected styling proposal. Digital swatches are approximate.

Grounded
SW 6089

Sunbleached
SW 9585

Chartreuse
SW 0073

Rain Cloud
SW 9639

Clove
SW 9605

Malabar
SW 9110

Bosc Pear
SW 6390

White Snow
SW 9541

Mauve Finery
SW 6282

Official 2025 capsule: all nine colours ↗

2026 — Soft white, warm khaki and espresso depth

Cloud Dancer
PANTONE 11-4201
Light backdrop · 60% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Universal Khaki
Sherwin-Williams SW 6150
Secondary walls, textiles or joinery · 30% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗
Silhouette
Benjamin Moore AF-655
Feature joinery and accents · 10% suggestion
Official colour reference ↗

See the balance

Cloud Dancer 60% · Universal Khaki 30% · Silhouette 10%

A soft white establishes the lightest layer, khaki adds warmth, and espresso-charcoal provides definition. This is an adaptable starting point for a villa, apartment or reception space. Compare the white with the chosen stone: a sample that looks neutral alone may look warmer or cooler beside marble or porcelain.

Jotun 2026 — Soulful Spaces

A Jotun palette from the same year, shown alongside the Pantone-led scheme above. This is an AL ASAB styling selection from Jotun’s annual collection, not a brand-issued Pantone match.

1625 Soul
Jotun colour
1974 Golden Walnut
Jotun colour
8493 Green Tea
Jotun colour

Explore Jotun’s official 2026 collection and catalogue ↗

Digital swatches are illustrative. Check the Jotun colour code and a physical sample in the space before specifying paint.

15 room references & styling ideas

Minimalist living room with light furniture and natural light; illustrative reference, not an AL ASAB project — reference setting for a proposed 2026 palette

Idea 1: Use a soft white background with khaki seating and a dark detail.
Style reference: rawkkim / Unsplash — https://unsplash.com/photos/modern-minimalist-living-room-with-white-furniture-4r9OKorlcTk
white sofa near brown wooden chair — Minimalist style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2026 palette

Idea 2: Combine pale upholstery with warm timber and espresso accents.
white sofa near brown wooden chair. Photo: Jakob Owens / Unsplash.
white sofa near round table — Minimalist style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2026 palette

Idea 3: Create depth in a white room through layered neutral textiles.
white sofa near round table. Photo: Deconovo / Unsplash.
white and brown kitchen counter — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2026 palette

Idea 4: Test khaki cabinetry beside the actual worktop and floor.
white and brown kitchen counter. Photo: Zac Gudakov / Unsplash.
a living room with a white couch and chairs — Modern style reference — reference setting for a proposed 2026 palette

Idea 5: Keep the main room light and repeat dark accents selectively.
a living room with a white couch and chairs. Photo: Pipcke / Unsplash.
a room with a fireplace and chairs — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 6: Adapt this room reference with Cloud Dancer for light backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a room with a fireplace and chairs. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
a chandelier in a room — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 7: Adapt this room reference with Universal Khaki for secondary walls, textiles or joinery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a chandelier in a room. Photo: Evgeni Adutskevich / Unsplash.
Luxurious ornate room with chandelier, fireplace, and classical furniture — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 8: Adapt this room reference with Silhouette for feature joinery and accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Luxurious ornate room with chandelier, fireplace, and classical furniture. Photo: The Metropolitan Museum of Art / Unsplash.
Ornate wooden office with antique desk and lamp — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 9: Adapt this room reference with Cloud Dancer for light backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Ornate wooden office with antique desk and lamp. Photo: Anna Hunko / Unsplash.
Ornate golden room with intricate wall decorations — Traditional Classic style reference

Styling idea 10: Adapt this room reference with Universal Khaki for secondary walls, textiles or joinery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Ornate golden room with intricate wall decorations. Photo: Thanh Ly / Unsplash.
Industrial style café interior with exposed structure and contemporary furnishings; illustrative reference, not an AL ASAB project

Styling idea 11: Adapt this room reference with Silhouette for feature joinery and accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
Photo: Kleon3 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0). Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2018_Maastricht,_Lumi%C3%A8re_caf%C3%A9-restaurant_1.jpg — illustrative reference, not an AL ASAB project.
brown wooden table near green potted plant — Industrial style reference

Styling idea 12: Adapt this room reference with Cloud Dancer for light backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
brown wooden table near green potted plant. Photo: Frankie / Unsplash.
silver transistor radio beside green leafed plant — Industrial style reference

Styling idea 13: Adapt this room reference with Universal Khaki for secondary walls, textiles or joinery; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
silver transistor radio beside green leafed plant. Photo: Lindsey LaMont / Unsplash.
brown wooden table with chairs — Industrial style reference

Styling idea 14: Adapt this room reference with Silhouette for feature joinery and accents; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
brown wooden table with chairs. Photo: Ruan Martinelli / Unsplash.
a living room with a couch and a table — Industrial style reference

Styling idea 15: Adapt this room reference with Cloud Dancer for light backdrop; pair it with the other shades above. Proposed palette, not the paint shown in the photograph.
a living room with a couch and a table. Photo: Mohammad Lotfian / Unsplash.

Five established paint brands serving the Gulf

Contact these companies directly for local products, physical colour samples and availability. This is a practical directory, not a ranking by market share. Brand logos identify their respective owners.

Jotun logo

Jotun

UAE enquiries and local offices.

Contact Jotun ↗

National Paints logo

National Paints

Contact the manufacturer or find a local paint outlet.

Contact National Paints ↗

Jazeera Paints logo

Jazeera Paints

UAE enquiry form and customer support.

Contact Jazeera Paints ↗

Hempel logo

Hempel

Official contacts across the GCC, including the UAE.

Contact Hempel ↗

Caparol Arabia logo

Caparol Arabia

UAE office, showroom and dealer contacts.

Contact Caparol Arabia ↗

From a palette to a finished space

Begin with what is already fixed: flooring, stone, joinery and furniture. Bring physical samples into the room and see them in daylight and under evening lamps. The same shade can shift against warm wood, cool stone or a darker corner.

Build a simple colour board with the paint brand, exact shade code and finish alongside fabrics, metal and timber. Test it on site before ordering. A digital swatch gives direction; a sample beside the actual finishes helps you make a confident decision.

Whether the project is a villa refresh or a commercial fit out, AL ASAB can help connect the palette to lighting, detailing and the final installation. Discuss your colour palette →

Research checked September 2026. Brand names and colour references identify their respective owners. Annual selections are attributed through the source links above; palette proportions and application ideas are AL ASAB editorial suggestions.