Paint & Coatings Manufacturer News

James Hardie Selects Iron Gray as 2026 Color of the Year

A deep and dramatic neutral color has been declared for housing exteriors in 2026.

Iron Gray Hardie Trim Batten Boards. ((PRNewsfoto/James Hardie Building Products Inc.)

James Hardie Building Products Inc. announces its 2026 Color of the Year: Iron Gray. This deep, bold color from the Statement Collection® product line provides a dramatic yet elegant look for your home exterior.

Hardie products in Iron Gray can help homeowners create a house that everyone notices and admires with its rich depth and intensity. Iron Gray commands attention without overwhelming, striking the perfect balance between strength and sophistication.

This refined neutral reflects a new era of exterior design, offering subtle drama with timeless appeal. Incredibly versatile, Iron Gray pairs beautifully with crisp accents such as Hardie Trim in Arctic White, delivering a clean architectural contrast that elevates a home’s curb appeal. For a more contemporary look, it can also create a powerful, monochromatic statement when paired with matching Iron Gray trim.

“Color has the power to amplify a home’s architectural voice,” says Samara Toole, chief marketing officer of James Hardie. “With Iron Gray, we wanted a color that is expressive yet grounded, one that complements strong lines and invites highlight trims to pop. It’s exactly the kind of color homeowners and professionals are asking for – bold yet timeless.”

Statement Collection® products, all available with ColorPlus® Technology finishes, contain up to 19 well-edited colors including Iron Gray. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by choices, you’ll feel empowered by these tried-and-true options curated by James Hardie’s color experts.

ColorPlus Technology finishes by James Hardie combine distinct beauty and high performance. It’s the easiest way to choose a gorgeous color for your house and feel confident in its staying power and fade resistance.

James Hardie empowers homeowners and building professionals alike to achieve their dream home with premium, high quality solutions. Using the Hardie™ Designer powered by Hover®, you can see how different colors, styles, and materials would look on your home with AI-driven visualizations.

Visit JamesHardie.com/HardieDesigner to upload a single photo of your home, and in just a few clicks, the Hardie™ Designer can show you how Iron Gray would come to life on your next project.

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