Behr Paint Company has revealed Taupe as its 2026 Exterior Stain Color of the Year, a refined and versatile shade designed to bring a sense of balance and harmony to the home’s exterior. 

Blending soft brown with gentle gray undertones, Taupe delivers a contemporary look with timeless appeal.

Pairing Taupe with complementary Behr stain colors also offers an easy way to introduce contrast and highlight architectural details. You can pair Taupe with warm-tones like Cordovan Brown or cool-toned accents like Pewter to create a subtle contrast that feels cohesive and modern.

“Taupe brings a sense of harmony and balance to exterior spaces,” said Kayla Kratz, Sr. Director of Color & Design Strategy at Behr Paint Company. “Its calming presence fosters connection and transforms outdoor areas into serene, timeless retreats—making it a defining choice for 2026 and beyond.”

Alongside the 2026 Exterior Stain Color of the Year, Behr is unveiling its first-ever Outdoor Accent Color Collection. It is a curated selection of 18 exterior paint colors designed to enhance and personalize outdoor spaces. 

Designed with versatility in mind, the Outdoor Accent Color Collection is the ideal choice for both large and small-scale updates to shutters, trim, and entryways.

Select colors are also available in spray paint, offering a quick, convenient way to refresh patio furniture, planters, and decorative accents. 

“Homeowners looking to tackle outdoor projects want solutions that are both inspiring and reliable,” said Andy Lopez, Sr. Vice President, Head of Marketing at Behr Paint Company. “Our goal is to make it easier for people to choose the right color and products, so they can focus on creating outdoor spaces they’ll love for years to come.”