Cabot unveils Acorn as its 2026 Color of the Year

 Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Cabot has unveiled Acorn as its 2026 Color of the Year. Inspired by heritage craftsmanship, this warm golden-brown hue reflects the rising demand for thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces defined by quality, care, and lasting appeal.

“Acorn’s earthy tone aligns perfectly with today’s design trends. The warm, natural hue elevates exterior wood with a polished yet approachable look that feels both timeless and on trend.” -Sue Kim, Director of Color Marketing.

A sophisticated neutral
Because it’s inspired by nature, Acorn works well to compliment other natural materials commonly found in outdoor spaces. You’ll find that Acorn’s inviting midtone beauty gracefully blends with elements like stone, greenery and rattan furniture, to create a cohesive outdoor look.

Enduring craftsmanship
Acorn offers timeless appeal that evokes a sense of tradition and authenticity. When paired with Cabot’s durable weather-ready stains, Acorn is an ideal choice for withstanding the elements and outlasting shifting trends – perfect for enhancing decks, outdoor furniture, pergolas and fences.

Acorn can be used across a wide range of exterior wood surfaces, bringing warmth and continuity to outdoor spaces, including:

• Gathering spaces, including pergolas, beams, posts and built-in seating.
• Garden-forward landscapes, using fences, trellises and raised beds to define space while blending with nature.
• Indoor/outdoor transitions, from covered patios to entryway decks.

“Homeowners are longing for meaningful, lasting surroundings that give them a sense of nostalgia while also providing modern functionality,” Kim explained. “Acorn speaks to that desire for permanence—environments meant for gathering, sharing and making memories. In a fast-paced world, familiar tones and timeless materials help foster spaces of belonging, reflection and ease.” Kim concluded.

Acorn is available in solid, semi-solid and semi-transparent finishes with Cabot’s exterior Wood Stain + Sealer line – offering you the flexibility to achieve a look that showcases more color or more woodgrain.

Source: Cabotstain, Woodworking Network

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