2026 Color of the Year: Marigold

Be Bold. Be Bright. Be Different.

In a world of beige, Ghent’s 2026 Color of the Year dares to break the mold. Marigold steps forward as a confident, energizing shade that brings optimism, creativity, and warmth to any space. It’s a color that refuses to blend it: but that’s the point.

Where many brands are leaning deeper into neutrals, we feel that color should inspire, not disappear.

Our 2026 palette pairs Marigold with tones that balance, ground, and elevate it, creating a modern, purposeful mix that designers can use across learning environments, workplace collaboration zones, healthcare settings, and more.

Our 2026 Palette:

Marigold: Bright, Bold, Confident

Marigold is a cheerful yellow with orange undertones, adding layers of warmth and excitement to every space. On its own, Marigold is a bright statement; layered with other tones, it creates a colorful, inviting space for new ideas.

Denim: Comforting, Cool, Steady.

A versatile blue that brings focus and clarity. Denim softens Marigold’s energy without diluting its boldness. Together, they create a contemporary, high contrast pairing ideal for collaborative spaces and active learning zones.

Cactus: Organic. Restorative. Familiar.

Our 2025 Color of the Year remains an anchor in this year’s palette, offering a natural counterbalance. Cactus brings biophilic calm that keeps Marigold’s vibrance grounded and usable across design-driven interiors.

Terra: Warm. Earthy. Connected.

A modern earth tone that bridges Marigold’s brightness and Cactus’s freshness. Terra adds warmth and design sophistication, giving this palette depth and real-world flexibility.

Beige: Classic. Neutral. Necessary

While we want to think beyond beige, it still plays an essential supporting role. Beige provides the soft neutrality that makes Marigold shine, offering designers a safe, subtle backbone for large installations and architectural surfaces.

Why This Palette Works in 2026

Design conversations are shifting. Spaces need to feel alive, uplifting, and human—especially in education, corporate and healthcare environments . While the default has been predictable neutrals, we assert that the best work happens when people feel inspired by the space they are in.

This palette is built around four principles shaping 2026:

• Optimistic colors will boost both your mood and your creativity
• Warm tones that feel familiar will also allow forward thinking ideas
• Biophilic influence with grounded greens and earthy accents create a safe comforting feel
• Flexible Contrast to brighten up with mobile solutions to collaboration

Want to explore our full glass color guide? Explore it here.