Annual colour authority report identifies four macro-palettes driven by cultural introspection and sensory reconnection.
Asian Paints ColourNext 2026 — the company’s annual colour trend forecast published by its in-house Colour Design and Research Studio — has unveiled “Age of Curiosity” as its overarching 2026 trend theme. The forecast identifies four macro-palettes: Grounded (terracotta, clay, earth tones connecting to Indian materiality); Refractive (iridescent neutrals and light-diffusing finishes); Tender (soft pastels with emotional warmth); and Vivid Decoded (saturated accent colours in unexpected combinations).
The forecasting methodology integrates cultural ethnography, global design fair observation (Milan, Stockholm, Maison & Objet), and material trend analysis across fashion, product design, and food. Asian Paints produces ColourNext annually as a brand authority tool and as a market primer for architects, interior designers, and premium specification buyers. The 2026 edition emphasises the increasing role of colour in post-pandemic reconnection with physical space and sensory experience — a positioning aligned with the company’s premium interior product portfolio.
Industry Implications and Market Context
Colour trend forecasting is a strategic commercial tool for the premium decorative paint segment. Asian Paints’ ColourNext creates specification demand for colours in its Royale and Royale Aspira product range, driving premium mix in the interior architectural category.
What Happens Next?
Watch for Berger Paints and Kansai Nerolac to publish their 2026 colour trend reports, and for ColourNext palettes to appear in interior design media and influencer content through Q1–2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the methodology behind ColourNext?
Asian Paints ColourNext draws on cultural ethnography research, observation of global design fairs, fashion runway analysis, and interviews with leading architects and interior designers. The process takes approximately 18 months from research to publication.
How do colour trend reports influence paint purchasing decisions?
Design professionals and premium homeowners frequently use brand colour forecast reports as specification references. Featuring colours in ColourNext drives project-level specification demand for those specific shades in Asian Paints’ premium range — supporting price realisation over competitive commodity products.
Where can I find ColourNext?
Asian Paints publishes ColourNext through their website, flagship Colour Stores, and at dedicated press launches. The full report is available to registered design professionals through Asian Paints’ professional trade programme.
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