Bold, Warm, and Effortlessly Sophisticated: Meet Benjamin Moore’s 2026 Color of the Year — Silhouette
Benjamin Moore Color of the Year 2026: Silhouette AF-655
A Warm, Sophisticated Hue for the Modern Home
Benjamin Moore has just announced Silhouette AF-655 as its Color of the Year for 2026 — and it’s absolutely stunning!
This rich, moody gray-brown hue is warm, earthy, and sophisticated, striking the perfect balance between timeless and modern. It’s one of those rare colors that feels cozy yet refined — ideal for creating depth, character, and calm in any space.
As a designer, I’m sharing my insider tips on how to confidently use this beautiful hue in your home — plus how it looks in real spaces and why it’s already one of my favorite new paint colors.
What Is Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year 2026?
Just revealed, Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette AF-655 draws inspiration from classic tailoring — think fine suiting fabrics in rich espresso tones layered with soft charcoal. The result is a color that’s timeless, grounded, and effortlessly elegant.
Benjamin Moore describes Silhouette as “reminiscent of tailored suiting,” a nod to structure, subtlety, and the quiet confidence of understated luxury.
Why Designers Love Silhouette AF-655
Silhouette isn’t your average brown or gray. Its complex undertones make it a truly versatile neutral — one that shifts gracefully with light and surroundings.
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LRV (light reflectance value): 10.18 (a deep, moody neutral), meaning it’s in the “dark neutral” category — it won’t bounce a lot of light but can lend depth and intimacy to a space.
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Undertone: A subtle violet-gray that gives it warmth and sophistication
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Mood: Earthy, elegant, cozy, and quietly dramatic
This is not a flat brown — Silhouette has that designer “chameleon quality” that makes a space feel instantly more intentional and layered.
Designer Tip: Lighting Matters
As with any deep color, lighting is everything. In north-facing rooms, Silhouette may read cooler and moodier, while in south-facing spaces, it reveals its warm, espresso-brown richness. Always test large paint samples on multiple walls before committing!
How to Use Silhouette in Your Home
Silhouette adds instant depth and sophistication — whether you go bold with full walls or use it as an accent color. Here are a few of my favorite ways to bring it to life:
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Home Office: Create a focused, elegant workspace by painting the walls, trim, and built-ins in Silhouette. The muted undertone keeps it sophisticated while adding warmth and depth.
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Living Room: Pair Silhouette walls with cream upholstery, warm wood tones, and black accents for a cozy, organic-modern vibe.
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Bedroom: Create a restful retreat with Silhouette on the headboard wall, crisp white bedding, and layered textures in linen and leather.
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Entryway or Hallway: A stunning first impression — moody, inviting, and timeless.
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Cabinetry or Built-ins: For a subtle pop of sophistication, try Silhouette on your island or lower cabinets with brass hardware. It grounds the space beautifully while staying timeless.
Perfect Color Pairings
Silhouette pairs beautifully with:
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Whites: BM White Dove OC-17, BM Steam AF-15
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Grays: BM Kendall Charcoal HC-166
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Neutrals: BM Edgecomb Gray HC-173, BM Revere Pewter HC-172
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Accent Hues: Amber, brass, plum, or soft blush for warmth and contrast
Final Thoughts
Benjamin Moore Silhouette AF-655 is a color that brings warmth, character, and timeless sophistication to any style — whether your home leans modern, transitional, traditional, or farmhouse.
It’s rich without being heavy, earthy without being rustic, and moody without feeling dark. In short, it’s the perfect 2026 paint color for creating beautiful, livable spaces that feel elevated and personal.
This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. For paint color consults or design help, contact me for consultation.
ron@homesteadprinceton.com
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