What’s in, what’s out and how to apply them in your custom home
Choosing your home’s colour palette is one of the most exciting parts of custom home design. In 2026, colour trends are all about combining calm, comfort and personality, reflecting both the environment and how we want to feel in our spaces. For homeowners building on the Sunshine Coast, these trends translate beautifully into homes that celebrate light, place and lifestyle.
At Beachside Construction, we often work with clients to select colours that enhance architectural lines, tone with outdoor spaces and stand the test of time. Here’s a look at the top colour directions we’re seeing for 2026.
1. Natural earth tones with a modern edge
Warm neutrals remain strong, but in 2026 they lean earthier and richer. Think clay, terracotta, soft taupe, sandstone and muted ochre. These colours pair beautifully with timber, stone and greenery, perfect for homes that blend indoor and outdoor living.
On the Sunshine Coast, these hues pick up the warm light and feel grounded by the landscape. Used on feature walls, cabinetry, or exterior cladding, earth tones offer timeless appeal without feeling dull or dated.
2. Muted greens and sage shades
Soft greens continue to grow in popularity, especially muted and sage variations. These tones evoke a connection to nature and bring calm energy into living areas and bedrooms.
For 2026, the palette also extends to deeper forest greens and olive tones, giving you flexibility between subtle calmness and sophisticated boldness. Paired with natural timber or matte black accents, these greens are equally at home in coastal, bushland or hinterland settings.
3. Warm neutrals with depth
Beige and grey aren’t going anywhere, but they are evolving. 2026 welcomes warm neutrals with depth. Think greige, mushroom and taupe with a blush undertone. These colours set a welcoming, cozy tone that makes open plan spaces feel more intimate without shrinking them.
These rich neutrals are ideal for living rooms, kitchens and master bedrooms where comfort and versatility matter.
4. Accent colours that energise
While the overall trend is calm and grounded tones, accent colours are becoming more expressive. Deep terracotta, muted coral, gentle mustard, dusty rose and navy are turning up in feature elements like:
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Kitchen islands
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Entry doors
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Built‑in shelving
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Lintels and trims
These accent colours add character while still respecting the calming backbone of the main palette.
5. Bold black and charcoal details
Black isn’t just a colour, it’s a design statement. In 2026, bold black and charcoal details are being used to frame windows, doorways and cabinetry to anchor light and neutral palettes. For Sunshine Coast homes with plenty of sunshine, black trims contrast beautifully with lighter hues and create crisp, modern lines.
Choosing colours that work for you
Trends are helpful as inspiration, but your home should reflect how you live and feel. A colour that feels fresh today might not be the best choice long term if it doesn’t suit your personality or lifestyle.
At Beachside Construction, we help clients explore colour schemes that complement their architectural style, reflect the local environment and resonate with how they want to feel in their space. Whether it’s through digital renderings, sample boards or room mock‑ups, we make sure your selections feel right before finalising.
Ready to design your custom home with a colour palette that feels timeless and fresh for 2026? Contact Beachside Construction today and let’s bring your vision to life.