AkzoNobel is setting the tone with Rhythm of Blues™ – its 2026 Color of the Year.
Based on insights from AkzoNobel’s Global Aesthetic Center and its extensive annual trend forecast, and developed in collaboration with its in-house experts, international architects, designers and journalists, the focus for 2026 is on your space, your pace – and how color can shape emotional connection and creative expression.
Backed by more than 30 years of global color forecasting experience, AkzoNobel continues to lead the industry through its ColorSurfaces initiative, an annual trend program that explores the future of color and material design across automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics sectors.
Every year, the ColorSurfaces team translates global design trends into visionary palettes for professionals worldwide. Their work shapes AkzoNobel’s Color Trend Collections, which inspire creativity and innovation with expertly crafted finishes and special effects.
An upbeat and versatile color family that’s calming, connecting and creative, Rhythm of Blues reflects the moods, movements, and emotional rhythms shaping the next generation of design.
The Rhythm of Blues story is expressed through a trio of distinctive blue hues – Slow Swing™, Mellow Flow™, and Free Groove™ – each representing a unique rhythm and design mood for the road ahead.
“In today’s fast-moving and changing world, people are responding in different ways,” explains Gareth Bryant, Color Design Lead, Automotive and Specialty Coatings Marketing. “They either feel the need to slow down, focus and recharge, or to be connected to others and celebrate kinship, while others want to be bold and express themselves more freely. As we understand that color is emotion and therefore personal, we’ve chosen a family of Blues that allow designers to explore and express different styles and meet individual needs.”
Engineered with AkzoNobel’s advanced coatings technology, each shade features tailored effects that deliver depth, durability, and visual movement – making them ideal for OEM design studios, concept development, and custom refinish applications alike.
Slow Swing – A deep, dark blue symbolizing strength, composure, and quiet confidence.
Mellow Flow – A light, sophisticated blue that brings balance, calm, and modern elegance.
Free Groove – A vibrant, expressive blue radiating creativity, freedom, and individuality.
“We’re proud to bring color innovation into every part of our value chain,” says Rob Lagendijk, Commercial Marketing and Product Management Director, Automotive and Specialty Coatings. “Whether for a Design concept, a production line, or a custom refinish project, these new shades empower our customers to define their own rhythm and style – with confidence.”