Beloved paint brand Sherwin-Williams has released its 2025 color forecast. They have released their 2025 Colormix® Forecast, which includes 48 trending colors organized into four color families: Chrysalis, Paradox, Wellspring, and Kindred.
Each capsule includes 12 different colors and tells the deeper stories of thoughtfully chosen paint colors in a home, as well as highlighting some of the big trends we can expect to see in the coming year.
Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams, shares with The Spruce how color experts consider a variety of influences, from art and culture to sustainability and innovation to technology.
“This year’s theme was inspired by the idea of a special color collection that represents a moment, almost like an exclusive collection that people are familiar with when it comes to fashion,” Wadden told The Spruce.
Below, we’ll dive deeper into each palette and share Wadden’s best tips for how to incorporate the colors in your own space.
Meet the expert
Sue Wadden is the director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams.
Four capsules
Wadden says all of the color capsules are connected by the theme of introspection and thoughtful curation, but each capsule will offer designers a unique perspective on how they can use it in their space to evoke deeper emotions.
pupa
Chrysalis focuses on minimalist, raw shades that create a calming atmosphere and celebrate simplicity. It symbolizes transformation and growth, perfect for new beginnings. This collection includes wood and earth tones.
The Chrysalis palette would be ideal for Japandi aesthetics and quiet space design, where you can create a peaceful tone.
Paradox
Paradox captures vibrant and bold shades that are contrasting in nature, but still create striking visual interest, says Wadden. Expect bright, vibrant shades and basic neutrals.
“This palette represents the idea of combining opposites to create harmony,” says Wadden.
If you want to refresh your space with an eclectic style, look to Paradox as it is full of energetic and unexpected tones, perfect for mixing patterns.
Water source
Wellspring is perfect for those who like to enrich their space with classic shades that have a lasting meaning. The palette includes timeless and elegant colors that have remained relevant through the ages, explains Wadden. Think neutrals that are meditative and functional.
Since Wellspring is the epitome of mid-century modern design, pairing it with fun curved shapes and wood accents helps tie the whole look together.
Relatives
Kindred encapsulates warmth and community through its shades and creates a sense of connection and belonging, says Wadden. Using Kindred will allow you to create an inviting and cozy space with warm neutral tones that will make guests feel at home.
If you’re a maximalist, Kindred will be your new favorite palette to experiment with light, pale, and dark tones to create a diverse space.
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How to choose color capsules
Wadden advises that when choosing colors for your own space, start by asking yourself what feeling you want to evoke.
If you’re a first-time homebuyer and don’t know where to start, Wadden recommends choosing three colors.
“A primary color, which is typically a neutral for new homeowners, a secondary color, which is sure to pair well with the primary color, and an accent color, which can be a more vibrant and exciting choice,” Wadden tells The Spruce.
Then, follow the 60-30-10 rule: 60% of the space should be the primary color, 30% should be the secondary color, and 10% should be the accent color, Wadden shares.
For the bedroom, Wadden suggests choosing a color from Chrysalis because it will allow you to create a relaxing environment that will help you reset and recharge. Since Paradox is filled with colorful shades, this would be a great palette to rely on when choosing an accent color when it comes to refreshing your hallway or bathroom, trim or molding.
If you’re looking for colors that you’ll never get tired of, especially in the kitchen, Wellspring has you covered with timeless neutrals. Finally, if you’re someone who loves to entertain, Kindred will bring a unifying energy to your dining room or living room so everyone feels connected.
Top Tips for Using and Styling Color Capsules
- Start small: If you want to try any of the 48 colors, start by ordering free swatches of the colors at swsamples.com or at your local Sherwin-Williams store to test them out in your space before deciding. Another way to know if you really like a color is to use it as an accent color on one wall instead of all four, Wadden suggests.
- Mix and match: There are no rules that say you have to stick to one color scheme, so feel free to mix and match different shades from different palettes to create a space that you love to look at and live in. Start by choosing an anchor element and then add a pop of color to balance the overall look.
- Don’t forget the accessories: When decorating your space, don’t forget to add artwork, home decor, and furniture to help highlight the color and design style.