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Minwax announced Pickled Oak (MW260), a light, soft neutral with gentle warm undertones, as its 2027 Color of the Year. Pickled Oak creates a subtle wash that allows wood’s natural grain to show through. Reflecting growing interest in understated wood aesthetics and finishes that showcase the beauty of natural materials, the color speaks to a desire for greater clarity, calm and intention in today’s living spaces.
“We’re seeing a shift toward wood tones that celebrate the material itself and its character,” says Lisbeth Parada, color and design lead at Minwax. “Inspired by the popularity of light woods like white oak and vintage pine, Pickled Oak offers a modern interpretation of wood that feels versatile across everything from furniture and cabinetry to larger DIY projects.”
Beyond its appearance, Pickled Oak speaks to an appreciation for thoughtful design and pieces that bring meaning to a space. For wood species like pine or red oak, Pickled Oak offers a way to bring the pale, minimally finished aesthetic driving today’s lighter wood trend to the surface without masking the wood itself.
“Comfort, well-being and a sense of purpose are increasingly shaping the way spaces are designed and experienced,” says Parada. “Pickled Oak embodies a return to simplicity through its daylight-soft effect, honoring the wood beneath it while creating rooms designed for restoration, healing and intentional living.”
Pickled Oak pairs with complementary Color of the Year selections from fellow Sherwin-Williams brands, including the Sherwin-Williams and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year, Celery (SW6421, HGSW6421) and Dutch Boy Paints’ Color of the Year, Deep Rooted (311-7DB).
