A team from Bishop had the unique opportunity this spring to visit Sherwin-Williams Designhouse in Greensboro, NC to learn about the latest trends cabinet finishes. The team at the DesignHouse immerses themselves every day in finish trends for wood products. Based on Sherwin-Williams vast resources, this post will provide a perspective of cabinet paint and stain trends for 2025 and 2026.
We had the honor to interview Eric Crosby. For 25 years Eric has been studying finish trends, 10 of those years at Sherwin-Williams.
We had three categories of questions for Eric:
- General Trends
- Stain Trends
- Paint Trends
Let’s get started on the latest trends in cabinet finishes.
General Trends
What is the precess Sherwin-Williams uses to determine trends for new paints and stains?
The Sherwin-Williams Designhouse is acutely aware of what’s happening with multiple markets and industries, because we cover essentially everything from the front of the house through to the back patio when it comes to wood coatings. This provides us with insight into what is trending in the entire space, because we are working with customers who are coating multiple products and surfaces. All these colors and finishes touch one another inside and outside so there needs to be color harmony throughout. Our process is a combination of subscriptions with color trend services, being members of professional color organizations, observational research in other industries, attending trade and deign shows, and then interpreting all that is trending so that it aligns with wood coating processes.
What are some of the biggest mistakes you see in predicting trends?
Sometimes color trend forecasters will forget to take into consideration the audience, as well as the price point for a product, which can cause a prediction to be too far out from what is acceptable at the time for the consumer.
Are there general trends you are seeing?
A general trend today would be the casual style which is permeating everything from furniture and home décor to fashion. Everyone is looking for products that require the least amount of maintenance.
What has surprised you in recent trends? Why?
Brass and Gold-tone colors used to accent everything from cabinetry to bags and shoes. After years of silver and nickel being the contemporary look, I never imagined that gold would return and still feel fresh and modern.
Stain Trends
Where do you see stains headed in the next 1-2 years?
Stains are going to become more transparent, allowing the authenticity of wood to receive more credit for the appearance.



Natural
Light
Toffee
What are some timeless stains that have been around and will continue?
Ebony and espresso, along with classic walnut stain and natural looks.



Espresso
Brownie
Obsidian
What stains are trending down?
All stains which have a yellow or orange undertone. Think of classic gunstock and golden oak stains.
Paint Trends
Where do you see paints headed in the next 1-2 years?
Paint is going to continue to be desaturated, grayed off and warm. The more depth that is perceived by the eye, the better.



Iron
Evergreen Fog
Smokey Blue
What are some timeless paints that have been around and will continue?
Neutrals will continue. Not only the various shades of whites and tints, but also calming neutrals like ochres, rusts and olives. All colors that are representative of things we find in nature.



Alabaster
Putty
Off-White
What paints are trending down?
High chromatic colors that look synthetic and cheap.
About Eric Crosby, Sherwin-Williams Color Marketing Specialist

Eric comes from a diverse background in color, material and finish (CMF) design. He has been creating CMF trend stories in the consumer goods industry for over 25 years. Eric assists customers with their color trend needs and manages an online Virtual Panel Studio for Sherwin-Williams DesignHouse where he is a member of the marketing group within the Industrial Wood Coatings Division. Eric’s favorite part of his career has been the opportunity to travel, attend global design and trade shows, conduct color trend research, and present color stories that help designers with product development.
About Bishop Cabinets
Bishop Cabinets has been manufacturing for over 60 years. Click here learn most about our capabilities and latest offerings that align with the latest trends in cabinet finishes
Our Vision Statement
“To create beautiful and functional cabinets through innovation, growth, and a commitment to keep family values at the core of everything we do.”