Pantone has named its 2026 Colour of the Year as Cloud Dancer, but the reaction from the interiors world is far from unanimous and positive. Instead of sparking excitement, this soft, muted white has left many designers wondering whether Pantone has played it too safe this year.
Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is described by Pantone as ‘a lofty white that serves as a symbol of calming influence in a society rediscovering the value of quiet reflection. A billowy white imbued with serenity, Pantone 11-4201 Cloud Dancer encourages true relaxation and focus, allowing the mind to wander and creativity to breathe, making room for innovation.’
Leading the critics of the colour is Emily Butterill, founder of Glow Lighting, who describes Cloud Dancer as pleasant but ultimately insignificant – a backdrop colour rather than a trendsetter.
But not everyone agrees. Other design-led brands are embracing Cloud Dancer for its versatility, serenity and timelessness, arguing that its subtlety is precisely what people are craving.
“If I’m honest, I don’t see this becoming a major influencing colour of the year,” said Butterill. “It’s pleasant and adaptable, but it doesn’t push the boundaries of lighting, décor or furniture trends in a meaningful way. It pairs nicely with soft pastels – something we work with often – but it’s those colours, not the base, that bring personality into a space. For us, Cloud Dancer is supportive rather than standout.”
Other interiors experts are more enthusiastic. Rachel Dunn, head of product at The Faux Flower Company, said: “We absolutely love Pantone’s choice for 2026. Cloud Dancer feels incredibly aligned with everything we’ve long believed about the power of whites and soft neutrals. It’s an effortless fit for both contemporary and traditional interiors, a beautifully serene canvas that pairs with absolutely everything.”
Dunn sees it working particularly well with natural textures, soft greens and muted pastels — all part of the calm, grounded look homeowners are gravitating towards.
Shannon Taylor, marketing manager at Lakeland Furniture, echoes this sense of timeliness. “Cloud Dancer feels like a thoughtful and timely choice for 2026,” she said. “After several years of saturated, expressive colour, there’s something incredibly grounding about a shade that invites clarity and calm.”
Taylor highlights how the shade transforms dining spaces: “It brightens the environment without stealing attention, allowing statement chairs and natural materials to shine.” She also notes Pantone’s messaging about balancing digital life with meaningful human connection: something she believes Cloud Dancer supports perfectly.
For artists and makers, Cloud Dancer offers creative potential. Pia Gill, founder of Burnt Peach, has already created a bespoke collection inspired by the shade. “It’s light, delicate and beautifully timeless. For the portraits we create, it feels especially perfect.” She believes its softness enhances the emotional quality of her artwork, capturing childhood innocence “without distraction.”
That sense of serenity also resonates with Brian MacShane, creative director at Beach House Art. He describes Cloud Dancer as being symbolic of shifting priorities: “This soft, ethereal white speaks less of wanting more and instead of space – a canvas that invites light, calm and simplicity.”
And for James Bryant, founder of CutMy, Cloud Dancer reflects a wider move toward calm, cohesive interiors. “This shade has real versatility. I expect we will see it reflected across surfaces, finishes and architectural details throughout the year.”
Whether met with excitement or scepticism, Cloud Dancer has clearly struck a chord – a quiet colour prompting a loud conversation.
