Pantone Announces ‘Cloud Dancer’ as Colour of the Year 2026

Global colour authority Pantone has revealed its Colour of the Year for 2026: Cloud Dancer (PANTONE 11-4201). A soft, airy white, Cloud Dancer embodies tranquillity and clarity in an increasingly noisy world. This billowy hue offers a sense of calm and spaciousness, inviting creativity and fresh perspectives.

Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Colour Institute™, explains:
“At this time of transformation, when we are reimagining our future and our place in the world, PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer is a discrete white hue offering a promise of clarity. A conscious statement of simplification, Cloud Dancer enhances our focus, providing release from the distraction of external influences.”

Room to Imagine

Cloud Dancer is more than a colour, it’s a mindset. Its clean, expansive presence creates room for imagination to flourish, making it the perfect foundation for bold ideas. Whether as a striking statement or as a versatile backdrop, this shade effortlessly complements other tones, giving designers and homeowners freedom to create without limits.

White hues bring effortless focus to a kitchen island, creating a sense of space and calm while allowing contrasting neutral tones such as cashmere to frame surrounding cabinetry. Paired with the sleek metallic finishes of our handleless rail system, this combination delivers a refined, ultra-modern aesthetic that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Zola Soft-Matte – Cashmere and White

Serene Styling

Cloud Dancer works beautifully across walls, cabinetry and even soft furnishings. Pair it with muted blues, soft greys, or natural wood finishes for a calming, contemporary aesthetic. For added depth, layer in metallic accents or textured surfaces to create contrast while maintaining lightness and flow.

Looking for a similar shade? Try Dulux’s Colour Match Service or explore Lick’s White 02 Matt for a close alternative.

For kitchen, bedroom or complementary furniture, STORI’s Colour Match Service can match any RAL (European standard) or BS (British Standard) paint swatch. This service is available through our retailers for the following ranges:

Timber Painted Ranges: Aldana, Arrington, Aylesford, Belgravia, Harborne, Jacobsen, Jefferson, Madison, Tavola, Wakefield and Winslow.

Smooth Painted Ranges: Clifden, Ellesmere, Florence, Georgia, Strada Matte and Zola Matte.

Get the Look

Create a sanctuary of calm by layering Cloud Dancer with soft textiles, sheer curtains, and natural flooring. Add touches of brushed brass or chrome for a refined finish and complete the look with minimalist artwork or sculptural lighting to enhance the airy aesthetic.

Shopping List:

Artwork: Libra Interiors

Flooring: Luxury Flooring

Rug: Julian Charles

Lighting: NEXT

Paint: Lick

Wallpaper: Claret & Key

Cushion: The Cotswold Company

Curtains: Dunelm

Looking for more inspiration? Download our latest brochure or explore our Real Stories to see how you can use colour to transform your space into a haven of clarity and creativity.