Minwax recently announced Special Walnut as its 2026 Color of the Year, an earth-toned stain and a popular shade among customers.

“With wood emerging as a key element in interior design—from furniture and flooring to cabinetry and architectural details—there’s a renewed appreciation for finishes that enhance its natural character,” says Lisbeth Parada, color and design lead at Minwax. “Special Walnut delivers with a classic, dimensional tone that feels both familiar and fresh. Its versatility makes it a favorite across styles and applications—whether you’re restoring a vintage piece or finishing a weekend project.”

The shade was inspired by three influences: wood as a design anchor, nostalgic charm and style with staying power.

“This color captures the essence of today’s design shift, where dark, dimensional wood tones are overtaking the cooler, more minimal aesthetics of recent years,” Parada says. “Special Walnut offers a rich, layered look that adds visual weight and authenticity, creating contrast and interest in both contemporary spaces and cozy, lived-in homes. At a time when people crave connection and comfort, Special Walnut brings that vision to life through the warmth and integrity of real wood.”