Transformative Teal was rumoured to be the Pantone colour of 2026 but sadly it was Cloud Dancer. Despite the disappointment we are still inspired by this vibrant colour.
Think of Transformative Teal as the colour equivalent of a deep, restorative breath. It’s that perfect "phygital" middle ground—a shade that looks just as cool on a high-res OLED screen as it does on a chunky knit sweater. While we spent years leaning into bright, dopamine-heavy neons or safe neutrals, this teal feels like a much-needed pivot toward something more grounded. It’s got that "Earth from space" energy: a mix of deep-sea mystery and forest-floor calm that makes you want to actually fix things rather than just scroll past them. It’s basically the aesthetic version of a "reset" button, signalling a future that’s a bit more intentional, a lot more sustainable, and—honestly—just really easy on the eyes.
Tonal drenched room
Drenched in teal, this room doesn’t whisper — it envelops. Walls and sofa sit confidently within the same saturated spectrum, creating a cocooning effect that feels both dramatic and calming. The matte depth of the walls softens the space, while velvet upholstery catches the light, adding a quiet richness. Layering is everything. A moss-toned accent chair introduces warmth, woven textures break up the intensity, and a sharp flash of chartreuse in a sculptural side table adds just enough lift. Crisp white trim frames the colour, giving the eye space to breathe and keeping the look intentional. The result is intimate yet design-forward — proof that when you fully commit to colour, one shade can tell an entire story.
Resene Boost paint available from Resene ColorShops. Freedom Furniture Harrowe Fabric Sofa, $3560. HimalayanRugsCo Emerald Green Leopard Rug, $690. Ferroluce Bumbum Stack Pendant, $2790.
a pop of teal
A confident sweep of teal grounds this kitchen, anchoring the space through sleek cabinetry while allowing the playful elements to shine. Paired with coral stools, sunny pendant lights and a flecked terrazzo backdrop, the cool depth of teal feels fresh rather than heavy. It’s a masterclass in balance — bold colour, warmed by contrast — resulting in a kitchen that feels modern, energetic and unapologetically joyful.
Resene Allports paint available from Resene ColorShops. Brayco Paula barstool, $74. Tile Warehouse Terra Arte Cortini Matt 600x600, $75.44 per m². Misterlamp Auckland Bauhaus Pendant Light in Coloured Glass, $300.
Teal cocoon
Wrapped in muted teal, this bedroom feels cocooning and quietly confident. The cool depth of the walls is softened by a warm upholstered headboard and layered tonal bedding, creating a serene, monochromatic flow. A sharp pop of burnt orange introduces contrast and personality, while the sleek black wall light adds a modern edge. The result is restful yet design-forward — bold in colour, gentle in mood.
Resene Jade paint available from Resene ColorShops. Bed Threads Aegean Duvet Cover, from $200. Neil Miller Propeller artwork, $POA. Bianca Lorenne Vernara Dusky Pink Headboard, $1499.
Where Teal Meets Metal
Teal and metallics are a study in contrast — rich, saturated colour paired with light-catching sheen. The depth of teal provides a dramatic backdrop, allowing brass, gold or chrome accents to glow rather than glare. Used sparingly in lighting, hardware or decorative details, metallics lift the mood and add polish, turning a bold colour choice into something effortlessly sophisticated.
Resene Explorer available from Resene ColorShops. Temple & Webster Forest Green Annabelle Velvet Armchair, $300. Coco Republic Barolo Sideboard, $5995. Asina Disc Vase - Silver, $147.